How do you maintain dominance when you sell what’s arguably the most bonkers ADV bike on the market? Easy. Make it more bonkers.
KTM has followed this strategy with the 1290 Super Adventure, by releasing an upgraded street version (1290 Super Adventure S) and offroad version (1290 Super Adventure R) at Intermot. The existing model will now be known as the 1290 Super Adventure T. The S model will replace the 1190 Adventure.
The engine has been retuned in the new models, now kicking out 160 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque. Both bikes also feature KTM’s comprehensive electronics package — leaning ABS, traction control, riding modes, launch assist, cruise control, etc. The R and S models use Bosch’s MSC system to tie all these bells and whistles together.
The 1290s get Brembo brakes, with 320 mm discs up front (with four-piston radial calipers) and a single 267 mm disc in back.
The R model also has an offroad-friendly ABS system that allows users to turn off the rear wheel’s antilock system; options including launch assist for uphill starts on loose terrain and an engine management mode that prevents rear wheel slipping and losing traction during deceleration offroad.
Add in fully-adjustable WP suspension for the R model (220 mm of travel, with stiffer front forks to prevent wallowing, and rear shock offering progressive damping). Of course, it gets a 21-inch wheel up front and 18-inch in back. Tires are Continental’s TKC80 or Trail Attack II. Although the R model has spoked rims, it has runs tubeless tires, with a pressure monitoring system. Seat height is 890 mm.
The S model’s highlights include semi-active suspension (also by WP) and Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires. Wheels are 19-inch in front, 17-inch in rear. Seat height is adjustable between  860 and 875 mm.
Both bikes feature LED lighting all-around (including cornering lights), a keyless ignition, and waterproof phone compartment and USB charging port. Canadian availability has not been announced yet.
GALLERY
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[…] a bold gambit, but that’s what KTM did when it unveiled the Super Adventure S at Intermot in 2016. It was a warning shot to the other manufacturers: KTM wanted everyone to know it had the baddest […]