KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

The KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with similar technical specifications. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 has a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 has a slightly larger bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. This results in the KTM 1290 Super Adventure having a higher engine power of 160 HP compared to the 125 HP of the KTM 1090 Adventure. Similarly, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the 109 Nm of the KTM 1090 Adventure. Both models have an electric starter and a chain transmission, as well as a 2-cylinder engine. However, the KTM 1090 Adventure has a displacement of 1050 ccm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both models have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and WP suspension at the rear. The chassis of both models is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame. The front brakes of both models are provided by Brembo.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 offers ABS, riding modes, and traction control. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 offers ride by wire technology, which allows for more precise throttle control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a slightly wider rear tire width of 170 mm compared to the 150 mm of the KTM 1090 Adventure. Both models have a wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height of 850 mm for the KTM 1090 Adventure and 860 mm for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure. The dry weight of the KTM 1090 Adventure with ABS is 205 kg, while the dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure with ABS is slightly higher at 229 kg. The kerb weight of the KTM 1090 Adventure with ABS is 228 kg, while the kerb weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure with ABS is 249 kg. The fuel tank capacity of the KTM 1090 Adventure is 23 liters, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

In terms of equipment, both models have adjustable windshields. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 has the additional feature of cornering lights, which provide improved visibility when cornering.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is praised for its powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range, performance modes, the ability to switch off the ABS, adjustable traction control, agile and safe handling, adjustable ergonomics, height-adjustable windshield, low weight, and comparatively low price. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 is praised for its very powerful and confident engine, sporty and agile handling, comprehensive electronics package, interaction of many electronic features, semi-active suspension, cornering ABS, adjustable traction control, cruise control, large 30-liter fuel tank, heated seats, main stand, and LED cornering lights.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is criticized for its outdated optics compared to the new 1290 Super Adventures and its non-adjustable suspension fork. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 is criticized for its jagged windshield, the locking lever of the windshield on the right side, and slightly jerky power delivery under 2000 revs.

Overall, both the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2015 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two models ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.