KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2019

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine type, while the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 has an in-line engine type. The Super Adventure S has a larger bore of 108 mm compared to the 88 mm bore of the 790 Adventure. The stroke of the Super Adventure S is also larger at 71 mm compared to the 65.7 mm stroke of the 790 Adventure. In terms of power, the Super Adventure S takes the lead with 160 HP compared to the 95 HP of the 790 Adventure. The Super Adventure S also has higher torque at 138 Nm compared to the 88 Nm of the 790 Adventure. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

Moving on to the suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions at the rear. The Super Adventure S has a larger front fork diameter of 48 mm compared to the 43 mm diameter of the 790 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a suspension travel of 200 mm at the front and rear. The Super Adventure S offers more adjustment options with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the 790 Adventure only has preload adjustment.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame. The Super Adventure S has a tubular frame type, while the 790 Adventure has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type. The rake angle of the Super Adventure S is slightly higher at 65.3 degrees compared to the 64.1 degrees of the 790 Adventure.

Brakes on both motorcycles are double disk at the front, providing strong stopping power. The Super Adventure S offers additional assistance systems such as suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The 790 Adventure has ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Super Adventure S has a larger front tire diameter of 19 inches compared to the 21-inch front tire diameter of the 790 Adventure. The rear tire width of the Super Adventure S is also wider at 170 mm compared to the 150 mm width of the 790 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Super Adventure S has a longer wheelbase at 1560 mm compared to the 1509 mm of the 790 Adventure. The seat height of the Super Adventure S is higher at 849 mm, with the option to raise it up to 869 mm. The 790 Adventure has a slightly lower seat height at 830 mm, with the option to raise it up to 850 mm. The Super Adventure S is heavier with a dry weight of 220 kg compared to the 189 kg of the 790 Adventure. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20-23 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure 2019

In terms of strengths, the Super Adventure S offers a very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also has a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the 790 Adventure has an engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption.

As for weaknesses, the Super Adventure S has a somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality. The 790 Adventure has an unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat is not optimally shaped.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Super Adventure S offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and a higher level of comfort, while the 790 Adventure excels in off-road capabilities and fuel efficiency. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and intended use.