KTM unveils three new 1290 Super Adventure models for 2017

KTM’s largest capacity road bike, the 1290 Super Adventure, has been revised for 2017 with not one, not two but three versions of the Adventure Travel Enduro machine now available. 

Along with the two new 1090 models, it appears as though the 1050 and 1190 have had their day.

The 1290 Super Adventure comes in S, R and T model designations and all three have been unveiled this afternoon at Intermot, the Cologne-based motorcycle show ahead of their availability in the UK at the start of next year when the Euro4 emissions regulations come into play.

Just two years ago the Austrian firm introduced the world to the 160bhp monster; a £16,199 super tourer that will get from 0-60mph in under 4 seconds yet has more than just a nod in the direction of its off-road heritage. A 30 litre tank offers 240+ miles, it covers the ground quickly with a sporty nature and very decent handling. Ok, it lacks the refinement of a Multistrada Enduro or an R1200GSA but is an extremely accomplished motorcycle.

So what’s new and why do we need three versions? Based on the specification, the ‘T’ model is nigh-on identical to the outgoing 2016 model.

The steel trellis frame still houses a 1,301 cc, 75° V-twin based on the engine of the 1290 Super Duke R. However, its intake has gained newly developed expansion chambers for what KTM describe as “even more refinement and smoother power delivery especially in the low and mid range.”

The same 160bhp is provided but the R loses 13kg in weight and is down to 216kg (dry) thus increasing its power-to-weight ratio.