KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both highly capable adventure motorcycles, but they have some key differences.

Starting with the engines, the KTM 890 Adventure R is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc, producing 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. The BMW has a higher power output and torque, providing stronger acceleration from low revs.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 890 Adventure R comes with a telescopic fork with 48mm diameter and 240mm travel at the front, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 240mm travel at the rear. The suspension is fully adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a telelever front suspension with 37mm diameter and 210mm travel, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 220mm travel at the rear. The BMW's suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound. Both bikes offer excellent off-road capabilities, but the KTM's suspension offers more adjustability.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

In terms of chassis, the KTM 890 Adventure R features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a rake of 63.7 degrees. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a steel frame with a rake of 65.1 degrees. Both frames are designed to provide stability and durability, with the KTM having a slightly lower rake angle for more agile handling.

When it comes to brakes, both bikes are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front. The KTM 890 Adventure R and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and riding modes. The BMW also offers additional features like hill start assist and electronically adjustable suspension.

In terms of dimensions, the KTM 890 Adventure R has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1528mm and a seat height of 880mm. The fuel tank has a capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 444km. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1504mm and a higher seat height of 890mm. The fuel tank has a larger capacity of 30 liters, offering a range of 631km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure also offers additional features like cornering lights, heated seats, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R excels in its off-road capabilities, agile handling, powerful engine, and comprehensive electronic package. It also comes with ABS for curves, including an off-road mode as standard. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, offers a high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, a low center of gravity for accessible maneuverability, practical details for frequent riders, a huge range of 631km, and excellent electronic systems.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 Adventure R has a hard seat and a high seat height, which may not be suitable for shorter riders. It also requires additional costs for useful features like the Quickshifter+. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a higher weight, somewhat clumsy gear changes at low revs, an irregular appearance with less elegance, and a higher price with all the equipment included.

In conclusion, both the KTM 890 Adventure R and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure are highly capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM excels in off-road performance and agility, while the BMW offers a powerful engine, excellent electronic systems, and practical features for long-distance riding. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.