KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a V2 engine with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm, producing 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm, generating 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter but uses a prop shaft for transmission. Both motorcycles have 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm for the BMW and 1301 ccm for the KTM.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm for the front suspension. It also has compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It also has compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is equipped with a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. It has preload adjustment. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. It has preload and rebound adjustment.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a steel frame. The KTM has a tubular frame type, while the BMW has a load-bearing engine frame type. Both motorcycles have a rake of around 65 degrees.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It also has cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 features ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. It also has LED headlights and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height ranging from 849 mm to 869 mm. It has a kerb weight of 243 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has the same tire dimensions as the KTM. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1504 mm and a higher seat height ranging from 890 mm to 910 mm. It has a higher kerb weight of 268 kg and a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is praised for its very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable and driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is commended for its great ride comfort, extreme range, good ergonomics, excellent weather protection, bulbous torque, clean response, generally good rideability due to its low center of gravity, and customization options.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is criticized for its gearshift assistant being available at an extra cost, its idiosyncratic look, and its tight seat. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is noted for its high weight being noticeable in the braking zone and its high price.