Recently I had a test ride on new water-cooled GS with semi-active suspension, KTM 1190 Adventure (and version R as well) and Supertenere.
I must say what I never expected to say: new GS is VERY good bike. The engine is strong (especially the portion of Nm), everything works very fine and easily. I can imagine that even some newbie can ride it. But the best thing is semi-active suspension. Since the "electronical revolution" in motorcycle world this has been the best electronical feature. Cumputer adjusts the whole suspension according to speed, shifting, road surface and many other things. Result is that you feel very very comfortable and confident, what is, of course, also a significant contribution to active safety. Same suspension is also on Multistrada and Caponord.
KTM 1190 Adventure was a big disappointment. Stated 150 HP, but they are hidden somewhere around 9000 rpm in real. The engine feels very vague under 7000 rpm. Engine maps and suspension (both electronically adjustable) feel still the same regardless changing adjustment. Version R is little bit better (21/18 wheels, higher suspension without electronical adjustment).
Supertenere is not worth a word. Weak, cheap-looking, emotionless...
In this situation I consider Crosstourer as a fading average bike. Only positive thing is engine.
Other words, in the class of big traili bikes, in my humble opinion, GS and Multistrada are the best. GS is for man who may be new in motorcycle world. Multistrada is for real biker who knows what Ducati is about.
Herghott
