KTM 790 Adventure 2019 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The KTM 790 Adventure model year 2019 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R model year 2021 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they share some similarities in terms of their suspension, chassis, and advanced rider assistance systems, they also have notable differences in their engine power, dimensions, and weights.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc. It delivers a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 88 Nm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is equipped with a V-twin, 2-cylinder engine with a larger displacement of 1301cc. It boasts a more powerful engine with 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both models have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions with monoshocks at the rear. The KTM 790 Adventure 2019 is equipped with WP suspension components, featuring 43mm diameter forks and 200mm of travel for both the front and rear. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021, on the other hand, features higher-spec WP suspension components, with 48mm diameter forks and 220mm of travel for both the front and rear. The rear suspension of both models can be adjusted for preload.

KTM 790 Adventure 2019

Both motorcycles have chromium-molybdenum frames, but the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a tubular frame type. The rake and trail measurements also differ slightly, with the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 having a rake of 64.1 degrees and a trail of 107.8mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8mm.

In terms of braking, both models feature double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 offers an additional feature of cornering ABS, enhancing its safety and control during cornering.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 also includes cornering ABS, further enhancing its safety features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is slightly larger and heavier than the KTM 790 Adventure 2019. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a longer wheelbase of 1577mm compared to the 1509mm of the KTM 790 Adventure 2019. The seat height of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is also higher at 880mm, while the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 has a seat height of 830mm. The dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is 221kg, while the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 weighs 189kg with ABS.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 is praised for its engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is commended for its robust overall impression, high-quality and practical chassis, great seat for endurance, sporty and high-quality components, powerful yet easy-to-control engine, and practical riding aids.

However, there are also weaknesses to consider. The KTM 790 Adventure 2019 is criticized for its unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat not being optimally shaped. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021, on the other hand, is noted for its high price and lack of individual features in the basic equipment, as well as fiddly controls.

In conclusion, while both the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are capable enduro motorcycles, the 1290 Super Adventure R offers a more powerful engine, higher-quality components, and additional features such as cornering ABS. However, it also comes at a higher price and may have some fiddly controls. The KTM 790 Adventure 2019, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with excellent off-road capabilities and a more attractive surcharge policy, but it may have some comfort issues with its seat.