BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023, it is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is known for its high-torque performance, allowing for strong acceleration from low revs. The bike has a low centre of gravity, which contributes to its surprisingly accessible manoeuvrability. It also offers practical details for frequent riders, such as a gigantic range of 600 km and low fuel consumption of 4.75 l/100km. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 provides good wind and weather protection, as well as great ride comfort. It features a steel frame and a load-bearing engine, ensuring stability and durability. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. It has a 19-inch front tyre diameter, a 170 mm rear tyre width, and a 17-inch rear tyre diameter. The wheelbase is 1504 mm, and the seat height ranges from 890 mm to 910 mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 268 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 30 l.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. The engine is described as very sporty, but also cultivated. Despite its high weight, the bike offers extremely accessible handling. It provides a comfortable and driving-friendly seating position. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is equipped with good brakes, including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. It has a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display. The bike features a chromium-molybdenum frame and a tubular frame type. It has a 65.3-degree rake. Similar to the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023, it has a 19-inch front tyre diameter, a 170 mm rear tyre width, and a 17-inch rear tyre diameter. The wheelbase is slightly longer at 1560 mm, and the seat height ranges from 849 mm to 869 mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 243 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 l.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offers a high-torque engine that provides strong acceleration from low revs. Its low centre of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible manoeuvrability. The bike has practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range of 600 km, and low fuel consumption. It provides good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, and a powerful engine. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with great electronics, including advanced rider assistance systems. It has an easy-to-read display and offers a confident feeling in the saddle. The bike also has practical riding aids and great ergonomics for tall people.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers a very sporty, but also cultivated V2 power plant. Despite its high weight, the bike has extremely accessible handling. It provides a comfortable and driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high weight and gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. It also has a jagged appearance with little elegance and is high-priced with full equipment. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a turn-in behaviour in bends that can be somewhat sluggish. It also has an opaque package design and pricing policy, and its dashboards and switches do not feel very high quality.