KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 vs. BMW R 1300 GS 2024

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with impressive technical specifications.

Starting with the engine, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc. It produces 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1300cc. It offers a higher power output of 145 horsepower and 149 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with 240mm of travel, and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear with 240mm of travel. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 features a telelever front suspension with 190mm of travel, and a paralever rear suspension with 200mm of travel. The rear suspension can be adjusted for preload.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a chromium-molybdenum frame that is tubular and load-bearing. It has a rake of 63.7 degrees. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a steel frame that is also load-bearing. It has a slightly steeper rake of 63.8 degrees.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 does not specify the type of brakes, while the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 features powerful brakes. Both motorcycles also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1528mm and a seat height of 880mm. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1518mm and a lower seat height of 850mm. The fuel tank capacity is 19 liters.

BMW R 1300 GS 2024

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights and TFT displays. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 also features connectivity and LED daytime running lights, while the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 offers additional features such as anti-slipping control, hill start assist, combined brake system, cruise control, and an emergency call system.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 is praised for its off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics, agile handling, powerful engine, comprehensive electronics package, and finely controllable brakes. It also offers cornering ABS and traction control depending on lean angle. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 is praised for its powerful engine with excellent response behavior, very good traction, stable yet agile handling, practical configuration options, and well-integrated radar cruise control. It also offers a wide range of ergonomic customization options, powerful brakes, and a precise gearbox. Additionally, it has a well-functioning and unobtrusively integrated emergency call system.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 is criticized for its standard hard-padded seat and challenging seat height for small riders. Some useful features such as Quickshifter+ are also available at an extra cost. On the other hand, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 has limitations in terms of configuration options, with unnecessary extras sometimes having to be selected. The suspension, although high-level, does not offer flawless response behavior or a wide adjustment range. The front collision warning system may trigger false alarms in rough everyday driving, and a slight rolling motion may be experienced with a very sporty riding style. The motorcycle may also appear too compact for tall riders, especially from the rear, and the ABS system may provide excessive feedback into the brake lever during sporty riding.