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

The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is equipped with a boxer engine that provides exceptional torque. With an engine power of 136 HP and torque of 143 Nm, it offers strong acceleration and impressive performance. The engine is paired with a prop shaft transmission, which ensures smooth and efficient power delivery.

In terms of suspension, the R 1250 GS features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock, offering a travel of 200 mm. Both suspensions can be adjusted for preload and rebound, allowing riders to customize their riding experience.

The chassis of the R 1250 GS is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine frame type. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm, providing stability and agility on various terrains.

The R 1250 GS is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. These features enhance safety and control, especially in challenging riding conditions.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm, offering a comfortable riding position for long distances. The fuel tank capacity is 20 liters, providing a range of 421 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km.

Additional equipment of the R 1250 GS includes cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. These features enhance visibility and provide convenience for riders.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 features a V engine type with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It offers a higher engine power of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm, providing even more impressive performance. The engine is paired with a chain transmission, which offers a different riding experience compared to the prop shaft transmission of the R 1250 GS.

The suspension of the Super Adventure R consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm in the front. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, offering the same travel as the front suspension. Both suspensions can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding preferences.

The chassis of the Super Adventure R is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm, providing stability and agility similar to the R 1250 GS.

The Super Adventure R is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. These features enhance safety and control, ensuring a confident riding experience.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Super Adventure R has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1577 mm and a higher seat height of 880 mm compared to the R 1250 GS. The fuel tank capacity is larger at 23 liters, providing a range of 403 km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100km.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

Additional equipment of the Super Adventure R includes cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. These features enhance visibility, provide convenience, and offer a modern and high-quality riding experience.

In terms of strengths, the R 1250 GS stands out for its torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, and customizable options. It also offers great handling with strong confidence in the front and easy driveability.

On the other hand, the Super Adventure R impresses with its robust overall impression, high-quality and practical chassis, great seat for endurance, sporty and high-quality components, and a powerful yet easy-to-control engine. It also offers practical riding aids for added convenience and safety.

However, the R 1250 GS has some weaknesses, including awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that some may find too lax, and brakes and suspension that may not be on par with strong competition.

Similarly, the Super Adventure R has its weaknesses, including the lack of individual features in the basic equipment despite its high price and fiddly controls.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 offer impressive performance, advanced rider assistance systems, and additional equipment for enhanced safety and convenience. The R 1250 GS excels in terms of its torquey engine, comfortable seating position, and customizable options, while the Super Adventure R impresses with its robustness, high-quality components, and powerful engine. However, both bikes have their weaknesses, such as the R 1250 GS's shifting and suspension issues and the Super Adventure R's lack of individual features and fiddly controls. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.