KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 vs. BMW R 1200 RS 2015

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 and the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 are both sport touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016, it boasts an impressive engine with 173 HP and 144 Nm of torque. Its V engine type and 4-Stroke strokes provide a powerful and exhilarating riding experience. The bike features a chain transmission and a displacement of 1301 ccm. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a single swing arm in the rear, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes are double disk with radial, monoblock technology, providing excellent stopping power. The bike has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 190 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1482 mm and the seat height is 835 mm. The fuel tank capacity is a generous 23 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 also comes with extensive standard equipment, a unique design, and an uncomplicated pannier system.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016

On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 features a boxer engine with 125 HP and 125 Nm of torque. Its prop shaft transmission and 4-Stroke strokes provide a smooth and efficient power delivery. The bike has a displacement of 1170 ccm and a suspension consisting of a telescopic fork in the front and a paralever suspension in the rear. The frame is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine design. The front brakes are double disk with radial technology. The front tire has a width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 180 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1530 mm and the seat height is 820 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 18 liters. The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 also comes with ABS and traction control as standard, selectable riding modes, and a front-end look inspired by the S 1000 RR superbike. It also has a good, adjustable windshield and a comfortable seating position suitable for touring. Additionally, it offers an extensive list of accessories.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 stands out for its extensive standard equipment, sensational engine, unique design, and uncomplicated pannier system. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 excels with its agile, high-revving boxer engine, cool, muffled sound, good, adjustable windshield, comfortable seating position suitable for touring, stable chassis, ABS and traction control standard, selectable riding modes, and front-end look in the style of the S 1000 RR superbike. It also offers an extensive list of accessories.

BMW R 1200 RS 2015

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 suffers from poor wind protection, a manual windshield adjustment, and quite high fuel consumption. The BMW R 1200 RS 2015 has a poorly readable speedometer and rev counter and many features that come at an extra cost.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2016 and the BMW R 1200 RS 2015 are both formidable sport touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers extensive standard equipment and a sensational engine, while the BMW impresses with its agile boxer engine and comfortable touring features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.