BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

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Overview - BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.

Starting with the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015, it is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 125 HP of power and 125 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a prop shaft transmission, which provides smooth and reliable power delivery. With a displacement of 1170 ccm, this motorcycle offers a decent amount of power for off-road adventures. The front suspension is a strut type, while the rear suspension is a single swing arm, providing a comfortable and stable ride. The frame is made of steel and is of the Twin Tube, Load-bearing engine type. The brakes on the front are double disk type, ensuring reliable stopping power. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 also features advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes. In terms of dimensions and weights, it has a 19-inch front tyre diameter, a 17-inch rear tyre diameter, and a wheelbase of 1510 mm. The seat height is 910 mm, which may be a bit high for some riders. With a kerb weight of 260 kg, this motorcycle is on the heavier side. However, it compensates for this with a large 30-litre fuel tank, allowing for longer rides without frequent refueling.

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 boasts a V-type engine that produces a higher power output of 160 HP and 140 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a chain transmission, which offers a more direct power transfer. With a displacement of 1301 ccm, this motorcycle provides even more power for thrilling off-road experiences. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear suspension is a swing arm type, ensuring excellent handling and stability. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and is of the tubular type, providing a lightweight yet strong structure. The front brakes are double disk type, offering reliable stopping power. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. It also features a 19-inch front tyre diameter, a 17-inch rear tyre diameter, and a wheelbase of 1560 mm. The seat height is 860 mm, which is lower than the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015, making it more accessible for a wider range of riders. With a kerb weight of 238 kg, this motorcycle is lighter than its counterpart. However, it has a slightly smaller fuel tank capacity of 23 litres.

In terms of strengths, both motorcycles have powerful engines that deliver exhilarating performance. They also share similar front and rear tyre dimensions, ensuring good off-road capabilities. Additionally, they both offer advanced rider assistance systems, although the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a more extensive range of features, including traction control and ride by wire. Furthermore, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 comes with additional features such as cornering ABS, a quickshifter, LED headlights with cornering lights, and an easy-to-read TFT display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

However, there are also some weaknesses to consider. Both motorcycles have a high price tag, which may be a deterrent for some buyers. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 is on the heavier side, which may affect maneuverability in certain situations. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield, which may be inconvenient for some riders.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. While the BMW offers a powerful engine and excellent ergonomics, the KTM provides precise handling, advanced rider assistance systems, and additional features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeV
BoreBore101 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke73 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power125 HPEngine power160 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpm
TorqueTorque125 NmTorque140 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque6,750 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio13.1
Clutch TypeClutch TypeToughened, DryClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingAirCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,170 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionStrutFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionSwing arm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeTwin Tube, Load-bearing engineFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

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

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRiding modesAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Suspension electronically adjustable, Riding modes, Ride by Wire, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter19 inchFront tyre diameter19 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width170 mmRear tyre width170 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,510 mmWheelbase1,560 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height910 mmSeat Height860 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)260 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)238 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity30 lFuel Tank Capacity23 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015

As the most successful supplier of large-volume touring enduros, BMW has for years been highly successful in establishing the large R 1200 GS Adventure as the ultimate long-distance touring motorbike. Building on the driving dynamics and high off-road and touring competence of the conventional R 1200 GS, the Adventure represents the maximum solution for off-road touring riders. With its bulky fairing and 30-litre tank, the 125 hp engine has more to haul, but a high degree of agility is still maintained. Nothing is spared in terms of equipment, the big Adventure offers the full programme: ABS, ASC (Automatic Stability Control) and two riding modes "Rain" and "Road" are standard.

Powerful engine

relatively easy to ride

30 litre fuel tank

excellent ergonomics

stable brakes.

High weight

high price

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is more than a sporty touring enduro - it is a sports machine that can also go on tours. The powerful 160 hp engine is not only extremely powerful, it is also very easy to operate and makes you want to ride sportily. The many electronic assistance systems such as traction control, semi-active chassis, various modes and cornering ABS also contribute to making you feel right at home on the 1290 Super Adventure S. Finally, the huge TFT display and other gadgets such as the Race-on system or My Ride are also quite convincing.

Powerful engine

precise handling

traction control with fun factor

cornering ABS as standard

easy-to-read, huge TFT display

quickshifter

LED headlights with cornering lights

off-road capable.

High price

power-consuming height adjustment of the windshield

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

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 and a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 is about 11% higher. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 there are less BMW R 1200 GS Adventure 2015 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 9 compared to 26. It takes less time to sell a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S with 68 days compared to 77 days for the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure. Since model year 2006 1000PS.de editors have written 35 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and 31 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S since model year 2017. The first review for the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure was published on 28/11/2005 and now has more than 12,900 views. This compares to more than 32,200 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Adventure S published on 12/10/2016.

Price BMW R 1200 GS Adventure

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

Model year
Current average market prices

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