KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 vs. BMW S 1000 R 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

BMW S 1000 R 2021

BMW S 1000 R 2021

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Overview - KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 vs BMW S 1000 R 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 and the BMW S 1000 R 2021 are both powerful naked bikes that offer thrilling riding experiences. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 takes the lead with 177 HP compared to the BMW S 1000 R 2021's 165 HP. This gives the KTM an edge in terms of acceleration and top speed. The KTM also boasts a higher torque of 144 Nm compared to the BMW's 114 Nm. This means that the KTM has more low-end grunt and will feel more responsive at lower speeds.

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 has a twin-cylinder engine, while the BMW S 1000 R 2021 has a four-cylinder engine. This difference in cylinder configuration affects the overall performance and character of the bikes. The twin-cylinder engine of the KTM provides a more raw and aggressive power delivery, while the four-cylinder engine of the BMW offers a smoother and more refined performance.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

Both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, ensuring excellent handling and stability. The KTM has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW has an aluminum frame. The choice of frame material affects the overall weight and stiffness of the bikes, with the aluminum frame of the BMW offering a good balance between rigidity and weight savings.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with four-piston front calipers and offer excellent stopping power. The KTM features radial, monoblock technology for its front brakes, while the BMW has radial technology. This difference in brake technology may result in slightly different braking feel and performance.

When it comes to rider assistance systems, both bikes offer advanced features such as ABS and traction control. However, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 goes a step further with additional features like hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. These additional features enhance the overall safety and performance of the BMW.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters. The KTM has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the BMW's 1450 mm. The seat height of the KTM is also slightly higher at 835 mm compared to the BMW's 830 mm. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of around 16-18 liters.

BMW S 1000 R 2021

BMW S 1000 R 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 offers a wonderful adrenaline rush, extensive configuration options, terrific brakes with cornering ABS, practical electronic features, a great seating position, and a very good shift assistant. On the other hand, the BMW S 1000 R 2021 boasts a powerful engine, good brakes, comfortable ergonomics, high-performance optional extras, simple operation, and versatility as an all-rounder.

As for weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 may have a precise stroke that is not always easy to hit, and it is considered one of the most dangerous motorcycles for obtaining a driving license. The BMW S 1000 R 2021, on the other hand, has a quickshifter that is good but not perfect, a slightly intrusive sound, and some vibrations in the handlebars.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 and the BMW S 1000 R 2021 are both impressive naked bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more aggressive and adrenaline-pumping experience, while the BMW provides a more refined and versatile ride. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 compared to BMW S 1000 R 2021

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018
BMW S 1000 R 2021

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore108 mmBore80 mm
StrokeStroke71 mmStroke49.7 mm
Engine powerEngine power177 HPEngine power165 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,870 rpmRpm at Max. Power11,000 rpm
TorqueTorque144 NmTorque114 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque9,250 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.2 Compression Ratio12.5
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath, Antihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,301 ccmDisplacement999 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameAluminium
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTwin Tube

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
TechnologyTechnologyradial, MonoblockTechnologyradial

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Hill start assist, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Traction control, Anti-wheelie

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width190 mmRear tyre width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,482 mmWheelbase1,450 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height830 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity18 lFuel Tank Capacity16.5 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018

The KTM is and remains the most brutal naked bike on the market. The upright riding position in combination with the wild V2 power make it look more brutal than it is on paper. It has been improved precisely in its biggest weak points. The engine now runs more smoothly, the quickshifter brings calm in the acceleration phase and the chassis has been upgraded. It still loves the wild chase more than high cornering speeds on long bends.

Provides the most adrenaline rush

Extensive configuration options when buying

Great brakes

Great original equipment tyres

Practical electronic features

Great seating position for tall people

Electronic features can be set very sporty and can also be deactivated.

Quickshifter nice, but a bit rough in direct comparison with other powernakeds

Tiresome to ride

Precise line not always easy to hit

The most dangerous bike on the market for the rider's licence.

BMW S 1000 R 2021

BMW S 1000 R 2021

The seating position is sporty, but by no means uncomfortable, the brakes are powerful and the engine of the S 1000 R is at its best - perhaps even a little too homogeneous. There is also nothing to complain about on the riding side. Based on the pure performance data and the installed electronic features, the BMW probably has what it takes for the fastest lap time. And that on any kind of surface, because with the semi-active suspension you can eat up kilometre after kilometre on bad roads littered with potholes. Unfortunately, this feeling of superiority never really spilled over to the driver. Probably the downside of too much balance in all areas - at least in my Italophile eyes. The BMW lacked that certain something, the charisma, which is difficult to explain but arouses genuine emotions.

powerful engine

strong brakes

comfortable ergonomics

good standard equipment

extensive range of accessories

Sluggish shift assistant

optics not 100% coherent

Price Comparison Average Market Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R vs BMW S 1000 R

There are a few key differences between a KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 and a BMW S 1000 R 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW S 1000 R 2021 is about 27% higher. Compared to BMW S 1000 R 2021 there are more KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 22 compared to 15. It takes less time to sell a BMW S 1000 R with 67 days compared to 86 days for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. Since model year 2013 1000PS.de editors have written 65 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and 62 reviews for the BMW S 1000 R since model year 2014. The first review for the KTM 1290 Super Duke R was published on 08/11/2012 and now has more than 4,900 views. This compares to more than 17,300 views for the first review on BMW S 1000 R published on 03/11/2013.

Price KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW S 1000 R

Model year
Current average market prices

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