KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful motorcycles with similar engine specifications. They both have a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm, resulting in a displacement of 1301 ccm. The engine power of the Super Duke R is slightly higher at 180 HP compared to the Super Adventure S's 160 HP. However, both bikes have the same torque of 140 Nm.

In terms of design, the Super Duke R is a naked bike while the Super Adventure S is an enduro motorcycle. The Super Duke R has a more aggressive and sporty appearance, with a tubular chromium-molybdenum frame and a single swing arm suspension at the rear. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S features a swing arm suspension at the rear and a frame with the same materials and type as the Super Duke R.

Both bikes have high-quality suspension systems from WP. The Super Duke R has an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 125 mm. The Super Adventure S also has an upside-down telescopic fork with the same specifications, but with a longer travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension of both bikes is provided by WP and has a travel of 140 mm for the Super Duke R and 200 mm for the Super Adventure S.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

In terms of braking, both bikes feature double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320 mm and four pistons. The Super Duke R has Brembo brakes with radial, monoblock technology, while the Super Adventure S has Brembo brakes with radial technology. Both bikes are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, traction control, and ride by wire.

The dimensions and weights of the two bikes differ slightly. The Super Duke R has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1497 mm and a seat height of 835 mm. The dry weight of the Super Duke R, including ABS, is 189 kg. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 170 mm, with a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a longer wheelbase of 1560 mm and a higher seat height of 860 mm. The dry weight of the Super Adventure S, including ABS, is 215 kg.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of strengths, the Super Duke R has a wonderfully powerful engine with a lot of power in the lower and middle ranges. It also has a super-agile and comfortable seating position, decent braking power, a stable and fully adjustable chassis, and a comprehensive electronics package. The Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has a powerful engine, precise handling, traction control with a fun factor, cornering ABS as standard, a large and easy-to-read TFT display, quickshifter, and off-road capability.

As for weaknesses, the Super Duke R does not come standard with a shift assistant with blipper. The Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield.

Overall, both bikes offer impressive performance and advanced features. The Super Duke R is more focused on sporty riding and agility, while the Super Adventure S is designed for adventure and off-road capabilities. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.