BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This gives the KTM a slight advantage in terms of power output.

Both motorcycles have electric starters and offer different transmission systems. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a prop shaft transmission, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 200mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. Both motorcycles offer various adjustments for preload, rebound, and compression.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing excellent stopping power. They also offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, traction control, and ride-by-wire technology. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has additional features like cruise control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a wheelbase of 1504mm and a seat height ranging from 890mm to 910mm. It has a kerb weight of 268kg and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560mm and a lower seat height ranging from 849mm to 869mm. It has a kerb weight of 243kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

Both motorcycles are equipped with cornering lights, LED headlights, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure also offers additional features like heated seats and a great connectivity app.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offers practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range, low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, and a confident feeling in the saddle. It also has a powerful engine, great connectivity app, easy-to-read display, and great ergonomics for tall people. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, offers a very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, a comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, a comprehensive electronics package, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a high weight that can strain when maneuvering, somewhat stiff gearshifts at low revs, and a jagged appearance with little elegance. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a 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.

Overall, both the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offer powerful engines, advanced rider assistance systems, and a range of features. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences, riding style, and priorities.