Choosing the Best Big Adventure Motorcycle
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Which out of these 11 big adventure bikes to choose for in 2023/2024? In this video I dig deep into the topic after analysing and scoring them in separate categories. In the end, I'm presenting you a rank of the best motorcycles for city-oriented riding and touring along with my final rank of all these adventure bike.
The comparison includes:
Honda Africa Twin 1100 Adventure Sports DCT ES - full review: • Honda Africa Twin 1100...
BMW R 1250 GS - full review: • Testing BMW R 1250 GS ...
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R - full review: • KTM 1290 Super Adventu...
KTM 1290 Super Adventure S - full review: • KTM 1290 Super Adventu...
Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro - full review: • Triumph Tiger 1200 GT ...
Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer - full review: • Triumph Tiger 1200 RAL...
Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT - full review: • Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT ...
Ducati Multistrada V4 S - full review: • Ducati Multistrada V4 ...
Harley-Davidson Pan America Special - full review: • Harley-Davidson Pan Am...
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE - full review: • Kawasaki Versys 1000 S...
BMW S 1000 XR - full review: • BMW S1000XR 2 gen. HON...
00:00 - Intro and presentation of bikes and categories
05:16 - Suspension comfort
09:20 - Engine & performance
14:32 - Low speed handling
18:19 - High speed handling
22:17 - Seat & position comfort
26:35 - Wind protection
30:17 - Brakes
34:17 - Tech
38:25 - Feeling of weight
40:41 - Sound
42:39 - Design
43:39 - Ground clearance as an off-road capabilities indicator
44:49 - Fuel tank capacity
45:17 - Drivetrain
45:45 - Price & value for money
47:07 - X Factor
Reliability must be a factor when considering a bike used for touring . When doing hundreds if not thousands of miles at a time you don't want to spend most of your time repairing something on your bike, and strange enough, these reviewers all have the same thing in common besides promoting the European bikes, which is they hardly if ever at all put Reliability and value for money as a category in these comparison videos. If they did, you'll see the Japanese bikes destroy the European bikes.
Great comment!!!
I feel that if a get a new ktm, I will get a ton of questions about reliability from other riders every chance possible.
You might've missed it but there's a value for money category reviewed here. The thing is that the results depend on how much money one has got. As for reliability, I skip it as I've got no reliable data on it and it's not available anywhere where I could find it. It requires a deep research into motorcycles serviced by the dealers with all the data collected. Even so, we still miss the part of how, where and how often they are ridden and taken care of daily. I don't believe that there's a way to assess that properly right now. It's still challenging even in the car industry where there are so many more cars and so much more focus. In the end of the day, one unit may break all the time while another be perfectly fine, but riding experiences should always be the same hence we can talk about them with more confidence. I hope this explains the reasons well.
True. Two words (and I have triple authority to talk about it): SuperTenere. It’s the true tank of the adventure bike world. Never has an issue with them. I trust the most that any other bike out there. If you’re a long way from home in Africa trust me when I say reliability is the number 1 factor. Handling is amazing etc but not to break is much, much more important. From all of those I would choose two: the Africa Twin or the VStrom (only missing the shaft drive which is a blessing when you travel very long distances).
@@VPB1970 Yes super tenere is reliable horse but if smaller bikes gives nearly same hp then why use heavy ST? most 800-900cc bikes are 90-100hp now.
My takeaway from watching my beloved Africa Twin do so poorly, is that we are in an adventure bike golden age. If I am happy on the 2nd worst bike, then it must be pretty hard to go wrong right now.
Don't forget this is one persons preferences. The best bike is the one we are on today. The decision to get there was not just to go in and buy it, but to look at what was on the market, maybe test ride a few and chose the one that met what you would like and that would do what your required of it. The Africa Twin esp. DCT ES is awesome, without doubt.
Also depends on how much you value certain attributes. For me, the look of the bike ie WAY more important than it's ground clearance for example, so to me the Africa Twin and Multistrada win hands down, same with the X-Factor, the Africa Twin has incredible road presence. AT is near the top of by next bike wish list.
I just think he's had a very bad day when testing the AT. Funny...apparently worst comfort on the bike with not just (likely) the most suspension travel, but the most sophisticated electronic suspension adjustment system. Doesn't make sense. I've watched many reviews on it. This one is special.
Some of these are very advanced but the differences between them are also huge. In terms of systems, we are very far indeed yet when it comes to riding dynamics, it can go from huge excitement to the lack of will to ride in certain conditions.
The Afrika Twin has better suspension than any of these bikes. Even better than the New GS 1300. Check out 1000PS review.
As far as the KTM twins fuel tanks, this is only half the story. I've seen several other comp vids against the BMW and the Ducati where the KTMs MPGs were waaayyy better than the other 2. The Ducati was horrific, needing refueling after not much more 115 miles, whereas the BMW usually got nearly 200 miles of range (which is obviously much better), and the KTMs walked away from them both, easily getting between 220 and 250. That is VERY significant. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. We know a LOT goes into them. Thanks also for spotlighting some love for the Triumphs. It always seems like they dont get the live they deserve.
I bought a 2023 KTM 1290 SAS and I love it. I moved from a 2019 1260 Ducati MS Enduro that I dearly loved.
Interesting path and it's great if you enjoy the KTM now. All the best with it!
THANK YOU! I found this video quite comprehensive and love how you broke down the analysis. This was very helpful.
My pick is the Africa twin. Reliability is more important than anything else
And yet on Honda forums. many people have had issues with their Honda Africa Twins. Statistically, Yamaha, beats out Honda every time.
I had several bikes, the current is an KTM SAS ‘22. Excellent in every field - there is no perfect bikes, maintanence and good driving (and luck sometimes), now with 37600 km and 0 issues. Cheers fella
Happy stories about KTMs reliability is what we need! Thanks for sharing!
I thoroughly enjoyed this, obviously you put a lot of work into this. Thanks V-Told
I'm very glad that you like it. Thanks a lot for mentioning that!
In conclusion, the answer to, what’s the perfect bike? One of each! Motorcycles are so subjective, especially when it comes to comfort. I’m sure there are more then a few owners crying in the corner instead of understanding it’s your personal conclusions. Plus, a budget rider can’t compete with someone with an unlimited budget. Thanks for your assessment.
Very good point and I also agree with all of that. It's super emotional and personal here. Cheers!
Hey V, that was a fantastic review. Thanks for your huge effort on this. So many great bikes and breaking it down to how u r going to ride and what you'll do with it 99% of the time, this comparison makes it just that much easier to make ur own short list. So, thanks again. Kind Regards.
Interesting but would have been worth to add a score on reliability what is important and what pushed me to leave KTM (still love the engine) toward my beloved AF honda standard. :,)
I'm afraid no one can score that and we'd have to conduct a long-term research including hundreds or thousands of units of all these models and monitor how they're being services, how they're being ridden, where and how the owners store them (garage/outdoors) and record all the malfunctions, their costs and frequency to come up with any conclusions. I've only had a V-Strom 1000 that's similar to V-Strom 1050 long-term and it broke down a few times. Is it reliable or not? I don't know as I only had this one.
Thank you, it was an awesome comparison! Please do this for the mid-sized bikes as well. Thank you!
I definitely will do it as I feel it's also needed. Cheers!
@@VToldsMotoShow Yes the mid size would be appreciated. To inlcude the Honda Transalp 750, KTM,890, Suzuki V-Strom 800 and Suzuki Vstrom 650
I got a 2023 v strom 1050 (non DE) for 14.5 K euros. Has an LCD now, quick shifter and cruise control from 2nd gear and about 25 kph upwards. After a battery swap for lithium and center stand removal I got it to 235 kilos, but then I put some stuff back on :) Should be about 238 now. Installed the low seat since I am a "shorty" at 1.76 and I really want 2 properly planted feet since it's still a heavy bike. And regarding the seat comfort, I installed a cheapo 3D mesh thingy for 50 euros, cut to match the v strom seat and it works amazingly. Can do over 100 kms of sporty, aggressive twisties before I feel even the slightest tingle on my but cheeks. I put an MRA wind spoiler and the OEM heated grips and bob's my uncle as it were. As a side note, I can definitely recommend the Keis heated jacket. Just came back from a ride of about 160 kms were I had even 3 degrees C and no issues, even with the jacket on the lowest level. As for the other bikes scoring higher, are they better ? sure but for how much more money... Incidentally I am really curios for you to review the newly announced gsx s1000gx and see where it stands in your list
Now you can get 1250 GS for very atractive price
@@aldra744 new is still arround 20 k euros so ... nope :)
Nice points including the jacket! The mentioned GSX is actually on my list as a potential bike to try in 2024.
I have a 2023 Vstrom 1050 with 25,000 miles on it already. Not one single thing has gone wrong on it. The engine is incredibly smooth, it feels light and nimble for a bike of it’s size. The suspension is very adjustable, and works great once dialed in. Yeah, it could use a bit more power, but it ISN’T slow. I use it for very long rides, as you can imagine having 25,000 miles on it in 13 months. Often clocking 500 miles or more in a day. The only things I really wish for is a bigger gas tank. And a more comfortable seat!
@@craigg4246 I replaced my seat with the low version for better footing so in theory, my seat is even more uncomfortable. What fixed it for me was a cheap 3D mesh cover. I guess it works by making the surface uneven and reducing pressure points.
Thanks for this excellent and comprehensive comparison. It's obvious how much thought and effort went in to this video. Much appreciated!
I'm glad you like the comparison and indeed, this is an exciting one to me too. All the best!
Thank you for putting in the time, care and effort for this review. This was easily the most unbiased, comprehensive and easiest to follow review and grading system I had ever seen for bikes or cars. I wish more people did it your way. I encourage you to do this for all bike styles/classes. Would love to see this for Cruisers. Great work again.
Fantastic reviews. Thank you. Your reviews are the best
Thank you for putting in the time and great quality making this video. It is a wonderful guide and will help many people
I'm glad that you see it this way and thanks a lot for mentioning it. All the best!
It is interesting that there is often comment about the KTM reliability. Having road thousands of miles touring around Europe (always in groups) I found that the bike that broke down most with electrical problems was the BMW. Perhaps I just happened to be with a number of the unlucky ones! Who knows.....
Great review a lot of work to produce thanks
Yup, thanks for noticing. All the best!
Superb video, thank for sharing. Salute to your efforts.
Great work! Would be nice if you could at some point integrate this video with another one on the new R 1300 GS showsing us where it would pleace in each cathegory and final chart :) Thanks
Thanks and what you asked for has just been done: kzhead.info/sun/mrdwacqqgoqLd40/bejne.html
Thanks for the content. Very entertaining and educational. I just love adventure riding.
Wauu impresive review a lot of work 👏🏼👍🏼
Right, thanks for noticing. I hope it's as useful as possible.
Informative analysis without being drawn out and boring... with good visuals and visual humor. Fantastic. You over-performed 68.9% of the time!🎉
Awesome review and supremely comprehensive 👏🏻🍻
Thank you!
Rewelacyjne porównanie!!! Dobra robota!!!
Dzięki! Cieszę się, że Ci się podoba!
About the brakes in this sharp and clear comparison:- “ like an empty tooth paste”! Ho man, that was a spirited analogy 😂 Well done! 👌🏻
Oh yes, took me a while to come up with that! Thanks :D
Thank you for your effort in this.
It's my pleasure and I hope that it will be helpful to many who are looking for such a comparison.
I ride from 1980 and I am still alive 😁 V-Told's are best motorcycle channel on You Tube. Rock on in 2024!
Let’s all keep it that way :). I’m glad you’re enjoying the content, thanks and indeed we’re going to rock!
good work my friend, love your videos
Thanks, I'm glad you enjoy!
Great job. Thank you!
Thanks - at your service!
I appreciate all the time and effort you’ve put into this comparison, very insightful. I live on an island that doesn’t have a Ducati or Triumph dealer, so these bikes are out for me. I’ve been undecided now for awhile whether to get the 1250 GS BMW, wait for the new 1300, or the KTM super adventure s. The V Strom and the Versys is more expensive here than the KTM right now due to the current KTM promotion. BMW is significantly more expensive than KTM here.
Wow lots of useful information there thanks for the time and effort in putting all that together. Looks like the V-Strom looks the great all rounder. Easy to maintain, low cost ,super reliable and parts anywhere you stop ( well in Australia anyway )
I'm glad you found the video useful. Cheers!
Best motorcycle comparison vid I’ve ever watched!
I'm glad that you like it. Cheers!
awesome video very informative and really good format. one small note, i feel it would have been better to include that it was the triumph rally explorer that has a larger tank which will most likely affect the handling and suspension geometry and you can get the explorer tank on the GT model also. otherwise really good video ill keep an eye out for you stuff in the future :)
Thanks for the review. I will continue to absolutely love my Africa Twin
Thank you mate! I appreciate your work and being so open about everything! I know it's not your cookie but maybe a review of the Triumph Scrambler lineup :)? Regards from Romania!
Thanks! I'm glad you appreciate the style. Actually, Scrambler 1200 may happen in 2024 as I've heard a few quite interesting mentions about it that made me curious. I feel it can be an alternative to some of the presented adventure motorcycles to some riders. We will see! All the best :)
I bought a MS V4 Rally a fe months ago after riding a 1200/1250 GSA over the last 7 years. 2 days of testriding on the MS and I was convinced and never looked back. I put on the Akro full line ... my god that power and sound is addictive!
If you prefer what it provides over the idea that GS presents, then it clearly is a better choice and that's how it should be. All the best with your V4 Rally - it's a pretty rare motorcycle, so even better. I like that direction myself.
Excellent review
Great overview. I rode both GS1250 and Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro - bought Triumph.
Thank you. These particular ones are quite similar to me. Both very competent in most fields in my opinion.
I own a Triumph GT and prior to this bike a V Strom, I’d agree with many of your findings on those bikes. As for the others I have no idea, plenty of work and preparation has clearly gone into your presentation good job👍
I'm glad you liked this comparison video and right, there's been a lot of work put into producing it. Thanks for mentioning it!
Good job, thanks for posting. It would be interesting to see the score of the new Africa twin with the 19 inch wheel. Will have to wait until next year though.
Thank you, my pleasure!
This is the best comparison, great work mate. I am also happy to see my BMW R1250 GS commanding the field. You can never go wrong with BMWs.
Yeah, this was as much of a scientific attempt to dig into the topic as possible.
VTold, what is the plastic piece that's attached to the rear hub and covers a small section of the rear tire. I was told that it has something to do with the rear tire sticking out past the bike
It's an additional fender on an R 1250 GS and Triumph Tiger 1200 at least. Just to have better protection from the debris flying from under the rear wheel. It's standard equipment on those motorcycles.
Extraordinario trabajo. Mil gracias
My pleasure. Cheers!
V-TOLD; fantastic work and your enthusiasm come through in the video!!! Well, I ride a R 1250 GS and it's absolutely AMAZING!!!!! I was out ridding today, and it was 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Had my heated gear on and heated seat and heated grips. My comfort level was a 9 out of 10. ZERO interest in any other adventure bike unless a test ride of the R 1300 GS makes me change my mind. Right now my 40th Anniversary is phenomenal!!!!!
Thanks! It's cool to see that you're happy with the current 1250 and enjoy it. There are certainly reasons for it. Let's then see how the test ride of the 1300 turns out. Cheers!
The low speed handling / city riding was a major factor in my decision to go with the BMW R1250GS. For X factor, I got the Triple Black variant with the Akrapović pipe. Sounds great. I suppose it would be something that I would get used to eventually but the Tiger was particularly uncontrollable to me at low speeds mostly due to throttle response. Also, the braking - much too harsh on the Tiger, and very much in control on the BMW. Thanks for the detailed review. Obviously a lot of work went into this video.
I'm glad you enjoyed and all the best with the GS! Triumph is a solid contender with this current Tiger 1200 but still, in some areas there are clear downsides.
@@VToldsMotoShow The Tiger has poor wind protection, the grips vibrate above 5000 RPM and will make your hands numb and the fueling and clutch require perfect modulation at low speed, or you will stall. I've been in bumper-to-bumper traffic all 3 cases and my wife with me on my 1250 GS and I'm comfortable in traffic. HWY open up and we can float down the freeway at 90 MPH like nothing. We've been caught in rain; again NO PROBLEM on the GS!
My KTM is really fun to ride, but has footpeg vibration that makes my toes burn.
Thank you for your insightful comparisons. I've owned the GS, Ducati, KTM and Harley over the past 6 years. I'm in the market again, so you've reminded me of things I liked and didn't like about each of the brands. Triumph for whatever reason has never excited me. I too would want the GS handling with a KTM engine. Thought having a chain was no big deal until I bought the Harley. It's a pain to clean, oil and keep everything else clean. Have a deposit down on a BMW R1300GS. Looking forward to your comparison of it to the other bikes on this list.
Thanks for sharing and I'm glad that this video was useful to you. Cleaning the chain cannot be avoided unfortunately and I also could never get it out of my head. I hope you'll enjoy the new R 1300 GS. All the best!
Great comparison! 🤓
Thanks!
Great video! Doing my research and the BMW 1250 is still in the lead for me. But still looking into more details of the BMW1300
Thanks, I'm glad that you like the video. I've published an updated comparison of the R 1300 GS versus the top motorcycles from this video here kzhead.info/sun/mrdwacqqgoqLd40/bejne.html
Hey Vytold. Good video. Could you do similar with middle weight adv?
Hi, thanks and I will make one for all midsize adventure motorcycles too in some time.
In Australia 1250GS ended up being $10k more than 1290R with all touring fittings... Also if you are climbing very steep shale roads and fire trails, I find shaft drives just do not lock in and tend to bounce the rear end around.... owned 93 bikes so far. Killed several shaft drives... chain drive is so simple and easy maintenance... takes me 30 mins to change it all. When the shaft drives went, the bike was of the road for weeks... Also I managed to crack 1 shaft drive housing... very expensive.
How did that Yamaha Super Tenere work out?
Wait, was that 93? Ninety-three?
@@VToldsMotoShowmust be a motorcycle dealer 😂
Yep Ninety three... just a bike slut I suppose... I tend to do high kms too... Had a Multistrada for 3 months and covered over 35,000kms. I have 11 bikes in the fleet now but 3 are undergoing restoration.@@VToldsMotoShow
I only every rode a friends about 1500kms so only a general feel for them. Very good long distance bike. Personally found it a bit top heavy compared to big KTM's and Africa Twins. Never heard of any shaft issues. Definitely comes across as an excellent buy for a heavy adventure bike, especially for reliability and cheap maintenance.@@bseidem5112
Very extensive comparaison, well done! 👍 Coming to a choice, it all depends what you do with it. Personally, I went for the KTM SAR... what a beast! Way too much power, but this is addictive 😀😀😀 Despite this, it is amazing how well it goes slow as well, KTM really nailed it !
I'm glad you enjoyed and that's right as we make extremely emotional choices here and simply like different things. But yeah, it would right now be my choice too ;)
Thanks for all the work you did for the review, i enjoy your work! After testing most of those bikes a few years ago, i went for the R1250GS and have really enjoyed it. A fabulous bike. Im thinking of trading for the R1300GS, i also bought the Ducati Desert X for a lighter and better off road bike, but its a super hot bike for Thailand 😢
That's a nice motorcycle garage out there! Good for you and enjoy 100% of these two! Test ride R 1300 GS before getting it as it may not be a perfectly smooth transition from an R 1250 GS. All the best!
One of your best mc comparison. God work!
Thanks!
Great Video
Thanks!
Freaking awesome video.
Thanks, I appreciate it!
I really enjoyed this episode and I think you have put a lot of work and time into doing this. What I think is maybe, instead of having the S1000XR in the comparison the Super Tenere would have been a better choice to compare. My personal opinion dont really land the 1000XR as an adventure bike. Not the Versus either. The Tiger GT, Vstrom are borderline. Good job, keep it up. Liked, watched ads and comment.
Thanks and I appreciate the input. S1000XR isn't as capable on loose tracks but for 95% of riders I believe that it can serve the same purpose as the rest. But surely, it's sort of outside, sort of inside this segment. BMW recently moved it out and to "Sport". Super Tenere has been discontinued years ago here. I rode it nearly 10 years ago I believe but cannot recall much and have no notes from that time. Let's hope Yamaha jumps back into the game soon! Cheers!
After watching this I feel like taking a sledgehammer to my kawasaki versys one thousand. I mean I loved that bike until I watched this... I'm Primarily a pavement rider and I prefer it to the africa twin Adventure sports That I had as well as the bmw r twelve hundred gs. Well obviously there's something wrong with my head so I think I'll light my Versys on fire. I mean how could I like this thing? I must be insane. Thanks for the crisis of confidence l o l. 😂😂😂😂😂
Don’t be taken in by these reviews. Like you I have a Versys 1000 (SE GT), and I’ve done 14,000 very happy and totally reliable miles on it. It’s all opinion and a bit of bias towards the exotic names like BMW and Ducati, who have successfully marketed themselves into a niche beloved by journalists and KZheadrs. I have no desire to own a flat twin engine from before WW2, or an unreliable overpriced Italian racehorse. It’s a big Jap four for me!
Hi, good job and one of the best comparisons video, but why did Yamaha Super Tenere 1200 not included. Best Regards
Hi, thanks, it's nice to hear and I'm glad you enjoyed. Yamaha Super Tenere is not being sold around for years. I've ridden it but it was discontinued in the meantime and is not possible to buy. Maybe even in the whole Europe.
I’d like to know how the BMW R 1250 GS would be for two people riding plus panniers/luggage, backwoods, crossing shallow creeks, etc, for tent camping. But would need to be comfortable for long road rides as well.
Awesome! Now I need 6 of them 😊
Oh dear, this wasn't exactly the point :)
Thank you for the comprehensive reviews, V-Told! I would be interested in Multi V2 too, after all it does fit with V-Strom, Africa Twin or Versys both price and performance-wise but I understand you didn't want to put more bikes of the same brand. After all, both Multistradas target the same customer - mostly, because my short ride on V4 and a weekend on 950 S made me think the latter wants an enthusiastic ride on tarmac while the former is simply more universal, trying to do it all. And these were the bikes I considered the last time I was buying a new one - along with "small" GS, AdvR and Tiger. However, while your videos are really informative, I would also recommend everybody to rent the bikes and do their own testing too! I did so last time and am doing so now, as I am hoping to buy a new bike, although I decided to only consider the big ones. Not because of their power, because of their physical size, as I am 195 cm tall with 95 cm (that is not a typo) inseam. That means many bikes are somewhat unpleasant and some are downright impossible, such as V-Strom thanks to horrible turbulences or Tigers (both 900 and 1200) which simply lack leg space. And I don't mean I'm crouching too much, there is literally a sharp piece of plastic designed to stab me in the knees when I try to hold the bike with my legs. Oh, and due to the fact barely anyone's as tall as me, I only saw this mentioned in a single review and sometimes Internet people do not believe me. (They're always a funny bunch, the Internet people, but I digress.) But frankly, Tiger is not that good (unless compared to HD), I was quite surprised with the suspension too - my testing track includes a "bad road", one that has been patched so much there are few bumps or holes on every meter, but still there's no gravel or anything so one can ride swiftly and test the suspension's limits without risking a crash. Most bikes handle these roads with more or less comfort to the rider, Tiger (1200 Rally Pro), however, reacted with copious amount of TC engagement. Unlike other bikes and unlike Tiger on smooth surface, so it was probably unable to keep the rear wheel engaged with the road. Sad. Tech, too, can annoy. On most bikes, changing riding modes or engine settings (on bikes like KTM that do not have modes) means easy selection and maybe closing the throttle afterwards. V-Strom doesn't allow you to - either keep the clutch pulled all the time or put it in neutral. Hard to do while riding. HD, on the other hand, turns menu off when it's in gear - which has its logic, you don't want to play with menu while riding but what if you're in gear and the engine is off? Learn to put it in neutral, says HD. Why, nobody knows. Maybe they have competition with Suzuki who can put bigger amount of annoying features on their bike. Anyway, even though I have tested (the mentioned Pan America and Tiger, as well as SAS) and am planning to test (the new GS and Multi V4) the bikes I am choosing from, I am really thankful for your video, it's really professional and you have a systematic approach to reviewing the bikes which I like. If you decide to add R 1300 GS to the scores, I will be looking forward to it too!
I'm 195cm with 102cm inseam. Yours was the most valuable comment here, no doubt.
It was an interesting read and thanks for mentioning all that. The most annoying features competition is a good one. You've got to look for a bike with specific capabilities in the area of space and this segment should be the best place to look for that. I remember Yamaha Super Tenere 1200 that ws already too small to let me fit my knees without coming in contact with a flat piece of its fairing so I understand this point very well. Hopefully one of the tested ones will match all of the criteria for you. It would be helpful to share which one you eventually chose as a tall guy.
@@VToldsMotoShow thank you for your reply! Seems you understand too, Super Tenere is indeed a good example of what not to do, although Tiger 1200 improved on the idea by making the bits the knee touches sharp and stabby. I haven't tested the Multi (dealer didn't have one yet) and GS (as a new bike they didn't rent it for more than an hour which is too little IMO), I'll try to remember your question/offer for me to share it and do so after I test them all.
Nice comparison! Thanks for the video! Living in the Dolomites, having had many bikes, I'm a KTM addict... Absolutely on these roads the best bikes to ride so far. We also have very good assistance and dealerships in northern Italy. KTM is born in this mountains and when you meet one here, well driven, you can understand that. By the way, all those bikes are awesome! About the reliability, the only bike that abandoned me on the road, was a BMW... I don't understand the difference between the 1290SAS (my bike) and the 1290SAR in the low speed handling... About the KTM comfort, a slightly bigger windscreen and the Power Parts comfort seats can do the job. I don't need the comfort seats because I move a lot on the seat during the driving on the mountains and this help... The most popular bikes that you can meet on the Alps are BMW GS, Ducati Multistrada and KTM ADV. There are also many Honda AT, but the crazy Honda management let the Honda bikers without it for too many years...
This video was very well done. You put in a lot of effort and it's not easy to give scores like these on such subjective points. For example, I found the Africa Twin to be the easiest to manage in the city (only rode the BMW, Triumphs and Ducati).
Excelent Vídeo !!
I live on about 100kms of really rough dirt roads in Australia, including shale, mud, creeks and bulldust. I would say my suspension ratings would be opposite yours having ridden all those bikes with the exception of the Triumph GT. I ended up with KTM 1290R, KTM 1290S and an Africa Twin DCT to cope with the really rough stuff... also they are just so competant all round... I found the BMW and the big triumph just too top heavy in the mud and bulldust.
very extensive rating - love it!
I'm glad - thanks for mentioning it.
It is a very good review. Very objektiv.
Muy buen trabajo, ando indesiso entre tres de estas motocicletas, la KTM1290R, la 1290S y la ATS por su fiabilidad y desing . A ver si en 2024 puedo estrenar alguna de ellas. Saludos!!
Hi, don't forget that the Africa Twin on your review is the 23 model. You must update the review with 24 model. Change a lot. I like a lot your review. You do a good work.
Witek, świetna robota 👍 W ostatnich tygodniach stałem przed wyborem dużego Adventure po sprzedaniu Afryki 1000 i wybór padł na Tiger 1200 Rally Pro. Obejrzałem większość Twoich filmów również w poszukiwaniu inspiracji na kolejne moto 😀 Jeździłem testowymi V4S, 1290S, R1250GS no i wybór padł na Tiger. Co jest piękne to że obecnie mamy taki wybór motocykli Adventure jakiego jeszcze nigdy nie było. Każdy może sobie wybrać to co chce. Przed zakupem warto testować a nawet trzeba.
hej, nie rozważałeś Afryki 1100 ?? Wybór jest trudny, faktycznie jest w czym wybierać
@@redhot76xx nie rozważałem. Już mi wystarczy 4 lata jeżdżenia 1000. Nie byłem jakoś super zachwycony, awaryjność też była większa niż się spodziewałem. Jedyne motocykle które sobie zostawiłem to był R1250GS i Tiger1200. Po testach wybór bez cienia wątpliwości padł na Tiger 1200 Rally Pro.
Dzięki i cieszę się, że masz wybór już za sobą, bo teraz nadchodzi dzięki temu czas na korzystanie z maszyny. Zgadzam się, że jednak wszystko na koniec dnia trzeba samemu dotknąć i sprawdzić, bo wyniki mogą okazać się odmienne z różnych powodów. Powodzenia z nowym Tygrysem!
@@VToldsMotoShow dzięki Witek. Tak to prawda, najlepiej potestować i wybrać co się podoba. Tiger zaskoczył od razu 😀
First time on your channel, sir, and this comparison was very comprehensive and well done. Truly appreciate it. Your findings were in step with what I thought if you disregard some of the more subjective categories. I think the 2024GS is a much much better GT pro and Multistrada. A lot of riders are aging out and the weight and weight feel is important without giving up the performance. A friend of mine purchased a used SAR and replaced it with smaller wheels, grippier tires and Rottweiler goodies and it is a savage bike in the midrange and a back road terror. Reliability and resale value are minefields and we all should do our own due diligence. I have had many BMWs, KTMs and Triumphs (aall of those brands are in my current stable as well. The Triumph by far has provided the least amount of headache snd their parts are most easily avail w and at a reasonable cost. KTM has been the worse and BMW in the middle although their parts pricing is the worst by far. For me a used Gt Pro or new Bmw Gs are a good fit, with slip ons of course. Thank you for the review and I am a new subscriber! Cheers
I'm glad that you enjoyed the video and thanks for the input based on riding your bikes from the mentioned manufacturers. It's also interesting to learn the experiences regarding everyday life and long-term ownership of these brands. All the best!
Thanks WOW THAT'S AWESOME 😎 KEEP IT UP 👍✌️👌🎯👽🧬♾️🙃😎
I'm glad you like it. Cheers!
thanks for this great video, Im still thinking about the ktm 1290 sas and bmw r1250 gs. I have atm a 890 duke R 2023. Before this I had Kawasaki z300, ER6N, Versys 650, Yamaha mt09, BMW r1200gsa, Ktm 1290 Superduke R, BMW r1200gsa and now the 890 duke R. So I had plenty of motorcycles in 9 years from now and I still dont know what I want to have. So I guess I have to try out the new BMW and KTM SAS.
Panie Witoldzie, rewelacyjne porównanie. Jednakże na końcu zabrakło jak dla mnie (ponieważ rozważam zakup właśnie motocykla z tego porównania: BMW R1250 GS lub KTM 1290 SAS) zestawienia liczbowego. Dodanie siedziska komfortowego np w KTM-e zmienia dużo w punktacji. Bardzo cenię sobie Pana testy, opinie i życzę dalszych równie owocnych, ciekawych filmów. Mr. Witold, a fantastic comparison. However, at the end, for me (because I am considering buying the motorcycle from this comparison: BMW R1250 GS or KTM 1290 SAS), there was no numerical summary. Adding a comfort seat, e.g. in a KTM, changes a lot in the scoring. I really appreciate your tests and opinions and I wish you further equally fruitful and interesting films.
Dziękuję i to dobry pomysł - mógłbym gdzieś dodać np. PDF z finalnym zestawieniem. Pamiętam ten komentarz z wcześniej, a w międzyczasie robiąc nowe porównanie już uwzględniając nowe BMW R 1300 GS znów wypadło mi to z głowy w pośpiechu. Pozostaje teraz tylko opcja dodania linku w opisie z plikiem do pobrania. Zmiana siedzenia i też szyb to chyba zawsze dobry pomysł w tych motocyklach.
Agree that this was quite a comprehensive comparo, but it just goes to show that no matter how comprehensive, it will always be totally subjective. What you love may be exactly what someone else hates and vice versa. Fun to go along with you on this video ride, but in the end everyone has to do their own subjective comparo ;)
Yes, definitely that's right! Always there can be some useful indication here and there. There are universal aspects like heat management and a few others but it's a very, very emotional choice here :). Cheers!
I hope you can do a review of the top bikes under 1000cc. Like the new vfr, v100, Suzuki 8, triumph 9 or 890. Etc.
An important category is popularity in sale #s. This takes into consideration generally what the market thinks if each model.
I'd be extremely curious to learn those numbers.
When buying advanture motorcycle, reliability must be on first place
Clearly to me it's on the last. It's trouble in case the bike never breaks - then 100% of your time on it is wasted as you could've been riding a nicer bike all that time. But then there's peace of mind so a psychological aspect that I can understand that may really be important.
@@VToldsMotoShowYes and no. If I ride on track or my town only, it's not big problem. But if I go to North cape 7000 km in one way and going back with bus, than my time is wasted on that bike more than driving less nicer bike .if reliability is on last yo should check CF moto 800 mt :)
@@VToldsMotoShowinteresting…reliability to me is very important. Any bike, not necessarily adventure.
Your a brave man vtold doing this comparison , a bit like jumping into a hornets nest . It’s normal and lucky that people disagree otherwise we we would have a choice of 1 bike . Thanks for a thorough independent comparison .
Oh definitely but being on a mission forces me to such actions and if there's someone who is actually interested in choosing one of these, it seems like one of potentially very few sources now. Took me a while to get to this point but here we are. Thanks!
Tiger gt for me! Great video 👍👍
It's a very solid choice in my opinion!
Great review but I missed some important areas; traveling with passenger, loading capacity panning, bags and hard cases, crash protection and quality of headlights without need to add Denali’s for instance. Adding those subjects would probably change the outcome.
As for crash protection, we shall assume that there are accessories available for every single one of those. Riding with passenger is indeed a challenge to assess as I would have to be a passenger and that’s not gonna happen. The rest of the data could be included. However, it’s basically hard data so it’s easy to find for those that care about a particular thing. I am more about the experience of riding as this needs somebody to test first. And that’s why I’m doing it for you.
I have driven KTM 1290 SAS, BMW R 1250 GS, Ducati Multistrada V4S, Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and Honda Africa Twin 1100 AS (DCT). I agree with your opinions and order in almost every category (in my opinion Ducati is better than KTM in terms of engine and best in braking). For me best choice for money is R 1250 GS, best choice for me is Multistrada 1290S. I have to test Tiger 1200 GT since our perception of riding adv bike is very similar. Also I would love to have Suzuki V-Strom 1050 ten times better than Honda Africa Twin 1100 which was really disappointing for me. I don't even want to ride it anywhere in the future.
It's definitely worth to try all of these to understand what you like and what not - I totally agree!
All you have to do is look at the title , ADVENTURE BIKE !! you take the wrong Bike on a serious ADVENTURE and you may have trouble getting back with it !! It is not good advise to recommend a KTM 1290 s or R for a serious Adventure , it WILL BREAK DOWN , As will the Ducati , not to mention parts and fuel !! Some of the others are not capable off road for Adventure !! Everybody has tried these bikes but only some have OWNED them !!
@@gatti493 every rider has different definition of adventure. I don't believe you have to go offroad to find it. Im my opinion offroad is too demanding in terms of designing chasis and suspension to fit both road and offroad capabilities in a bike. I really don't understand manufacturers that prioritize offroad in heavy adv bike over its road capabilities. I believe that good adv bike takes more from sport touring than from offroad. And when it comes to fixing - believe me, every bike will eventually brake.
@@wtchr_ Eventually and imminently are poles apart , You simply can not deny Honda reliability especially when you take into account the amount of bikes they put out !! BMW are not as reliable as Honda but have proven themselves worthy of being called an adventure bike beyond doubt !! The Suzuki although is not really a capable off road bike it is capable enough and reliable enough for trust !! You say interpretation of ADVENTURE BIKE is personal ??? This is true but twisted as some of these bike are REAL ADVENTURE BIKES and some are not much more than distance bikes or touring bikes ! Once you are including REAL RELIABLE on and off road "ADVENTURE " bikes it is simply wrong ! Not to include reliability in the mix , as this is what makes professional Adventure bikes stand out ! Like the difference with a Black & Decker drill and a Milwalkee drill , both will drill a hole but only one will FINISH THE JOB ! KTM are track bikes , great for a while then problems!! And if your only thinking about roads then where are all the big reliable touring bikes that are built for long distance road ADVENTURE ?? AM I MISSING SOMETHING?? These are supposed on and off road bikes for serious adventure, or why are they here ?? What is the point to the review ??
@@gatti493 I agree - if you want reliability you go for japanese bikes, not gonna argue about that. But there is much more in riding than just reliability. This review is not about reliability of course because this is unmeasurable. You can't blame whole brand if one testing bike fails at something in tests. You are trying to defend Africa Twin but in my opinion it is just not the best bike and I would not buy it after I had it for a cople of days (twice). When I tried KTM and Ducati I didn't feel I have to "relearn" how to ride a bike. When I tried BMW I didn't feel I have to be cautious when it comes to low speed maneuvers. But when I rode AT I was always questioning myself and the bike. Its vibrations, windnoise, low power for 2-up riding with luggage, clunky DCT changing gears on wet roundabout, brakes and the worst in the group suspension (this is all subjective, please don't shout at me). It didn't even came to reliability because we ride the bikes for how good they are and not for their reliability. I don't want to hate the bike but then pat myself on the back that this bike is great cause it's cheap in service. According to the debate what adventure is and what not, again, it's all subjective. You can ride all day long with R1250GS without even touching unpaved roads and it will still be great bike that gives you best time of your life. And, surprise, most adventure riders never leave paved roads.
Would be interesting where you will put the Yamaha XT 1200 Super Tenere in tour list. Didn’t you forget that bike? In Europe it’s not new sinds a few years but in the USA the can buy it still as a new bike. 😊
that's true. still waiting here in Europe for Yam to fill the gap in the heavy adv bike class.
Nobody seems to care about that bike anymore, even here in North America. It's a very solid and underrated bike though. I've seen some dealerships still trying to get rid of '22 models.
I've ridden one years ago but it's no longer offered by Yamaha where I live. I think that it's discontinued by Yamaha in Europe for some reason, maybe emissions. Despite having ridden it, it was so many years ago that I don't remember much and there are no notes nor a review left. Let's wait for the new one :)
@@VToldsMotoShow not E5 compliant, is what I heard.
Excellent review except for one very important chapter you forgot to mention, dealing with Adv. bikes: the offroad capabilities..! It doesn’t have to be ranking the “motocross highest jump“, of course, but how good they could reach that isolated beach in those last 10kms offroad after a 200kms of road trip. That is why I did trade my beloved 1000XR second gen for a 1250GS... Now waiting for your GS 1300 scores..😎
I included that ground clearance category to touch upon that briefly. It doesn't represent any sort of real capabilities and for example low speed handling and feeling of weight would tell us more on that. Here's the 1300 included: kzhead.info/sun/mrdwacqqgoqLd40/bejne.html
@@VToldsMotoShow Ground clearance..? That’s it..? No joke…, that doesn’t say much without considering suspensions working off-road, and the low speed handling in the city, what I do think is quite interesting, has again very little to say about off-road possibilities. My humble chapters suggestion: 1- city, 2- touring, 3- sport, 4- off-road. You are welcome.. And please, be careful about “design”, it is way more than just subjective, it is, again in my very humble opinion, totally unnecessary… Anyway, thank you for answering..
Thanks for the research. I would pick the triumph.
But that adventure bikes. so which one better in off road? as I know for sure not BMW 1250 because of wight
Thanks for a intresting and amazing comparison.I just agree that the 1250 GS still is a winner.
I'm glad you like it and thanks for mentioning. Cheers!
Well, I'm jumping (?) from KTM SAS to Tiger GT Explorer mostly because issues and bad quality with the unit. So overall compensated experience between them. Let's find out if it's true!
My -20 KTM 1290s with a puig touing screen has the best wind protection of all the bikes i have owned the last 30 years. I am 188 tall.
Can you please share the model of the windscreen?
@@VToldsMotoShow The only touring screen puig makes, with the spoiler
high speed handling is a big plus for me, The BMW R1250GS was a surprise.
You should have tested the new BMW R1300GS and not the 1250GS - It's a major shift!
I have done that in the meantime and will soon update the video in a form of a follow up.
@@VToldsMotoShow Thank you for the update. Will Follow for the release
Dobra robota 🙂
Dzięki!
Interesting, you should as well compare the cost of service maintenance. The winner should probably be the V-Strom. For me maintenance cost and reliability is paramount.
Maintenance costs will differ depending on a service/shop where you by parts, so like with fuel consumption, it would somehow require establishing identical rules of comparison.
Is that why you ride a motorcycle? It's not unimportant, but I wouldn't say it's paramount in my decision. It's not like any of these bikes will just fall apart.
I rode GS’s for 15 years and had KTM Enduros for 10 years. I never loved the KTM ADV bikes (and I wanted to). I Bought a Ducati Multistrada Enduro 1260 3 years ago, but it was not as good as the GS, so I was going to go right back to BMW until the V4 engine came out. The Multistrada V4S is an unreal ADV bike. I can see why it was your top bike performing above average on 81% of the criteria. I think it blows the GS away on twisties and high speed handling. Also a great long touring bike…but I give GS the slight advantage. You intrigue me a little it about the Triumphs. You pointed out the ADV category is loaded with great models right now…just a matter of personal preference and the type of riding you do more of
Up, it's above average for sure in so many ways. Yet this also shows how personal these choices are as after even the facelifted Multistrada 1200, moving to the V4 S, I'd feel like it's harder to steer than the older bike. But at the moment, I believe it's one of the top ones right next to the Tiger that you mentioned. I'd actually say that Tiger 1200 is as close to R 1250 GS as anything gets in terms of general impressions. Which likely is a compliment for it.
Tigers are super expensive to maintain and need to consider fuel autonomy. Planning long trips in the Rockies and being able to ride 400KMS between fill-ups is great.
I am really disappointed in how poorly the Africa twin scored because it is such a awesome looking machine. I will now resort to getting myself the 1290 SAR purely for the torque and power.
I wanted to love Africa Twin from the day it was launched. Till the day I rode it...
You have to understand a lot of this is subjective. Your unique situation will decide which bike is best for you. For example, If I was commuting and ripping up gravel/trail often, I would absolutely choose the Africa Twin over the GS.
I love the stock beefy and raspy exhaust sound of the R1250GS. I think it is by far my favorite from all the motorcycles on the market, together with the K1600GT. What I don't like is the boxer engine mechanical noise, which reminds me of an old sewing machine, but it gets compensated by the exhaust on the R1250GS. What I definitely cannot tolerate is the even louder and less refined mechanical noise from the new R1300GS.
Boxer sound is iconic this is our last sounds of past and real engineering, before we get on silent soulless electric bikes 🥲
It made me start a philosophical discussion with myself whether any sound is better than no sound at all and it remains unsolved in my head for now.
Hı, looks like you forgot the wind protection rating of the KTM 1290 SAS (29.50) check again please.
Hi, at 26:57 I actually mentioned that it's missing as the S that I've got had a replaced stock windscreen with a one from the R variant, so I'm unable to tell you anything about it.