BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and features.

Starting with the engines, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a V-twin engine. The BMW has a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm, producing a power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. On the other hand, the KTM has a larger bore of 108 mm and a shorter stroke of 71 mm, resulting in a higher power output of 160 HP and a torque of 140 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters for easy ignition.

In terms of transmission, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features a shaft drive, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a chain drive. The BMW has a displacement of 1254 cc, with 2 cylinders, while the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 cc, also with 2 cylinders.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

Moving on to the suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock, offering a travel of 200 mm. The suspension adjustments include preload and recovery. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 features a telescopic upside-down front fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, providing a travel of 200 mm. The suspension adjustments include compression, preload, and recovery.

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a steel frame with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 120 mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc front brakes for reliable stopping power. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, riding modes, and ride-by-wire. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 also offers similar systems, including ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride-by-wire, and traction control.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height ranging from 850 mm to 870 mm. The curb weight with ABS is 249 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 also has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height ranging from 860 mm to 875 mm. The curb weight with ABS is 238 kg, and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with features such as LED headlights and adjustable windshields. Additionally, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 offers heated grips, cornering lights, and a larger and easy-to-read TFT display.

In summary, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. The BMW offers a high-torque boxer engine, comfortable seating position, stable braking performance, and good weather protection. It also comes with a standard color TFT display and LED headlights. On the other hand, the KTM has a more powerful V-twin engine, precise handling, and traction control that adds to the fun factor. It also features an electronically adjustable suspension, cornering lights, and a large TFT display. However, it has a higher price and the windshield height adjustment consumes more power.