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

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

Starting with the engines, both bikes have the same bore and stroke measurements, as well as the same displacement. However, the Super Duke R has a higher engine power of 180 HP compared to the Super Adventure S's 160 HP. The Super Duke R also has slightly higher torque at 140 Nm compared to the Super Adventure S's 138 Nm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks from WP, but the Super Adventure S has a longer travel of 200 mm compared to the Super Duke R's 125 mm. The Super Duke R has a single swing arm rear suspension with a travel of 140 mm, while the Super Adventure S has a swing arm suspension with the same travel.

KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021

Both bikes have a chromium-molybdenum frame and tubular frame type, providing stability and strength. They also have double disk brakes with a diameter of 320 mm and four-piston calipers from Brembo. The Super Duke R has radial, monoblock technology for its brakes, while the Super Adventure S has radial technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes have ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Super Adventure S also has suspension that is electronically adjustable and cruise control, which the Super Duke R does not have.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Super Adventure S is slightly larger and heavier than the Super Duke R. It has a longer wheelbase of 1560 mm compared to the Super Duke R's 1497 mm, and a higher seat height of 849 mm compared to the Super Duke R's 835 mm. The Super Adventure S also has a higher dry weight of 220 kg compared to the Super Duke R's 189 kg. However, the Super Adventure S has a longer range of 416 km compared to the Super Duke R's 259 km, and a slightly lower combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km compared to the Super Duke R's 6.17 l/100km.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the Super Duke R is praised for its powerful engine, agile and comfortable seating position, decent braking power, stable chassis, comprehensive electronics package, and acceptable fuel consumption. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S is praised for its sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the Super Duke R does not come standard with a shift assistant with blipper, while the Super Adventure S is criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends and its opaque package design and pricing policy. Additionally, the Super Adventure S's dashboards and switches do not feel very high quality.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both high-performance motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Super Duke R is more focused on naked bike performance, while the Super Adventure S is designed for enduro riding.