BMW R 1250 GSA vs KTM 1290 SAR : Which One is Better?

Hey everyone thanks for tuning in to another motorcycle review. Today we have the new 2022 BMW R1250 GS Adventure and the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. 2 Of the biggest , heaviest and most badass adventure motorcycles money can buy. I have been riding both these motorcycles for some time and tested them out on every terrain. I have crashed both of them , had to pick both of them up and so on. In this video i might give you some more intel on what motorcycle you should buy. The relaxing BMW R1250 GSA or the Crazy KTM 1290 SAR?
First time riding the bmw gs R1250 : • RIDING a NEW BMW R 125...
WINNER 10C EVO : JOHANNES MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURES
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[@Barolos]

After 3 BMWs I switched to KTM and bought a 1290 SAS 2 month ago and after 6.000 km I can definitely say: Will never switch back again! Best bike I have ever had!

[@user-ob4nd6or1p]

Enjoy the coming valve adjustment and cost

[@KevinBoutelle]

@@user-ob4nd6or1p I adjust all my own valves in my 1290R. Good luck trying that with a GS. Boxers used to be the easiest engines to work on, now everything goes to the dealer.

[@christopherdegarmo9826]

Still feel the same months later? I have a 1290R and it’s the best bike I’ve ever owed.

[@christopherdegarmo9826]

@@user-ob4nd6or1pjust do it your self and call it a day. Nothing better than sitting around having a brew and working on a bike.

[@Basti_on_Adv]

In my Opinion the BMW GS is the perfect bike for long travelling 😋

[@imperialvilla7491]

Yeah yeah yeah

[@williamkieser6568]

So nice to see someone who has the balls to choose one above the other. Had enough of those “they are both great bikes” analysts.

[@joelfurman5096]

As a lifetime BMW rider of many models, and many friends trying to talk me into KTM. I am still happy with my choice

[@pedjoner]

Didn't try KTM, but after 1 year and 10000km on my 1250GSA, I have zero complaints. Very versatile bike.

[@narzaust]

KTM has strong suspension and 242 mm ground clearance. It is lighter due to smaller fuel tank.

[@salmanebennani9327]

I'm on the verge of buying one would you recommend it. Talking abt the GSA1250 ofc. I don't wanna wait for the GS1300 at least 1 more year.

[@pedjoner]

@@salmanebennani9327 I think everyone would recommend GSA. Just keep in mind that it is a big and heavy bike while it's not moving. Once it is in motion it is like a bicycle.

[@123limelight]

@@salmanebennani9327 I have 1250 gsa 13,000 miles no regrets simply the best nothing comes close

[@denisnicolas3399]

​​@@123limelightktm 790,890,1290R the best trail with big Power , its notre toys for girl😂

[@LifeofSmokey]

I spend a day recording , and over 10 hours of editing this video. Please be kind and give it a thumbs up 😅👌. Thanks all 😊❤️ PS : if you didn't see the giveaway , you didn't watch everything 🙂 BE CAREFUL , SOME RECEIVE A MESSAGE FROM A SPAMBOT! IT'S NOT ME!

[@JeanRickOdendaal]

Waiting in anticipation

[@bingeciren]

You are funny and very entertaining. Enjoying your videos a lot and appreciate your efforts ❤️👍

[@roblibbert1052]

Hey just a heads up - I got a response saying I'd won, but either this is a scam or you're using a service to manage your giveaways. The folks that contacted me are not you for sure. Not sure if you 'll ever see this, but we'll see how this goes - :)

[@LifeofSmokey]

@@roblibbert1052 it's a scam! It's a bot and totally not me! 😅🙈 I blocked it on my channel lol. Happens all the time 😢

[@tbriccoli]

How are you contacting the winner and when?

[@emmanuelhahn5926]

I am driving a 1250 gs and i love it! I also tried also a 1290 ktm and the engine is crazy! But I am driving a lot of long distance and the comfort of the bmw is incredible! I love your videos!

[@AndyGSATractor]

totally agree mate

[@mabsbry1318]

The Best ever comparison for these 2 bikes; because us viewers know that you’ve ridden them both hard and for their proper use. And because your editing and presentation is impeccable. Cheers.

[@ghost93rvc]

I have test driven both 1250 gsa and ktm 1290, on the road the bmw feels like a luxury car, and the ktm like a go cart, the ktm is a lot more fun (and terrifying :P), but overal i like the bmw a lot more, feels more refined and mature, but still far from boring. Thats why i own a 2016 1200gsa :) Awsome video's smokey, i like your style!

I had a couple of MX and Enduro bikes from KTM and a few Duke as well. I tried a 790 Adventure R once and I have to say that every KTM has that "Ready to Race" feeling. Their durability is another matter, but as long as they last, they are very good. Great video! 😁

[@pereira1904]

Really missing this kind of videos, simple, straight forward and most of all with a ton of humor. Keep on going Smokey

[@rockcrawling43]

Great video. Love both bikes. I like the humor you added, especially the squeaky sound when backing up the KTM on the trail in the beginning.

[@andrewmckenzie4918]

Smokey - I love the work you are doing. You are putting alot of thought into the camera set ups and the video splicing work behind the scenes would take alot of time. Love the effort. Keep up the good work! I am a fan.

[@crionic8356]

These videos have been fun. Excellent entertainment when I can't drive myself in this season👌

[@thebutcher307]

Not only do you make good comparisons but your videos are super entertaining! Thanks for the laughs! I’m in the BMW camp with my big ol’ Adventure but the KTM might happen some day!

[@tomwest5444]

As not only a KTM dealer and currently a 1290 adv owner I really enjoyed this comparison. Very informative for any customers looking at both bikes

[@321stunts]

Great Video. I owned the R1200GS for a couple of years, good all around bike but it always left me wanting more. Absolutely agree with your choice of the KTM.

[@hommemane]

Great review, with the right conclusion. They are both superb bikes, it only depends on what you intend to use them for

[@MrTwix0r]

Loving the video, looking for a new bike myself and these 2 are are top on my list comparing both and planning on test driving both in the coming weeks.

[@kevbarry6924]

Not going to lie Smokey, this is the first one of your videos I have seen. Loved it pal, a different approach to the reviews, which I liked. You really held my interest throughout 👍🏼

[@Rindamain]

Just bought a '17 R1200GS, and my god does it drive smooth and crisp. I had a Superduke 1290 R before the GS and I must say, i'm going to miss the power of that v-twin. The raw torque on that bike was just insane, face melting even. But something tickles my pickle in that boxer engine of the GS. The torque numbers are also insane, and it is by no means a slow bike. Great video as always, thanks for the comparison!

[@Swedeonamotorcycle]

Great video as always even though i prefer my R1250GS myself, mainly because of the more bent knee angle on the KTM and also that i do more Touring than Offroad.. BUt anyway, keep the videos rolling. !

[@andreaw3559]

I love your videos! They are really well done and I also have to laugh a lot. I think that the normal GS is better for offroad use than the fat Adventure, especially because of the weight and handiness. But the comparison is still really cool!!! Thanks for that!

[@Jamie-zt2gz]

Yep its the Ktm for me in Australia too.👍 love your channel educational and humor.just what i need.cheers mate

[@wton]

You cant beat "Ready to Race" KTM DNA's is a step above all other adventure brands.

[@EarlGough]

This is the first time I have seen a video from Life of Smokey.. This is absolutely brilliant... Very Funny and informative.. Keep up the good work!!! I am now a new subscriber!!!!

[@randyf.4231]

Your videos continue to get more and more entertaining and fun to watch! Keep it up, and hello from the middle of the USA.

[@motobreaktime]

Hi Smokey. I ride a tour enduro motorcycle for a long time, and I watched a lot of comparison videos, this video is the best, your storytelling style is beautiful, your humor is on top. Good job Smokey😃😃😃

[@brucekendall52]

Just a thought:A valve check on a BMW 1250 is a lot easier and cheaper that an 1290.Also if you dump your 1290R under water(river crossing),getting to engine parts aint easy.(I am a 1290R owner as well).Thks for the entertainment.

[@danielkaufmann6528]

Thanks for all the Videos comparing BMW and KTM ..... so I can continue dreaming to have my own 1290 R 🙂

[@CampbellZeroOne]

Been watching you since you only had a few hundred subs Smokey. Can't believe how quickly you've grown the channel. Great work. Always entertaining 👌🏼

[@mcw6118]

Awesome video~!! I just got my new 1290 SAS and every time u got onto her. She will give a big huge smile on ur face!!

[@Kimsand520]

I never understood why the GS was so popular until i rode one yesterday, man coming from a Ktm 1190 adv r, it was soo smooth and comfy! The way it hides it`s weight is amazing. Also test rode the new 1290 and wow that has a lot of power! If i would only do mild offroad, i would take the bmw... Hmm decisions...

[@aatam4625]

I agree

[@kyleswanson3622]

I have the KLR 650 and I’m trying to decided which of these two bikes to get next. I’m still leaning towards the GSA due to longer highway trips to get to my campsites. Keep up the great videos Smokey!

[@profi965]

I have the F850 GS Adventure Rally and want to get the 1250 GS or the new 1300.

[@kyleswanson3622]

I was hoping the r1300gsa would have came for 2023.. maybe next year and I would buy one of those if it had close to 150 BP.

[@rolandofranco9993]

I had a KLR650 and found myself traveling further and further so I wanting something bigger for traveling I went with a 1200GSA. The GSA was my first bike with a shaft drive and I do not miss having a chain drive. I know have a 1250gsa and I love having cruise control.

[@NitroRoo]

Great comparison. In for the Sena. One of the more entertaining reviews that I've seen in a while!

[@barryhelms7451]

First of your vids I have run across, and must say I like your style. Informative and entertaining

[@MichaelKalyaano]

Good entertainment and motorcycle comparison! I look forward to watching all your videos. Thank you for all your hard work. You are actually very smart (despite the “stupid” persona on videos). Out of these two wonderful motorcycles, I also prefer the KTM. I would like to see you compare the KTM 1290 SAR with Ducati Multistrada V4s and the Triumph Tiger 1200 RP or RE, (with comparable off-road tires). The Multistrada V4s has good off-road capability with the right tires. I wish you happiness, good health and prosperity always! 😃

[@stevebolding2654]

New to adventure bikes. Starting on a ktm 390 adventure. The bike is a blast to throw around. Already looking to upgrade. More power. Live the ktm

[@ivodesaedeleir5860]

Loving the humor in the video! Great video, loved every second!

[@Doomsara]

Such an intuitive presentation of the bikes :D You sir, have received another sub.. great stuff!

[@jonathanbates1678]

The ktm is an awesome bike but I bought the GS just for the handling on twisty roads it really is brilliant 👍

[@gradydrago]

I went through this same analysis... like a lot of people. My conclusion was to get the GS... and a sport bike.

[@DraculaJD]

Love your videos stud. I thought you might lean towards the BMW but I am glad to see that you stayed loyal to wild horse KTM 💪. I just got my 2022 Ktm 1290 Super Adventure R and I love it.

[@peterspinks248]

Love your videos, great info on all the shit you put up . Top stuff

[@bartdecroo5823]

I own a ktm 1290 SAR 2021 and I completely agree with your analysis. I owned a BMW 1150 GSA before It felt like a gutless flying carpet, I say no more more. Keep the video's coming! cheers

[@NiklasAdv]

Your old BMW cant really compare to the 1250 gs.

[@bartdecroo5823]

@@NiklasAdv in all fairness it is true that the 1150 is older and doesn’t really compare to the 1290 r. However having ridden the 1200 I found it to be the same, don’t get me wrong they are comfortable bikes and the feel like floating over the road. For me it misses that grin factor and that comes with bucketloads with the KTM.

[@litospereira]

Love both 👍 The GSA to travel and the KTM to have real fun 🤩

[@mrkang4080]

I have a lot of bikes, but I really only ride my Super Duke R... The KTM LC8 engine is simply the best engine I've used. Great, useable, power band and torque for days. Looking for a used Super Adventure R next.

[@martyn_g]

I’m buying a GSA, because I am travelling on it! And commuting. I trust the GS in the middle of nowhere, far longer warranty, (5 years, unlimited km) and…. Shaft drive. No more checking the chain on long trips.

[@mehdimirza8777]

Excellent Explanation and compared both bikes you have a very pleasant jolly nature good style you keep the listing elert with technically inform thanks 🙏

[@Joshua_Ryan]

Been watching your videos for sometime now. But I have to say this was probably the best/funniest I've seen. You got a new subscriber just for the comedy alone. Both a great bikes but i'm still torn on to with I would rather own.

[@rorge007]

Stay with the KTM, Love my 1290SAS, I did put on crash bars, radiator guards, bash plate off a R model and lever protectors off a 690 i think. Using Mitas E07+ tires. As i do a lot of gravel but very little off road, the electronic suspension suits my needs better. I had a Beemer, great bike but love the aggressive attitude of the KTM

[@LifeofSmokey]

Don't worry , KTM is going nowhere 😊🤫

[@KaaizBaby]

Awesome!

[@michaelbmw1931]

Why not africa twin?

[@sixdegrees6434]

I can’t decide. I don’t think I’ll miss the extra power so I’m thinking the Africa Twin might be my best option

[@michsky46]

Same as I will do. True is 1290 is very sexy bike. But reliability and price= AT

[@frankguernier2280]

Africa Twin. Ok!. GS . Are your balls covered on grey hair ? KTM 1290 SAR! HELL YES!

[@Inked_CR]

​@Frank Guernier, Did your mother drop you at birth? As only a spaz could love the looks off the SAS.

[@redman2751]

I dont understand why people say they dont like the BMW exhaust note. I love it and tend to like it over other bike sounds.

[@lancewilliamson6803]

Very humorous review that cleverly dealt with the real issues of ownership. Keep this style up

[@JayP66775]

Great Video!! One major topic I’m missing: High speed stability. I hear more and more stories, that the high speed wobble issue of the previous KTM 1290 SA did. in fact carry over to the new model (if not as frequent). I think it’s a huge issue if you buy a more powerful bike that could go 250 km/h , but it frequently starts to wobble at 190/200. I would much rather go for the weaker gs then which never has this issue…

[@LifeofSmokey]

Can't say , and my SAR has knobby tires with a 160 max speed 😅

[@ridemfast7625]

Apparently at ~110mph, you need to tuck down and lean on the tank, at about 130mph, you can go back into more of an upright/normal riding position. A rider made a video doing this at top seeds of ~150mph. Having to do this does not instill confidence in the bike imho.

[@JayP66775]

@@ridemfast7625 agree 100%

[@JayP66775]

On my 2019 SAS it helps to let go with one hand (not the best option either). As soon as I hold the handlebar with both hands, the wobble becomes extreme. It’s ridiculous…

[@scott76421]

This is the exact reason I think about getting a gs instead sometimes and watch videos like these. I've had full blown pants filling tank slappers on my really expensive fancy modern bike that's good at everything else. I bought a multi thousand dollar 19/17 wheelset trying to solve the issue. No dice. At least it never happens with the wife on the back. About to drop another multi thousand investment in suspension trying to solve the wobble.

[@harley84fly]

I agree smokey. Need that zest in life and the KTM is where it's at compared to the GS. Great video's 🤘

[@asfix1000]

I started watching you because of suzuki jimny, but now I love all your videos. Keep them coming. Greetings from Serbia

[@guillermotorres9769]

awesome Content just found your channel in the search for my new bike and the comments and comedy where spot on!

[@mr.mistoffelees7188]

Love my KTM. It’s got that raw edge that ticks all my boxes. But, I suppose, if you want a ‘retirement from biking’ machine then the GS fits the bill (lol)

[@LifeofSmokey]

hahah retirement from biking that's good one 🙂

[@1xplorer]

That’s what GS all about “Retirement from biking” 😂😂

[@jamescurrie1285]

What’s the power figure at the back wheel on the KTM more like 140 ish Horses

[@mr.mistoffelees7188]

@@jamescurrie1285 Who cares. Are you retired?

[@hoanghaitu01]

Buy ktm

[@alejandropolo]

Yet another Subscriber!! Loved how funny your video was! Congrats! Cheers from Argentina!

[@saiteja6820]

This is the only video I have seen regarding to the bikes.,proved that it can be made with this much fun...❣️loved it broh🔥

[@adv_rider]

Recently found your channel and I love your sense of humor, awesome videos. Thanks

[@jeffreywhite5132]

Agree with ur comments. I owned a 2017 triple black gsa and now have a 2022 1290 sar. Seems like bmw is more in the usa initially, but it comes loaded with lots of upgrades that i had to add on ktm

[@mansoborja6208]

Nice video. Incredible how easy you explain everything. Congratulations!

[@Jayyy_2003]

I'm glad I watched your video bro it helps me to decide which bike the best comfort for me

[@vmjgpv]

Another great video . I went for Ktm SuperAdventure S . Love to see your videos keep the good work.

[@richardperrenet3475]

Hi, thanx for this video. Just drove 2 years on a normal GS after 3 KTM's, a few weeks ago traded it for the 2021 Super Adventure S with all the extra's. Its just like you say, the GS is good in everyting, but you miss out for the fun that the KTM gives you.

[@psycodriver]

When I bought the SAR just wanted something different and brutal, not the easy choice aka the GS, so very glad of owning one of these machines as you smokey 🙅🏻‍♂️

[@BorutPirc1974]

Hey Smokey, top video. It looks like it’s only one rider. Love this. I decided to buy me KTM SAS. You are so witty👍💪

[@muago222]

Your videos are so entertaining, I love it!

[@michaelcurrie7102]

Awesome vid mahn , I'm thinking of moving from bmw to ktm so helpfully video.

[@kookfornuis]

Nice video! And I love to watch more of your videos. Thanks for sharing the difference. And sure i want to win the headset 😉

[@zorans2748]

Funny approach but still full of useful info in your videos made me subscribe a while back. Keep it up!

[@ktm1290ADVvancoverisland]

I got my KTM 1290 R. On order !!! Great video as always. Cheers

[@jo-justjo]

Love your entertaining videos😁😊👌thank you. Big thumbs up for the Jimny video tooo. I've got one and ...a Triumph Trident 😁

[@LoneTraveller404]

Tech with a dope sense of humor 👏 Love the videos Smoky.

[@fendy-kiko100ibanez4]

Love your reviews all the time Smokey!

[@rolandofranco9993]

I just came across your channel and this video is hilarious. I've had a few different 1200GS adventures and now have a 1250GSA. Over the years just prefer shaft drive over chain drive now.

[@cwomike]

Great selection of bikes to compare. R12GS rider for years but the KTM is so impressive too.

[@myleswalshe3451]

Great videos, love the comedy on top of all the details 👍

[@digitalride6017]

Nice video, not boring, pratical information, smashing intro, in the end i would go for the GSA just for the confort it provides on long trips, for the city nah, would keep my actual Tracer 700.

[@Lifeofunderdog]

Hey Smokey love your video bruh... its fun and entertaining to watch you and your toys...

[@georgelikimani3387]

Am your new subscriber. I bumped into one of your videos and I immediately got hooked. Hilarious 😂 and educative. Cheers bro. From Kenya 🇰🇪

[@Yurii_Ko]

Hey, I like your fun format of a review! Subscribed and waiting for new videos!

[@jcorrales8]

Great Review greatly appreciate it , funny stuff too . 👍. Blessing Smokey . 🙏

[@paulhuntley9146]

Great video ,great comparison of two of the best...!

[@lt.1102]

Great videos Smokey, informational and fun to watch, congrats

[@advrider56]

You’re a funny guy Smokey. So much so I subscribed. Love your videos. And I love ❤️ my 2021 R1250GSA

[@jensbooij]

Nice video i am new to youre channel you make good video's. I watch al youre video's they have good information👍🏻

[@Sunshine-man]

I do like the tech data, delivered with humor is a refreshing change.

[@castortroy1633]

I ride my 3rd KTM 1290 SAS now. After 2018, 2020 and now the latest model, 2021 1290 SAS you can say i'm a KTM addict, haha! Thanx for the Sena in advance ;-) Greetings from Holland!!

[@z.kropyman2709]

First video i saw from you and appreciate the fun you make every minute ! :D good comparing video ! :)

[@glenncarpenter394]

It's not the first time I've been watching you but I'm going to permanently watch you you're a funny man

[@The_Dvinny13]

Great comparison! Love the videos Smokey!!

[@TheJohnnyBabb]

Love the video! Great information

[@danielsdumelo]

Just subscribed coz i love your video style and I love bikes..

[@skookum-rjb]

i like the humour. thanks for your excellent editing.

[@henryroscoe2464]

Great presenting style Smokey, very easy to watch! 🏍🏍👍👍

[@jacobtvede3925]

Thanks for your videos, they are smashing good 👍👍👍 I have just bought the BMW GSA 1250 2022, fantastic machine 😘

[@Odriss]

Always entertaining! Interesting and fun to watch!😁

[@johnhunter8753]

Great video mate. Love it. 😁👍👍