KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2022

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 features a boxer engine that produces 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters, but the KTM has a chain transmission while the BMW has a prop shaft transmission. The KTM has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm compared to the BMW's 1254 ccm.

When it comes to suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and also has a travel of 200 mm. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022, on the other hand, has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The front suspension can be adjusted for preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and has a travel of 200 mm. It can be adjusted for preload and rebound.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a chromium-molybdenum frame that is tubular in design. It has a rake of 65.3 degrees. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has a steel frame that is load-bearing engine type and has a rake of 62.9 degrees.

Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front, but the KTM has more advanced rider assistance systems including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The BMW has ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 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 1560 mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 849 mm to 869 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 243 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. The range is 416 km and the combined fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100km. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has the same tire dimensions and a wheelbase of 1525 mm. The seat height can be adjusted from 850 mm to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 249 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The range is 421 km and the combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of equipment, both bikes have cornering lights, LED headlights, and adjustable windscreens. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 also has a TFT display, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 boasts great app integration and a sophisticated operating concept.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is praised for its sporty yet refined V2 engine, accessible handling despite its weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is commended for its extremely torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, many customization options, great handling with strong confidence in the front, and easy drivability.

However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has some weaknesses including somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that don't feel very high quality. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022, on the other hand, is criticized for its awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that is too lax, and brakes and suspension that are no longer on par with the strong competition.