Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 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 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro is equipped with a three-cylinder inline engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R features a V-twin engine. The Triumph has a displacement of 888cc, producing 95.2 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM has a larger displacement of 1301cc, delivering a more powerful 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have telescopic forks at the front and swingarm suspension at the rear. The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro is equipped with Showa suspension components, including a 45mm diameter front fork with 240mm of travel and a rear monoshock with 230mm of travel. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R features WP suspension, with a 48mm diameter front fork and 220mm of travel, and a rear monoshock with 220mm of travel. Both bikes offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound.

Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro 2020

When it comes to the chassis, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro has a steel frame with a tubular design, offering a rake angle of 65.6 degrees and a trail of 145.8mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, on the other hand, features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design, providing a slightly steeper rake angle of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front, with Brembo being the brand of choice. As for advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes offer features such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro has a 21-inch front tire, a 150mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1551mm, and a seat height of 850mm. It weighs 201kg (dry) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R has a 21-inch front tire, a 150mm wide rear tire, an 18-inch rear tire, a wheelbase of 1577mm, and a seat height of 880mm. It weighs 221kg (dry) and has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT screens. The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro also offers heated seats, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R adds curve lights and an adjustable windshield to its list of features.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro stands out for its characterful three-cylinder engine, improved off-road capabilities, comfortable suspension elements, quick-shifting gearbox with a blipper, generous standard equipment including heated seats, good ergonomics, and excellent wind and weather protection, making it suitable for long-distance riding. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R impresses with its robust overall impression, high-quality and practical chassis, excellent long-distance seat comfort, sporty and high-quality components, powerful yet manageable engine, and practical riding aids.

However, both motorcycles also have some weaknesses. The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro has less robust handguards for off-road use and a cluttered switchgear on the left handlebar. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, on the other hand, is a high-priced motorcycle that lacks individual features in its basic equipment and has complicated controls.

In conclusion, the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be the Triumph's characterful engine and comfortable ergonomics or the KTM's robustness and sporty components.