KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 vs. KTM 890 Adventure 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with impressive features.

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is equipped with a V2 engine, offering 160 HP of engine power and 138 Nm of torque. Its engine is known for its sporty yet refined performance. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 has an in-line engine with 105 HP of power and 100 Nm of torque. While it may not be as powerful as the 1290 Super Adventure R, it still offers a linear and superior power delivery.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arms with monoshock absorbers at the rear. The suspension components are provided by WP, a renowned brand in the industry. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R has a slightly larger travel distance of 220 mm for both the front and rear suspension, compared to the 200 mm on the KTM 890 Adventure. Additionally, the 1290 Super Adventure R allows for compression, preload, and rebound adjustments on the rear suspension, while the 890 Adventure only offers preload and rebound adjustments.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

Both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame, which provides strength and durability. The frame type is tubular on both models, but the KTM 890 Adventure has the added benefit of a load-bearing engine design. This design contributes to a lower center of gravity, resulting in excellent handling.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The braking system is complemented by advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM 890 Adventure has been praised for its finely controlled brakes, while the 1290 Super Adventure R offers good braking performance and the added feature of cornering ABS.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, there are some differences between the two models. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R has a wheelbase of 1577 mm, while the 890 Adventure has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528 mm. The seat height on the 1290 Super Adventure R is 880 mm, compared to 850 mm on the 890 Adventure, making the latter more suitable for shorter riders. Both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The fuel tank capacity is larger on the 1290 Super Adventure R, with 23 liters compared to 20 liters on the 890 Adventure.

KTM 890 Adventure 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is praised for its sporty V2 power plant, playful handling despite its weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear, well-structured instruments with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 is praised for its powerful engine with superior power delivery, finely controlled brakes, comprehensive electronics, good ergonomics for both sitting and standing riding, low seat height suitable for shorter riders, and the inclusion of a quickshifter as a standard feature.

As for weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is criticized for its gearshift assistant being an additional cost and its higher price compared to the 1290 Super Adventure S despite having fewer features. The KTM 890 Adventure 2021 is criticized for its pricing policy for extras and the lack of standard features such as an adjustable telescopic fork, quickshifter, and cruise control.

Overall, both the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 offer impressive performance and features. The 1290 Super Adventure R is more powerful and has additional features, but it comes at a higher price. The 890 Adventure, on the other hand, provides a great balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice among riders.