BMW F 450 GS vs KTM 890 Adventure R

Verdict

The KTM 890 Adventure R wins this comparison narrowly, 65.4 points to 63.4.

The gap of 2 points is built mostly in practicality, where the 890 Adventure R takes 4.1 points out of the F 450 GS. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the 890 Adventure R is the quicker machine: 105 hp and 100 Nm moving 215 kg, against 48 hp and 43 Nm moving 178 kg for the F 450 GS. That is 0.49 hp per kilo playing 0.27.

The F 450 GS costs €7,220, which leaves €8,279 in your pocket against the 890 Adventure R at €15,499. Service intervals run 10,000 km on the F 450 GS and 15,000 km on the 890 Adventure R.

Frequently asked

Which is faster, the BMW F 450 GS or the KTM 890 Adventure R?

The KTM 890 Adventure R. It carries 0.49 hp per kilo (105 hp, 215 kg wet) against 0.27 hp per kilo for the BMW F 450 GS (48 hp, 178 kg).

Is the BMW F 450 GS cheaper than the KTM 890 Adventure R?

The BMW F 450 GS is cheaper at €7,220 list, €8,279 less than the KTM 890 Adventure R at €15,499.

Which is better for shorter riders?

The BMW F 450 GS. Its 845 mm seat is 35 mm lower than the KTM 890 Adventure R, and at 178 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the F 450 GS or the 890 Adventure R?

The KTM 890 Adventure R, which scores 8.8 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity. The BMW F 450 GS counters with a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity.

Which goes further on a tank?

The KTM 890 Adventure R: 435 km from its 20 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 368 km for the BMW F 450 GS.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 890 Adventure R, scoring 65.4 of 100 against 63.4 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.