BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has an in-line engine. The BMW has a larger bore and stroke, resulting in a higher engine power of 136 HP and torque of 143 Nm, compared to the KTM's 95 HP and 88 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the BMW has a transmission with a prop shaft, while the KTM has a chain transmission. Both bikes have 2 cylinders, but the BMW has a larger displacement of 1254 ccm, compared to the KTM's 799 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features 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 suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a 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. The rear suspension can be adjusted for preload.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular load-bearing engine. It has a slightly steeper rake of 63.7 degrees and a trail of 110.4 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes, but the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 does not specify the type, while the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 does.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles have ABS and ride by wire. The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 also has anti-slipping control and riding modes, while the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has traction control in addition to riding modes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a front tyre diameter of 19 inches and a rear tyre width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has a front tyre diameter of 21 inches and a rear tyre width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1528 mm and a higher seat height of 880 mm. The fuel tank capacity is also 20 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is praised for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, standard color TFT display, and LED headlights. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 is praised for its high chassis quality, great running culture of the engine, rich torque, perfectly dimensioned power, easy-to-read display, and practical rally electronics package. Despite its radical chassis, it is also stable, maneuverable, and suitable for everyday use on the road.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is criticized for its manageable standard equipment and long surcharge list, as well as its jagged appearance with little elegance. The KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 is criticized for not having a standard quickshifter, a slightly fiddly indicator switch, and a seat that is slightly more uncomfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

Overall, both the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities when choosing between the two.