KTM 1290 Super Adventure S — RevSync Review
The 1290 Super Adventure S is KTM’s sport-touring flagship in the Adventure family — potent V-twin performance, advanced electronics and chassis hardware tuned for high-speed touring and serious long-distance capability.
Jump to Full Specifications ↓First Impressions & Ride Summary
The 1290 Super Adventure S greets you with a commanding presence and a broad performance envelope — it’s quick, stable and surprisingly composed for a big-bore ADV. The V-twin’s torque delivery makes overtakes effortless and the chassis inspires confidence whether you’re cruising the highway or threading corners on sweepers.
This is a bike built for long days in the saddle and high-speed touring with the hardware and electronics to back it up.
Design & Ergonomics
The S model combines aggressive KTM styling with touring practicality: a sculpted tank for comfortable long-distance knee grip, ergonomics that balance sporty control with touring comfort, and a tall adjustable screen that tames windblast on the highway.
Build quality is premium, and mounting points for luggage and accessories are integrated without looking like an afterthought — this is a machine designed to be ridden hard and loaded for travel.
Engine & Performance
The 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin (market-dependent tune) delivers strong mid-range torque and a broad spread of power, making it effortless to maintain high cruising speeds while still providing punchy acceleration. The gearbox is a slick 6-speed with quickshifter and a slip/assist clutch for relaxed clutch use in traffic.
Ride modes, refined fueling and selectable traction control help tailor the bike’s behaviour from aggressive sport riding to relaxed touring or dirt-access trails.
Handling & Chassis
The trellis frame and long-travel WP suspension are tuned to balance high-speed stability with compliance for rough roads. The S trim focuses on on-road performance with settings that keep chassis movement controlled under load and at speed, while still allowing confident handling on gravel or worn surfaces.
Adjustability for preload and damping lets you tailor the bike to solo or two-up riding with luggage; the steering geometry keeps the bike stable under heavy braking and fast changes of direction.
Braking
High-spec Brembo braking hardware (market-dependent) with cornering ABS gives exceptional stopping power and stability under heavy braking. The lever feel is firm and progressive, and the system supports aggressive deceleration even with luggage aboard.
Brake feel and modulation are excellent for both sport riding and fully-loaded touring demands.
Touring & Comfort
The 1290 S is built to eat miles: comfortable seat, wind-protected ergonomics and a large tank give you serious range between stops. Cruise control, TFT connectivity and navigation assist options make route-following and long days simpler and less tiring.
Pillion comfort is good for the class and accessory options (racks, heated grips, touring seats) are widely available to increase long-distance usability.
Owner Experience & Community Opinion
Owners praise the 1290 S for its effortless long-range performance and confidence-inspiring dynamics. Typical owner upgrades include luggage systems, tall windscreens, and tailored suspension setup for heavy touring loads. Maintenance costs are higher than smaller KTMs, but many owners accept that as part of the flagship experience.
1290 Super Adventure S owners — share accessory lists, comfort mods and long-route tips to help fellow riders prepare for high-mileage expeditions. Leave your comment.
Pros & Cons
- Massive, tractable V-twin performance for sustained touring
- Advanced electronics and rider aids tuned for all conditions
- Comfort and stability for high-speed, long-distance riding
- Expansive accessory ecosystem for true expedition builds
- High purchase and running costs compared to smaller ADVs
- Heavier than single-cylinder machines for tight technical trails
- Some owners may prefer a more off-road-focused R or Rally variant
Full Specifications
Engine & Transmission
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° liquid-cooled with water/oil heat exchanger |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1301 cc |
| Maximum Power | 160 hp (118 kW) @ 9,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 140 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.6:1 |
| Fuel System | Bosch EFI with ride-by-wire throttle |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 compliant |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with slipper clutch and quickshifter+ |
| Starting | Electric start only |
Chassis & Suspension
| Frame | Lightweight steel trellis frame, powder coated |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | WP APEX Semi-Active 48 mm USD fork, electronically adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | WP APEX Semi-Active shock absorber, electronically adjustable |
| Suspension Travel | Front 200 mm, Rear 200 mm |
| Seat Height | Adjustable 847–867 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,580 mm |
| Ground Clearance | Approx. 260 mm |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 240–250 kg |
Brakes, Wheels & Tyres
| Front Brake | Dual 320 mm discs with Brembo four-piston calipers |
|---|---|
| Rear Brake | 267 mm disc with Brembo caliper |
| ABS | Cornering ABS with multiple customizable settings (off-road / rally modes) |
| TPMS | Included |
| Tires | Front 120/70 ZR19, Rear 170/60 ZR17 (Dunlop Meridian) |
Electronics & Features
| Display | 8.8-inch full-colour TFT, optically bonded |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth calls, music, navigation assist |
| Advanced Aids | Front radar (adaptive cruise optional), Radar-assisted adaptive cruise (optional), Ride modes incl. Rally |
| Other | Keyless ignition (ARA), LED cornering lights, adjustable ergonomics, onboard toolbox, aerodynamic winglets |
Performance & Fuel
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 litres |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | ~230 km/h (claimed) |
| Mileage (Real World) | 12–16 km/l |
