Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021
Overview - Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021
The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 model year 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R model year 2021 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some key differences between the two models.
In terms of engine specifications, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 is equipped with a V-twin engine with a bore of 100 mm and a stroke of 66 mm. It produces 101 horsepower and 101 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R features a V-twin engine with a larger bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It delivers a higher power output of 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This makes the KTM more powerful and capable of delivering a more thrilling riding experience.
Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions. They also have two cylinders and similar displacements, with the V-Strom having a displacement of 1037 ccm and the KTM having a displacement of 1301 ccm.
In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, there are some differences in the specifications. The Suzuki V-Strom has a front fork diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 160 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R has a larger front fork diameter of 48 mm and a longer travel of 220 mm. This indicates that the KTM is better equipped for off-road riding and can handle rough terrains more effectively.

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018
In terms of chassis, the Suzuki V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin-tube design, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both motorcycles have similar rake angles, with the V-Strom having a rake of 64.5 degrees and the KTM having a rake of 64.7 degrees. The trail measurement is also similar, with the V-Strom having a trail of 109 mm and the KTM having a trail of 112.8 mm.
Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing reliable stopping power. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R offers additional advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. These features enhance the safety and performance of the motorcycle, especially in challenging riding conditions.
In terms of dimensions and weights, the Suzuki V-Strom has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, on the other hand, has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. Both motorcycles have a rear tire width of 150 mm. The wheelbase of the V-Strom is 1555 mm, while the wheelbase of the KTM is slightly longer at 1577 mm. The seat height of the V-Strom is 850 mm, while the seat height of the KTM is higher at 880 mm. The fuel tank capacity of the V-Strom is 20 liters, while the KTM has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021
In terms of strengths, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 offers a powerful engine, good brakes with ABS, traction control, and a stable and comfortable chassis. It also provides good wind protection, making it suitable for touring. The motorcycle comes with complete instruments, including a gear indicator, and has a 12-volt socket in the cockpit area. It also comes with hand protectors and an engine guard as standard, offering added protection. Additionally, the V-Strom is priced more affordably compared to the KTM.
On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a robust overall impression and features a high-quality and practical chassis. It offers a great seat for long rides, ensuring endurance in the saddle. The motorcycle is equipped with sporty and high-quality components, providing a premium riding experience. The engine is powerful yet easy to control, and the motorcycle comes with practical riding aids.
However, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 has a noticeable set-up torque when braking in curves, which can affect the handling of the motorcycle. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is a high-priced motorbike that lacks individual features in the basic equipment. Additionally, some riders may find the controls on the KTM to be fiddly.
In conclusion, both the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Suzuki offers a more affordable option with good touring capabilities, while the KTM provides a more premium and powerful riding experience with advanced rider assistance systems. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.
Technical Specifications Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018

What the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 was already very good at before, the new V-Strom 1000 is also very good at: a well-balanced motorbike that does not shy away from a sporty riding style with good long-distance capability. Added to this are modern features such as ABS and Combined Brake System, which make riding even safer and faster. Suzuki takes criticism seriously, the windshield has been enlarged and, in line with the trend, the V-Strom 1000 is now also available in a slightly more off-road XT version with wire-spoke wheels, which not only increase stability but also the cool look - especially with the yellow paint. Besides all these advantages, the low price remains the absolute killer argument for the Suzuki V-Strom 1000.
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The Super Adventure R presented itself as a great adventure motorbike during the intensive test in the Pyrenees. It offered a great combination of long-distance comfort and off-road capability. You won't find this combination in this consistency on any other motorbike. Above all, the chassis is tough and presented itself from its best side in tough terrain. Of course, only very few riders will actually ride this monster properly - but in rough terrain, "having" has always been better than "needing".
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Suzuki V-Strom 1000 vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
There are a few key differences between a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 and a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is about 56% higher. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 there are less Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 6 compared to 7. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R with 101 days compared to 154 days for the Suzuki V-Strom 1000. Since model year 2005 1000PS.de editors have written 40 reviews for the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and 19 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R since model year 2017. The first review for the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 was published on 7/23/2002 and now has more than 6,300 views. This compares to more than 36,400 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Adventure R published on 10/4/2016.