BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2019

The BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2019 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities for off-road and on-road riding.

In terms of engine specifications, both models have an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a similar displacement. The BMW F 850 GS has a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 77 mm, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has a slightly larger bore of 88 mm and a shorter stroke of 65.7 mm. Both models have a similar engine power of 95 HP, but the BMW F 850 GS has a slightly higher torque of 92 Nm compared to the KTM 790 Adventure R's 88 Nm. Both models have an electric starter and a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both models feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The BMW F 850 GS has a front fork diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 204 mm, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has a larger front fork diameter of 48 mm and a longer travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension travel is also the same for both models at 240 mm, but the BMW F 850 GS offers adjustable preload and rebound, while the KTM 790 Adventure R only offers preload adjustment.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of chassis, the BMW F 850 GS has a steel frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 126 mm. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 63.7 degrees and a shorter trail of 110.4 mm.

Both models have double disk front brakes, but the KTM 790 Adventure R offers additional advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The BMW F 850 GS only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm. However, the KTM 790 Adventure R has a slightly larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches compared to the BMW F 850 GS's 17 inches. The wheelbase of the BMW F 850 GS is 1593 mm, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528 mm. The seat height of the BMW F 850 GS is 860 mm, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has a higher seat height of 880 mm. The fuel tank capacity of the BMW F 850 GS is 15 liters, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2019

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS offers good wind and weather protection, a well thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also has good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R has a high chassis quality that ensures a wide range of use. Its engine offers great running culture, rich torque, and perfectly dimensioned power. It also has an easy-to-read display and a practical rally electronics package. Despite its radical chassis, it is also stable, maneuverable, and suitable for everyday use on the road.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW F 850 GS has vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that is too lax. Its fork is also not adjustable, and it has a ponderous feel. The front brake could also do with more bite. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R does not come standard with a quickshifter, and its indicator switch can be a little fiddly. The seat is also a little more uncomfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

Overall, both the BMW F 850 GS 2022 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2019 have their strengths and weaknesses. The BMW F 850 GS offers a practical and comfortable riding experience with good connectivity features, while the KTM 790 Adventure R provides a versatile and powerful off-road performance with advanced rider assistance systems.