2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Specs & Review

The 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a big-bore, V-twin adventure bike built for riders who want serious off-road capability without sacrificing long-haul comfort. This KTM 1290 Super Adventure R review focuses on what the factory sheet tells us: power, chassis, and equipment that matter when the pavement ends.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1301 cm³ / 79.4 in³
• Power: 118 kW / 158.3 hp
• Torque: 138 Nm / 101.7 lb-ft
• Wet weight: ~ 251 kg / 553 lbs
• Seat height: 880 mm / 34.6 in
• Engine type: 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°, liquid cooled

Engine & Performance

On paper, the 1301 cm³ V-twin is the star. With 118 kW (158.3 hp) and 138 Nm of torque, the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R specs point to relentless drive from low rpm and effortless highway pace. In the city, that torque means fewer shifts and easy roll-ons; on twisty backroads or gravel, it’s the kind of shove that lets you loft over ruts and pass with confidence.

The fueling package is premium: Keihin EFI with 52 mm throttle bodies and Keihin EMS with RBW (ride-by-wire), double ignition, and cruise control for steady-state cruising. A PASC slipper clutch (hydraulically actuated) paired with a 6-speed transmission keeps downshifts calm on loose surfaces, while the liquid-cooled design and a 13.1 compression ratio underline the engine’s modern performance. Stainless steel primary and secondary silencers with two catalytic converters keep it compliant without dulling character.

Practicality isn’t ignored. Claimed fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 mpg), and with a 23 l (6.1 gal) tank, the bike is set up for long stretches between stops.

Handling, Comfort & KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Seat Height

The chassis is built around a chrome-moly tubular space frame (powder-coated) with an aluminum rear subframe, delivering strength with minimal excess. Suspension is fully adventure-ready: WP XPLOR-USD Ø 48 mm up front and a WP Xplor PDS shock at the rear, each offering 220 mm (8.7 in) of travel. Spoked wheels with aluminum rims underscore its off-road focus.

Geometry numbers hint at stability and control: a 1577 mm (62.1 in) wheelbase and a 64.7° steering head angle steady the bike at speed, while a 242 mm (9.5 in) ground clearance keeps hardware clear of rocks. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R seat height is 880 mm (34.6 in). For taller riders, the roomy triangle feels natural standing or seated; shorter riders may find the reach tall, especially on off-camber stops.

As for mass, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R weight comes in at ~ 251 kg (553 lbs) wet. Weight without fuel is 228 kg (502.7 lbs), and the stated dry weight is 221 kg (487.2 lbs). At parking-lot speeds, that heft demands attention; once rolling, the long-travel WP suspension and wide aluminum tapered handlebar (Ø 28/22 mm) help the bike feel composed and precise for its size.

Equipment & Features

Braking and electronics are adventure-grade. Bosch 10.3ME Combined-ABS includes Cornering-ABS and an offroad mode, providing confidence on variable surfaces. Up front, twin 320 mm discs deliver strong initial bite, with a 267 mm disc at the rear for controlled modulation on dirt.

The Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control supports smooth fueling and reduced fatigue on long days. Forced oil lubrication with three oil pumps speaks to durability, and a 525 X-Ring chain handles power delivery. The package rounds out with amenities like an electric starter, stainless dual-catalyst silencers, and the sturdy chrome-moly frame, all tailored for the abuse of real-world adventure riding.

Who Is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R For?

This bike is best suited to experienced riders who want a serious off-road-capable adventure machine that still devours highway miles. Daily commuters will appreciate cruise control and a tractable engine, but the tall 880 mm seat height and ~ 251 kg wet weight mean it’s not the friendliest first big bike. Weekend explorers and long-distance travelers who prioritize power, suspension travel, and braking tech will find a lot to like.

Torquepedia Verdict

If your shortlist prioritizes big torque, long-travel suspension, and advanced braking, the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a top contender. The spec sheet delivers: 138 Nm of shove, WP XPLOR components with 220 mm travel, and Bosch 10.3ME with Cornering-ABS and offroad mode. Add Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, and you’ve got a high-performance package built for hard use.

The trade-offs are predictable for the class: a tall 880 mm seat and a wet mass around 251 kg demand respect at low speed and may intimidate shorter riders. Still, with 5.7 l/100 km consumption, a 23 l tank, and rugged hardware, it’s a compelling pick for riders who want maximum capability from their adventure bike.

FAQ

• Is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R good for beginners?

  • It’s better suited to experienced riders due to its 118 kW (158.3 hp) output, 138 Nm torque, 880 mm seat height, and ~ 251 kg wet weight.

• What is the seat height of the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R?

  • The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R seat height is 880 mm (34.6 in).

• How heavy is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R?

  • Wet weight is ~ 251 kg (553 lbs). Weight without fuel is 228 kg (502.7 lbs), and dry weight is 221 kg (487.2 lbs).

• What are the headline 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R specs?

  • 1301 cm³ V-twin (V 75°), 118 kW (158.3 hp), 138 Nm, 6-speed, liquid cooled, and WP suspension with 220 mm front/rear travel.

• Does it have cornering ABS and cruise control?

  • Yes. It features Bosch 10.3ME Combined-ABS with Cornering-ABS and offroad mode, plus Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control.