KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles.

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 1301 ccm and features a chain transmission. The bike has a chromium-molybdenum frame and a tubular frame type. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The bike has double disk brakes at the front and advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 170 mm rear tire width, a 17-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, and a seat height ranging from 849 mm to 869 mm. The bike weighs 243 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 is equipped with a boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 1254 ccm and features a prop shaft transmission. The bike has a steel frame and a load-bearing engine frame type. The front suspension is a telelever with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The bike has double disk brakes at the front and advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. It has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 170 mm rear tire width, a 17-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1525 mm, and a seat height ranging from 850 mm to 870 mm. The bike weighs 249 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. Additional equipment includes LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a very sporty and cultivated V2 power plant, offering a powerful and enjoyable riding experience. Despite its high weight, the bike has accessible handling and a comfortable, driving-friendly seating position. It also features good brakes with cornering ABS and a comprehensive electronics package, including riding modes, cruise control, and traction control. The bike has a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display, providing the rider with all the necessary information.

The BMW R 1250 GS 2019, on the other hand, has an extremely high-torque boxer engine that delivers a good sound and a thrilling riding experience. The bike offers a comfortable seating position, making it suitable for long distances. It also has stable braking performance and good weather protection. The BMW comes with a color TFT display as standard and features LED headlights, providing improved visibility.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends. Additionally, the bike's package design and pricing policy may be seen as opaque by some. The quality of the dashboards and switches also does not feel very high.

The BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has manageable standard equipment, with a long surcharge list for additional features. The bike's appearance may be seen as jagged with little elegance.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. The KTM offers a sportier and more cultivated power plant, while the BMW provides an extremely high-torque boxer engine. The KTM has a more comprehensive electronics package and a larger display, while the BMW offers a comfortable seating position and good weather protection. Each bike has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two will ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.