KTM 890 Adventure 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The KTM 890 Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of engine specifications, features, and overall performance.

Starting with the engine, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 is equipped with an in-line twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc. It delivers 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque, providing a smooth and linear power delivery. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing a higher power output of 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This engine offers a sportier and more aggressive performance.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles come with upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The front suspension is provided by WP and has a diameter of 48mm, offering a travel of 200mm for both models. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has the advantage of having electronically adjustable suspension, allowing riders to easily adjust the suspension settings according to their preferences and riding conditions.

When it comes to chassis, both motorcycles feature a chromium-molybdenum frame. The frame type is tubular for the KTM 890 Adventure 2021, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a tubular frame without a load-bearing engine. The rake angle is slightly different, with the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 having a rake of 63.7 degrees, and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 having a rake of 65.3 degrees. This slight difference in rake angle may affect the handling and maneuverability of the motorcycles.

KTM 890 Adventure 2021

In terms of brakes, both models are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 890 Adventure 2021 has a standard braking system, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 comes with cornering ABS, which enhances the braking performance and safety during cornering.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers additional features such as suspension electronically adjustable, cruise control, and a larger 7-inch display on the instrument panel.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1528mm and a seat height of 850mm. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560mm and a slightly lower seat height of 849mm. The fuel tank capacity is larger at 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 is praised for its super engine with a linear power delivery, finely controlled brakes, comprehensive electronics, good ergonomics for both sitting and standing riding, low seat height suitable for shorter riders, and a quickshifter that adds to the riding fun. It also has a low center of gravity, which contributes to its excellent handling.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is commended for its sporty yet refined V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable riding position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 is criticized for its pricing policy for extras, non-adjustable telescopic fork at the front, and the absence of important components like a quickshifter and cruise control as standard. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is noted for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, opaque package design and pricing policy, and the perception of lower quality in the dashboards and switches.

In conclusion, while both the KTM 890 Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are capable enduro motorcycles, they have distinct differences in terms of engine performance, features, and overall strengths and weaknesses. Riders should consider their specific preferences and riding needs to choose the model that best suits them.