2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S Specs & Review

The 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a big-bore, tech-forward adventure machine built for riders who want long-distance comfort with serious road performance. In this KTM 1290 Super Adventure S review, we break down exactly what the numbers mean on the road so you can compare it confidently. If you’ve been searching for the definitive 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S specs, you’re in the right place.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75°
• Displacement: 1301 cm³ / 79.4 in³
• Power: 118 kW / 158.3 hp
• Torque: 138 Nm / 101.7 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-speed with PASC™ slipper clutch (hydraulically actuated)
• Wet weight: ~ 250 kg / 551.2 lbs
• Seat height: 849/869 mm / 33.4/34.2 in

Engine & Performance

KTM’s 1301 cm³ V-twin is the star here. With 118 kW (158.3 hp) and 138 Nm of torque, it delivers instant drive that makes city gaps effortless and highway passes almost thoughtless. The bore and stroke (108 mm x 71 mm) and a 13.1 compression ratio speak to its rev-happy yet muscular character, while liquid cooling keeps temperatures in check during hot commutes or long climbs.

The Keihin EFI (52 mm throttle bodies) and Keihin EMS with ride-by-wire (RBW), double ignition, and cruise control sharpen response and smooth drivability. A PASC™ slipper clutch reduces back-torque on aggressive downshifts, and the 6-speed gearbox feeds a 525 X-Ring chain for durability. Despite the performance focus, efficiency is respectable at 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 mpg), and CO₂ emissions are listed at 125 g/km. Stainless steel silencers with two catalytic converters underline its clean-running credentials without muting the V-twin’s personality.

Handling, Comfort & KTM 1290 Super Adventure S Seat Height

The chassis pairs a chrome-moly tubular space frame with an aluminum, powder-coated rear subframe—stiff where you want it, light where it matters. WP SAT (semi-active technology) suspension does the heavy lifting: a 48 mm upside-down fork up front and a semi-active rear shock, each with 200 mm (7.87 in) of suspension travel to soak up broken asphalt and rough backroads. A 1557 mm (61.3 in) wheelbase and a 65.3° steering head angle add stability at speed, while the aluminum tapered handlebar (Ø 28/22 mm) offers leverage in tight turns.

For comfort and control, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S seat height is adjustable: 849/869 mm (33.4/34.2 in). Shorter riders will appreciate the lower setting for easier footing, while taller riders can opt for the higher perch for more legroom. Ground clearance is a healthy 223 mm (8.8 in), and cast aluminium wheels strike a good balance for road-first adventure duty. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S weight is listed at ~ 250 kg (wet), with 227 kg without fuel and 220 kg dry—manageable on the move, though low-speed maneuvers demand respect and smooth clutch work.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious, with 320 mm front discs and a 267 mm rear disc governed by Bosch 10.3ME Combined-ABS (incl. Cornering-ABS and offroad mode). That means confident stopping even while leaned over, plus a looser offroad ABS setting for unpaved stretches. The WP SAT semi-active suspension constantly adapts, bringing comfort on long slogs and composure when you push.

Electronics are anchored by the Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, joined by electric start and hydraulic actuation for the PASC™ slipper clutch. Forced oil lubrication with three oil pumps enhances reliability. Fuel range is tour-ready thanks to a 23 l (6.1 gal) tank paired with 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 mpg) consumption. Details like the stainless steel primary and secondary silencer (two catalytic converters) and a powder-coated frame show the attention to durability and finish.

Who Is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S For?

This is a bike for experienced riders who want high power with long-haul comfort and real-world tech. It excels as a fast commuter, a weekend curve-missile, and a big-mile tourer. With semi-active suspension, Cornering-ABS (plus offroad mode), and cruise control, it’s a confident choice for mixed conditions and variable weather. Beginners will find the combination of power (118 kW / 158.3 hp) and mass (~ 250 kg wet) a bit much; intermediate-to-advanced riders will unlock its full potential.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S blends a thunderous 1301 cm³ V-twin with a sophisticated chassis and electronics package. Strengths include its 138 Nm torque punch, WP SAT semi-active suspension with 200 mm travel, Bosch Cornering-ABS with offroad mode, and a touring-friendly 23 l tank backed by 41.3 mpg consumption.

Trade-offs? The tall 849/869 mm seat and ~ 250 kg wet weight may intimidate newer or shorter riders, and its performance-first demeanor invites a responsible right hand. But for enthusiasts who want big-bore thrust, long-distance comfort, and advanced safety tech in one package, it’s a standout pick in the large ADV road-biased segment.

FAQ

• Is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S good for beginners? With 118 kW (158.3 hp), 138 Nm, and a wet weight of ~ 250 kg, it’s better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? 849/869 mm (33.4/34.2 in).

• How heavy is the 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? Wet weight is ~ 250 kg (551.2 lbs), weight without fuel is 227 kg (500.4 lbs), and dry weight is 220 kg (485 lbs).

• What fuel economy does it get, and what’s the tank size? Fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 mpg) with a 23 l (6.1 gal) tank.

• Does it have cornering ABS and cruise control? Yes. It features Bosch 10.3ME Combined-ABS (incl. Cornering-ABS and offroad mode) and Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control.