BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 vs. KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has an in-line engine. The BMW has a larger bore and stroke (102.5 mm and 76 mm) compared to the KTM's (90.7 mm and 68.8 mm), resulting in higher engine power and torque for the BMW (136 HP and 143 Nm) compared to the KTM (105 HP and 100 Nm). Both motorcycles have an electric starter, but the BMW has a transmission with a prop shaft, while the KTM has a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 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. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a larger diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 240 mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for preload, rebound, and compression.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design and a rake of 65.1 degrees. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023, on the other hand, features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular load-bearing engine design and a slightly smaller rake of 63.7 degrees.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 also has ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, with a wheelbase of 1504 mm. The seat height is 890 mm, and the fuel tank capacity is 30 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, with a slightly longer wheelbase of 1528 mm. The seat height is 880 mm, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer LED headlights. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 also has an adjustable windscreen, while the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 offers additional features such as connectivity, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 offers great ride comfort, extreme range, good ergonomics, excellent weather protection, bulbous torque, clean response, and generally good rideability due to its low center of gravity. It also provides customization options. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 excels in off-road capabilities, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall pilots), agile handling, powerful engine, comprehensive electronics package, and finely controllable brakes. It also comes with cornering ABS, including an off-road mode, as standard, and traction control depending on the lean angle.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a high weight that may be noticeable in the braking zone, and it also comes with a high price tag. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, which may not be comfortable for some riders. Additionally, the seat height may be challenging for small riders. Some useful features, such as Quickshifter+, are available at an extra cost.