BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

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Overview - BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 features a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It has a prop shaft transmission and a low centre of gravity, which enhances its maneuverability. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, generating 160 HP of power and 140 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a chromium-molybdenum frame, which provides stability and precision in handling.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. It also has a single swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 200mm. It also has a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for preload, rebound, and compression.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design, providing stability and strength. It has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a tubular chromium-molybdenum frame, which is lightweight and durable. It has a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 120mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1504mm and a seat height ranging from 890mm to 910mm. It has a kerb weight of 268kg and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has the same tire dimensions and a wheelbase of 1560mm. It has a seat height ranging from 860mm to 875mm. It has a kerb weight of 238kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer various features. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 includes cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 includes heated grips, cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen.

In summary, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers a high-torque engine, good wind and weather protection, and a range of practical features. However, it is relatively heavy and has a higher price tag. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a powerful engine, precise handling, and off-road capabilities. However, it also has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017
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BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeV
BoreBore102.5 mmBore108 mm
StrokeStroke76 mmStroke71 mm
Engine powerEngine power136 HPEngine power160 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpm
TorqueTorque143 NmTorque140 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque6,750 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio13.1
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore52 mmThrottle Bore52 mm
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquid-airCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,254 ccmDisplacement1,301 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTeleleverFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
DiameterDiameter37 mmDiameter48 mm
TravelTravel210 mmTravel200 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionSwing arm
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
TravelTravel220 mmTravel200 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreload, ReboundAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound
MaterialMaterialAluminiumMaterialAluminium

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeLoad-bearing engineFrame typeTubular
RakeRake65.1 degreeRake64 degree
TrailTrail95.4 mmTrail120 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter305 mmDiameter320 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
ActuationActuationHydraulicActuationHydraulic
TechnologyTechnologyradialTechnologyradial

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter276 mmDiameter267 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Anti-slipping control, Hill start assist, Suspension electronically adjustable, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by WireAdvanced 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
WheelbaseWheelbase1,504 mmWheelbase1,560 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height890 mmSeat Height860 mm
Seat Height up toSeat Height up to910 mmSeat Height up to875 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)268 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)238 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity30 lFuel Tank Capacity23 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Equipment

EquipmentEquipmentCornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, Heated seat, TFT display, Windscreen adjustableEquipmentHeated grips, Cornering lights, LED-Headlights, Windscreen adjustable

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The big GS Adventure is and remains a great motorbike for any terrain - even for tight corners. The low centre of gravity of the boxer engine, the longitudinally mounted crankshaft, the upright seating position and the powerful but easily controllable torque from far below are simply a force. Although the Adventure version has a higher seat with more weight, which is a decisive hindrance when turning or manoeuvring, in terms of performance the engine also has so much punch in the big GS Adventure that you can let it rip. The BMW's braking system is stable and excellently controllable, and the equipment and electronics can be upgraded considerably - as long as you tick the boxes on the order list. Of course, this pushes up the price, but the many fans of the fat GS Adventure obviously don't mind.

High-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs

low centre of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible manoeuvrability

practical details for frequent riders on board

gigantic range of 600 km

amazingly low consumption

good wind and weather protection

great ride comfort

powerful engine

great electronics

easy-to-read display

confident feeling in the saddle

practical riding aids

great ergonomics for tall people.

High weight

gearshifts at low revs somewhat clumsy

jagged appearance with little elegance

high-priced with full equipment

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 1250 GS Adventure vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is about 79% higher. Compared to KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 there are more BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 47 compared to 26. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure with 64 days compared to 68 days for a KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 30 reviews for the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure and 31 reviews for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S since model year 2017. The first review for the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure was published on 11/6/2018 and now has more than 43,300 views. This compares to more than 32,200 views for the first review on KTM 1290 Super Adventure S published on 10/12/2016.

Price BMW R 1250 GS Adventure

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Current average market prices

Price KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

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Current average market prices

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