The large capacity adventure bike scene has exploded in recent times, and the KTM 1290
Super Adventure R and the Ducati Multistrada V4 S are just two of the options available.
But which one offers the best all-round adventure package? Let's take a closer look.
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KTM and Ducati both have racing in their DNA, and that expertise has filtered down
into these two high-end adventure tourers. The 1290 Super Adventure R has been a popular choice
for hardcore adventure riders for a few years, but it has been updated for 2021. Meanwhile,
the Multistrada V4 S is an all-new machine that features a fresh four-cylinder engine and a wide
array of tech features. In stock trim, these two bikes at evenly priced, but as tested here,
the Ducati is more expensive thanks to its travel and radar package and optional spoked wheels.
The Ducati makes a little more horsepower thanks to its V4 Granturismo engine,
but the KTM, with its LC8 V-twin engine, has a higher peak torque figure.
The styling of the bikes is also quite different, with the KTM offering a more rugged
rally-inspired look and a slightly taller and more upright stance. It has a shorter windshield than
the Ducati and carries the unique two-piece headlight from previous KTM models. The KTM
weighs in at 221 kilograms, and it also has a 23-litre fuel tank and an 880 mm seat height.
The Ducati, on the other hand, is a little sleeker and more understated,
but it still has that signature Ducati red paint scheme. It also has a taller windshield,
and its ergonomics appear a little more friendly for road use. The Ducati has a
similar weight and fuel capacity to the KTM, but it does have a lower max seat height of 860 mm.
So far, these two dual sporters are quite different, but in the cockpit, there are
a few similarities. Let's start with the KTM. The KTM's cockpit has been overhauled for 2021,
with this new Switchblock setup and this brilliant new 7.5-inch TFT dash.
You've also got an adjustable windshield and smartphone storage, but frustratingly,
the compartment is a little too small and only just fits an iPhone 11. The TFT screen is quite
intuitive once you get used to it, and everything is controlled by these buttons on the Switchblock.
The menus are clearly marked and offer plenty of ways to customize the bike and adjust its
performance via ride modes, ABS, traction control, and throttle response settings. Sadly, however,
there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but KTM does have its own app for connectivity.
The Ducati is equally well-equipped, but the TFT screen is a touch smaller,
and like the KTM, it takes a little bit of getting used to. The Ducati has an adjustable windshield,
too, but it's easier to alter on the fly. There is also a smartphone compartment, but while it offers
more space than the KTM, it is still quite small. The Switchblock set up on the Ducati is pretty
straightforward, too, but it does have a couple of extra buttons for mode and electronic suspension.
The Ducati also has plenty of information and customization, but the menus are a little less
clearly marked when compared to the KTM. And, once again, there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Ducati instead employs its own connectivity app, which allows for full-color map navigation.
It's a clever system, but the setup process is a little tedious.
Both of these bikes are packed with electronic functions and safety features that are now
commonly found on most modern adventure bikes. The KTM has all the features you'd expect,
but the optional tech pack, which includes rally mode, is worth the extra dollars.
Likewise, the V4 S is loaded with the essentials, but the big difference here is the optional radar
technology, which allows for adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection.
The Ducati also has electronic suspension, but it's worth noting that the KTM's cheaper
and road-friendly sibling, the Super Adventure S, also comes with radar tech and semi-active
suspension. So far, these two bikes are evenly matched, although the Ducati is a little bit
better equipped. But that's only half the story, so let's hit the road and see how they ride.
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The KTM's LC8 engine feels very familiar, and it's an absolute blast to ride. It shows some of
the KTM Super Duke R's mind-blowing performance, but it's a little bit more manageable for mere
mortals. Despite being geared towards off-road riding, the 1290 Super Adventure R is very
comfortable on the tarmac. It handles well and is very torquey right through the rev range, but the
low and mid-range acceleration is something to behold. The 1290 is great on the tarmac,
but it's most at home on the dirt. It's simply amazing how capable a bike this heavy is off-road.
The KTM's off-road and rally settings are set up perfectly for off-road riding, and the ABS and
traction control never intrude. But the KTM's biggest strength is the supremely capable WP
suspension, which simply soaks up everything in its path. With 220 mm suspension travel front
and rear, the KTM trumps the Ducati in this area, and is capable of tackling much rougher terrain.
But the Ducati still has a few tricks up its sleeve. When you first jump on the V4 S,
you immediately feel comfortable. The bike is perfect for long distance travel, and that V4
engine is incredible. The Multistrada is very much at home on the road. The V4 engine is excellent,
and the bike feels very nimble. It does its best work when tearing through the twisties, but the
engine is also very user-friendly at slower speeds. The Ducati's ride position is a little
more road-orientated than the KTM's, and it makes for a slightly comfier ride over long distances.
And while the V4 is certainly great on the tarmac, it's not too shabby on the dirt either.
The off-road ride modes work well, and the engine is very usable.
Where it does fall behind the KTM a little is in the suspension department.
It's certainly not bad, but it doesn't handle the rough stuff quite as well as the 1290.
Still, it was far more capable than we were expecting, and while it does get the job done
on the dirt, it's still probably better suited to gravel roads moreso than technical terrain.
These two adventure tourers are both excellent and versatile machines,
although they do serve different purposes. The KTM is aimed more at remote and rugged exploring,
while the Ducati is closer to a traditional adventure tourer. Splitting the two is a hard gig,
but the Multistrada gets the nod as a slightly more complete all-round package,
but the KTM will naturally be a better choice for off-road-focused adventure riding.
It really comes down to personal preference, and each bike will suit different types of riders.
Either way, though, both bikes are winners, and you won't be disappointed.