KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features, but there are some notable differences between them.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a larger displacement of 1301cc compared to the 1050cc of the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017. This results in a higher engine power of 160 HP for the 1290 Super Adventure S, compared to 125 HP for the 1090 Adventure. The torque is also higher for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 138 Nm, compared to 109 Nm for the 1090 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a V2 engine type and use a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a larger fork diameter of 48mm compared to 43mm for the 1090 Adventure. The travel for both front and rear suspension is slightly higher for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 200mm, compared to 185mm for the 1090 Adventure.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame type, but the rake angle is slightly higher for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 65.3 degrees, compared to 64 degrees for the 1090 Adventure.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front with Brembo brand, but the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The KTM 1090 Adventure only has ABS, riding modes, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 19-inch front tire diameter and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. However, the rear tire width is slightly wider for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 170mm, compared to 150mm for the 1090 Adventure. The wheelbase and seat height are the same for both motorcycles. The dry weight with ABS is higher for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 220kg, compared to 205kg for the 1090 Adventure. The kerb weight with ABS is also higher for the 1290 Super Adventure S at 243kg, compared to 228kg for the 1090 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has additional features such as cornering lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display, while the KTM 1090 Adventure only has an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is praised for its sporty yet refined V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure is praised for its powerful engine with a wide rev range, performance modes, switchable ABS, adjustable traction control, agile and safe handling, adjustable ergonomics, height-adjustable windshield, low weight, and comparatively low price.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that don't feel very high quality. The KTM 1090 Adventure is criticized for its outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures and the lack of adjustable suspension fork.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and additional features compared to the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017. However, the 1090 Adventure still has its strengths in terms of performance, adjustability, and price.