KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both high-performance motorcycles from KTM, but they have some key differences.

Starting with the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020, it features a new frame and seating position, providing improved handling and comfort. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a single swing arm at the rear, both from WP. The front suspension has a diameter of 48 mm and offers a travel of 125 mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 140 mm. The chassis is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type. The braking system includes double disk brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston calipers from Brembo. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1497 mm, and the seat height is 835 mm. The dry weight of the bike is 189 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 16 liters. The engine is a 1301 cc V2 with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm, producing 180 HP of power and 140 Nm of torque. The starter is electric, and the transmission is a chain drive.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 also has a 1301 cc V2 engine with the same bore and stroke as the Super Duke R. However, it produces slightly less power at 160 HP and torque at 138 Nm. The starter and transmission are the same as the Super Duke R. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from WP with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm, providing improved off-road capabilities. The rear suspension is a swing arm from WP with a travel of 200 mm. The chassis and braking system are similar to the Super Duke R. However, the Super Adventure S has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The front tire width is the same as the Super Duke R, but the diameter is 19 inches, while the rear tire width is 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is longer at 1560 mm, and the seat height is higher at 849 mm. The dry weight of the bike is significantly higher at 220 kg, but it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Super Duke R 2020 offers a new frame and seating position, improved automatic gearshift, a powerful engine despite Euro 5 regulations, and sensitive electronics. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S 2021 provides a sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling, a comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package with a large 7-inch display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

However, both bikes have some weaknesses. The Super Duke R 2020 has easily scratched plastic between the seat and tank and brake squeaks at low speeds. The Super Adventure S 2021 has somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality.

In conclusion, while both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are powerful motorcycles with advanced features, they cater to different riding styles. The Super Duke R is more focused on street performance, while the Super Adventure S offers a balance between sportiness and off-road capabilities.