Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both enduro motorcycles with similar engine configurations and transmission systems. However, there are several notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012 has a bore of 106 mm and a stroke of 67.9 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a slightly larger bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. This results in the KTM having a higher engine power of 160 HP compared to the Ducati's 150 HP. Similarly, the KTM also has a higher torque of 138 Nm compared to the Ducati's 124.5 Nm. Both motorcycles have a chain transmission system and are equipped with 2 cylinders. However, the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm compared to the Ducati's 1198.4 ccm.

Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Ducati features Sachs suspension components, while the KTM is equipped with WP suspension components. The same applies to the rear suspension, with both brands using their respective suspension components.

For braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM also boasts advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The Ducati, on the other hand, only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a larger front tire diameter of 19 inches compared to the Ducati's 17 inches. However, the Ducati has a wider rear tire width of 190 mm compared to the KTM's 170 mm. Both motorcycles have a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The KTM also has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm compared to the Ducati's 1530 mm. The seat height of the KTM is 849 mm, slightly lower than the Ducati's 850 mm. The KTM has a dry weight of 220 kg and a kerb weight of 243 kg, while the Ducati has a dry weight of 206 kg and a kerb weight of 234 kg. Additionally, the KTM has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the Ducati's 20 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012 is praised for its excellent sound, sporty tuned movement, appropriate ergonomics, balanced seating position, and sophisticated looks. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is commended for its very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The Ducati Multistrada 1200 S 2012 is criticized for its windshield coming menacingly close when first mounted and its wasteful use of electronics that can be difficult to understand. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021, on the other hand, has been criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality.