Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles. They offer a range of features and capabilities that make them suitable for various riding conditions.

Starting with the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023, it is equipped with an in-line 3-cylinder engine that delivers 150 HP of power and 130 Nm of torque. This engine provides a smooth and powerful performance, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road riding. The bike features a prop shaft transmission, which ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. The suspension system consists of a Showa upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear, both offering 200 mm of travel. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike's handling to their preferences. The frame is made of steel and has a tubular design, providing a sturdy and stable platform. The braking system features double disk brakes at the front, branded by Brembo, ensuring excellent stopping power. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 also comes with a range of advanced rider assistance systems, including hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control. The bike has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. It has a wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height of 850 mm, which can be adjusted up to 870 mm. The bike weighs 255 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. Additional equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. This engine provides a sporty yet refined performance, making it suitable for both aggressive riding and long-distance touring. The bike is equipped with a chain transmission, which offers precise and responsive power delivery. The suspension system consists of a WP upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a WP monoshock at the rear, both offering 200 mm of travel. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike's handling to their preferences. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design, providing a lightweight yet rigid structure. The braking system features double disk brakes at the front, branded by Brembo, ensuring excellent stopping power. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 also comes with a range of advanced rider assistance systems, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The bike has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 170 mm rear tire width, and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. It has a wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height of 849 mm, which can be adjusted up 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.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 offers a silky yet powerful engine, providing a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. The semi-active chassis with a wide adjustment range allows riders to tailor the bike's handling to their preferences. The excellent brakes ensure reliable stopping power in various conditions. The comfortable ergonomics make long rides more enjoyable, and the extensive equipment, including features like Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, and a TFT display, provides added convenience and functionality.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 boasts a very sporty yet refined V2 power plant, offering a balance between performance and comfort. Despite its high weight, the bike exhibits extremely playful handling, making it agile and maneuverable. The comfortable and driving-friendly seating position enhances rider comfort during long rides. The good brakes, including cornering ABS, provide reliable stopping power in various riding situations. The comprehensive electronics package, including features like riding modes, cruise control, and traction control, enhances the bike's performance and safety. The adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display are additional highlights of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

However, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 does have some weaknesses. It has quite limited lean angle clearance, which may affect its performance in aggressive cornering situations. The bike may also experience high-frequency vibrations at cruising speed, which can be uncomfortable for some riders. Additionally, the standard tires on the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 may result in slightly sluggish turn-in behavior.

Similarly, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a few weaknesses. The gearshift assistant is available at an extra cost, which may be a drawback for some riders. The bike also has an idiosyncratic look that may not appeal to all riders. Additionally, the seat on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is tight, which may be uncomfortable for some riders during long rides.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are capable and feature-packed enduro motorcycles. They offer powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, and comprehensive electronics packages. While the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 excels in terms of engine smoothness, adjustable chassis, and extensive equipment, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 stands out with its sporty V2 power plant, agile handling, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 has limitations in terms of lean angle clearance and vibrations, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has drawbacks such as the cost of the gearshift assistant and a tight seat. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.