The GT can't be compared to the GS. If you a KTM GS equivalent its the 1290 SAdv S (or R). They're upright adventure bikes. The GT is in a category of one: a sports tourer based as Jimmy says, on a barely disguised super naked rather than a sports bike. I haven't ridden the GT either but I might test ride one next year out of curiosity because for me the adventure is the best touring format I've tried. The comfort, the commanding riding position, the roominess, and nowadays, the performance and handling. I've no plans to part with my 1190 any time soon but when I do it'll be for a 1290 Adv not a GS.
Followed the MCN long term test on the GT and it looked great so when i saw the discount i got one. Going for first service this week, so 600 miles in. Comfortable for 6'2" 16 stone fat bloke. Suspension seems to reward commitment and expect to see improvement as it settles in as has been mentioned by others, just dont bother with comfort as it turns into a boat. Great long legs, reminds me of the 999 in that respect but with sharper handling and the performance is astonishing given it hasnt been above 6500 rpm, honest officer ;-). Find my GS LC vastly undergeared in comparison but they are completely different rides. Looking forward to trying it out properly when the weather improves.
I have had the gt for a year and done 7k+ so far It is by far the best bike I have ridden, but its horses for courses. Long distance Id take a GS, track Id take a sports bike, but for an all rounder the GT is unbeatable The engine is insane, but so easy to use The adjustable suspension is excellent, comfort mode on bumpy town roads or motorway journeys, and stiffer modes for the corners. Id hate to be without it Wind protection is perfect, not too much, not too little, no buffeting Heated seats/grips + screen + the larger tank fairings give decent protection from rain and cold, winter commutes on motorway are fine The negatives are no centre stand, no autoblipper, and that they just slashed the price lol, but for 11k?! you would be mad to look anywhere else for a daily ride/all rounder imo Got to wait and see all the lovely new bikes that will come out, but in a year or 2, if things are as they are now, I will be getting another GT
