KTM 790 Adventure 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc. It generates a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 88 Nm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing a higher power output of 160 HP and a torque of 138 Nm. Both motorcycles have an electric starter and a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a front suspension with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 200 mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a front suspension with a larger diameter of 48 mm and the same travel distance. The rear suspension on both models has a travel distance of 200 mm, but the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offers additional adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame, but the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a tubular frame type. The rake angle on the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is 64.1 degrees, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a slightly steeper rake angle of 65.3 degrees.

KTM 790 Adventure 2020

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 does not specify the type of brakes, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is equipped with cornering ABS.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offers additional features including electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control, and adaptive cruise control (ACC).

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1509 mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 830 mm to 850 mm. The dry weight of the motorcycle with ABS is 189 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 849 mm to 869 mm. The dry weight of the motorcycle with ABS is 220 kg, and it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is praised for its engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is commended for its very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is criticized for its unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat not being optimally shaped. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is noted to have a gearshift assistant at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat.

Overall, both the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 offer their own unique features and strengths, catering to different preferences and riding styles.