BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 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. The engine is known for its high torque output, providing strong acceleration even at low RPMs. The bike features a low center of gravity, which ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability. It also comes with practical details for frequent riders, such as a large fuel tank with a capacity of 30 liters, providing a massive range of 631 km. The bike has a steel frame and a Telelever front suspension with a 37mm diameter and 210mm of travel. The rear suspension is a single swinging arm with a monoshock and 220mm of travel. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 comes with advanced rider assistance systems including ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and cruise control. It has a 19-inch front tire and a 17-inch rear tire. The seat height can be adjusted from 890mm to 910mm, making it suitable for riders of different heights. The bike weighs 268 kg and is equipped with features like curve lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, heated seat, TFT display, and adjustable windshield.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is powered by a V2 engine that produces 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. The engine offers a sporty yet refined performance. Despite its high weight, the bike has an extremely accessible behavior. It provides a comfortable riding position and comes with a complete electronic package, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, and traction control. The bike has a chromium-molybdenum frame and a telescopic upside-down front fork with a 48mm diameter and 200mm of travel. The rear suspension is a swinging arm with a monoshock and 200mm of travel. It has a 19-inch front tire and a 17-inch rear tire. The seat height can be adjusted from 849mm to 869mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 weighs 243 kg and features curve lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windshield.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 stands out for its high torque engine that accelerates strongly from low RPMs. Its low center of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability. The bike also offers practical details for frequent riders and an impressive range of 600 km with incredibly low fuel consumption. It provides good wind and weather protection, comfortable riding, and excellent electronic systems. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 also has an easily readable display, instilling confidence in the rider. It offers practical riding aids and excellent ergonomics for taller individuals.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 impresses with its sporty yet refined V2 powertrain. Despite its weight, the bike offers an accessible behavior and a comfortable riding position. It features a complete electronic package and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is relatively heavy and can feel clumsy at low RPMs. It also has an irregular appearance that lacks elegance and comes with a high price tag when fully equipped. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has slightly slower turning behavior in corners and its packaging and pricing policies may not be transparent. The quality of the instrument panels and switches may also be questionable.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. The BMW offers a high torque engine, excellent electronic systems, and practical details for frequent riders. The KTM impresses with its sporty yet refined powertrain, accessible behavior, and comfortable riding position. However, the BMW has a higher weight and an irregular appearance, while the KTM may have slower turning behavior and questionable packaging and pricing policies.