KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 vs. BMW S 1000 XR 2021

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 and the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and touring capabilities.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 173 HP of power and 144 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features an inline-four engine with 165 HP of power and 114 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have a chain transmission and four-stroke engines.

When it comes to suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 125 mm of travel and a single swing arm rear suspension with 156 mm of travel. The suspension on both ends can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 also features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 150 mm of travel and a swing arm rear suspension with 150 mm of travel. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features an aluminum frame. The frame type of the KTM is tubular, while the BMW has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk front brakes, with the KTM featuring radial, monoblock technology. The BMW has radial technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles are equipped with ABS and traction control. However, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 offers additional features such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, with a 17-inch diameter for both front and rear tires. The wheelbase of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is 1482 mm, while the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has a wheelbase of 1552 mm. The seat height of the KTM is 835 mm, while the BMW has a seat height of 840 mm. The fuel tank capacity of the KTM is 23 liters, while the BMW has a capacity of 20 liters.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have adjustable windshields. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 offers additional features such as LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is praised for its extensive standard equipment, sensational engine, unique design, and uncomplicated pannier system. On the other hand, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is praised for its riding modes that change response behavior suitable for practical use, great rev-happy four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band, well-balanced vehicle with electronic chassis, and good brakes.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 is criticized for its poor wind protection, manual windshield adjustment, and quite high fuel consumption. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is criticized for its knee angle on long tours being a bit narrow for tall people, suspension damping not being sensitive enough for a comfortable setup, and high fuel consumption.

Overall, both the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 and the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 offer a combination of sporty performance and touring capabilities, with each motorcycle having its own strengths and weaknesses.