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

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features. While they have some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering 160 HP of power and 140 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and offer excellent performance on the road.

When it comes to suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 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. In comparison, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 220mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for optimal performance.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. It has a rake of 64 degrees and a trail of 123mm. Both motorcycles provide a stable and comfortable riding experience.

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 also features ABS, suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1504mm, a seat height of 890mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 268kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1580mm, a seat height of 890mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 240kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer a range of features to enhance the riding experience. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 comes with cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 is equipped with heated grips, cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. Both motorcycles provide excellent visibility and comfort for riders.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 offers practical details for frequent riders, a gigantic range, low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feeling in the saddle, a pleasant seating position for pillion passengers, practical riding aids, great headlights, and great ergonomics for tall people. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017, on the other hand, is fully off-road capable, offers good off-road mode, easy handling, a very powerful and refined engine, state-of-the-art electronic features, a large and easy-to-read TFT display, and LED headlights with cornering lights.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a high weight that can strain maneuvering and somewhat stiff gearshifts at low revs. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers practicality, comfort, and a range of features, while the KTM provides off-road capabilities and advanced electronic features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.