Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with V-type engines. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 has a bore of 100 mm and a stroke of 66 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a larger bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. This results in the KTM having a higher engine power of 160 HP compared to the Suzuki's 101 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the Suzuki's 101 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and use a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension in the rear. However, the KTM has larger suspension components, with a front fork diameter of 48 mm compared to the Suzuki's 43 mm, and a front fork travel of 200 mm compared to the Suzuki's 160 mm. The KTM also offers more adjustment options for the suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for both the front and rear suspension.

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018

In terms of chassis, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 features an aluminum frame with a twin tube design, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both motorcycles have a similar rake angle of around 64 degrees, but the KTM has a larger trail of 120 mm compared to the Suzuki's 109 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front, but the KTM offers additional advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The Suzuki only has traction control as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The KTM has a slightly wider rear tire width of 170 mm compared to the Suzuki's 150 mm. The KTM also has a longer wheelbase of 1560 mm compared to the Suzuki's 1555 mm. The seat height of the KTM is also slightly higher at 860 mm compared to the Suzuki's 850 mm. The KTM is slightly heavier with a kerb weight of 238 kg compared to the Suzuki's 232 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 20-23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 has a powerful engine, good brakes with ABS, traction control, a stable and comfortable chassis, good wind protection, and high suitability for touring. It also has complete instruments including a gear indicator, a 12-volt socket in the cockpit area, and standard hand protectors and engine guard. Additionally, it is priced more favorably compared to the KTM.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a powerful engine, precise handling, traction control with a fun factor, and cornering ABS as standard. It also features an easy-to-read, huge TFT display, a quickshifter, LED headlights with cornering lights, and is off-road capable.

In terms of weaknesses, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 has a noticeable set-up torque when braking in curves. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield.

In summary, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2018 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Suzuki offers a more affordable option with good touring capabilities, while the KTM provides a higher level of advanced rider assistance systems and off-road capabilities at a higher price point.