KTM 790 Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The KTM 790 Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles from KTM. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 features an in-line engine with a bore of 88 mm and a stroke of 65.7 mm. It delivers 95 HP of power and 88 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine with a larger bore of 108 mm and stroke of 71 mm. It offers a higher power output of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm. The 1290 Super Adventure S has a larger displacement of 1301 ccm compared to the 799 ccm of the 790 Adventure.

Both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks from WP for their front suspension, with the 790 Adventure having a 43 mm diameter and the 1290 Super Adventure S having a larger 48 mm diameter. The rear suspension on both models consists of a swing arm with a monoshock, also from WP. Both motorcycles offer 200 mm of travel for both the front and rear suspension.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame. However, the frame type differs slightly, with the 790 Adventure having a tubular, load-bearing engine frame, while the 1290 Super Adventure S has a tubular frame. The rake angle is also slightly different, with the 790 Adventure having a rake of 64.1 degrees and the 1290 Super Adventure S having a rake of 65.3 degrees.

KTM 790 Adventure 2023

Both motorcycles feature double disk brakes on the front, providing effective stopping power. The 1290 Super Adventure S also offers cornering ABS, which enhances safety during cornering maneuvers. Both motorcycles come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the 790 Adventure has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1509 mm, and the seat height ranges from 840 mm to 860 mm. The dry weight with ABS is 199 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. The 790 Adventure offers a range of 476 km and a combined fuel consumption of 4.2 l/100km.

On the other hand, the 1290 Super Adventure S has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer at 1560 mm, and the seat height ranges from 849 mm to 869 mm. The dry weight with ABS is higher at 220 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is larger at 23 liters. The 1290 Super Adventure S offers a range of 416 km and a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

Both motorcycles come equipped with modern features such as LED headlights, TFT displays, and connectivity. The 1290 Super Adventure S also offers additional equipment such as cornering lights and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the 790 Adventure is praised for its rev-happy engine with impressive power, low fuel consumption, excellent traction control regulation, effective wind protection, logical controls, agile handling, precise ride, effective brakes, comfortable on-road ergonomics, and a well-dosed clutch. On the other hand, the 1290 Super Adventure S is appreciated for its very sporty and cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, the 790 Adventure does have some weaknesses, including the sporty Quickshifter+ being available only at an extra cost, a limited chassis adjustment range, and a handlebar position that may be too low for off-road riding. The 1290 Super Adventure S has its weaknesses as well, including somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality.

In conclusion, the KTM 790 Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 790 Adventure offers a more agile and versatile option with lower power and weight, while the 1290 Super Adventure S provides a more powerful and feature-rich experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.