The BMW R 1250 GS and KTM 1290 Super Adventure are two of the most popular adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes are known for their exceptional performance, versatility, and off-road capabilities. However, there are some key differences between the two machines that make them better suited for different types of riders.

Engine and Performance

The BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a 1254cc boxer-twin engine that produces 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is powered by a 1301cc V-twin engine that produces 160 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque.

On paper, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a clear advantage in terms of power. However, the BMW R 1250 GS has a more linear power delivery that makes it easier to control off-road. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure’s V-twin engine is more powerful at high RPMs, but it can be more difficult to manage at low speeds.

Suspension and Handling

The BMW R 1250 GS has a Telelever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a WP semi-active suspension system.

The BMW R 1250 GS’s suspension is designed to provide a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved roads. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure‘s semi-active suspension system can be adjusted to suit different riding conditions.

Electronics and Features

The BMW R 1250 GS comes standard with a wide range of electronic features, including ABS, traction control, and hill start assist. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure comes standard with a similar range of features, plus a TFT display and a quickshifter.

The BMW R 1250 GS’s electronics are designed to make the bike easier to ride, especially off-road. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure‘s electronics are more focused on performance, with features like launch control and a track mode.

Price and Availability

The BMW R 1250 GS starts at $17,495. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure starts at $18,999.

Both bikes are available in a variety of trim levels, with the higher-end models offering more features and performance.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The BMW R 1250 GS is a great choice for riders who want a versatile adventure motorcycle that is easy to ride and comfortable on both paved and unpaved roads. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a better choice for riders who want a more powerful and performance-oriented adventure motorcycle.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them.

The Bottom Line: The Battle of the Titans

The BMW R 1250 GS and KTM 1290 Super Adventure are two of the best adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer exceptional performance, versatility, and off-road capabilities. However, there are some key differences between the two machines that make them better suited for different types of riders.

If you’re looking for a versatile adventure motorcycle that is easy to ride and comfortable on both paved and unpaved roads, the BMW R 1250 GS is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more powerful and performance-oriented adventure motorcycle, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a better choice.

FAQ

Q: Which bike has more power?

A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure has more power than the BMW R 1250 GS.

Q: Which bike has a better suspension?

A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure has a semi-active suspension system that can be adjusted to suit different riding conditions.

Q: Which bike has more electronic features?

A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure has more electronic features than the BMW R 1250 GS, including a TFT display and a quickshifter.

Q: Which bike is more expensive?

A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is more expensive than the BMW R 1250 GS.

Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?

A: The BMW R 1250 GS is better for off-road riding than the KTM 1290 Super Adventure.