KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2013

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

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Overview - KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 vs BMW R 1200 GS 2013

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2013 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure boasts a larger bore and stroke, resulting in a higher engine power of 160 HP compared to the BMW's 125 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the BMW's 125 Nm. Both motorcycles have a 2-cylinder engine, but the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm compared to the BMW's 1170 ccm.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

In terms of suspension, the KTM features an Upside-Down telescopic fork at the front, while the BMW has a strut suspension. The KTM also has a chromium-molybdenum frame, which is known for its strength and durability, while the BMW has a steel frame. Both motorcycles have a tubular frame type, but the BMW's frame is load-bearing, which contributes to its high comfort and suitability for traveling and everyday use.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm compared to the BMW's 1507 mm. The KTM also has a higher seat height of 860 mm compared to the BMW's 850 mm. However, the BMW is lighter with a kerb weight of 238 kg compared to the KTM's 249 kg. Both motorcycles have the same front and rear tire diameter and width.

In terms of additional features, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 has a comprehensive electronics package, including cornering ABS, adjustable traction control, and cruise control. It also has a large 30-litre fuel tank, heated seats, a main stand, and LED cornering lights. The BMW R 1200 GS 2013 is praised for its new engine and top chassis, as well as its high comfort and suitability for traveling and everyday use.

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

However, the KTM does have some weaknesses, such as a jagged windshield and a locking lever of the windshield on the right side. Additionally, the power delivery of the KTM can be somewhat jerky at revs under 2000. On the other hand, there are no specific weaknesses mentioned for the BMW.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2013 are both highly capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more powerful engine and a comprehensive electronics package, while the BMW is praised for its comfort and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2013

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015
BMW R 1200 GS 2013

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore108 mmBore101 mm
StrokeStroke71 mmStroke73 mm
Engine powerEngine power160 HPEngine power125 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,700 rpm
TorqueTorque140 NmTorque125 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,750 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeAntihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionProp shaft
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,301 ccmDisplacement1,170 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionStrut

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTwin Tube, Load-bearing engine

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFloating caliper

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
WheelbaseWheelbase1,560 mmWheelbase1,507 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height860 mmSeat Height850 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)249 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)238 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity30 lFuel Tank Capacity20 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

The 1290 Super Adventure is rightly presented by KTM as an adventure flagship. Packed with sophisticated electronics and almost everything you could possibly need in a big touring enduro, it recommends itself as expected for the long haul. What you don't immediately see from its bulky appearance, however, is that the Super Adventure, like its 1190 sisters, is an incredible fun machine. Especially in tight corners, it is unbelievable fun. The electronics control traction, chassis and engine management so unobtrusively that you can concentrate fully and above all safely on accelerating. On the intermediate straights, the 160 hp of power ensure that the 1290 Super Adventure can also meet sporting requirements and is thus hardly surpassed in terms of universality.

Very powerful and confident engine

sporty, agile handling

comprehensive electronics package

interaction of many electronic features

semi-active suspension

cornering ABS

adjustable traction control

cruise control

large 30-litre fuel tank

heated seats

main stand

LED cornering lights.

Windshield very jagged

locking lever of the windshield on the right side

power delivery under 2000 revs somewhat jerky

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

BMW R 1200 GS 2013

There are hardly any real points of attack in the market leader, which has become even more versatile - and faster.

New engine

Top chassis

High comfort

Suitable for travelling

Suitable for everyday use

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Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure vs BMW R 1200 GS

There are a few key differences between a KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 and a BMW R 1200 GS 2013. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 is about 3% higher. A KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 experiences a loss of 500 USD in one year and 1,190 USD in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 240 USD and 670 USD for a BMW R 1200 GS 2013. Compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2013 there are less KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 7 compared to 44. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 GS with 60 days compared to 82 days for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 18 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure and 98 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS since model year 2005. The first review for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure was published on 8/19/2014 and now has more than 8,100 views. This compares to more than 19,100 views for the first review on BMW R 1200 GS published on 1/20/2004.

Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW R 1200 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

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