Bmw R 1250 Gs Vs Ktm 1290 Super Adventure
What To Know
- The KTM 1290 Super Adventure also comes with a TFT display, but it has a few more features than the BMW, including a quickshifter, a hill hold control system, and a cornering ABS system.
- The BMW R 1250 GS is a better choice for riders who want a bike that is comfortable, capable, and easy to ride.
- If you want a bike that is comfortable, capable, and easy to ride, the BMW R 1250 GS is the better choice.
The world of adventure touring motorcycles is a fascinating one, filled with machines that promise to take you anywhere you want to go. Two of the most popular and well-respected bikes in this category are the BMW R 1250 GS and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure. Both bikes have their own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing between them can be a difficult task.
Engine and Performance
The BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a 1254cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, on the other hand, is powered by a 1301cc V-twin engine that produces 160 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the KTM has a clear advantage in terms of power and torque. However, the BMW’s engine is renowned for its smoothness and low-end torque, which makes it a better choice for off-road riding.
Handling and Suspension
The BMW R 1250 GS is known for its excellent handling and stability, both on and off-road. The bike’s suspension is fully adjustable, and it can be set up to handle a variety of conditions. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is also a very capable handler, but it is not quite as nimble as the BMW. The KTM’s suspension is also fully adjustable, but it is more suited for on-road riding than off-road riding.
Features
The BMW R 1250 GS comes with a wide range of features, including a TFT display, cruise control, heated grips, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure also comes with a TFT display, but it has a few more features than the BMW, including a quickshifter, a hill hold control system, and a cornering ABS system.
Price
The BMW R 1250 GS starts at $17,495, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure starts at $18,999. Both bikes are expensive, but they are also very well-equipped.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The BMW R 1250 GS is a better choice for riders who want a bike that is comfortable, capable, and easy to ride. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a better choice for riders who want a bike that is more powerful and aggressive.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for each bike’s performance, handling, and features.
Performance Comparison
| Feature | BMW R 1250 GS | KTM 1290 Super Adventure |
| — | — | — |
| Engine | 1254cc twin-cylinder | 1301cc V-twin |
| Horsepower | 136 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 103 lb-ft |
| Weight | 548 lbs | 513 lbs |
| Fuel capacity | 5.3 gallons | 6.1 gallons |
| Seat height | 33.5 inches | 34.3 inches |
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the BMW R 1250 GS and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure are capable off-road motorcycles. However, the BMW has a slight advantage in this area. The BMW’s suspension is more adjustable, and it has a lower center of gravity, which makes it easier to handle in rough terrain.
On-Road Capabilities
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a better choice for on-road riding than the BMW R 1250 GS. The KTM’s engine is more powerful, and it has a more aggressive riding position. The KTM also has a wider range of features, which makes it more comfortable and convenient for long-distance riding.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Adventure Companion
Choosing between the BMW R 1250 GS and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a difficult task. Both bikes are excellent adventure touring machines, and they each have their own strengths and weaknesses.
If you want a bike that is comfortable, capable, and easy to ride, the BMW R 1250 GS is the better choice. If you want a bike that is more powerful and aggressive, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure is the better choice.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for each bike’s performance, handling, and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is more powerful than the BMW R 1250 GS.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable?
A: The BMW R 1250 GS is more comfortable than the KTM 1290 Super Adventure.
Q: Which bike is better off-road?
A: The BMW R 1250 GS is better off-road than the KTM 1290 Super Adventure.
Q: Which bike is better on-road?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is better on-road than the BMW R 1250 GS.
Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is more expensive than the BMW R 1250 GS.