KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures.

Starting with the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022, it features an in-line engine with a displacement of 889cc, delivering 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and has a bore of 90.7 mm and a stroke of 68.8 mm. The bike is equipped with a chromium-molybdenum frame, providing strength and durability. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a 48 mm diameter, offering 240 mm of travel. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, also providing 240 mm of travel. The bike has a wheelbase of 1528 mm and a seat height of 880 mm. It weighs 196 kg (dry weight with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. It also features a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2022

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is equipped with a V-type engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering a higher power of 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. The engine also has a chain transmission and a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. The bike features a chromium-molybdenum frame and a tubular frame type. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a 48 mm diameter, offering 220 mm of travel. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, providing 220 mm of travel. The wheelbase is slightly longer than the KTM 890 Adventure R at 1577 mm, and the seat height is the same at 880 mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 weighs 221 kg (dry weight with ABS) and has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. It also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The tire sizes are the same as the KTM 890 Adventure R, with a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 excels in its off-road capable chassis, offering agile handling and a powerful engine. It also has a comprehensive electronics package, including cornering ABS with an off-road mode. The brakes are finely controllable, and the traction control adjusts depending on the lean angle. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 impresses with its robust overall impression and high-quality chassis. It has a great seat for long rides and features sporty and high-quality components. The engine is powerful yet easy to control, and it comes with practical riding aids.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, making it uncomfortable for some riders. The seat height can also be challenging for smaller pilots. Additionally, the wind and weather protection are moderate, and some useful features, such as the Quickshifter+, come at an extra cost. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021, despite being a high-priced motorcycle, lacks individual features in the basic equipment. The controls can also be fiddly, which may be inconvenient for some riders.

In conclusion, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 excels in its off-road capabilities, agile handling, and powerful engine, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 impresses with its robustness, high-quality components, and practical riding aids. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two models.