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

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S model year 2021 and the KTM 890 Adventure model year 2022 are both enduro motorcycles from KTM, but they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301ccm, producing 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure 2022 has an in-line engine with a displacement of 889ccm, producing 105 HP of power and 100 Nm of torque. While the 1290 Super Adventure S has a more powerful engine, the 890 Adventure is lighter in weight.

In terms of suspension, both models feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The suspension travel is the same for both models at 200mm. However, the 890 Adventure has a slightly improved chassis and offers adjustments for preload and rebound on the rear suspension.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

Both models have a chromium-molybdenum frame, but the 890 Adventure has a tubular load-bearing engine frame, which contributes to its lower weight. The rake angle is also different, with the 1290 Super Adventure S having a rake of 65.3 degrees and the 890 Adventure having a rake of 63.7 degrees.

In terms of brakes, both models have double disk brakes at the front. The 1290 Super Adventure S comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The 890 Adventure also has ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control, but lacks some of the advanced features of the 1290 Super Adventure S.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the 890 Adventure has a slightly larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the 19 inches of the 1290 Super Adventure S. The rear tire width is also smaller for the 890 Adventure at 150mm compared to 170mm for the 1290 Super Adventure S. The wheelbase is slightly shorter for the 890 Adventure at 1528mm compared to 1560mm for the 1290 Super Adventure S. The seat height is almost the same for both models, with the 890 Adventure having a seat height of 850mm and the 1290 Super Adventure S having a seat height of 849mm. The fuel tank capacity is also smaller for the 890 Adventure at 20 liters compared to 23 liters for the 1290 Super Adventure S.

KTM 890 Adventure 2022

In terms of strengths, the 1290 Super Adventure S is praised for its sporty yet refined V2 power plant, accessible handling, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the 890 Adventure is praised for its proven and confident engine, lower weight, improved chassis, more comfortable seat, combination of riding modes and ABS settings, and excellent quickshifter. Additionally, the 890 Adventure is noted for being made in Austria.

However, both models have their weaknesses. The 1290 Super Adventure S has been criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, opaque package design and pricing policy, and lower quality feel of the dashboards and switches. The 890 Adventure, on the other hand, has been criticized for its non-adjustable windshield, limited suspension travel for hard terrain, and the need to purchase many useful extras at an additional cost.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 890 Adventure 2022 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 1290 Super Adventure S offers more power and advanced features, while the 890 Adventure is lighter and more agile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended usage.