KTM 890 SMT 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The KTM 890 SMT 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both high-performance motorcycles designed for different purposes. The KTM 890 SMT is a sport touring bike, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is an enduro bike.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, the KTM 890 SMT features an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc, producing 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature high-quality WP suspension components. The KTM 890 SMT has a telescopic upside-down fork with 43mm diameter and 180mm travel in the front, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 180mm travel in the rear. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a telescopic upside-down fork with 48mm diameter and 200mm travel in the front, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 200mm travel in the rear. Both bikes offer adjustments for compression, rebound, and preload.

In terms of chassis, both bikes have chromium-molybdenum frames, which provide strength and rigidity. The KTM 890 SMT has a rake angle of 64.2 degrees, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a rake angle of 65.3 degrees.

KTM 890 SMT 2023

In terms of braking, both bikes feature dual disc brakes with a diameter of 320mm in the front, and both use radial technology.

Both bikes come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, and traction control. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also offers electronically adjustable suspension, adaptive cruise control, and keyless ignition as additional features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 890 SMT has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1502mm and a seat height of 860mm. The dry weight, including ABS, is 194kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 170mm, with a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1560mm and a seat height of 849mm. The dry weight, including ABS, is 220kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with connectivity features, LED headlights, and TFT screens. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also offers keyless ignition, cornering lights, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 SMT offers a powerful engine with linear power delivery, agile braking system, playful handling, reasonable touring capability, comfortable ergonomics, and moderate fuel consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S boasts a very sporty yet refined V-twin powertrain, extremely playful behavior despite its high weight, comfortable and easy-to-ride seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronic package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 890 SMT has additional costs for important features and a design that may not appeal to everyone. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has additional costs for features like a quickshifter and an idiosyncratic appearance, as well as a firm seat.

In conclusion, the KTM 890 SMT and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 890 SMT is a versatile sport touring bike, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a powerful enduro bike with advanced features. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.