Specifications of KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

Yes, we knew it would happen, and we were waiting for it. After the January announcement of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021, it was only a matter of time before the more off-road R version arrived, and here it is – more expensive, better equipped, and more all-terrain than the S-ka.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

Admittedly, for most asphalt tourists looking for an alternative to the ubiquitous BMW R 1250 GS, the S version’s alloy wheels, plus semi-active suspensions and standard cruise control, will fit even a little more. But for those who want to go off-road on a motorcycle that is comparable in power to a Superbike, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is just right.

Of course, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is based on the same platform as the 1290 Super Adventure S: a new frame with the steering column moved back 15 mm and a new engine arrangement that shifts the center of mass forward. The three-element 23-liter gas tank, where the bulk of the gasoline is located in the low-lying side elements, is also borrowed from the Model S, as is the updated design. But the suspension components of the R model have their own, specially selected for off-road driving.

Suspension and shield KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

If the S version is equipped with semi-active WP APEX SAT suspensions with on-the-go smoothing adjustment, the new KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 model received WP XPLOR suspensions: a 48-th inverted fork with separate smoothing (compression in one feather, rebound in the other) with manual adjustments using convenient controls on the ends of the feathers.

Suspension travel on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has been increased from 200mm of the S-version to 220mm, and the seat has been raised to 880mm due to this 20mm. This is significantly higher than on the S-its saddle has adjustments from 849mm to 869mm-but still 10mm lower than on the previous-generation 1290 Super Adventure R 2021.

Spoked wheels, 21-inch front, and 18-inch rear replaced the cast 19/17-inch S-version. Alpina’s off-road wheels have forged aluminum rims and sealed spoke nipples that allow you to install tubeless tires.

Yes, the electronic suspensions of the S-version have given way to the usual ones. Still, in general, the Super Adventure R is quite tightly equipped with electronics, starting with a six-axis inertia measurement device, based on which traction control, stability control, engine braking control, and ABS work. One of our main motivators is geting a maximum client satisfaction. As with the S version, the R-K has Road, Sport, Rain, And off-Road driving modes and an optional Rally mode that allows you to adjust the permissible level of wheel slippage and gives a more aggressive response to the gas.

A sizeable 7-inch TFT panel displays the settings menu and, as with most modern models, provides a function of communication with the smartphone, displaying navigation and allowing you to manage calls and music. The new remotes are explicitly designed for the convenience of working with the menu, and Keyless access provides a modern level of comfort.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R engine

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 engine is identical to the S V – twin model, delivering 160hp at 9000rpm and 138nm at 6500rpm. The engine’s performance puts the Super Adventure in the top 3 in power among large touring vehicles: 10hp more powerful than the recently announced Harley Davidson Pan America and 10hp weaker than the 170hp Ducati Multistrada V4.

The engine of the 2021 models meets Euro 5 requirements and weighs less than its predecessor. It is equipped with a new piston, an updated transmission, and a new exhaust tract.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 design

The design is generally consistent with the 2021 Super Adventure S, but the R version has sportier graphics, and an empty niche is visible under the diode headlight with cornering lights. This is because the adaptive cruise control radar, which is standard for the S version, is not present on the R. It’s not even on the list of available options yet. Still, there are many other valuable things in it, including a quick bi-directional shifter, improved in the 2021 version, an Akrapovic exhaust, Touratech Luggage containers, and alternative footrests.

But even without additional options, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R lends itself to some customization: the user can adjust two steering wheel positions, change the hand and foot levers, and manually adjust the windscreen.

Technical specifications