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

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is equipped with a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301 ccm, producing 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 features a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254 ccm, generating 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.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm for the front suspension. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and also has a travel of 220 mm. The suspension on the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 includes a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a steel frame. The KTM has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm, while the BMW has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4 mm.

Both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 also includes additional features like anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and electronically adjustable suspension.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1577 mm, a seat height of 880 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 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 slightly shorter wheelbase of 1504 mm, a slightly higher seat height of 890 mm, and a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

Both motorcycles come equipped with cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and adjustable windscreens. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 also features a TFT display, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 includes a heated seat and a connectivity app.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is praised for its sporty V2 power plant, playful handling, driving-friendly seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear, well-structured instruments with a large 7-inch display. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is appreciated for its practical details for frequent riders, impressive range and fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, powerful engine, connectivity app, easy-to-read display, confident feeling in the saddle, pleasant seating position for pillion passengers, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people.

However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has some weaknesses, including the gearshift assistant being available at an extra cost and a higher price compared to the S model despite having fewer features. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is criticized for its high weight, which can strain maneuvering, somewhat stiff gearshifts at low revs, and a jagged appearance with little elegance.