KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S model year 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure R model year 2020 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is equipped with a V2 engine type, while the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has an in-line engine type. The bore of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 108 mm, while the 790 Adventure R has a bore of 88 mm. The stroke of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 71 mm, while the 790 Adventure R has a stroke of 65.7 mm. In terms of power, the 1290 Super Adventure S boasts 160 HP, while the 790 Adventure R has 95 HP. The torque of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 138 Nm, whereas the 790 Adventure R has 88 Nm. Both motorcycles have an electric starter and a chain transmission. The 1290 Super Adventure S has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1301 ccm, while the 790 Adventure R also has 2 cylinders but a smaller displacement of 799 ccm.

Moving on to the suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front with a diameter of 48 mm. The travel of the front suspension on the 1290 Super Adventure S is 200 mm, whereas the 790 Adventure R has a greater travel of 240 mm. At the rear, both motorcycles have a swing arm suspension with a monoshock. The rear suspension travel on the 1290 Super Adventure S is 200 mm, while the 790 Adventure R has a slightly higher travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension on both motorcycles can be adjusted, with the 1290 Super Adventure S offering compression, preload, and rebound adjustments.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame. The frame type on both models is tubular, but the 790 Adventure R also has a load-bearing engine frame. The rake of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 65.3 degrees, while the 790 Adventure R has a slightly smaller rake of 63.7 degrees.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The 1290 Super Adventure S is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The 790 Adventure R also has ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the front tire diameter on the 1290 Super Adventure S is 19 inches, while the 790 Adventure R has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches. The rear tire width on the 1290 Super Adventure S is 170 mm, while the 790 Adventure R has a slightly narrower rear tire width of 150 mm. The rear tire diameter on the 1290 Super Adventure S is 17 inches, while the 790 Adventure R has a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 1560 mm, whereas the 790 Adventure R has a slightly smaller wheelbase of 1528 mm. The seat height of the 1290 Super Adventure S is 849 mm, while the 790 Adventure R has a higher seat height of 880 mm. The dry weight of the 1290 Super Adventure S with ABS is 220 kg, while the 790 Adventure R has a lighter dry weight of 189 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20-23 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

In terms of strengths, the 1290 Super Adventure S offers a very sporty V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, a comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also features adaptive cruise control and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the 790 Adventure R boasts a high chassis quality that allows for a wide range of use, an engine with great running culture, rich torque, and perfectly dimensioned power. It also has an easy-to-read display and a practical rally electronics package. Despite its radical chassis, it remains stable, maneuverable, and suitable for everyday use on the road.

As for weaknesses, the 1290 Super Adventure S has a gearshift assistant that comes at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat. On the other hand, the 790 Adventure R does not come standard with a quickshifter, its indicator switch can be a little fiddly, and the seat may be slightly more uncomfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. The 1290 Super Adventure S offers a more powerful engine, advanced rider assistance systems, and a larger display, while the 790 Adventure R provides a high-quality chassis, a practical rally electronics package, and a lighter weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.