Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 vs. BMW R 1300 GS comparison: two maxi-trails of more than 1000 cc head-to-head
September 18, 2025
The 1000cc+ trail bike market is experiencing a golden moment. The revamped BMW R 1300 GS maintains its leadership, but the new Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 is making a strong entrance, offering a more affordable and well-equipped alternative.
The maxi-trail segment: motorcycles designed for unlimited travel
Large-displacement motorcycles aren't just vehicles: they're true adventure companions. A modern maxi-trail offers enough power to devour highways, suspension capable of handling dirt roads, and amenities that make a long trip much more bearable.
The BMW GS has been the absolute reference for years, but now Moto Morini enters the fight with the X-Cape 1200 , a motorcycle that combines competitive price, Italian design and superior autonomy.
Moto Morini X-Cape 1200: a leap forward
Moto Morini is a historic brand that's making a comeback with a model that's sure to impress. The X-Cape 1200 fills a gap: offering a high-displacement trail bike with good equipment, a striking design, and a much more affordable price than its German or Austrian competitors.
Featured data sheet
Engine: V-Twin Corsa Corta EVO, 1,187 cc.
Power: 125 HP.
Weight: 245 kg in running order.
Tank: 23 liters (range over 400 km).
Seat height: 840 mm.
Tires: 19” front / 17” rear, Pirelli Scorpion Trail.
Suspensions: adjustable inverted fork, 170 mm travel.
Brakes: Brembo double front disc with cornering ABS.
Moto Morini seeks to differentiate itself with a more affordable motorcycle, well-equipped as standard, and designed for the commuter who prioritizes range and reliability. Its 24.5 L tank is one of the largest in its class, making it a true mileage devourer.
It doesn't aim to be the most powerful, but it does aim to offer the best value for money in the 1000cc+ motorcycle market.
BMW R 1300 GS: the evolution of an icon
The BMW GS has been setting trends for decades. Its latest version, the R 1300 GS , raises the bar once again, being lighter, more powerful, and more advanced than ever.
Featured data sheet
Engine: twin-cylinder boxer, 1,300 cc.
Power: 145 HP.
Engine torque: 149 Nm.
Weight: 237 kg (22 kg less than the previous R 1250 GS).
Tank: 30 liters.
Seat height: adjustable from 850 mm.
Suspensions: Telelever EVO front and Paralever EVO rear, 190/200 mm travel.
BMW doesn't seek to compete on price, but rather on prestige, refinement, and technology. Its GS is the most complete motorcycle in its segment, a favorite among serious travelers and the benchmark for all others.
Technical comparison: X-Cape 1200 vs R 1300 GS
Feature
Moto Morini X-Cape 1200
BMW R 1300 GS
Engine
V2, 1,187 cc, 125 hp
Boxer, 1,300 cc, 145 hp
Weight
245 kg
237 kg
Seat height
840 mm
850 mm (adjustable)
Deposit
24.5 L
30 L
Suspensions
Inverted fork, 170 mm
Telelever/Paralever, 190/200mm
Approx. base price.
€13,990
23,000–25,000 €
Price: The Key Difference
One of the most important aspects in this comparison is the price.
BMW R 1300 GS: around €23,000 for the basic version, and with optional packages it can exceed €28,000.
Moto Morini X-Cape 1200: expected to cost between €17,000–18,000, with much of the equipment included as standard.
This means the Morini can save €10,000 compared to the GS, making it the best 1000cc+ motorcycle for touring at the best price.
Travel experience
On the road
The BMW GS offers greater power and refinement, with exceptional cornering ability. The Morini is stable, comfortable, and offers good aerodynamic protection.
On long trips
Range is key. The BMW requires refueling earlier, with its 19 liters. The Morini, with its 24.5 L, allows you to travel more than 400 km without stopping.
On Tracks
The BMW is lighter and has superior suspension, giving it an advantage off-road. The Morini is capable on trails, but its focus is more on touring.
If you're looking for motorcycles over 1000 cc at the best price, at Moto Morini Alicante you'll find the X-Cape 1200 ready for your next adventure.
What is the best motorcycle over 1000 cc?
The BMW R 1300 GS remains the most technologically advanced, powerful, and prestigious motorcycle in its segment. The Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 is the most logical alternative for those looking for a large-displacement trail bike with great autonomy, good standard equipment and a much lower price.
If you want the latest in electronics and the prestige of the brand, the GS is your bike. If you want to travel at the best price with a balanced and adventurous motorcycle, the X-Cape 1200 is your choice, and you can find it atmotomorinicalicante.com
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Mi hijo tiene 8 años y lleva mucho tiempo montando en quad.... Y quería probar el motocross.
Decir que ha sido un acierto y una muy buena experiencia.
Gracias a José las clases (porque fuimos para una y le gustó tanto que pagamos otra sesión) me encanta el trabajo que realizas... Y como tratas con los chavales.
Lo recomiendo
GRACIAS
Decidí a realizar este curso dado que aunque tenia algo de experiencia haciendo off quería coger soltura y lo recomiendo al 100%, Monje el instructor se adapta a cada uno y te va ayudando a evolucionar sin que te des cuenta, explicándote cada paso que das para que lo comprendas y lo interiorices de la forma más adecuada para que no te satures.
La única pega que le puedo poner es a las instalaciones, dado que, en nuestro caso fue un día que aun hacia bastante calor y el sol nos castigo mucho acelerando el cansancio y la fatiga, deberían de colocar un toldo o carpa fija para los momentos explicativos de teoría poder guarecerse del sol.
Tengo claro que en un futuro repetiré haciendo el CAMA para seguir mejorando con la ayuda de Monje.
Cogimos el curso de regalo para nuestro hijo de 7 años. Y Tras la realización nos ha indicado que, ojalá poder volver y realizar el curso avanzado. Ha quedado contentisimo, mil gracias a Jose el instructor y Ricky tambien, por hacer tan ameno el curso. Son super atentos y cercanos con los niños. Nos hemos quedado con ganas de mas.
¡HASTA LA PRÒXIMA!
El curso one to one con Monje es una maravilla. Sabe sacar lo mejor de cada piloto y consigue que al final de la jornada se consigas hacer cosas que no pensaban jamás. Muy pero que muy recomendable.
Clase personalizada, entretenida y muy didáctica, ya que casa explicación iba razonada. Un espectáculo de cursos.
