BMW R 1250 GS 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

The BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and features.

Starting with the engines, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 features a V-twin engine. The BMW has a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm, producing a power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. On the other hand, the KTM has a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm, delivering a higher power output of 160 HP and a torque of 140 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters.

In terms of transmission, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a shaft drive, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 uses a chain drive. The BMW has a displacement of 1254 cc, with 2 cylinders, while the KTM has a displacement of 1301 cc, also with 2 cylinders.

Moving on to the suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 features a Telelever front suspension with a 37 mm diameter and 190 mm of travel. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock and 200 mm of travel. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and recovery. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a telescopic upside-down front fork with a 48 mm diameter and 220 mm of travel. The rear suspension is also a swingarm with a monoshock and 220 mm of travel. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and recovery.

BMW R 1250 GS 2020

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a steel frame with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 123 mm.

Both motorcycles have dual disc front brakes, providing stable braking performance. They also come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, riding modes, and ride-by-wire throttle.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has a 19-inch front tire, a 170 mm wide rear tire, a 17-inch rear tire, a wheelbase of 1525 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 249 kg. It has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a 21-inch front tire, a 150 mm wide rear tire, an 18-inch rear tire, a wheelbase of 1580 mm, a seat height of 890 mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 240 kg. It has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights and adjustable windshields. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 also features heated grips, cornering lights, and a large and easy-to-read TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a comfortable riding position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, a standard color TFT display, and LED headlights. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is fully capable off-road, has a good off-road mode, easy handling, a powerful and refined engine, state-of-the-art electronic features such as traction control, quick shifters, and cornering ABS, a large and easy-to-read TFT display, and LED headlights with cornering lights.

However, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 has some weaknesses, such as manageable standard equipment and a less elegant appearance. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a high price and a windshield height adjustment that consumes a lot of energy.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both excellent adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a powerful and torquey engine, comfortable ergonomics, and good weather protection, while the KTM excels in off-road capability, electronic features, and a refined engine. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.