Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both powerful adventure motorcycles with impressive features.

Starting with the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023, it boasts a smooth yet powerful inline engine with a displacement of 1160cc. With a power output of 150 HP and torque of 130 Nm, this motorcycle offers strong performance. It features a shaft drive transmission and a 3-cylinder engine configuration. The suspension system consists of a Showa telescopic fork at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear, both offering 200mm of travel. The chassis is made of steel and has a tubular frame design. The braking system includes dual Brembo disc brakes at the front. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, it offers features such as hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, cruise control, blind spot assistance, and traction control. The dimensions include a 19-inch front tire, 150mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1560mm, and a seat height ranging from 850mm to 870mm. The weight of the motorcycle is 255kg (with ABS) and it has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. Additional equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, keyless system, LED headlights, heated seat, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It delivers a higher power output of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm. The engine is mated to a chain drive transmission and has a 2-cylinder configuration. The suspension system consists of a WP upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a WP monoshock at the rear, both offering 200mm of travel. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame design. The braking system includes dual Brembo disc brakes at the front. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, it offers electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, and traction control. The dimensions include a 19-inch front tire, 170mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1560mm, and a seat height ranging from 849mm to 869mm. The weight of the motorcycle is 243kg (with ABS) and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. Additional equipment includes LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 stands out with its smooth and powerful engine, semi-active chassis with a wide range of adjustment, excellent brakes, comfortable ergonomics, and extensive equipment with many comfort features as standard.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 impresses with its sporty yet refined V-twin powertrain, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable and easy-to-ride seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronic package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 has a somewhat limited lean angle clearance, high-frequency vibrations at cruising speed, and slightly sluggish cornering behavior with the stock tires. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has an additional cost for the gear shift assistant, an idiosyncratic appearance, and a narrow seat.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offer impressive performance and features. The Triumph excels in terms of comfort and extensive equipment, while the KTM stands out with its sporty character and advanced electronic package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.