KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and characteristics.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301ccm, producing 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 has an in-line twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799ccm, producing 95 HP of power and 88 Nm of torque. The 1290 Super Adventure S has a more powerful engine compared to the 790 Adventure R.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, the KTM 790 Adventure R has a higher travel distance of 240mm for both the front and rear suspension, compared to the 200mm travel distance of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. This gives the 790 Adventure R an advantage in off-road capabilities and rough terrain.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The chassis of both motorcycles is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame design. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a slightly steeper rake angle of 65.3 degrees compared to the 63.7 degrees of the KTM 790 Adventure R. This difference in rake angle can affect the handling and stability of the motorcycles.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The KTM 790 Adventure R also has ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control, but lacks some of the advanced features found on the 1290 Super Adventure S.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 790 Adventure R has a slightly larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the 19 inches of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. The rear tire width of the 790 Adventure R is 150mm, while the 1290 Super Adventure S has a wider rear tire width of 170mm. The seat height of the 790 Adventure R is higher at 880mm compared to the 849mm of the 1290 Super Adventure S. The dry weight of the 790 Adventure R is also lighter at 189kg, while the 1290 Super Adventure S weighs 220kg.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends and a package design and pricing policy that some may find opaque. The dashboards and switches of the 1290 Super Adventure S also do not feel very high quality. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R does not come standard with a quickshifter and the indicator switch can be a little fiddly. The seat of the 790 Adventure R may also be slightly more uncomfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 1290 Super Adventure S offers a more powerful engine and advanced rider assistance systems, while the 790 Adventure R excels in off-road capabilities and has a lighter weight. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.