BMW R 1300 GS 2024 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the BMW R 1300 GS 2024, it boasts a boxer engine with a displacement of 1300ccm, producing 145 HP and 149 Nm of torque. This engine offers breathtakingly good response and very good traction. The motorbike's handling is very stable, yet it remains agile and cornering-friendly. The suspension consists of a telelever front suspension with 190mm of travel and a paralever rear suspension with a monoshock and 200mm of travel. The suspension offers a preload adjustment. The frame is made of steel and has a load-bearing engine design. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 is equipped with a double disk front brake system and advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, combined brake system, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The front tire diameter is 19 inches, and the rear tire width is 170mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1518mm, and the seat height is 850mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 237kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 19 liters. The equipment includes LED headlights and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301ccm, delivering 160 HP and 138 Nm of torque. The engine is known for being very sporty yet cultivated. Despite its high weight, the motorbike offers extremely playful handling. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 200mm of travel and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and 200mm of travel. The rear suspension offers adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 is equipped with a double disk front brake system and advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. The front tire diameter is 19 inches, and the rear tire width is 170mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1560mm, and the seat height is 849mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 243kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 23 liters. The equipment includes connectivity, keyless system, cornering lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1300 GS 2024

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 offers a powerful engine with excellent response and traction. Its handling is stable yet agile, making it suitable for various riding conditions. The motorbike also provides practical configuration options and surprisingly good wind protection with its hand guards. The radar cruise control is well-integrated and the operating concept is understandable with an easy-to-read display. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 also offers a wide range of options for ergonomic adjustment and has strong brakes and a precise transmission. Additionally, it features a functioning and inconspicuously integrated emergency call system.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has its own strengths. It boasts a very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant and offers extremely playful handling despite its high weight. The motorbike provides a comfortable and driving-friendly seating position. It also has good brakes with cornering ABS and a comprehensive electronics package. The adaptive cruise control (ACC) and the clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display are additional strengths.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 does not offer every desired configuration, and sometimes unnecessary extras have to be selected. The suspension, although at a high level, does not offer flawless response or a wide adjustment range. The front collision warning (FCW) can trigger annoying false alarms in rough everyday life, and a very sporty driving style can result in a slight rolling motion in the vehicle. The motorcycle may also appear too compact for tall riders, especially from behind, and the ABS system gives too much feedback into the brake lever with a sporty driving style.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has its own weaknesses. Some features, such as the gearshift assistant, come at an extra cost. The motorbike has an idiosyncratic look, which may not appeal to everyone, and the seat bench is stiff.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1300 GS 2024 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW R 1300 GS 2024 offers a powerful engine, stable handling, and practical configuration options, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 provides a sporty yet cultivated power plant and extremely playful handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.