BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

Loading...

Overview - BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS model year 2020 is equipped with a boxer engine that delivers an impressive 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. This engine provides a high level of torque, resulting in excellent acceleration and a thrilling sound. The comfortable seating position of the R 1250 GS makes it suitable for long-distance rides, allowing riders to enjoy extended periods of riding without discomfort. The braking performance of the R 1250 GS is stable and reliable, ensuring the rider's safety in various riding conditions. The bike also offers good weather protection, shielding the rider from wind and rain. The R 1250 GS comes standard with a colour TFT display and LED headlights, enhancing visibility and providing a modern and stylish look.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S model year 2023 features a V2 power plant that offers a perfect balance between sportiness and refinement. With 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque, the engine delivers impressive performance and a thrilling riding experience. Despite its high weight, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S offers extremely playful handling, allowing riders to confidently navigate corners and enjoy a dynamic riding experience. The seating position of the Super Adventure S is comfortable and driving-friendly, ensuring that riders can enjoy long rides without fatigue. The bike is equipped with good brakes, including cornering ABS, which enhances safety and control. The comprehensive electronics package of the Super Adventure S includes features such as suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. The bike also features a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display, providing riders with all the necessary information at a glance.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list, which means that riders may need to pay extra for additional features and accessories. The bike also has a jagged appearance with little elegance, which may not appeal to riders looking for a more refined and sleek design.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has some weaknesses as well. The gearshift assistant and other features are available at an extra cost, which may increase the overall price of the bike. Additionally, the Super Adventure S has an idiosyncratic look, which may not be to everyone's taste. The seat bench of the bike is also stiff, which may cause discomfort during long rides.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 offer impressive performance and a range of advanced features. The R 1250 GS excels in terms of its high-torque boxer engine, comfortable seating position, and stable braking performance. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S stands out with its sporty V2 power plant, playful handling, comprehensive electronics package, and adaptive cruise control. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1250 GS 2020 compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

BMW R 1250 GS 2020
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeV
BoreBore102.5 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke76 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power136 HPEngine power160 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpm
TorqueTorque143 NmTorque138 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque6,750 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio13.1
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore52 mmThrottle Bore52 mm
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquid-airCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,254 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTeleleverFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
DiameterDiameter37 mmDiameter48 mm
TravelTravel190 mmTravel200 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
TravelTravel200 mmTravel200 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreload, ReboundAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound
MaterialMaterialAluminiumMaterialAluminium

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeLoad-bearing engineFrame typeTubular
RakeRake62.9 degreeRake65.3 degree

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter305 mmDiameter320 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
ActuationActuationHydraulicActuationHydraulic
TechnologyTechnologyradialTechnologyradial

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter276 mmDiameter267 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Anti-slipping control, Riding modes, Ride by WireAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsSuspension electronically adjustable, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Radar cruise control, Ride by Wire, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter19 inchFront tyre diameter19 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width170 mmRear tyre width170 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,525 mmWheelbase1,560 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height850 mmSeat Height849 mm
Seat Height up toSeat Height up to870 mmSeat Height up to869 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)249 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)243 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity20 lFuel Tank Capacity23 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Equipment

EquipmentEquipmentLED-Headlights, Windscreen adjustableEquipmentConnectivity, Keyless System, Cornering lights, LED-Headlights, TFT display, Windscreen adjustable

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

The BMW R 1250 GS also presents itself as a very complete bike in 2022. Confident and well-balanced, it impresses on intensive rides. The bike scores points with its superb engine, great ergonomics and practical riding aids including great app integration. However, in a direct comparison with other top-of-the-range touring enduros, it shows its first weaknesses in terms of features and components. In direct comparison, however, the 136 hp from the boxer engine is convincing in every situation.

Extremely high-torque boxer engine

comfortable seating position, suitable for long distances

great app integration

sophisticated operating concept

great ergonomics

many customisation options

great handling with strong confidence in the front

easy to ride

Shifting at low revs is choppy

seat too slack

brakes and suspension no longer at the level of the strong competition

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is anything but old hat. The Euro5 engine still shines incredibly with its 160 Horsepower and an impressive 138 Newton metres of torque. The refined electronics ensure an even smoother ride, which results in a lot of fun when attacking the twisties thanks to the wonderfully agile handling. But the new SA S also has a lot to offer comfort freaks and all those who value the travelling qualities of this type of motorbike. A nice standard feature is the adaptive cruise control ACC, which independently maintains the distance to the vehicle in front - and works really well. In any case, the Quickshifter+ or the all-encompassing TechPack is recommended - at the basic price, the extra 1000 euros are no longer so significant.

Very sporty, but also cultivated V2 power plant

extremely playful handling despite its height

comfortable, active riding position

good brakes including cornering ABS

extensive electronics package

adaptive cruise control ACC

clear, well-structured dashboard with huge 7 inch display

Quickshifter and other features at extra cost

unconventional look

tight bench seat

Price Comparison Average Market Price BMW R 1250 GS vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is about 9% higher. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 there are less BMW R 1250 GS 2020 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 71 compared to 121. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 GS with 43 days compared to 58 days for a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 50 reviews for the BMW R 1250 GS and 31 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S since model year 2017. The first review for the BMW R 1250 GS was published on 9/19/2018 and now has more than 305,600 views. This compares to more than 32,200 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Adventure S published on 10/12/2016.

Price BMW R 1250 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

Model year
Current average market prices

Alternative Comparisons