KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2017 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2017 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both high-performance motorcycles from KTM, but they have distinct differences in their design and intended use.

Starting with the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2017, it is a naked bike that is built for pure adrenaline and excitement. It features a powerful engine with a bore of 108 mm and stroke of 71 mm, delivering an impressive 177 HP of engine power and 144 Nm of torque. The bike is equipped with an electric starter and a chain transmission. It has a 1301 cc displacement and 2 cylinders. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from WP, while the rear suspension is also from WP. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type. The front brakes have four pistons and use radial, monoblock technology from Brembo. The bike also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. It has a front tyre width of 120 mm and a rear tyre width of 190 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1482 mm and the seat height is 835 mm. The dry weight of the bike, with ABS, is 189 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2017

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 is an enduro motorcycle designed for both on-road and off-road adventures. It shares many similarities with the Super Duke R in terms of engine specifications, with the same bore and stroke, engine power of 160 HP, torque of 140 Nm, electric starter, chain transmission, 1301 cc displacement, and 2 cylinders. The front and rear suspensions are also from WP, and the frame is made of chromium-molybdenum with a tubular frame type. The front brakes have four pistons and use radial technology from Brembo. However, the Super Adventure S offers additional advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. It also has a larger front tyre diameter of 19 inches and a rear tyre width of 170 mm. The wheelbase is longer at 1560 mm and the seat height is higher at 860 mm. The dry weight of the bike, with ABS, is heavier at 215 kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Super Duke R excels in providing the most adrenaline rush and offers extensive configuration options when buying. It also has grandiose brakes, great original equipment tyres, and practical electronic features. The seating position is great for tall people and the electronic features can be set very sporty or deactivated as desired. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S boasts a powerful engine, precise handling, and traction control with a fun factor. It also comes with cornering ABS as standard, an easy-to-read huge TFT display, quickshifter, LED headlights with cornering lights, and off-road capability.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Super Duke R's shift assistant, while nice, is a bit rough compared to other power nakeds. It can also be exhausting to ride and the precise stroke is not always easy to hit. Additionally, it is considered the most dangerous motorbike for the driving license on the market. The Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has a high price and the height adjustment of the windshield can consume power.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2017 is a naked bike that offers an exhilarating ride, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 is an enduro motorcycle designed for both on-road and off-road adventures. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, catering to different riding preferences and purposes.