BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a prop shaft transmission and features an electric starter. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is powered by a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It delivers a higher power output of 160 HP but slightly lower torque of 138 Nm. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and also has an electric starter.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S comes with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 65.1 degrees. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 65.3 degrees.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk front brakes. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. It also features cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also offers advanced rider assistance systems including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. It is equipped with connectivity, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. Additionally, it features adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a large 7-inch display.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1504 mm and a seat height ranging from 890 mm to 910 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 268 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has the same tire dimensions and a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm. It has a lower seat height ranging from 849 mm to 869 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is lighter at 243 kg, and it has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offers practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range, low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feeling in the saddle, a pleasant seating position for the pillion passenger, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people. It is also easy to ride. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is praised for its very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, a comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is criticized for its high weight, which can strain maneuvering, and its gearshifts can be somewhat stiff at low revs. Additionally, some find its appearance to be jagged with little elegance. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a few weaknesses such as the gearshift assistant and other features being available at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a stiff seat bench.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers practicality, comfort, and a powerful engine, while the KTM provides sportiness, agility, and advanced electronics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.