When we saw the debut of the revised KTM 1290 Super Adventure S for the 2021 model year, we knew that there had to be a revision coming to the bike’s more off-road capable sibling, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. And, we were right.
Updated for the new model year, today we get our first glimpse of the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R motorcycle.
At first glance, we can see that KTM has revised the entire ergonomic package, including the fairing design, which allows the fuel tank to be held closer to the bike’s center of gravity (following the trend set by the KTM 790 Adventure and onward).
Of note, the three-part fuel tank now holds 23 liters (6.07 gallons) of gasoline.
On the chassis side, KTM says that the trellis swingarm has been lengthened, while the steering head has been moved back by 15mm. KTM says this makes the Super Adventure lineup more stable in off-road terrain.
Suspension is handled by WP, with 220mm (8.66 inches) of travel on both the XPLOR forks and PDS rear shock, which are fully adjustable. Of course, there is a 21″ hoop on the front wheel, for maximum adventuring.
A new 7″ TFT “fish finder” dash is used and sports a new design layout, and there are also a bevy of redesigned handlebar switches, both of which aim to increase the look and feel of motorcycle.
The 1,301cc engine has been updated for the Euro5 homologation, and boasts 160hp with 101 lbs•ft of torque. Overall, the LC8 engine is now lighter by about 3 lbs, thanks to thinner engine cases and a reworked oil circulation network.
There is also a revised oil/water cooling system going to the v-twin motor, with the two new radiators working with the redesigned bodywork to channel warm air away from the rider’s legs.
A six-axis IMU continues to be used by the traction control and cornering ABS systems, and it also aids the motor slip regulation, motorcycle stability control, and off-road ABS activation.
As is the case with its S model counterpart, the new KTM 1290 Super Adventure R benefits from a remodelled optional software package policy. With the Rally Pack offering the RALLY riding mode, the MTC slip adjuster, and adjustable throttle response.
Meanwhile, the all-in-one Tech Pack includes the Quickshifter+, Motor Slip Regulation, Hill Hold Control, adaptive brake light, and all the features of the Rally Pack.
Oddly enough, KTM makes no mention of its adaptive cruise control feature on the Super Adventure R, despite the bike seemingly outfitted with the radar emitter on the front of the bike.
Considering that KTM’s media website is also having difficulties, perhaps it’s a tough day the Austrian office (apologies for the super low-res photos here, we will rectify this).
Lastly and of note, we do not expect to see the new KTM 1290 Super Adventure R in the United States until 2022, as is the case with the other new 1290 models, like the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S model and the still unannounced KTM 1290 Super Duke GT.
Source: KTM
Comments