BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 features an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc. It produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It delivers 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have a 4-stroke engine and use a chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 150mm. The suspension is electronically adjustable and offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustments. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a travel of 125mm. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 156mm. Like the BMW, the suspension is electronically adjustable and offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustments.

In terms of chassis, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design that acts as a load-bearing engine. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023, on the other hand, features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk front brakes with a diameter of 320mm. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 uses radial technology for its front brakes, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 uses radial and monoblock technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 includes suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 offers ABS, hill start assist, suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm. It has a wheelbase of 1552mm and a seat height of 840mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 226kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 has the same tire widths and a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1482mm. The seat height is slightly lower at 835mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is slightly higher at 234kg, and the fuel tank capacity is larger at 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature LED headlights, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 also offers connectivity, which is not mentioned for the BMW S 1000 XR 2021. Additionally, the KTM has a larger 7-inch display.

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is praised for its riding modes that allow for different response behaviors suitable for practical use. It also has a great rev-happy four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band. The electronic chassis with automatic recognition of the load condition ensures a well-balanced vehicle, even with a pillion passenger. The brakes are also highly regarded.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 is praised for its powerful engine, agile handling, 7-inch display, comfortable seating position, and height-adjustable windscreen.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is criticized for its narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for tall riders. The suspension damping is also not sensitive enough, making it difficult to achieve a truly comfortable setup. Additionally, the consumption of the BMW is considered high.

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 is criticized for its jerkiness below 2,500 rpm and its unconventional appearance. The gearshift assistant is also mentioned as an extra cost, which may be seen as a weakness.

In conclusion, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. The BMW is praised for its riding modes and well-balanced vehicle, while the KTM is praised for its powerful engine and agile handling. However, there are differences in terms of engine type, power, suspension, chassis, advanced rider assistance systems, dimensions and weights, and equipment. Each motorcycle has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.