KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter but uses a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021, on the other hand, has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a steel frame. Both motorcycles have a rake of around 65 degrees.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 also has ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, and cornering ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1560mm, and a seat height ranging from 849mm to 869mm. It has a kerb weight (with ABS) of 243kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has similar dimensions and weights, with a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1504mm, and a seat height ranging from 890mm to 910mm. It has a kerb weight (with ABS) of 268kg and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have cornering lights, LED headlights, and adjustable windscreens. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 also features a TFT display, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has additional features such as LED daytime running lights, a heated seat, and a connectivity app.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is praised for its sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, playful handling despite its weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is commended for its practical details for frequent riders, impressive range and fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, powerful engine, connectivity app, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, pleasant seating position for the pillion passenger, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is criticized for its gearshift assistant being an optional extra, its idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is noted for its high weight that can strain maneuvering, stiff gearshifts at low revs, and a jagged appearance with little elegance.

Overall, both the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.