BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 features a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It has a two-cylinder configuration and uses a shaft drive for transmission. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, generating 160 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque. It also has a two-cylinder configuration but uses a chain drive for transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, features a telescopic upside-down front suspension with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 220mm. The rear suspension is also a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a steel frame with a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 123mm.

Both motorcycles have dual disc front brakes, but the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 uses a double disc system, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 uses a single disc system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 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 wheelbase of 1504mm, a seat height of 890mm, and a curb weight of 268kg (with ABS). The fuel tank capacity is 30 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 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 1580mm, a seat height of 890mm, and a curb weight of 240kg (with ABS). The fuel tank capacity is 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have heated grips, adjustable windshields, and LED headlights. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 also features curve lights, LED daytime running lights, a TFT screen, and an adjustable windshield. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, features a large TFT screen and LED headlights with curve lights.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, a low center of gravity for accessible maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders, a huge range of 600km, incredibly low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great riding comfort, a powerful engine, excellent electronic system, easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and excellent ergonomics for tall people. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is fully capable off-road, has a good off-road mode, easy handling, a very powerful and refined engine, state-of-the-art electronic features such as traction control, quick shift, and cornering ABS, a large and easy-to-read TFT screen, and LED headlights with curve lights.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high weight, somewhat clumsy gear changes at low revs, an irregular and less elegant appearance, and a high price with all the equipment. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, has a high price and a height-adjustable windshield that consumes a lot of energy.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both powerful and capable off-road motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a more comfortable and practical riding experience, while the KTM provides a more aggressive and off-road focused performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.