BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023, it is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. This engine provides strong acceleration from low revs, making it ideal for off-road riding. The motorcycle features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock and offers a travel of 220 mm. The frame is made of steel and has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4 mm. The bike comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, and ride-by-wire throttle. It has a 19-inch front tire, a 170 mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1504 mm, and a seat height of 890 mm. The fuel tank has a capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of 631 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, heated seat, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 is powered by a V2 engine that produces 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. This engine offers a sporty yet refined performance. The motorcycle features a telescopic upside-down front fork with a diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 220 mm. The rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and offers a travel of 220 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8 mm. The bike comes with ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire throttle, and traction control. It has a 21-inch front tire, a 150 mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1577 mm, and a seat height of 880 mm. The fuel tank has a capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 403 km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100km. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs. Its low center of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability. It also offers practical details for frequent riders and has a huge range of 600 km with incredibly low fuel consumption. The bike provides good wind and weather protection, comfortable riding experience, powerful engine, excellent electronic system, easy-to-read display, confidence-inspiring feel on the saddle, practical riding aids, and excellent ergonomics for tall riders.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has a very sporty yet refined V2 engine and offers extremely playful handling despite its high weight. It provides a pleasant riding position, good brakes including ABS for curves, comprehensive electronic package, and clear and well-structured instruments with a huge 7-inch display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is on the heavier side and has somewhat awkward gear changes at low revs. It also has an irregular appearance with little elegance and comes with a high price tag when fully equipped. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 has an optional quickshifter at an additional cost and a higher price compared to the S model despite having fewer features.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2022 are both impressive adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a powerful and efficient engine, practical features, and excellent ergonomics, while the KTM provides a sporty performance and playful handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.