2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

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2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. (KTM/)

Overview

Don’t underestimate the capabilities of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S off highway, but this variation of KTM’s “large-capacity extreme adventure” model offers quite a few high-tech features that make it a much better touring machine than its “R” sibling.

Features that are specific to the S model start with the WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension with electronically controlled damping, and if you add Suspension Pro, the preload adjustments can be individually made manually or automatically. Suspension travel measures 7.9 inches at each end compared to the R’s 8.7 inches. Touring amenities like the taller and adjustable windscreen (with 2.1 inches of range), a lower seat height (33.3 to 34 inches), radar-enabled Adaptive Cruise Control, and less aggressive tires all improve highway riding comfort.

The same 1,301cc 75-degree LC8 V-twin powers the S, cranking out a claimed 160 hp and 102 lb.-ft. of torque. A crankshaft with low reciprocating weight gives it a free-revving nature, while huge, lightweight 108mm forged-aluminum pistons (with 71mm of stroke) were designed to rev. The cylinder heads feature double overhead cams with four valves per jug, and DLC-coated cam followers for max efficacy and reduced friction. The heads have twin plugs to ensure maximum burn and optimize combustion. Electronic fuel injection feeds the cylinders with a pair of 52mm throttle bodies, while an exhaust system with a pair of catalyzers not only maximizes flow, but meets the latest emissions limits.

A suite of rider aids is shared between the S and the R. There are modes for every type of riding, lean-sensitive ABS and Motorcycle Traction Control, and an Offroad ride mode, Off-road traction control, and Off-road ABS. Or splurge and get the Tech Pack, which adds all of the optional add-ons including: the Rally Pack (Rally Mode, MTC Spin Adjuster, Engine Map Selection), Quickshifter+, Suspension Pro, Hill Hold Control, and Motor Slip Regulation. Many of the options can be added à la carte. The aforementioned cruise control, a tire pressure monitoring system, keyless operation, and a large 7-inch TFT interface are other electronic highlights.

The frame is chromoly-steel trellis design mated to a die-cast aluminum swingarm. Wheels are tubeless spoked aluminum rims in 19-inch front and 17-inch rear sizes. One of the biggest differences between the R and the S is the semi-active suspension. The damping settings are tied to the modes and other electronic choices the rider has made. For instance, if you’re in Sport mode versus Offroad, the damping will be dramatically different. Order up the Suspension Pro and you can tailor the suspension to your liking.

High-end Brembo brakes front and rear are mated to the advanced ABS and will get the 1290 slowed down from triple-digit speeds on any surface without fanfare.

2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. (KTM/)

Pricing and Variants

The 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S starts at $20,999, while there are various tiers of electronic rider-aid upgrades available.

2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. (KTM/)

Competition

• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/motorcycle-news/new-bmw-r-1300-gs-adventure-bike-announced/"><b>BMW R 1300 GS, $18,895</b></a>
• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/motorcycle-reviews/ducati-multistrada-v4-s-grand-tour-first-ride-review/"><b>Ducati Multistrada V4 S Grand Tour, $28,395</b></a>
• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/bikes/triumph-tiger-1200-rally-and-gt-explorer-first-look/"><b>Triumph 1200 GT Explorer, starting at $23,795</b></a>
• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/harley-davidson/pan-america-1250-special/"><b>Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special, $19,999</b></a>
• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/honda/africa-twin-adventure-sport-es/"><b>Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, $17,599</b></a>
• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/suzuki-v-strom-1050/"><b>Suzuki V-Strom 1050, $15,299</b></a>

News and Reviews

• <a href="https://www.cycleworld.com/story/motorcycle-reviews/open-class-adventure-bikes-comparison-test-2022/"><b>Open-class Adventure Comparison</b></a>

2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S Claimed Specs

MSRP:	$20,999
Engine:	DOHC, liquid-cooled LC8 V-twin; 4-valve
Displacement:	1,301cc
Bore x Stroke:	108.0 x 71.0mm
Compression Ratio:	13.1:1
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel System:	Electronic fuel injection w/ 52mm throttle bodies; ride-by-wire
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate PASC slipper; hydraulic actuation
Frame:	Chromoly steel trellis
Front Suspension:	48mm WP, electronically adjustable semi-active damping; 7.9 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	Piggyback WP monoshock, electronically adjustable semi-active compression and rebound damping, automatic electronic preload, optional Adjustable Ride Height; 7.9 in. travel
Front Brake:	4-piston radial-mount Brembo calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	2-piston Brembo caliper, 267mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Cast aluminum; 19 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 5.00 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	120/70-19 / 170/60-17
Rake/Trail:	24.7°/NA
Wheelbase:	61.3 in.
Ground Clearance:	8.8 in.
Seat Height:	33.4 to 34.2 in.
Fuel Capacity:	6.1 gal.
Wet Weight (w/o fuel):	500 lb.
Contact:	ktm.com

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