KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2017

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

BMW R 1200 GS 2017
Overview - KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 vs BMW R 1200 GS 2017
In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 features a V-type engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm, producing a power of 125 HP and a torque of 109 Nm. It has a chain transmission and is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1050 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, also producing a power of 125 HP but with a higher torque of 125 Nm. It has a prop shaft transmission and is equipped with a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1170 ccm.
In terms of suspension, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 features an upside-down telescopic fork for the front suspension and a swing arm for the rear suspension. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017, on the other hand, has a strut front suspension and a single swing arm for the rear suspension.
In terms of chassis, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a steel frame. The frame type for the KTM is tubular, while the BMW has a twin tube, load-bearing engine frame type.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018
Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 also has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, but a slightly wider rear tire width of 170 mm and the same rear tire diameter of 17 inches.
In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 228 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1507 mm, the same seat height of 850 mm, a slightly higher kerb weight (with ABS) of 238 kg, and a smaller fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.
Now, let's move on to the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is praised for its very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range. It offers performance modes, the ability to switch off ABS, and adjustable traction control, making it versatile and adaptable to different riding conditions. It is also known for its agile and safe handling, thanks to its adjustable ergonomics and height-adjustable windshield. Additionally, it has a relatively low weight and comparatively low price, making it an attractive option for riders.

BMW R 1200 GS 2017
On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 is praised for its mature concept and strong engine. It offers easy handling and powerful brakes, providing a comfortable and confident riding experience. It also features adjustable modes and traction control, allowing riders to customize their riding experience. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has an extensive equipment range, offering various options and features to enhance the riding experience. It also has a good image and value retention, making it a popular choice among riders.
However, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 does have some weaknesses. Its optics may seem outdated compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures, and its suspension fork is not adjustable, limiting the customization options for riders. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has the disadvantage of many features being available at an extra cost. Additionally, its boxer engine may be exposed in really tough terrain, potentially leading to damage.
In conclusion, both the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 offer powerful engines, good handling, and a range of features. The KTM has the advantage of a lower price and adjustable ergonomics, while the BMW has a mature concept and extensive equipment range. However, the KTM may be seen as outdated in terms of optics and lacks adjustable suspension, while the BMW may require additional costs for certain features and has a potential vulnerability in tough terrain. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.
Technical Specifications KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2017
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

The KTM 1090 Adventure is a huge step away from its predecessor, the 1050 Adventure, towards its bigger sisters. The electronics package with adjustable riding modes, traction control and ABS remains at the already high level, but the engine now has 125 hp, around a third (!) more than the 1050. Almost more importantly, it can now rev freely to over 10,000 rpm and thus offers a more usable rev band. You will hardly find a more balanced bike in the class of still reasonably priced large touring enduros.
BMW R 1200 GS 2017

For over 35 years, BMW has continued to expand the boxer range and is consistently working on the evolution of the GS. In addition to the EURO4 update of the engine with new catalytic converter and mapping, there are now even more features such as the Dynamic ESA Next Generation with automatic riding position compensation, which further improves stability and comfort for the rider. With its subtle colour scheme, the Exclusive version is intended for friends of a neat and subdued appearance and, unlike the flashier Rallye variant, is designed more for the road. Many features are at extra cost, but GS customers usually don't care - 90 percent are ordered with full equipment.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 1090 Adventure vs BMW R 1200 GS
There are a few key differences between a KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 and a BMW R 1200 GS 2017. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1200 GS 2017 is about 34% higher. A KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 experiences a loss of 990 USD in one year and 490 USD in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 560 USD and 980 USD for a BMW R 1200 GS 2017. Compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2017 there are less KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 7 compared to 84. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 GS with 72 days compared to 101 days for the KTM 1090 Adventure. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 7 reviews for the KTM 1090 Adventure and 98 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS since model year 2005. The first review for the KTM 1090 Adventure was published on 10/12/2016 and now has more than 32,200 views. This compares to more than 19,100 views for the first review on BMW R 1200 GS published on 1/20/2004.