KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 vs. BMW R 1250 RS 2019

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 and the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and comfortable long-distance riding capabilities.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 173 HP of power and 144 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 features a boxer engine that produces 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. Both bikes have a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke engine configuration and a displacement of over 1200cc. The KTM has a chain transmission, while the BMW has a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The KTM has a front suspension travel of 125 mm and a rear suspension travel of 156 mm, while the BMW has a front suspension travel of 140 mm and a rear suspension travel of 140 mm. The KTM offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound, while the BMW only offers adjustment options for preload and rebound.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 has a steel frame. The KTM has a tubular frame type, while the BMW has a load-bearing engine frame type.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disc brakes at the front, with radial technology for the KTM and standard for the BMW. In terms of assistance systems, both bikes come with ABS, but the BMW also includes anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, while the BMW has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 180 mm. Both motorcycles have a 17-inch front and rear tire diameter. The KTM has a wheelbase of 1482 mm and a seat height of 835 mm, while the BMW has a wheelbase of 1530 mm and a seat height of 820 mm. The KTM has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the BMW's 18 liters.

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

In terms of equipment, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 comes with an adjustable windscreen, while the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 features LED headlights as standard.

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016's strengths lie in its extensive standard equipment, sensational engine performance, unique design, and uncomplicated pannier system. However, it has weaknesses in terms of poor wind protection, manual windshield adjustment, and relatively high fuel consumption.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 offers precise and stable handling, an agile high-revving boxer engine, a modern look, and a seating position suitable for touring. It also comes with ABS and traction control as standard, selectable riding modes, a color TFT display, LED headlights, and an extensive accessories list. However, it has a weakness in the form of a windshield that could be higher and many features that come at an extra cost.