BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 is a sport touring motorcycle with a powerful inline-four engine that produces 165 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque. It features a chain transmission and has a displacement of 999cc. The front suspension is a telescopic upside-down fork with 150mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and also has 150mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The frame is made of aluminum and has a dual-tube design that supports the engine. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and radial technology. The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, and traction control. It has a front tire width of 120mm and a diameter of 17 inches, and a rear tire width of 190mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1552mm and the seat height is 840mm. The curb weight, including ABS, is 226kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. Additional equipment includes LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 is also a sport touring motorcycle with a powerful V-twin engine that produces 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and a displacement of 1301cc. The front suspension is a telescopic upside-down fork with 125mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock and has 156mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes are dual discs with a diameter of 320mm and radial, monoblock technology. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, launch control, ride-by-wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has the same tire dimensions as the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and a wheelbase of 1482mm. The seat height is slightly lower at 835mm. The curb weight, including ABS, is 234kg and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. Additional equipment includes connectivity, LED headlights, TFT display, and adjustable windscreen.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 offers modes that adjust the response behavior for practical use, an excellent four-cylinder engine with a high rev range and wide usable range, a well-balanced vehicle even with a passenger thanks to the electronically controlled chassis with automatic load recognition, and good brakes. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 boasts a powerful engine, agile handling, a 7-inch display, a comfortable seating position, and an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023

However, the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 has some weaknesses, including a slightly narrow knee angle for tall riders on long journeys, suspension damping that is not sensitive enough for a truly comfortable setup, and high fuel consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 experiences vibrations below 2,500 rpm and has a less conventional appearance. Additionally, the shift assistant comes at an additional cost.

In conclusion, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2023 are powerful sport touring motorcycles with advanced features and adjustable suspension. The BMW offers a well-balanced ride and good brakes, while the KTM provides agile handling and a comfortable seating position. However, the BMW has some comfort and fuel consumption issues, while the KTM has vibrations at lower rpm and an unconventional appearance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.