KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2012

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

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Overview - KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 vs BMW R 1200 GS 2012

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 are both popular enduro motorcycles, but they have several key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

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, delivering an impressive engine power of 160 HP and a torque of 138 Nm. It utilizes a chain transmission and has a displacement of 1301 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, producing an engine power of 110 HP and a torque of 120 Nm. It utilizes a prop shaft transmission and has a displacement of 1170 ccm. Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a more powerful and torquey engine compared to the BMW R 1200 GS 2012.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features an upside-down telescopic fork for the front suspension, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm type, also adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a strut front suspension, which can be adjusted for preload, and a single swing arm rear suspension, also adjustable for preload. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offers more adjustability in the suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a tubular frame type, while the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a load-bearing engine frame type. Both frames provide stability and durability, but the tubular frame of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 may offer more flexibility and agility.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. This ensures strong and reliable stopping power.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a rear tire width of 170 mm, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 849 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a rear tire width of 110 mm, a wheelbase of 1507 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a slightly wider rear tire and a larger fuel tank capacity, which may provide better stability and longer range during rides.

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has several strengths. Firstly, it has a very sporty and powerful V2 engine, delivering impressive performance. Despite its high weight, the motorcycle offers extremely playful handling. The seating position is comfortable and driving-friendly, allowing riders to enjoy long rides without discomfort. The brakes, including cornering ABS, provide excellent stopping power. The motorcycle also comes with a comprehensive electronics package, including adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has its own strengths. It offers optimal wind protection, ensuring a comfortable riding experience even at high speeds. The seat is comfortable, and the overall ergonomics are well-designed, providing a positive riding posture. The motorcycle is known for its weather robustness, making it suitable for various riding conditions. The chassis is also quiet, minimizing vibrations and noise during rides.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a gearshift assistant that is available at an extra cost, which may be seen as a drawback for some riders. Additionally, the motorcycle has an idiosyncratic look that may not appeal to everyone, and the seat is reported to be tight, potentially causing discomfort during long rides. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a seat that is slightly too low for some riders, which may affect their comfort during rides.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offers a more powerful engine, better suspension adjustability, and a larger fuel tank capacity. On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 provides optimal wind protection, a comfortable seat, and positive ergonomics. Ultimately, the choice between the two motorcycles will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2012

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022
BMW R 1200 GS 2012

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeVEngine typeBoxer
BoreBore108 mmBore101 mm
StrokeStroke71 mmStroke73 mm
Engine powerEngine power160 HPEngine power110 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpm
TorqueTorque138 NmTorque120 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,750 rpmRpm at Torque6,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.1 Compression Ratio12
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeToughened, Dry
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionProp shaft
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingOil-air
DisplacementDisplacement1,301 ccmDisplacement1,170 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionStrut
AdjustmentAdjustmentCompression, Preload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSwing armSuspensionSingle swing arm
AdjustmentAdjustmentCompression, Preload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload

Chassis

Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeLoad-bearing engine

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width110 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height80 %
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width170 mmRear tyre width110 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height80 %
WheelbaseWheelbase1,560 mmWheelbase1,507 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height849 mmSeat Height850 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity23 lFuel Tank Capacity20 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

Even one year after its presentation, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is anything but old hat. The Euro5 engine continues to shine incredibly with its 160 hp and the argen torque of 138 Newton metres. The refined electronics ensure an even smoother ride, which, thanks to the wonderfully agile handling, results in a lot of fun when cornering. But the new SASi also has a lot to offer comfort freaks and all those who value the touring qualities of this type of motorbike. A nice, standard feature is the adaptive cruise control ACC, which independently keeps the distance to the vehicle in front - and works really well. In any case, the Quickshifter+ or the all-inclusive TechPack is recommended - given the basic price, the extra charge of around 1,000 euros is of little consequence anyway.

Very sporty, but also cultivated V2 power plant

extremely playful handling despite high weight

comfortable, driving-friendly seating position

good brakes including cornering ABS

comprehensive electronics package

adaptive cruise control ACC

clear, well-structured instrumentation with huge 7-inch display.

Gearshift assistant at extra cost

idiosyncratic look

tight seat

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

Either it was a stroke of luck or the best developers were at work - handlebars, geometry, seat, knee angle, footrests - it just fits really well for the majority of Central Europeans. All in all, there is still no motorbike that can kill the GS.

Optimal wind protection

comfortable seat

good posture

positive ergonomics

weather robust

quiet chassis.

Seat a little too low.

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure S vs BMW R 1200 GS

There are a few key differences between a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 and a BMW R 1200 GS 2012. In terms of price, the actual average price of a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is about 64% higher. A KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 experiences a loss of 1,130 GBP in one year of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 580 GBP for a BMW R 1200 GS 2012. Compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2012 there are more KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 24 compared to 23. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 GS with 58 days compared to 96 days for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. Since model year 2017 1000PS.de editors have written 31 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S and 98 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS since model year 2005. The first review for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S was published on 12/10/2016 and now has more than 32,200 views. This compares to more than 19,100 views for the first review on BMW R 1200 GS published on 20/01/2004.

Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW R 1200 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

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