BMW R 1250 GS 2019 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 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 the transmission is a prop shaft. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a V-type engine with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It has a higher engine power of 160 HP and a torque of 140 Nm. The starter is also electric, but the transmission is a chain. Like the BMW, it has 2 cylinders, but a larger displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It can be adjusted for preload and rebound. The chassis is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine frame. The rake is 62.9 degrees and the trail is 109 mm. The front brakes are double disk type. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. The front tyre has a diameter of 19 inches and the rear tyre has a width of 170 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1525 mm and the seat height is 850 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 249 kg and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. The equipment includes LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. It can also be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame. The rake is 64 degrees and the trail is 123 mm. The front brakes are double disk type. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The front tyre has a diameter of 21 inches and the rear tyre has a width of 150 mm and a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1580 mm and the seat height is 890 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 240 kg and the fuel tank capacity is 23 liters. The equipment includes heated grips, cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has an extremely high-torque boxer engine that provides a good sound. The comfortable seating position makes it suitable for long distances. The bike also has stable braking performance and good weather protection. The standard colour TFT display and LED headlights are also notable features. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is fully off-road capable and has a good off-road mode. It offers easy handling and a very powerful and refined engine. The bike also boasts state-of-the-art electronic features such as traction control, quickshifter, and cornering ABS. The large and easy-to-read TFT display and LED headlights with cornering lights are also strengths.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

However, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has some weaknesses. It has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list. The bike also has a jagged appearance with little elegance. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment of the windshield.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. The BMW offers a comfortable and torquey riding experience with good braking performance and weather protection. The KTM, on the other hand, is fully off-road capable and offers advanced electronic features. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific riding needs.