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

The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both highly capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is known for its exceptional torque delivery, making it extremely capable off-road. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It generates a higher power output of 160 HP, but slightly lower torque at 138 Nm. The KTM's engine is praised for its sportiness and refinement.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles offer impressive travel distances of 200mm for both the front and rear suspension. The BMW R 1250 GS features a Telelever front suspension with a 37mm diameter, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is equipped with an Upside-Down telescopic fork with a larger 48mm diameter. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience.

When it comes to chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine, providing excellent stability and rigidity. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame, which is known for its lightweight and strength. Both frames are designed to offer optimal handling and control in various riding conditions.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also offers similar rider assistance systems, along with additional features like suspension electronically adjustable and adaptive cruise control (ACC).

When it comes to dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have similar front and rear tire sizes, with a 19-inch diameter at the front and a 17-inch diameter at the rear. The BMW R 1250 GS has a wheelbase of 1525mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560mm. The seat height of the BMW R 1250 GS is adjustable from 850mm to 870mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a slightly lower seat height range of 849mm to 869mm. The BMW R 1250 GS has a kerb weight of 249kg, slightly heavier than the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, which weighs 243kg.

In terms of fuel capacity and consumption, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the BMW R 1250 GS's 20-liter tank. However, the BMW R 1250 GS offers a slightly better range of 421km compared to the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S's 416km. The combined fuel consumption of the BMW R 1250 GS is 4.75 l/100km, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a slightly higher fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

Both motorcycles come equipped with cornering lights, LED headlights, and adjustable windscreens. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also features a TFT display, providing a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS is praised for its extremely torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, many customization options, and easy drivability. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is known for its very sporty, but also cultivated V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS is criticized for its awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that is considered too lax, and brakes and suspension that are no longer on par with the strong competition. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has a gearshift assistant that comes at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both highly capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS offers a torquey boxer engine and great handling, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S provides a sporty V2 power plant and impressive electronics package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.