BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 features a Boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It has an engine power of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The starter is electric and it has a transmission system of prop shaft. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has an in-line engine with a bore of 90.7 mm and a stroke of 68.8 mm. It has a slightly lower engine power of 105 HP and a torque of 100 Nm. The starter is also electric, but it has a chain transmission system.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front suspension of Telelever with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023, on the other hand, has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 240 mm. Both motorcycles have adjustable suspension settings.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design and a rake of 62.9 degrees. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design and a slightly steeper rake of 63.7 degrees.

Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes and advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 also has additional features like hill start assist and cornering lights. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has additional features like connectivity, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a slightly larger front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1528 mm and a higher seat height of 880 mm.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort and ergonomics, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, and a confident feel in the saddle. It also has practical riding aids and a versatile chassis that can accommodate every route. Overall, it is easy to ride.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has strengths such as an off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall pilots), agile handling, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also has cornering ABS including an off-road mode as standard, finely controllable brakes, and traction control that adjusts depending on the lean angle.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a rough overall appearance and its gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, a seat height that can be challenging for small riders, and some useful features such as Quickshifter+ are only available at an extra cost.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a comfortable and easy-to-ride experience with a powerful engine and practical features, while the KTM excels in off-road capabilities and has a more comprehensive electronics package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.