Quick Analysis
BMW R 1300 GS
18.5 pts
Unweighted: 17 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 250 ADVENTURE
11.5 pts
Unweighted: 5 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air and liquid-cooled | Liquid cooling with radiator |
| Displacement | 1,300 cc | 249.07 cc |
| Engine Type | Two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine | 4 stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Power | 145.48 bhp @ 7750 rpm | 31 PS @ 9250 |
| Torque | 149 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 25 Nm @ 7250 |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 14.5 L |
| Mileage | 20.83 kmpl | 38 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 237 | 176 |
| Seat Height | 850 | 825 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | Twin disc brake, semi-floating brake discs, diameter 310 mm, 4-piston radial brake caliper | 320 mm Disc with Radially Mounted Caliper |
| Front Suspension | Central Shock Absorber | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter, 200mm travel |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 285 mm, 2-piston floating caliper | 240 mm Disc with Floating Caliper |
| Rear Suspension | Single-sided Swingarm | WP APEX Monoshock, 205mm wheel travel Adjustable for Preload (10 steps) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - R19 | 100/90 - 19 |
| Rear Tyre | 170/60 - R17 | 130/80 - 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED Projector Low Beam -24W at 13.5V & High beam -30W at 13.5V + Auxiliary lamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 10 Ah | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Aurelius-Green.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM-250-Adventure_White.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Triple-black.avif | — |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/GS-Trophy.avif | — |
| Cluster | Digital | — |
| Color Options | Light white | #F5F5F5 Black Storm Metallic | #1B1B1B Racing Blue Metallic | #15327E Aurelius Green Metallic | #3A4B3B,#D4AF37 | Ceramic White | #F2F2F2, #FF5F00 Electronic Orange | #FF5F00 |
| Cons | Significantly expensive compared to many adventure bike alternatives • Heavy motorcycle, especially for slow-speed manoeuvring and off-road beginners • Optional accessories and packages increase cost quickly • The boxer engine’s width can feel bulky in narrow traffic • Heat is noticeable in Indian summers at crawling speeds • Pillion seat comfort is good but not exceptional without optional top-box/backrest • Maintenance and parts costs are on the premium side | Pricing – Feels a bit expensive, especially since the 390 Adventure is not much higher in price. Vibrations – Noticeable vibrations at higher RPMs or when pushed hard. Build Quality – Some users feel the plastics and overall finish could be better for the price. Performance – Lacks excitement for riders expecting typical KTM aggression and punch. Brakes – Front brake feedback is average and could have been sharper. Touring Comfort (Long Runs) – Seat and minor vibrations can become noticeable on very long rides. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW R 1300 GS is built around a new 1,300cc two-cylinder boxer engine, which is the most powerful of its kind from the brand to date. It produces approximately 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and 149 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. A major change in this generation is the placement of the gearbox underneath the engine, a design choice that makes the entire powertrain more compact and helps centralize the bike’s weight. In terms of physical build, the motorcycle uses a two-part frame consisting of a main steel shell and a bolted rear subframe. It features a unique suspension system: the EVO-Telelever at the front and EVO-Paralever at the rear, which together provide a travel of 190 mm and 200 mm, respectively. The standard bike has a kerb weight of 237 kg (fully fueled) and a fuel tank capacity of 19 litres, while the more rugged GS Adventure variant increases this capacity to 30 litres and weighs 269 kg. For everyday usability, the seat height is set at 850 mm on the standard model, though an optional Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system can automatically lower the bike to 820 mm when coming to a stop. Braking is handled by twin 310 mm discs at the front with four-piston radial calipers and a single 285 mm disc at the rear, all governed by a lean-angle sensitive ABS system. The cockpit is centered around a 6.5-inch (or optional 10.25-inch) full-color TFT display that includes Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and media. It comes with four standard riding modes, Eco, Rain, Road, and Enduro, which adjust the throttle response and traction control. Other standard electrical features include a full LED matrix headlight, heated grips, keyless ride, and a smartphone charging compartment with a USB socket. | There are some bikes that immediately feel like they are built for a specific purpose, and the KTM 250 Adventure gives that impression the moment you look past its styling and focus on how it is put together. At its core is a 248.8cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing close to 30 bhp and 24 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, and the inclusion of a slipper clutch helps make gear changes smoother, especially when downshifting quickly. On the road, the engine delivers power in a steady and controlled way, which makes it easier to ride in traffic and keeps things predictable on longer stretches of highway. The bike is built on a steel trellis frame, which forms the base of its structure, and it is supported by long-travel suspension at both ends. The front gets upside-down forks, while the rear uses a monoshock. This setup is designed to handle uneven road conditions, and in practical use, it manages bumps, potholes, and broken surfaces without passing on too much discomfort to the rider. With around 200 mm of ground clearance, the bike can clear obstacles like speed breakers and rough patches without much concern. The riding position is set up to keep things relaxed. A wide handlebar, neutral foot peg placement, and a fairly flat seat create an upright posture that does not put too much pressure on the wrists or back. The seat height is around 825 mm, which may feel slightly tall for some riders, particularly in slow-moving traffic. The kerb weight is about 177 kg, and while it might seem a bit on paper, the bike feels balanced once it is moving. Braking is handled by a 320 mm disc at the front and a 230 mm disc at the rear, along with dual-channel ABS. The braking setup offers a controlled and consistent response during regular riding conditions. The bike runs on a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, fitted with tubeless tyres, a combination that helps maintain stability on uneven roads while still working well on highways. The instrument cluster is a digital unit that shows essential information like speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip details in a clear layout. It keeps things simple without adding too many layers of information. The KTM 250 Adventure does not include advanced electronic features like riding modes or traction control, sticking to a more straightforward setup. With a fuel tank capacity of around 14.5 litres, the bike offers a usable riding range for both daily commutes and longer trips. It also gets LED lighting and a small windscreen, which provides some wind protection at higher speeds. Overall, the KTM 250 Adventure is put together to handle a mix of everyday riding and changing road conditions, focusing on usability and control across different environments. |
| Expert Review | The BMW R 1300 GS is a massive leap forward for Indian riders who found the previous 1250 model a bit too bulky for our frantic traffic. By shedding significant weight and adopting a more compact frame, it feels much more manageable when you're filtering through city chaos or tackling narrow mountain hairpins. The new engine delivers smooth, predictable power that doesn't feel overwhelming, which is a huge plus on our unpredictable road surfaces. However, the bike’s sophisticated electronics and radar systems might feel like overkill for someone sticking to well-known routes, and the premium price tag remains a high barrier. While the cooling system has improved, the large boxer engine still radiates a fair amount of heat that becomes very noticeable during long waits at Indian traffic signals. It’s a highly capable machine that balances high-tech features with better agility, though it requires a serious financial commitment and an appetite for its unique, modern styling., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM 250 Adventure comes across in user feedback as a practical and balanced adventure bike rather than an outright performance machine. Riders often highlight its comfortable upright ergonomics and suspension setup, which make it well-suited for Indian roads, handling potholes and long-distance rides without much strain. The 248cc engine is described as smooth and predictable, offering enough power for relaxed highway cruising while remaining manageable in city traffic, though it lacks strong low-end punch and feels less exciting at higher speeds. Real-world usability is one of its strengths, with decent mileage and touring capability frequently mentioned by owners. However, users also point out noticeable vibrations in certain RPM ranges, average build quality in some panels, and a feature list that feels slightly dated for the price. The bike’s tall seat height and pricing, close to more powerful alternatives are also commonly discussed concerns among riders., 4.2, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the BMW R 1300 GS? A: The engine capacity is 1,300 cc, featuring a twin-cylinder boxer layout with BMW’s ShiftCam technology. Q: What are the standard riding modes on the BMW R 1300 GS? A: It comes with modes such as Road, Rain, Eco and Enduro. Q: Does the R 1300 GS come with advanced electronics? A: Yes, it includes features like ABS Pro, traction control, dynamic cruise control with brake function, and optional radar-based systems. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS seat height manageable for shorter Indian riders? A: Yes, significantly more so than the older models. While the standard BMW R 1300 GS seat height is 850 mm, the new Adaptive Vehicle Height Control system automatically lowers the bike to 820 mm as you slow down or stop. If you opt for the "Low Comfort Seat," it can drop as far as 800 mm, making it much easier to plant your feet firmly at traffic signals or on uneven Indian roads. Q: What is the real-world fuel range of the BMW R 1300 GS on Indian highways? A: The BMW R 1300 GS fuel tank capacity is 19 litres, which is slightly smaller than some long-distance tourers. In Indian conditions, you can expect a real-world range of approximately 320–350 km on a full tank, depending on your riding mode. Q: Is the BMW R 1300 GS maintenance expensive in India? A: Owning a premium machine like the BMW R 1300 GS does come with high-tier maintenance costs. A standard annual service at an authorized BMW Motorrad India workshop typically ranges between ₹18,000 to ₹25,000, covering oil changes and basic checks. | Q: Is the KTM 250 Adventure good for daily use in India? A: Yes, the KTM 250 Adventure is quite practical for daily riding. The upright posture and suspension help in handling traffic, speed breakers, and rough roads without much effort. Q: What is the real mileage of the KTM 250 Adventure? A: In real-world conditions, the KTM 250 Adventure usually gives around 30–32 km/l in the city and slightly more on highways, depending on riding style. Q: Is the KTM 250 Adventure comfortable for long rides? A: The KTM 250 Adventure is generally comfortable for long rides because of its seating position and suspension, but some riders do mention seat discomfort and mild vibrations on very long journeys. Q: Does the KTM 250 Adventure have vibrations? A: Yes, some riders notice vibrations on the KTM 250 Adventure, especially at higher RPMs or when riding fast for long periods. Q: Is the KTM 250 Adventure suitable for beginners? A: The KTM 250 Adventure is considered beginner-friendly because the power delivery is smooth and not too aggressive, making it easier to control. Q: How is the performance of the KTM 250 Adventure on highways? A: The KTM 250 Adventure can cruise comfortably around 90–100 km/h, but it may feel slightly underpowered if you expect quick acceleration at higher speeds. Q: Is the KTM 250 Adventure good for off-roading? A: The KTM 250 Adventure can handle light off-roading and bad roads well, but it is not meant for hardcore off-road use like more focused adventure bikes. Q: Is the KTM 250 Adventure overpriced in India? A: Many users feel the KTM 250 Adventure is priced a bit high, mainly because the KTM 390 Adventure is available for a slightly higher price with more power and features. Q: How is the build quality of the KTM 250 Adventure? A: The build quality of the KTM 250 Adventure is decent, but some users feel that the plastic parts and overall finish could have been better for the price. Q: What are the common problems in the KTM 250 Adventure? A: Common issues reported by users include vibrations at certain RPMs, average brake feedback, and slightly basic features compared to competitors. Q: What is the seat height of the KTM 250 Adventure and is it manageable? A: The KTM 250 Adventure has a tall seat height (around 825 mm), which can feel slightly challenging for shorter riders, especially in traffic. Q: Should I buy the KTM 250 Adventure or upgrade to the KTM 390 Adventure? A: This depends on your usage. The KTM 250 Adventure is easier to manage and more relaxed, while the 390 Adventure offers stronger performance and more features. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Triple Black | 2200000 Trophy | 2225000 Option 719 Tramuntana | 2425000 | STD | 245984 |
| Pros | • Strong and refined 1,300cc boxer engine with excellent low-end and mid-range torque • Noticeably lighter and more agile than the previous R1250GS • Improved dynamic handling thanks to new chassis and updated suspension • Very comfortable riding position suitable for long-distance touring • Advanced electronics including traction control, ABS Pro, radar-based aids (optional), and multiple ride modes • High-quality build and premium materials throughout • Great wind protection and ergonomic improvements for rider comfort • Versatile performance — equally confident on highways, off-road trails, and city traffic • New design is more compact, modern, and sharper • Multiple style variants (Triple Black, Trophy, Option 719) giving different personalities and equipment | Comfort – Upright posture and soft suspension make it easy for daily rides and long distances without much fatigue. Suspension – Handles bad roads, potholes, and speed breakers really well, which suits Indian conditions. Easy Handling – Feels light and manageable, especially for beginners or riders upgrading from smaller bikes. Smooth Engine – Power delivery is predictable and not aggressive, making it stress-free to ride in traffic. Mileage – Gives decent fuel efficiency for its segment, so it doesn’t feel heavy on the pocket. Versatility – Works well for city use, highways, and occasional rough roads without needing much adjustment. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6 Speed Manual |
