BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a boxer engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 features a V2 power plant. The BMW has a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm, producing 136 HP of engine power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM has a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm, generating 160 HP of engine power and 138 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have an electric starter, but the BMW has a transmission with a prop shaft, while the KTM has a chain transmission. The BMW has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm, while the KTM also has 2 cylinders but a displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. Both motorcycles have adjustable suspension settings for preload and rebound.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

When it comes to the chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 also has ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1577 mm, a higher seat height of 880 mm, and a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights and adjustable windscreens. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 also has LED headlights as standard and a color TFT display. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has additional features such as cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display with a huge 7-inch screen.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, and a standard color TFT display and LED headlights. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, a driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package with clear and well-structured instruments, including a large 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list, as well as a jagged appearance with little elegance. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a gearshift assistant at an extra cost and a higher price compared to the S model despite having fewer features.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a comfortable and powerful riding experience with good standard features, while the KTM provides a sportier and more dynamic ride with a comprehensive electronics package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.