KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 vs. BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of the technical specifications, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a V-type engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing a powerful 160 HP and 140 Nm of torque. It features a chain transmission and has a 2-cylinder configuration. The suspension consists of a telescopic upside-down fork at the front with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 200mm, while the rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The bike has a chromium-molybdenum frame, a rake of 64 degrees, and a trail of 120mm. The front brakes are dual disc type. It comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ride-by-wire, and traction control. The front tire has a diameter of 19 inches, and the rear tire has a width of 170mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The bike has a wheelbase of 1560mm, a seat height of 860mm, and a curb weight of 238kg with ABS. The fuel tank has a capacity of 23 liters.

On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 is equipped with an inline engine with a displacement of 853cc, producing 95 HP and 92 Nm of torque. It also has a chain transmission and a 2-cylinder configuration. The front suspension consists of a telescopic upside-down fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 230mm, while the rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and a travel of 215mm. The bike has a steel frame and a tubular frame type with the engine acting as a load-bearing component. It has a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 124.6mm. The front brakes are dual disc type. The bike features ABS, traction control, riding modes, and ride-by-wire as advanced rider assistance systems. The front tire has a diameter of 21 inches, and the rear tire has a width of 150mm and a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1593mm, a seat height of 875mm, and a curb weight of 244kg with ABS. The fuel tank also has a capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 stands out for its powerful engine, precise handling, traction control with a fun factor, cornering ABS, large and easy-to-read TFT screen, quick gear lever, LED headlights with cornering lights, and off-road capability. On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 is praised for its smooth and silky engine, top-notch ergonomics and comfort, suitability for touring, and off-road capability. It is also considered technically mature.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 is criticized for its high price and energy-consuming windshield height adjustment. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 is also considered expensive with additional equipment, and its engine lacks excitement. Furthermore, the fork is not adjustable, and the bike has a considerably high weight.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 and the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 are both capable adventure bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more powerful engine and advanced features, while the BMW provides a smooth and comfortable riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.