KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of engine and drivetrain, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 features a V-type engine with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It has an impressive engine power of 160 HP and a torque of 140 Nm. The starter is electric, and the transmission is a chain. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1301 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It has an engine power of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The starter is also electric, but the transmission is a prop shaft. Similar to the KTM, it has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm.

When it comes to suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm. It offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. It also has adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. It only offers adjustment options for preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It offers adjustment options for preload and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a steel frame. The KTM has a frame type of tubular, a rake of 64 degrees, and a trail of 123 mm. The BMW has a frame type of load-bearing engine, a rake of 62.9 degrees, and a trail of 109 mm.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes, but the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers additional assistance systems such as anti-slipping control, hill start assist, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, offers advanced rider assistance systems like ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1580 mm, a seat height of 890 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 240 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 249 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 also features heated grips, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 boasts a great connectivity app.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is fully off-road capable with a good off-road mode. It has easy handling, a very powerful and refined engine, and state-of-the-art electronic features. It also has a large, easy-to-read TFT display and LED headlights with cornering lights. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort and ergonomics, a powerful engine, and a great connectivity app. It has an easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis that accommodates every route.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment of the windshield. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021, on the other hand, has a rough overall appearance and gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy.