KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some notable differences.

In terms of the engine and drive train, the KTM 890 Adventure R features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc, producing 105 HP and 100 Nm of torque. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a boxer, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 HP and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter, but it uses a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 890 Adventure R has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 240 mm in the front, and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 240 mm in the rear. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm, and a single swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm in the rear. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

In terms of the chassis, the KTM 890 Adventure R has a chromium-molybdenum frame that is tubular and load-bearing, with a rake of 63.7 degrees. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a steel frame that is load-bearing, with a rake of 65.1 degrees.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front, but the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure also has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and electronically adjustable suspension.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Adventure R 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 1528 mm, a seat height of 880 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 444 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.5 l/100km. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 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 1504 mm, a seat height of 890 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of 631 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. They also have LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. However, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure also has additional features such as cornering lights, a heated seat, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R is praised for its off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall riders), agile handling, powerful engine, comprehensive electronics package, finely controllable brakes, and traction control depending on lean angle. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is praised for its high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, low center of gravity ensuring surprisingly accessible maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders, gigantic range of 600 km, low consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, powerful engine, great electronics, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall people.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Adventure R is criticized for its standard hard-padded seat, challenging seat height for small riders, and the fact that useful features such as Quickshifter+ come at an extra cost. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is criticized for its high weight, somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs, jagged appearance with little elegance, and high price with full equipment.

In conclusion, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more off-road focused experience with agile handling and a powerful engine, while the BMW provides a comfortable and practical riding experience with a high-torque engine and a range of useful features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.