Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
Photo: jkuenstle.de

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

59 pictures

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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The contrast between scree slopes and pointed steles at Col d’Izoard seems almost surreal – a remote, finest area for motorcyclists.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2005/2006: Suzuki V-Strom 650.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
fact / Joachim Schahl

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2011: BMW R 1200 GS.

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archive

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MOTORRAD Review: This is how it all started: Lead photo at the first Alpine Masters in 2005.

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… The tractor driver Claus from Stuttgart, who is now retired with his Eicher, follows earlier motorcycle tours. His destination: the Amalfi Coast – and back again.

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The discovery of slowness: If you want to see something of the Alps, you have to take your time …

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Stilfser Joch: The legend among the passes. The hairpin bends are nowhere sharper, the back and forth seems almost endless, surrounded by the magnificent mountain landscape of the Ortler group – a must for every motorcycle mountaineer.

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2010: BMW R 1200 GS.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2009: Honda CB 1300.

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MOTORCYCLE review: jagged mountains, green valleys, great mountain passes: enthusiasm among the staff.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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… Tester Karsten Schwers is still grappling with the scoring table.

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Col de la Bonette: Barren rock and wide landscapes characterize the French Alps. A ring road goes around the Cime de la Bonette and secures the pass with 2802 meters the title of the highest paved alpine pass.

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Meeting at eye level: the test team at Col de la Lombarde, …

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… two equally rustic vehicles in front of the memorial plaque on Col de la Bonette.

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MOTORCYCLE review: stones and stones everywhere. Cheering scene on the wall in front of the mountain range.

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2007/2008: BMW R 1200 R.

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What’s next? Ideally always where the sun is shining. Flexibility helps with an alpine tour …

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… Therefore, the route was rescheduled at short notice. The reward: plenty of sun.

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Col du Galibier: The cyclist’s pass, legendary stage of the Tour de France and, at 2642 meters, another highlight of the Alpine Masters. Incidentally, the height of 13 meters was lost when the parking lot at the top of the pass was built in 1976.

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Three best-aged French with pre-war single-cylinders from Norton, Rudge and Terrot at the Col de la Lombarde. The Norton at the front even has a paper roll “navigation system” on the handlebars – the GS rider is amazed.

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Mountains and peaks as far as the eye can see: the vastness of the French Alps is overwhelming, range is always an issue away from dense civilization.

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2013: BMW R 1200 GS.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
Gargolov

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2012: BMW R 1200 GS / Triumph Tiger Explorer.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
fact / Joachim Schahl

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MOTORCYCLE review: High, higher, highest: Bonette wants to be the greatest.

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Gentle turns in front of the Dolomites panorama: Driving pleasure at its finest on the Pordoi Pass …

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Siesta on the second day on the idyllic Karer Pass: first exploratory talks among the drivers – favorites are already emerging here?

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… where the beautiful Passo di Gavia and the legendary Stilfser Joch with its dreaded switchbacks await.

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The testers then travel from Canazei to the Ortler area via the Karer and Mendel passes, …

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The start and finish point of the 2650-kilometer tour over 19 Alpine passes is the MOTORRAD base in Stuttgart. From there, the route first leads over the Fernpass and the Brenner autobahn into the Dolomites into Val di Fassa at the foot of the legendary Sella Loop.

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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2014 in the Fun category: Yamaha MT-09.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Second place in the 2014 Alps Masters in the Touring category: Yamaha FJR 1300 AE.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Winner of the Alpine Masters 2014 in the Adventure category: KTM 1190 Adventure.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Winner of the 2014 Alps Masters in the Beginner category: Honda NC 750 X.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Winner of the 2014 Alps Masters in the Power category: BMW S 1000 R.

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Defending champion: BMW R 1200 GS Adventure.

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The Alpen-Masters, the largest motorcycle test in the world, takes place annually and this year for the tenth time. A very special finale should therefore crown the anniversary.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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In a good mood: The Harley gang from the Ruhr area was planning a circumnavigation of France, by the way, the girls drove themselves …

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Bratwurst-Bruno takes care of the testers at the top of the yoke.

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Due to miserable weather, the plan was changed at short notice: The journey to Piedmont went via Milan and Turin. If the weather is fine, the group then starts from Pietraporzio over the idyllic Col de la Lombarde …

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Dolomites: Monumental perspective from the Sella Pass to the Pordoi massif, 1000 meters down from the Sass Pordoi almost vertically. If you look closely, you will see the cable car that brought the winning machine to the brink in 2009 for the photo.

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MOTORRAD test crew (Sweden): Tomas Lofterud (58), publisher of the Swedish sister newspaper and frequent driver, came by plane from Stockholm for once

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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MOTORRAD test crew (Italy): Federico Garbin (30), test editor and touring driver, traveled from Genoa to Stuttgart with a BMW R 1200 GS.

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MOTORRAD test crew (Spain): Sergio Romero (36), test editor, Isle of Man participant, as a climbing fanatic, was disappointed that the Matterhorn was not on the route.

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MOTORRAD test crew: Sebastian Schmidt (33), experienced as a test and photo driver, loves it more comfortably and quietly according to the motto: don’t stress.

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MOTORRAD test crew: Karsten Schwers (42), top tester, walking database and driving talent; where he is is in front, because the navigation system is programmed into his head.

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MOTORRAD test crew: Gert Thole (58), Spiritus Rector of the Alpine Masters and test chief, likes slippery terrain and demanding routes as an amateur crosser.

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… which finally lead to the next stage destination Valloire on the mountain of cyclists, the Col du Galibier.

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In the middle of the grandiose French Alps, further passes follow, Col de Vars and Col d’Izoard, …

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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… which the loop around the Cime de la Bonette makes the highest paved alpine pass.

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… to the impressive Col de la Bonette, …

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Tomas Lofterud (58), MOTORRAD, Sweden, at Col d’Izoard: “BMW S 1000 R – for short, intense fun”.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
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Federico Garbin (30), IN MOTO, Italy, on the Stilfser Joch: “KTM Adventure – crisp as an athlete”.

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Sergio Romero (36), MOTOCICLISMO, Spain, at Col de la Lombarde: “Yamaha MT-09 – a lot of engine, but little chassis”.

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Sebastian Schmidt (33), MOTORRAD, Germany, on Sella Pass: “Honda NC – it’s really fun, but only downhill”.

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Karsten Schwers (42), MOTORRAD, Germany, at the Col du Galibier: “Yamaha FJR – maximum comfort on tours”.

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Gert Thole (58), MOTORRAD, Germany, on the Pordoijoch: “BMW GS – concentrated alpine competence”.

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… Sergio was less in a good mood after the cow dung bombing.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
MOTORCYCLE

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The route to this year’s anniversary finale, which includes all four previous stations of the Alpine Masters.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
jkuenstle.de

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Winner 2014: KTM 1190 Adventure. It is built in the mountains, it is made for the mountains: At the end of the day, the KTM has the angular tip of the nose. It combines a sporty V-Twin with plenty of travel comfort and high-tech equipment. A great final, a close victory, a worthy Alpine champion.

motorcycles

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014
Honda NC 750 X, BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, KTM 1190 Adventure, Yamaha MT-09, BMW S 1000 R, Yamaha FJR 1300 AE

The highlight of the Jubilee Alpine Masters is a big tour across the Alps to determine this year’s King of the Mountains. In the final, the five group winners Honda NC 750 X, KTM 1190 Adventure, Yamaha MT-09, BMW S 1000 R and Yamaha FJR 1300 AE will meet the defending champion BMW R 1200 GS.

Gert Thole

07/28/2014

What would a person be without memories? Without images and emotions, adventures and experiences, ups and downs, people and landscapes? Sad if all of this were just for the moment. Only the ability to remember makes a person into a person. Motorcyclists always experience something that is worth remembering for a lifetime. And the more memories you have, the more you feel that life is not just about the moment. It is above all the highlights on two wheels that anchor themselves in the convolutions of the brain. For professional testers, the special stories, extraordinary experiences. Like the Alpine Masters 2014.

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The annual Alpine Masters is the largest motorcycle test in the world and is taking place for the tenth time this year. A very special finale should therefore crown the anniversary. One that brings back memories: on a major tour across the Alps, all previous stations are to be visited again.

Four regions, each with its own character

It all started in 2005 on the legendary Stelvio Pass. After that, the Alpine Masters took place for two years in France at the Col du Galibier. Then, in 2008 and 2009, the test team drove to the Dolomites in the Val di Fassa, the following year again to the Stilfser Joch and finally in 2012 and 2013 to the border area between France and Italy with the Col de la Bonette as the highlight. This year’s preliminary round (see MOTORRAD 15 and 16/2014) again took place in Val di Fassa in the Dolomites. Four regions, each with their own character and very different road conditions, which have one thing in common: All of them offer exciting motorcycle areas with great roads, embedded in fascinating mountain landscapes.

The mode is well known: As usual, the points from the preliminary round in the final are deleted, the international test crew evaluates the five group winners and the defending champion – in this case, last year’s winner BMW R 1200 GS – purely subjective. It is a choice, so individual focuses and perspectives can definitely decide on place and victory. The group winners of the preliminary round were allowed to go on tour-like beefed up for the final tour, after all, almost 3000 kilometers had to be conquered in just six days. And the defending champion also competes in the adventure version, which has several advantages over the basic GS for long tours: namely an extreme range thanks to the huge 30-liter tank, extraordinary ride comfort thanks to extended spring travel and, finally, more smooth running through the boxer increased flywheels and shock absorbers in the drive train. An overpowering opponent?

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


Big travel enduros put to the test at the 2014 Alpine Masters


V-Strom 1000, 1190 Adventure, Tiger Sport, XT 1200 ZE Super Tenere


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Fun bikes put to the test at the 2014 Alpen Masters


Honda CB 650 F, KTM 690 Duke R, MV Agusta Rivale 800, Yamaha MT-09 in the test


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Power naked bikes tested at the 2014 Alpen Masters


Aprilia Tuono V4 R, BMW S 1000 R, Ducati Monster 1200, KTM 1290 Super Duke R.


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Yamaha FJR 1300 AE replaces original touring winner

At least there cannot be an in-house boxer duel: BMW was unable to provide a roadworthy test machine of the type R 1200 RT – test winner among the tourers – because a recall and exchange of the ESA shock absorber due to the risk of breakage of the piston rod is currently all new RT machines has shut down. Nobody is allowed to drive as long as new struts cannot be delivered. One’s bad luck, the other’s luck: the second in the group, the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE, was allowed to move up, certainly not a bad alternative.

As a MOTORRAD base, Stuttgart is the starting point and destination of the trip. As the Swabian metropolis is known not to be on the edge of the Alps, the trip begins with a quick journey via the motorway. The first stage should lead to the Fernpass, then over the Brenner motorway to the Sella Pass to Canazei in Val di Fassa.

Off to the south

On the first day, the focus is on the travel qualities of the sextet. A trained tourer like the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE can shine here. Lots of comfort, plenty of space for passengers and luggage, great wind protection, a stable and sovereign chassis – long, fatigue-free stages are possible. The two large travel enduros offer a similarly high level of ride comfort and also a lot of storage space in the aluminum cases, but there is no one KTM 1190 Adventure a little more stability when loaded and at speeds above 160 km / h, the airstream rattles the helmet uncomfortably despite the higher accessory disk.

However, the Sunday traffic prevents extensive high-speed passages, so that even the Honda NC 750 X with only 55 hp never loses touch with the group. With the Adventure package, the crossover bike looks almost like a small travel enduro, the higher windshield offers surprisingly good wind protection. It’s just a shame that the bench is a bit uncomfortable in the long run. The two uncovered BMW machines run steadily in a straight line S 1000 R and Yamaha MT-09 without a doubt, but speeds over 130 km / h without a wind protection can be quite exhausting in the long run. And a lot of luggage doesn’t fit in their softbags either.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

motorcycles


Two-cylinder naked bikes in the 2014 Alpen Masters


Honda NC 750, Moto Guzzi V7 Special, Yamaha MT-07, Yamaha XV 950


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Tourer


Sports touring bikes put to the test at the 2014 Alpine Masters


BMW R 1200 RT, Honda VFR 800 F, Kawasaki Z 1000 SX, Yamaha FJR 1300 AE


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Motorsport


Alpine Masters 2014


This is how MOTORRAD tests


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Mountains and valleys, passes and curves

For a long time nothing can be seen of the alpine mountain contours. Not until a good bit behind Ulm, from the “Allgauer Tor” rest stop, does the Alpine contour, pale in the haze, lift the mood. Mountains and valleys, passes and curves – we are coming. A total of 19 passes, including the highest in the Alps, lie ahead of us over the next few days. Okay, the first one – the Fernpass right behind the Austrian border – is not a really big alpine pass, more of a connecting passage. But at least a prelude to what the sextet can expect in the next five days.

A traffic accident requires a compulsory break. The rescue helicopter landed on the street, an injured motorcyclist is flown away. Perhaps also a reminder that the Alps are not only fascinating, but also pose a higher risk for bikers with their demanding roads. Especially here on the Fernpass because of the high traffic density. The Brenner motorway finally takes the group to South Tyrol, where the famous Sella Pass is the first renowned Alpine pass.

The travel route


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


MOTORCYCLE

The route to this year’s anniversary finale, which includes all four previous stations of the Alpine Masters.

The big Alpine circuit, which includes all four previous stations of the Alpine Masters – that was the idea for this year’s anniversary finale. The start and finish point of the 2650-kilometer tour over 19 Alpine passes is the MOTORRAD base in Stuttgart. From there, the route first leads over the Fernpass and the Brenner autobahn into the Dolomites and into the Val di Fassa at the foot of the legendary Sella Loop. The testers then cross the Karer and Mendel passes from Canazei to the Ortler area, where the beautiful Passo di Gavia and the legendary Stilfser Joch with its dreaded switchbacks await. Bratwurst-Bruno takes care of the testers at the top of the yoke.

Due to miserable weather, the plan was changed at short notice: The journey to Piedmont went via Milan and Turin. If the weather is fine, the group then starts from Pietraporzio over the idyllic Col de la Lombarde to the impressive Col de la Bonette, which makes the loop around the Cime de la Bonette the highest paved alpine pass. In the middle of the grandiose French Alps, further passes follow, Col de Vars and Col d’Izoard, which finally lead to the next stage destination Valloire on the mountain of cyclists, the Col du Galibier. The return journey also includes some of the most famous passes such as the Col de l’Iseran and the Great and Small St. Bernard Pass. The motorway then leads back through Switzerland to Stuttgart.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

to travel


On the go: top alpine passes


The best alpine passes in Italy


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Helden-touren.de Alpine tour including motorcycles for MOTORCYCLE HEROES

The Dolomites


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


jkuenstle.de

Monumental perspective from the Sella Pass to the Pordoi massif, 1000 meters down from the Sass Pordoi almost vertically.

A few weeks ago, MOTORRAD was for the third time for the preliminary round of the Alpine Masters in the “Pale Mountains”. You think you know every meter of asphalt here, but you are always surprised because roads are not constant in the Alps. Mountains move, the frost does the rest, so the road constantly changes. In addition, there are the usual incalculable things from the coach, which always comes at the most inopportune moment behind the secluded bend, to the marmot, which lies on the asphalt and warms itself up and always hops off to exactly the wrong side. The fact that it was now evening has one advantage: you have peace and quiet on the Sella Pass. During the day, traffic – at least on the famous Sella Loop – is heavy early in the season. You can always enjoy the unique jagged panorama of the Dolomites. And now in early summer the valleys are bathed in lush green, the meadows an endless sea of ​​flowers.

A first touchstone for motorcycles. the Yamaha MT-09 was able to prevail in the fun group because of the superior characteristics of the three-cylinder. The competition is tougher in the final. From a motor point of view, the mid-range fun bike can easily hold its own against the stronger competition. The three-cylinder delivers plenty of thrust anytime, anywhere and is always there immediately. The huge power band allows the shifter to take long breaks. However, rough, hard load changes in bends take some getting used to. The B-mode acts a little softer, but has to be activated again after each start. The rarely necessary gear changes are also not very smooth.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Yamaha MT-09 in the top test


Queuing for the fleet manager


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Yamaha MT-09, Triumph Street Triple and MV Agusta Brutale 800 in the test


Three-cylinder nakeds in horsepower comparison


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Ducati Monster 821 and Yamaha MT-09 in comparison test


Racy Italian versus reserved Japanese


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


jkuenstle.de

Gentle turns in front of the Dolomites panorama: Driving pleasure at its finest on the Pordoi Pass …

The chassis, on the other hand, has to accept significantly more criticism. Especially up on the Sella Pass, where the road has only been patched up temporarily after the winter damage, the wobbly chassis develops a life of its own that takes the fun away from the driver in the long run. Under-dampened spring elements bobbing over the ground are one thing, but their effects on the steering are worse. The driver is constantly busy with steering corrections on broken pass slopes. Not a problem if the roads are flat, but that rarely happens here in the high mountains.

A short detour to the Pordoi Pass crowns the day. Pure driving pleasure on a grippy curve slope. Up here everyone remembers the sensational winning photo from 2009, when the Honda CB 1300 was taken up by cable car and maneuvered hair-raising close to the 1000-meter-deep abyss. Honda had posters of it printed at the time. The next day it should go towards the Stilfser Joch. The day’s stage leads from Val di Fassa in Trentino over the Karer Pass, which is already part of German-speaking South Tyrol. A somewhat remote, perhaps precisely because of this, charming and lovely pass with a lot of forest, which finally leads to Bolzano on its west side.

Like a piece of racetrack in the middle of the Alps

The heavy traffic around the South Tyrolean city is unavoidable, but the little-known Mendel Pass is followed shortly after by an unexpected highlight. Not necessarily because of the grandiose views, more because of the perfectly developed road that winds over the pass, which is only 1363 meters flat. Gentle, even turns, no unpleasant surprises, the very finest level of grip, practically zero traffic – almost like a piece of racetrack in the middle of the Alps. That tempts some tourists to heat up: A group of Westphalian BMW drivers feel provoked, the leader gives everything with his BMW R 1200 R. But be careful, alpine glow is not a good idea here either.

Still, a power-naked like the BMW S 1000 R is good for a little exercise. It is always a very special pleasure to spur this four-cylinder powerhouse on. With such a sprint, everything just fits: an engine with gentle action, but incredible thrust in all speed regions. A landing gear as sharp as a jackknife, but without excessive nervousness. Brakes like ship anchors, but always finely adjustable. Assistance systems at their best, but no unnecessary frills.

The route leads through Trentino via Passo Tonale

When it came to massacring rebellious opponents, the BMW S 1000 R would always be the very first choice. The fact that such a planer doesn’t have the comfort of a travel enduro on bumpy terrain, okay, that’s the downside, the spring travel is sporty and short. And the fact that the tourist qualities are more subterranean has to be endured. At least 20 tingling kilometers compensate for some of the torture during long pass drives at a jerky pace.

The route leads through Trentino over the Passo Tonale, which is not worth mentioning. At Ponte di Legno we turn to the Passo di Gavia. Also one of the top ten highest alpine passes – and one of the most spectacular. Over the past few years, the picturesque south side of the Gavia has changed its face a lot. The author still remembers the former off-road track, today the entire route is paved. The narrow band still meanders along steep slopes without any security. Because cars can only pass each other at certain passing points, few tourists apart from cyclists get lost here.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


jkuenstle.de

Monumental perspective from the Sella Pass to the Pordoi massif, 1000 meters down from the Sass Pordoi almost vertically.

The course of the road is adventurous, and a machine like the KTM feels like it 1190 Adventure very well per se. Long suspension travel swallows rough bumpy slopes, the upright seating position provides an overview and a superior driving experience. If necessary, the engine pounds off with such power that the traction control in the lower three gears always has its hands full. But it works unnoticed in the background, the driver only recognizes it by the permanent flickering of the indicator light.

On top of that, the twin delivers so much power that it cannot be used on passes anyway. In contrast to the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, which floats uncoupled above everything else, the KTM counterpart is always more precise and binding. The chassis delivers crisp feedback when leaning and builds more confidence, it works in alternating curves KTM 1190 Adventure more manageable. However, the KTM rider has to pay a small contribution to the dynamic performance at the petrol station. And as far as the touristic side is concerned, such as wind protection, seating and driving comfort and the operating concept, the GS is definitely a tad better.

Review of the Alpine Masters 2009 and 2010 in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are the motorcycle area par excellence in the Alps, here there are beautiful landscapes and exciting routes in a very small space. Throngs of bikers can be found especially on the famous Sella Loop, but apart from it there are also quietly situated passes. The Dolomites can be reached quickly from southern Germany, and excellent infrastructure and gastronomy are offered everywhere. Only in the high season should you avoid the Sella Loop, as buses and mobile homes jam in front of the switchbacks.

MOTORRAD came here twice in previous years for the Alpine Masters, this year the preliminary round took place in the “Pale Mountains”. Somewhat surprisingly, the Honda CB 1300 prevailed in 2009. The silky smooth, powerful engine and the good driving and seating comfort were powerful arguments. As a reward, the Honda was carried up to the Sass Pordoi by cable car. A year later, the BMW R 1200 GS came into play for the first time, and the successful series of travel enduro bikes began. 

Winner 2009: Honda CB 1300

Winner 2010: BMW R 1200 GS

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

motorcycles


Alpine Masters 2009: Part 2


Mountaineer


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


Alpine Masters 2010: Part 2


The Alpine mega test 2010: super athletes, enduros and the final


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The Stilfser Joch


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


jkuenstle.de

Stilfser Joch: The legend among the passes. The hairpin bends are nowhere sharper.

Via Bormio, the test team reached their destination for the day, the Stilfser Joch, late in the evening. The west ramp from Bormio is less spectacular, but also has some attractions to offer with a waterfall and many tunnels. At the top of the pass we meet old friends. Bratwurst-Bruno, for example, a South Tyrolean original that still has the MOTORCYCLE flag from its first visit in 2005. From the Tibet hut you can enjoy the view of the Ortler massif and the famous turn of the Stilfser Joch.

As colleague Koch always says in such situations: “Your hat will fly away.” Almost 50 “Tornanti”, neatly numbered, have made the Stilfser Joch a legend. Almost a bit of a shame that asphalt asphalt has recently been covering the upper bends, where a few years ago the remains of the former bumpy natural stone slope were exposed. The original, the inadequate always creates the charm. But don’t worry, a motorway will never be such a mountain pass. And, thank God, the toll that has been threatened for years does not yet exist. Which would certainly not prevent the test drivers in the automotive industry from putting their more or less camouflaged pre-series vehicles through their paces here.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


BMW R 1200 GS Adventure in the driving report


Dynamism, that the spit stays away


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


Endurance test interim report BMW R 1200 GS (2014)


How does it look after 35,000 kilometers?


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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This is how it all started: Lead photo at the first Alpine Masters in 2005.

The hotel has also changed. Host and monster driver Hugo Ortler had to give up his house in Trafoi, which was slowly sliding down the slope millimeter by millimeter, and rebuilt a few hundred meters further down. Ultra-modern, but the old four-cylinder tap is still there. And of course the old hospitality. For the second travel enduro in the finals, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, the challenging winding slope of the south ramp is ideal terrain. A machine like a tank that exudes unshakable sovereignty. The BMW spoils with outstanding driving comfort, only the short edges and holes come through a bit hard. How the handiness of this giant bike is classified depends heavily on the size of the rider. With the long guys, everything fits perfectly, the short guys have more respect for their enormous size. And the sporty colleagues complain about the moderate feedback of the anakee tires.

The boxer, on the other hand, earns broad approval: dynamic at the top, powerful at the bottom, finely controllable. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure comes out of the hairpin bends with a lot of torque, the first gear has a nice short gear ratio for scrambling and maneuvering. The often criticized gearshift is only a marginal issue, accompanying noises when shifting in the lower gears are tolerable. The overall package is well thought out, and the operation is perfect. And the Adventure has the best luggage system of all machines. Torrent-like downpours over night and the miserable weather forecast force serious interventions in further planning the next day. Instead of following the thunderstorm-soaked Alpine ridge, it should go via Milan and Turin to the dry Piedmont as quickly as possible, in 2012 and 2013 the base station of the Alpine Masters.

Review of the Alpine Masters 2005/2006 and 2011 on the Stilfser Joch

You have to have been here once in your life, the Stilfser Joch is certainly one of the most famous of the Alpine passes. Not only because the Passo dello Stelvio is one of the highest mountain crossings, but above all because of its unique course of the road on the west ramp with the many switchbacks. Certain minimum driving requirements should be met; the testers have already seen machines fall over here. The detour to Switzerland into the Val Mustair over the Umbrail pass, which is partly still gravel, is highly recommended. The Stilfser Joch is, so to speak, the birthplace of the Alpine Masters, this is where the idea came about, and this is where the first major Alpine Test took place in 2005.

MOTORRAD has already visited the Stelvio three times, the starting point has always been the Hotel “Tannenheim” in Trafoi, located directly on the pass. A big surprise for many was the victory of the Suzuki V-Strom 650, which, despite its small displacement and manageable top performance, brought many big bikes to their knees. Proof that under such selective conditions it is the overall package that counts, not sheer size and performance. In 2006, V-Strom was able to defend its title on the Stelvio, and the BMW R 1200 GS also managed that here in 2011.

Winner 2005/2006: Suzuki V-Strom 650

Winner 2011: BMW R 1200 GS

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

motorcycles


Alpine Masters 2011: The final


KTM 990 SM T, Honda CBR 600 F, BMW K 1600 GT, Moto Guzzi Bellagio, Triumph Speed ​​Triple, BMW R 1200 GS


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Col de la Bonette


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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The 2013 Alpine Masters won the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure.

Pietraporzio near Cuneo in the evening, it’s dry – everything done right. The location at the foot of the busy Col de Larche between Italy and France, which the Italians call Colle della Maddalena, is not particularly attractive. The surrounding passes are all the more beautiful, which is why MOTORRAD has been here twice. The highlight of the test round was the highest alpine pass at all, the Col de la Bonette, at 2802 meters. Much better than the direct route via the Larche, however, is the detour via the Col de la Lombarde. A particularly scenic pass on the Italian side, remote from the usual routes, secluded and not very frequented. With its changing curves and partly slippery ground, it is also a challenging terrain for driving.

Especially today, because early in the morning a herd of cows dipped the street in a smeary, smooth, brown sauce. On the French side, above, below the top of the pass, is the rather ugly retort ski resort Isola 2000, which has been given a beautiful, wide access road. You can let it run properly on that. The two sporty powerhouses BMW S 1000 R and KTM 1190 Adventure, but also the somewhat clumsy Yamaha in switchbacks, are delighted FJR 1300 AE. The great Yamaha bravely endured the endless cornering of the past few days.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

motorcycles


Top test: KTM 1190 Adventure


Rally Express


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


Ducati Multistrada 1260 S (2018) in the top test


Sportswoman among the travel enduros


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Chopper / cruiser


MV Agusta Brutale 1090, KTM 1190 Adventure, Yamaha YZF-R1 and Ducati Diavel Carbon in the test


Concept comparison of naked bikes, enduro, athletes and cruisers


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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The journey to Piedmont goes via Milan and Turin.

Certainly the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE does not turn in as easily in switchbacks as the rest of the finalists, because a little more work has to be done on the handlebars. But compared to earlier FJR variants, some things have changed for the better. The current AE version drives less stubbornly, remains neutrally on course when leaning, and the electronic chassis springs comfortably and responds sensitively. On the wish list of the testers, however, there is still a little more torque, the large four-cylinder always seems rather restrained when accelerating from switchbacks. Instead, it runs smoothly, and load changes in earlier models are no longer an issue. As a replacement for the currently not available BMW R 1200 RT, which was able to impress in the preliminary round, the FJR is definitely doing very well and is more than passable in representing the Tourer category.

Jausiers was at that time the northern turning point of the Bonette circuit, it is not far from here to another pass legend, the Col du Galibier, where MOTORRAD stopped in 2007 and 2008. From Guillestre you could quickly get through the valley to Briançon via the Col de Vars. For connoisseurs, the detour via the Col d’Izoard is recommended, which looks like a Martian landscape due to its stony scree fields and pointed rock obelisks. The Col du Lautaret behind Briançon, on the other hand, is more of a connecting stage; the route to the Galibier branches off at the top of the pass.

Review of the Alpine Masters 2012 and 2013 on the Col de la Bonette

The scholars argue: Is the Iseran the highest alpine pass or is it the Bonette, which was given a few additional meters in altitude with a small loop? Even if something was helped, the Bonette is in first place in most ranking lists. But it doesn’t really matter, because the panoramic view of the French Alpine peaks from the Bonette is fantastic. Those who want to savor this can march 60 meters further up to the Cime de la Bonette, which offers an uninterrupted view of the Mercantour National Park.

The landscape is so extensive that up here some feel overwhelmed by loneliness in view of the gigantic mountain ranges. Twice the bonette was the emotional climax of the Alpine Masters, but the testers mostly had to deal with more mundane things. Because, as usual, 20 machines competed for the title, divided into five categories. In 2012 there was a stalemate for the first time in the election, with the BMW R 1200 GS and Triumph Tiger Explorer having to share the title in the end. Again two travel enduros, and again the GS was there, but still the earlier, air-cooled model. In 2013, the new, water-cooled version was launched on the Bonette for the first time, which thanks to its improved dynamics was able to take the lead straight away.

2012 winner: BMW R 1200 GS / Triumph Tiger Explorer

Winner 2013: BMW R 1200 GS

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


The big motorcycle test in the Alps


Alpen Masters 2012: the best motorcycle for the Alps


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


BMW F 800 GT, BMW HP4, BMW R 1200 GS, Honda CB 500 X, KTM 1190 Adventure R, Triumph Tiger Explorer, Triumph Street Triple


The grand final of the 2013 Alpine Masters


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Col du Galibier


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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From the top of the Galibier Pass, the view of the gigantic mountain ranges from the Barre des ecrins to the Montblanc is simply magnificent.

The humped southern ramp of this mystical Tour de France pass may not be particularly exciting to drive, but the panorama at the top of the pass takes your breath away. You feel like you are on the roof of the Alps. Cycling fans take a break at the monument to the tour creator Henri Desgrange, and the former winner Marco Pantani, who was doped up to the ruff, also received a plaque on the Galibier after his death.

The north side towards Valloire, the next destination, is more sparkling in every respect. The Honda NC 750 X is especially fun going downhill on such demanding passages where performance is not the issue. It follows the smallest steering impulses with ease, hops unmoved over rough pitting in the asphalt. Although the driver is not sitting particularly comfortably, you remain completely relaxed. A machine that earns a lot of sympathy because of its unpretentiousness. But when it comes to dynamics, you shouldn’t develop any ambition at all. The twin struggles bravely, but when the pace is increased, it tortures itself at the limiter. Nothing for hectic people, rather for those who enjoy life. Our hotel “Relais du Galibier” is located directly on the pass outside Valloire and offers simple rooms but excellent food.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


Honda NC 750 X in the driving report (2014)


A shot glass more displacement


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Enduro


BMW G 650 GS and Honda NC 750 X in the test


48 hp motorcycles in comparison


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Review of the 2007/2008 Alpine Masters on the Col du Galibier

The extensive landscape of the French Alps with its sparse settlements has its special charms, the driving pleasure on the smaller, less frequented passes around the Col du Galibier is incomparable. There is only through traffic on a few developed main roads in the valleys, which are better to avoid. A full tank is important here, there are not gas stations on every corner. From the top of the Galibier Pass, the view of the gigantic mountain ranges from the Barre des ecrins to the Montblanc is simply magnificent.

MOTORRAD visited this area twice, in both cases the starting point was the Hotel “Relais du Galibier” in Valloire. The winner was also the same in both years, namely the BMW R 1200 R. Which proves that not only enduros, but also other concepts in the Alps definitely have a chance of victory. The boxer roadster was able to prevail in the final against many disguised machines in 2007 and in 2008 even defended the title against the in-house enduro competition, the R 1200 GS.

Winner 2007/2008: BMW R 1200 R

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Tourer


MOTORRAD is looking for the King of the Alps in 2008


Alpen Masters, part 2


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Return trip


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Replacement for the actual winner in the Tourer category: The Yamaha FJR 1300 AE.

The last stage of the 2014 Alpine Masters has thus been reached, but on the return day there are still some great and renowned passes on the program on the way to Stuttgart. Especially the Iseran, with 2764 meters seven meters higher than the Stilfser Joch and therefore number two in the ranking. From Bourg-Saint-Maurice you could now take the short route through the Mont-Blanc tunnel to Martigny; we decide to take the detour via the Aosta Valley and the Little and Great Saint Bernard.

The latter is particularly worth mentioning with its beautiful south side, which is a lot of fun to drive with endless bends on the best surface. A good five days after leaving, the test team is back in Stuttgart. A little tired after 2650 kilometers in the saddle, but happy after fantastic experiences. Definitely a trip that all drivers will remember.

Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Naked bike


BMW S 1000 R in the driving report


“Maybe we calculated the price a bit cheap”


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Final of the Alpine Masters 2014

Tourer


BMW R 1200 RT, Triumph Trophy 1200 SE and Yamaha FJR 1300 AE in the test


Perfect equipment on two wheels


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Technical data and measured values


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Meeting at eye level: the test team at Col de la Lombarde.

  BMW
R 1200 GS Adventure
BMW
S 1000 R
Honda
NC 750 X
KTM
1190 Adventure
Yamaha
FJR 1300 AE
Yamaha MT-09
engine 2 cylinder 4 cylinder 2 cylinder 2 cylinder 4 cylinder 3 cylinder
Displacement 1170 cc 999 cc 745 cc 1195 cc 1298 cc 847 cc
perfomance 125 hp 160 hp 55 hp 150 hp 146 hp 115 hp
Torque 125 Nm 112 Nm 68 Nm 125 Nm 138 Nm 88 Nm
Weight with a full tank including accessories and cases 286 kg 210 kg 238 kg 261 kg 306 kg 195 kg
Payload 194 kg 197 kg 190 kg 179 kg 198 kg 170 kg
ABS / traction control ● / ● ● / ● ● /- ● / ● ● / ● ● /-
Price without additional costs 15,900 euros 12,800 euros 6490 euros 13,995 euros 18,795 euros 7795 euros
Price test motorcycle 20,675 euros¹ 14,950 euros² 9016 euros³ 18,861 euros 18,795 euros 8915 euros⁵
Test consumption Alps 6.0 l / 100 km 6.1 l / 100 km 4.4 l / 100 km 6.8 l / 100 km 6.5 l / 100 km 5.4 l / 100 km
theoretical range Alps 500 km 287 km 320 km 338 km 385 km 259 km

● = series; – = not available; ¹incl. Touring package (1740 euros) consisting of: ESA, case holder, Pro on-board computer, preparation for navigation system, cruise control, additional LED headlights; Comfort package (440 euros) consisting of: chrome-plated exhaust system, heated grips and TPMS; Dynamic package (1020 euros) consisting of: LED headlights, Pro driving modes, LED indicators; Navigation system (675 euros), aluminum cases (900 euros); ²incl. Sports package (790 euros) consisting of: shift assistant, DTC, cruise control and Pro driving modes; Dynamic package (910 euros) consisting of: DDC, heated grips, engine spoiler and LED indicators, tank bag (200 euros) and tail bag (250 euros); ³incl. Accessories (2526 euros) consisting of: touring windscreen (138 euros), fog lamps (717 euros), main stand (177 euros), case set (821 euros), heated grips (316 euros), decorative side panels (92 euros), decorative frame ( 169 euros), luggage rack (96 euros); an adventure package with an additional top case can be purchased for 2553 euros; ⁴incl. Electronics package (1400 euros) consisting of: EDS, TPMS, main stand, MSC; Comfort package (748 euros) consisting of: heated grips, heated ergo seat for driver and front passenger, high windshield, Akrapovic slip-on silencer (909 euros), touring suitcases (908 euros), additional headlights (397 euros), crash bars ( 252 euros) and aluminum engine protection (252 euros); ⁵incl. ABS (500 euros) and soft-bag saddlebags with holder (330 euros) and comfort seat (290 euros).

MOTORCYCLE passport assessment


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Mountains and peaks as far as the eye can see: the vastness of the French Alps is overwhelming.

order
of popularity
height country Points
Col de la Bonette 2715/2802 m France 10
Col de la Lombarde 2350 m France 10
Stelvio Pass 2757 m Italy 10
Col du Galibier 2642 m France 9
Col du Grand Saint-Bernard 2469 m France / Switzerland 9
Col d’Izoard 2361 m France 9
Passo di Gavia 2618 m Italy 8th
Col de I’Iseran 2764 m France 8th
Col du Petit Saint-Bernard 2188 m France 8th
Mendel Pass 1363 m Italy 7th
Pordoi Pass 2239 m Italy 7th
Sella Pass 2240 m Italy 7th
Col de Vars 2109 m France 7th
Karerpass 1745 m Italy 6th
Col du Lautaret 2058 m France 4th
Passo Tonale 1884 m Italy 4th
Col du Telegraphe 1566 m France 3
Fernpass 1216 m Austria 2
Brenner Pass 1370 m Austria / Italy 1

With passes it is similar to with motorcycles: You can count hairpin bends and curves, you can measure pass heights, you can compare data. Which pass is the most beautiful, the most impressive, remains a matter of opinion in the end. As a kind of support, the test team tried a completely subjective pass rating at the end, after all, in just under a week they had been to six of the ten highest Alpine passes and had visited the most beautiful regions of the Alps. The drivers had different favorite passes, but the bottom line was that they were largely in agreement. The fact that the highest passes in the Alps are in the favor of motorcyclists is certainly not due to the altitude covered, but to the great roads and landscapes into which these passes usually lead. Please note: Almost all passes have a sunny and a shady side, a beautiful and a less attractive.

MOTORCYCLE test crew rating


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Gert Thole (58), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, at the Pordoijoch.

“BMW R 1200 GS Adventure – concentrated alpine competence”

Gert Thole (58), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, at the Pordoijoch

Granted, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is a colossus, but just right for me at 1.90 meters tall. I love that confident driving experience. The travel comfort is sensational, the handling in curves and bends surprisingly easy. In terms of equipment and operation, the BMW is miles ahead anyway. The fact that the tires lack feedback when driving in a sporty way is something I can live with in the mountains. On the other hand, the stability on the track is unshakable, even when fully loaded. The KTM 1190 Adventure is certainly sportier and more direct, but the weaknesses in stability and wind protection are glaring.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Karsten Schwers (42), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, at the Col du Galibier.

“Yamaha FJR 1300 AE – maximum comfort on tours”

Karsten Schwers (42), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, at the Col du Galibier

For me, behind the two travel enduros is the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE. Thanks to comfortable ergonomics, electrical adjustment of the chassis and windscreen, it offers maximum comfort for two people on long stages. Even on narrow mountain passes, the more than 300 kg heavy 1300 is astonishingly easy to drive. However, the engine could work a little more powerfully from low speeds. Without a doubt, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure offers the best overall package for me, on the other hand the KTM 1190 Adventure weakens when it comes to straight-line stability, the engine is not as sophisticated and the consumption is high.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Sebastian Schmidt (33), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, on Sella Pass.

“Honda NC 750 X – is really fun, but only downhill”

Sebastian Schmidt (33), MOTORCYCLE, Germany, on Sella Pass

The small Honda NC 750 X is a really likeable motorcycle that can be driven stress-free on the tightest of passes. A real underdog, if it weren’t for these weak engine characteristics. Uphill with a load you have to constantly torment the twin at the limiter if you want to follow the others. Downhill is more fun. Otherwise, I like it to be comfortable, and the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE offers the best ride comfort, so it would be the first choice for me on such a long tour. The two adventure bikes can’t quite match that either. The KTM 1190 Adventure is too aggressive for me, the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure too big.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Sergio Romero (36), MOTOCICLISMO, Spain, at the Col de la Lombarde.

“Yamaha MT-09 – a lot of engine, but little chassis”

Sergio Romero (36), MOTOCICLISMO, Spain, at the Col de la Lombarde

I actually like such handy fun bikes as the Yamaha MT-09. The three-cylinder runs really fantastic, has power in all situations. It’s a shame that the chassis doesn’t work at the same level. The Yamaha is always a little out of balance and needs a firmer suspension. Comfort is lacking on long journeys anyway, the same applies to the BMW S 1000 R. Therefore, for me, the tourism concepts are ahead. The best overall package is provided by the KTM 1190 Adventure, with which you can travel but also ride in a sporty way. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is comfortable, but on passes it is too big and too heavy.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Federico Garbin (30), IN MOTO, Italy, on the Stilfser Joch.

“KTM 1190 Adventure – as crisp as an athlete”

Federico Garbin (30), IN MOTO, Italy, on the Stilfser Joch

The KTM 1190 Adventure combines the dynamism of an athlete with the comfort of a travel enduro. And the assistance systems are absolutely top notch, nobody else has cornering ABS. The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is perhaps the more complete motorcycle, but it’s just too powerful for me, and the Michelin anakee doesn’t give me a good feeling in corners either. The KTM certainly also has weaknesses, but the instability in the high-speed range is not decisive in the Alps. I was surprised by the Honda NC 750 X, it’s really easy to drive, very funny. It’s a shame that it has so little power.


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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Tomas Lofterud (58), MOTORCYCLE, Sweden, at Col d’Izoard

“BMW S 1000 R – for short, heavy fun”

Tomas Lofterud (58), MOTORCYCLE, Sweden, at Col d’Izoard

An exciting week, I will remember this trip through the Alps for the rest of my life. The KTM 1190 Adventure is my favorite because it is crisp and sporty. The BWM R 1200 GS Adventure certainly offers more stability and features, but for me it is too unwieldy and diffuse in turns. Behind that for me is the fast BMW S 1000 R with fantastic handling and an outstanding engine. Ideal for short fun on the pass, unfortunately a bit uncomfortable in the long run, the suspension is too hard. The Yamaha MT-09 has a great engine that is unfortunately missing in the Honda NC 750 X..

Alpen Masters final result & Conclusion


Final of the Alpine Masters 2014


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The winner of the Alpine Masters 2014: KTM 1190 Adventure.

Jury member BMW R 1200 GS Adventure BMW S 1000 R. Honda NC 750 X KTM 1190 Adventure Yamaha FJR 1300 AE Yamaha MT-09
Gert Thole (MOTORCYCLE) 1. 5. 4th. 2. 3. 6th.
Karsten Schwers (MOTORCYCLE) 1. 4th. 5. 2. 3. 6th.
Sebastian Schmidt (MOTORCYCLE) 3. 4th. 5. 2. 1. 6th.
Sergio Romero (MOTOCICLISMO) 2. 5. 4th. 1. 3. 6th.
Federico Garbin (IN MOTO) 2. 5. 4th. 1. 3. 6th.
Tomas Lofterud (MOTORCYCLE) 2. 3. 6th. 1. 4th. 5.
Total placement 11 26th 28 9 17th 35
Overall placement 2. 4th. 5. 1. 3. 6th.

Conclusion

Always exciting, the voting result, because it’s not about points and measured values, but only about the subjective judgment. This time, at the end of a 2650-kilometer tour, the naked bikes have a particularly difficult time. Clearly behind: The Yamaha MT-09. Tourers and travel enduros offer more comfort and bandwidth. In first place, three riders see the KTM 1190 Adventure, two the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and one the Yamaha FJR 1300 AE. The bottom line is that KTM wins by a narrow margin.

In the end, the KTM 1190 Adventure has the angular tip of the nose at the front. It combines a sporty V-Twin with plenty of travel comfort and high-tech equipment. A great final, a close victory, a worthy Alpine champion.

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