Quick Analysis
BMW S 1000 R
9.0 pts
Unweighted: 7 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S
19.0 pts
Unweighted: 12 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Oil/water cooling | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 999 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Type | four-cylinder, four-stroke inline engine with four valves per cylinder | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° |
| Power | 125 kW (170 hp) at 11,000 rpm | 160 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 9,250 rpm | 140 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.5 L | 23 L |
| Mileage | 16 kmpl | 17.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 199 | 250 |
| Seat Height | 830 | 849/869 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake Size 320 mm Caliper - Front 4 Piston | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork, diameter 45 mm, spring preload, rebound and compression stages adjustable | WP SAT (semi-active technology) Upside-Down Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc Rear Brake Size 220 mm Caliper - Rear 1 Piston | Disc 267 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Aluminium swing arm, full floater pro, compression and rebound damping adjustable, adjustable spring preload | WP SAT (semi-active technology) shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 - ZR17 | 120/70 - ZR19 |
| Rear Tyre | 190/55 - ZR17 | 170/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED Headlight |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 8 Ah | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/s1000rblackstormmetallic.webp | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/s1000rlightwhitemmotorsport.webp | — |
| Cluster | Fully digital display with speedometer, tachometer, ride data | Scratch-resistant 7-inch TFT display |
| Color Options | Blackstorm metallic | #1B1B1B Light white | #1E3A8A, #F5F5F5 Bluefire/Mugiallo Yellow | #00ABED, #FFD700 | Orange | #FF6600, #000000 |
| Cons | Real-world mileage is low, especially in city conditions Heat management in traffic can be noticeable Premium pricing compared to some rivals Firm suspension may feel stiff on rough Indian roads Limited pillion comfort for longer rides Maintenance and service costs are on the higher side for BMW motorcycles | High Price & Running Cost: As a premium big adventure bike, the 1290 SAS is expensive to buy and maintain. Complex Electronics: The rich electronics package may be overwhelming for some riders and can lead to occasional software glitches. Reliability Concerns: Some owners report electrical issues (e.g., MTC error, key fob issues) and other rare faults. Seat Comfort: The stock seat is criticized by several users for being hard, especially on long rides. Weight: With a kerb weight of around 250 kg, it’s a heavy machine, which can make it less agile in certain situations, particularly off-road. Heat & Engine Complexity: The powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, and servicing its complex components (like twin plugs, semi-active suspension, etc.) can be demanding. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW S 1000 R is a high-performance naked motorcycle, often called a “Roadster,” that adapts the mechanical DNA of a superbike for street use. At its core is a 999cc liquid-cooled, four-cylinder inline engine that has been updated for 2026 to produce 170 hp at 11,000 rpm and 114 Nm of torque at 9,250 rpm. This power is managed through a six-speed gearbox and a new M Quick Action throttle, which features a reduced rotation angle of 58 degrees to provide a more immediate response when accelerating. Unlike its track-oriented siblings, this engine is tuned to deliver more pull in the mid-range, making it better suited for overtaking and varied speeds on public roads. The bike is built around an aluminum bridge-type frame where the engine serves as a load-bearing component to save weight. This helps the S 1000 R achieve a relatively light kerb weight of 199 kg, including a full 16.5-litre fuel tank. The suspension consists of 45 mm upside-down front forks and a rear aluminum swingarm with a central shock; both ends offer full adjustability for preload and damping. For braking, the motorcycle utilizes twin 320 mm front discs with four-piston radial calipers and a single 220 mm rear disc, all supported by a lean-angle sensitive ABS Pro system that prevents wheel lock-up even while the bike is cornering. The electronics are centered on a 6.5-inch full-color TFT display that includes Bluetooth connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation and media control. It comes equipped with four standard riding modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Dynamic Pro—which allow the rider to adjust the intervention levels of the traction control, wheelie control, and engine braking. Physically, the bike has a seat height of 830 mm, which provides an upright and natural riding position compared to a sportbike. It features a new split-LED headlight design for better nighttime visibility and LED indicators integrated into the mirrors or tail section depending on the specific trim. This combination of a 1,450 mm wheelbase and sharp geometry is designed to offer a balance of high-speed stability and quick flickability through corners | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is the thrilling apex of KTM’s travel bike lineup, blending raw power with modern electronics and long-distance capability to deliver a truly versatile adventure machine. At the core of the bike lies its mighty 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin engine, which churns out around 160 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. This translates into effortless rapid acceleration, strong highway performance, and the brute force needed to carry luggage or cruise with a pillion. Whether you’re blasting down twisty mountain roads or towing through open terrain, the 1290 SAS feels like a bike that can do it all. One of the standout features of the Super Adventure S is its adaptive cruise control (ACC) – a rare find in this segment. With its radar-based system, riders can maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, reducing fatigue during long rides. This, combined with a rich electronics suite that includes Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Street, Off-road, Rally), gives you confidence and control no matter where you’re headed. The 7-inch TFT display serves as the cockpit brain, presenting ride data, navigation details, and vital alerts with clarity. In terms of handling and comfort, the 1290 SAS strikes a remarkable balance. Equipped with semi-active WP suspension, the bike dynamically adjusts damping based on ride conditions, ensuring a smooth ride over broken tarmac while maintaining tight control when pushing hard. The trellis frame is rigid yet light enough to make the weight (over 250 kg) feel manageable. The ergonomics are well thought out – the adjustable windshield, comfortable seat, and raised handlebars make for a relaxed riding posture that’s ideal for long touring. Fuel capacity is another strong point. With its 23-litre tank, the Super Adventure S offers excellent range, making it ideal for epic road trips. For riders planning multi-day journeys or even cross-country routes, fuel stops are less of a chore, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensures manageable fuel consumption even under load. However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The Super Adventure S’s powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, especially in heavy traffic or warm climates. The price tag is also quite premium, reflecting its status as a high-spec adventure bike with semi-active suspension and advanced electronics. As with any complex, electronics-loaded machine, maintenance and service costs are higher than simpler bikes. Despite these trade-offs, the 1290 Super Adventure S excels at its intended purpose: it’s a performance-focused travel machine that doesn’t compromise on comfort or high-speed capability. For riders who crave an adventure bike that feels equally at home on high-speed highways, winding backroads, or loose terrain, the 1290 SAS is one of the most compelling choices. It combines KTM’s racing pedigree with real-world usability, making long-distance touring not just practical but exhilarating. In summary, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-performance, high-comfort adventure bike that brings together advanced technology, raw power, and touring durability. If you’re looking for an adventure motorcycle that doesn’t feel like you’re making too many compromises power-wise or comfort-wise, the 1290 SAS delivers a premium, capable, and thrilling ride. |
| Expert Review | The BMW S 1000 R stands out in the Indian market as a highly accessible "super-naked" that balances raw performance with genuine everyday usability. Its revised 170 hp inline-four engine delivers a linear power spread that feels more manageable on our varied road surfaces compared to more aggressive V4 rivals. The bike’s relatively low kerb weight and compact chassis make it surprisingly agile for filtering through city traffic, while the inclusion of features like cruise control and heated grips adds a level of touring comfort rarely seen in this segment. However, the 140 mm ground clearance remains a point of caution for taller speed breakers, and the premium pricing for optional packages can quickly push it into a much higher bracket. Service accessibility is also restricted to major metropolitan hubs, which is a significant consideration for those planning long-distance rides across the country. Ultimately, it offers a refined and tech-heavy experience that bridges the gap between a focused track machine and a practical street fighter., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a large touring-focused bike built around a 1301cc V-twin engine that produces strong power and feels smooth even at highway speeds. Despite its size, the bike feels quite balanced once it is moving, and the riding position is upright, which helps on long rides. It comes with electronic suspension, ride modes, traction control, and cruise control, which allow the rider to adjust the bike based on road and riding conditions. The suspension handles most road surfaces well, though its size can feel noticeable in tight city spaces. The windscreen and overall design offer good protection from wind, making long-distance riding easier. The TFT display is clear and shows a lot of information, but it may take some time to get used to all the settings and controls., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage of the BMW S1000R? A: The mileage is around 15–17 kmpl in real-world Indian riding conditions. Q: Can a shorter rider comfortably handle the BMW S 1000 R? A: Yes, the BMW S 1000 R seat height is a relatively accessible 830 mm. Because the bike is very slim where the tank meets the seat, it feels narrower than it looks, allowing riders around 5'6" or 5'7" to get their feet down comfortably. Q: How expensive is the periodic maintenance for a BMW S 1000 R in India? A: Being a premium CBU (Completely Built Unit) import, the BMW S 1000 R service cost is on the higher side. A standard annual service typically costs between ₹15,000 and ₹22,000 at an authorized BMW Motorrad workshop. Q: What is the main difference between the BMW S 1000 R and the S 1000 RR? A: While both share the same 999cc heart, the BMW S 1000 R is tuned for "street torque" rather than "track screaming." The S 1000 R produces 170 hp with a focus on mid-range pull, making it easier to overtakes in traffic without constantly downshifting. The S 1000 RR (the superbike) produces over 210 hp but requires high revs to really move. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It uses a 1,301 cc V-twin (LC8) engine with 75° configuration. Q: How much power and torque does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S deliver? A: The motor produces 160 PS (118 kW) and 140 Nm of torque. Q: What is the fuel capacity and mileage of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It has a 23-litre fuel tank. According to Autocar India, the claimed fuel efficiency is 17.5 km/l. Q: What type of brakes and ABS does this bike use? A: The 1290 Super Adventure S features 320 mm front discs and 267 mm rear discs, backed by Bosch combined ABS with cornering ABS and an off-road ABS mode. Q: What suspension setup is on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It comes with WP semi-active suspension (SAT), a 48 mm upside-down fork in the front and a semi-active rear shock absorber. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The seat height is 849 mm, adjustable up to 869 mm, and ground clearance is 223 mm. Q: What instrument cluster does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S come with? A: It features a 7-inch TFT display, which supports angle adjustment, navigation via KTM Connect, and can show ride data. Q: Is the 1290 Super Adventure S good for touring? A: Yes, with its large fuel tank, long travel suspension, and comfort-oriented electronics (like ACC and adjustable windscreen), it's well-suited for long-distance touring. Q: What is the kerb / dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The kerb weight is approximately 220 kg (per 91Wheels). |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Standard | 2127000 | Disc Brakes, Alloy Wheels | STD | 2273900 |
| Pros | Explosive performance with strong mid-range and high-end power Lightweight and agile for a litre-class naked bike Excellent electronics package with multiple ride modes and advanced safety systems Sharp handling supported by fully adjustable suspension Powerful braking setup with cornering ABS Comfortable ergonomics for both city riding and spirited highway use Premium build quality and attention to detail | Massive Power & Torque: Powered by a 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine, the 1290 SAS delivers 160 PS and 140 Nm of torque, great for both highway cruising and spirited rides. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Comes with radar-based ACC, which allows you to lock on to a vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance automatically, a big plus for long touring. Advanced Rider Electronics: Features such as Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes add a high level of safety and versatility. Semi-Active WP Suspension: The WP semi-active suspension adjusts damping dynamically, offering comfort, sporty control, or off-road capability depending on the mode. Long Range Fuel Tank: With a 23-liter fuel tank, it gives a very decent range for touring or long rides. Premium Build & Components: The build quality is high, with a strong trellis frame, durable engine internals (like DLC coatings), and overall excellent material quality. Comfort & Ergonomics: Adjustable windshield, adjustable seat height, and rider-focused ergonomics make it comfortable for long-distance journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
