BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a prop shaft transmission and has a starter that is electrically operated. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It generates a higher power output of 160 HP and torque of 140 Nm. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and also has an electric starter.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and offers a travel of 200mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 features 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 also offers a travel of 200mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a steel frame that is load-bearing engine type. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, has a chromium-molybdenum frame that is tubular in design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 120mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and riding modes. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 also features additional assistance systems like anti-slipping control, hill start assist, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and cornering lights. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, offers electronically adjustable suspension as part of its advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170mm. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has the same rear tire diameter. The wheelbase of the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is slightly shorter at 1525mm compared to the 1560mm wheelbase of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017. The seat height of the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is adjustable from 850mm to 870mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a seat height that can be adjusted from 860mm to 875mm. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a slightly higher kerb weight of 249kg compared to the 238kg kerb weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters and 23 liters respectively.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer features like LED headlights, adjustable windscreen, and cornering lights. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 also comes with a great connectivity app and an easy-to-read display, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 offers additional features like heated grips and a quickshifter.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort, ergonomic design, a powerful engine, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis that can handle any route. It also has an easy-to-read display and a confident feel in the saddle. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, is praised for its powerful engine, precise handling, traction control with a fun factor, cornering ABS as standard, and off-road capability. It also features a large TFT display, LED headlights with cornering lights, and a quickshifter.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a rough overall appearance and its gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017, on the other hand, has a high price and the height adjustment of the windshield can consume a lot of power.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort, a powerful engine, and practical riding aids, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 excels in terms of power, handling, and off-road capability. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.