GS1200 ADV or KTM990AdvS

[Oops]

Guys, I have a huge respect and love for any BMW bike. I had a GS1100, a GS1150, a GS1150Adv and my last one was a GS1200. Even before having these Gs`s I had a K1200 and also used a lot of my father`s RT1100 and RT 1150. He has now a brand new RT1200 with ESA and Auto-pilot (this one I haven't tried yet) but my father told me that the bike is absolutelly fantastic!
But to be quite honest, my last GS1200 hasn't given me the same "Fun Factor" or pleasure as my previous models have! I don't know exactlly why but it hasn't.
So what happened was that I've decided to sell my GS and spend a period of time ridding my sport bikes again ( I`ve got a YAmaha FAzer1000/2005 ). Now, after more than one year far from these big-trail bikes, I am really missing them and so it's time to return. But what to go for???? I live in Dubai (UAE) and I will use the bike almost every day. This use will be a mix of 50% urban use and 50% off-road.
Having said that, for the first time I`m considering the KTM990Adv S after reading a lot of good stuff about it in the "Orange Crush" forum. Ok ok ok...I know that I have to hear/read the other side of the story and this is why I`m here. I want you guys (BMW fans) to give me "your" comments and sugestions if possible.
But is good to mention that most of the posts from the Orange side favouring the KTM are from a vast former BMW (GS) ridders... That's a point!!
I wish I could have a real test drive on a 990 and also on the 1200Adv (this one I haven't tried yet) but this is not available at the momment her in Dubai. So I`ve got to make my decision mostly based on information given by guys that had the chance to ride both of them.
Well guys I know you are the ones that can help me to make up my mind and I really appreciate all your comments.
Thanks!!!

[Gadget Boy]

For the love of God do a SEARCH, it's been asked and discussed ad nauseum.. For living in Dubai, you're better off with an HP2... let her rip in the desert. 990 is a nice bike, but from what i've read they're having trouble with the smooth operation of the fuel injection at low speeds.

[kirkmoon]

Having owned a GS1150 Adv, a KTM 950, and a GS1200, I would say that if you have a reasonable support infrastructure for KTM in Dubai, the 990 would serve you very well.

Either bike would work fine, but the KTM is significantly better than the GS Adv off road and still a good street bike. Keep in mind that the GS Adv is actually a worse off road bike than the standard GS1200 due to its heaviness and bulk.

The GS Adv is an excellent long distance touring bike, but it doesn't sound like that's what you have in mind. The KTM isn't nearly as good a touring bike as the GS Adv.

Since you seem to have a bias towards off road riding, I am guessing you would be happy with the KTM.

[rideLD]

Originally Posted by kirkmoon

I am guessing you would be happy with the KTM.

Until you have to change the oil.

For me, if I wanted a dirt bike, I'd get a real dirt bike not a 500lb wantabe dirt bike. If I wanted an adventure tourer I'd buy a BMW.

[RED CAT]

More paved road= GS. More off road = KTM by a long shot. Have spent some time on the GS1200 as my buddy has one and we trade often against my Tiger. Bought a new 950 recently and was I surprised. Much bigger grin factor on the KTM. Especially off road. Pretty good on the street too. KTM more maintenance oriented though. Yes oil changes take alot longer but the giggles while riding more than make up for it.

[Redbull Addict]

Trying to decide between 2 bikes is a great place to be. Have you decided that what you really want is an Adventure bike versus an Enduro? Here's a review that is a bit less bias than what you would typically get from an owners forum. It actually surprised me...

In a nutshell if you want an Enduro get the KTM 950 Super Enduro if you want an Adventure get the 1200GS Adv.

It's all here...http://www.alpinediscovery.com/Misce...nduro_Test.pdf

[mike cummins]

as GB said, its been discussed forever. that said, i reckon a HP2 with a big tank and u will be stoked. Its very balanced and allows the rider to get nuts real quick and have a smile from ear to ear. The traction it gets(and this has been said elsewhere) is superior to a ktm and i feel u may find it more reliable

[rdcyclist]

Originally Posted by Oops

But to be quite honest, my last GS1200 hasn't given me the same "Fun Factor" or pleasure as my previous models have! I don't know exactlly why but it hasn't.

If the standard R12GS didn't speak to you, the ADV is not going to get close. Heavier, taller, etc. Get the 990.

[MaddBrit]

Originally Posted by kirkmoon

Having owned a GS1150 Adv, a KTM 950, and a GS1200, I would say that if you have a reasonable support infrastructure for KTM in Dubai, the 990 would serve you very well.

Either bike would work fine, but the KTM is significantly better than the GS Adv off road and still a good street bike. Keep in mind that the GS Adv is actually a worse off road bike than the standard GS1200 due to its heaviness and bulk.

The GS Adv is an excellent long distance touring bike, but it doesn't sound like that's what you have in mind. The KTM isn't nearly as good a touring bike as the GS Adv.

Since you seem to have a bias towards off road riding, I am guessing you would be happy with the KTM.

Word.

PS they are having some issues with smooth running on the new fuel injection on the KTM's. It will no doubt get sorted though.