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

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 features a V-type engine with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It has an engine power of 160 HP and a torque of 138 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is a chain. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1301 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It has an engine power of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is a prop shaft. Like the KTM, it also has 2 cylinders but with a smaller displacement of 1254 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. It can also be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a steel frame. The KTM has a frame type of tubular, while the BMW has a load-bearing engine frame type. The KTM has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm, while the BMW has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. However, the KTM does not specify the type of brakes, while the BMW does not specify the diameter of the brakes.

In terms of assistance systems, both motorcycles have ABS and riding modes. The KTM also has cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW has anti-slipping control and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1577 mm, a seat height of 880 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 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, a seat height of 850 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have adjustable windshields. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 also has cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has LED headlights and a color TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a robust overall impression, high-quality and practical chassis, a great seat for endurance, sporty and high-quality components, a powerful but easy-to-control engine, and practical riding aids. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a good sound, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, a color TFT display standard, and LED headlights.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 lacks individual features in the basic equipment and has fiddly controls. The BMW R 1250 GS 2019 has a manageable standard equipment, a long surcharge list, and a jagged appearance with little elegance.