BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles.

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 1254 ccm and features a prop shaft transmission. The suspension system consists of a Telelever front suspension with 37 mm diameter and 190 mm of travel, and a single swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and 200 mm of travel. The frame is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine design. The bike has a 62.9-degree rake and is equipped with double disk brakes at the front. It also features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 170 mm rear tire width, a 17-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1525 mm, and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850 mm to 870 mm. It has a kerb weight of 249 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 421 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 features a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 1301 ccm and is equipped with a chain transmission. The suspension system consists of an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 48 mm diameter and 200 mm of travel, and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and 200 mm of travel. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The bike has a 65.3-degree rake and is equipped with double disk brakes at the front. It also features advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has the same tire dimensions as the BMW R 1250 GS 2021, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, and a seat height that can be adjusted from 849 mm to 869 mm. It has a kerb weight of 243 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416 km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100km. Additional equipment includes connectivity, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort and ergonomics, thanks to its versatile chassis that accommodates every route. It also has a powerful engine and a great connectivity app. The bike provides a confident feel in the saddle and comes with practical riding aids, making it easy to ride.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 is praised for its very sporty, yet cultivated V2 power plant. Despite its high weight, the bike offers extremely playful handling. It also has a comfortable, driving-friendly seating position and good brakes, including cornering ABS. The comprehensive electronics package includes adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the instrumentation features a clear, well-structured 7-inch display.

However, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a rough overall appearance and its gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has some weaknesses such as the gearshift assistant and other features being available at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a stiff seat bench.