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KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head

These European adventure bikes go head to head in this spec-sheet brawl.

EJ Punsalang EJ Punsalang on Jul 13, 2022
KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head

The most fascinating segment of bikes right now is undoubtedly the middleweight adventure bike segment. Consumers have an abundance of options now that nearly all manufacturers have released new or upgraded models of their ADV bikes in the 800-ishcc range. But few bikes have ever been able to match theKTM 790 Adventure's exhilarating performance when it comes to off-road-focused machines.

Nevertheless,BMW's F 850 GS comes quite close. The F 850 GS is frequently preferred by ardent ADV riders over its larger sibling R 1250 GS because it is lighter, narrower, and more maneuverable. As a result, we think it can effectively compete with the KTM 790 Adventure. Of course, the largest difference between these two bikes is their price, but there are a few other important ones as well. Given that, how dissimilar and similar are these two bikes, and which is better for you? Find out by reading on.

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Performance

KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head
KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head

In terms of performance, the parallel-twin engines found in both motorcycles are relatively comparable. In the KTM’s case, this engine initially appeared in the KTM 790 Duke, where it won praise for its nimble power, frugal fuel use, and distinctive snarl. It is slightly more strung out and produces an amazing 95 horsepower in the 790 Adventure. It is one of the strongest middleweight adventure bikes available—from a power-to-weight ratio, that is.

The fact that these two motorcycles both have parallel-twin engines is what unites them in terms of performance. An 853cc parallel-twin engine, similar to the one found in the BMW F 900 R naked bike, powers the BMW F 850 GS. With a strong 95 horsepower in the GS, it has more than enough power to propel you forward whether you're driving on a straightaway, a winding road, or occasionally ascending and descending a path.

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Features

KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head
KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head

In terms of features, BMW has included the F 850 GS with pretty much everything you could want. It has a ton of electronic rider aids, such as traction control, cornering ABS, and dynamic riding modes. Wire-spoke wheels and a robust, long-travel suspension hint that it is more than capable of scuffing up the trails. Due to its lightweight design and thinner profile, many people believe the F 850 GS to be even superior than the R 1250 GS when it comes to pure off-road capability.

For quite some time, the KTM has been the class leader, and it is simple to understand why. The bike is outfitted by KTM with the most cutting-edge technology, including all the rider aids you could ever want. Multiple riding modes, switchable traction control, and even cornering ABS are features of the KTM 790 Adventure. The rider can easily access all of the bike's features thanks to a full-color TFT display.

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Price

KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head
KTM 790 Adventure versus BMW F 850 GS - Head to head

A more well-known and successful platform is provided by the KTM 790 Adventure in the world of racing. Additionally, its P699,000 price tag is well worth it because to its cutting edge features and superior components. Furthermore, the KTM still offers greater aftermarket support at the moment, so anyone searching for a bike that can be modified and customized to meet their unique demands will find it simpler to do so with the KTM 790 Adventure.

On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS is by no means an inexpensive vehicle, costing P965,000. However, it more than makes up for it with its tried-and-true platform and, of course, its lengthy history of performance that is off-road and adventure-focused. With a tried and tested platform, and equally rich aftermarket support, the F 850 GS is undeniably a strong contender in the premium ADV segment, provided, of course, you have the budget to cover the added expense. 

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