2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure Review
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- čas přidán 30. 07. 2024
- I review a 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure (courtesy of Ride on Moto in Winchester, VA). I rode the bike both on road and off road with many of the miles being two-up. I was not paid or compensated in any way for this review.
For full specs and more information on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure click here: www.ktmadventure.com/en/models...
Ride On Moto - Authorized KTM Dealer
www.rideonmoto.com
540-722-7100
parts@rideonmoto.com
4110 Valley Pike
Winchester, VA 22602
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Mario Orsini
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Bunker Hill, WV 25413 - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Great review, I test rode one today and was surprised at how light and maneuverable it was. Thanks for the insight from your passenger because that is a concern for me(and my girl) as well.
you know what man actually i watched lots of review channels about this bike and you were the best by far you covered everything i wanted to learn especially the passenger subject. thanks for the good info and a fun video to watch.
Thanks, I appreciate that. I'm glad you got the information you were looking for out of it. If you have any other questions just let me know and I'll do my best to try to answer them.
I have this exact bike and Im 6'4" and I have no buffeting issues at all with the seat in normal and the windshield high, fantastic bike.
Thanks. The KTM's seem to be awesome rides from the vids I've seen and articles I've read.
tnx for posting & sharing
What's the Pannier capacity & what is your impression, do they seems durable to sustain off road terrain long distances Etc. ??
czcams.com/video/aTo8dm2gH8U/video.html
Just bought a 2015 with only 3000miles ! Can't wait to catch up on all your videos about ur 16 1290!
Awesome man! Congrats!
Awesome video thanks for sharing
Nice review. I'm looking at switching from a Harley Electra Glide to this exact bike. My wife had hip surgery in January, and when she rides on the back of the Harley her legs are forced outward which causes her hips to become uncomfortable on long rides. Did your girl have any problems with hip discomfort?
Thanks for the question. Kristen's never had any hip discomfort. Coming off of the Yamaha she had some soreness in her knees but that disappeared on the KTM as she said"her knees and hips were better aligned. I don't think your wife will have any hip issues on the KTM (and you're gonna have a lot of fun too).
I saw one of your responses mentioned that you tried the 1190 Adventure R with a passenger as well. I too ride with a passenger most of the time, and I am curious how different the SA is for a passenger/overall. I was just wondering if you believe the extra money for the 1290 SA was worth it? I currently have a regular 1190 Adventure, and have been toying with the idea of upgrading to the 1290 SA.
The 1190R and 1290SA are two totally different animals. To me, the 1190R is a great off road bike you can tour on while the 1290SA is a touring bike you can take off road. From a passenger standpoint I think they'll be able equally comfortable but there's no way I could talk Kristen into giving up the heated seat of the 1290SA now. From a rider standpoint, I much prefer the1290SA when riding two up because I can change the dampening with the press of a couple of buttons instead of having to manually adjust the forks and rear shock. They're both great bikes; just depends on the type of riding you're going to do most.
Mario, I know from watching your videos of the trip you and your sister took out West that you’ve ridden on some very hot days. I found the KTM 1190 I had was quite warm (for me) on the right leg. Is that an issue at all on your 1290? Thank you.
It hasn't been an issue for me but I do always wear riding pants when I'm touring. Additionally, my 1290 has some insulation (from the factory) around the rear exhaust manifold (KTM part number 60405008000) which likely helps.
Great vid. I have the same bike. Did you ever do anything about the steering damper? Is there a good replacement? Thanks.
I've just left it stock for now. It hasn't bothered me enough to replace it yet. HyperPro makes one that's affordable (more so than the Scott's) that's supposed to be a nice upgrade from stock.
Thank you for the excellent review, subscribed! You answered a bunch of questions that no one else hits on, especially having Kristins input on passenger comfort! With that being said, did you notice any heat issues from the exhaust?
Thanks! I didn't notice anything heat from the exhaust, not did she. I have read that some have complained about the heat from the rear cylinder but I didn't. That said, I was wearing a pretty heavy riding jean.
Mate your reviews are just awesome. Indeed this seems to be one hell of a bike and would encompass everything I want from two wheels. Well done Chris as well for some very objective feedback. Thanks for the insight into this great machine, have made things a lot clearer for me when I retire soon and get that lovely present from me to me as a reward. By the way I also come from an FJR so everything made a lot of sense.
Thanks Roger! I'm glad you found it informative. Congrats on the impending retirement! A Super Adventure (or any motorcycle) is a great reward!
2 Wheeled Rider,
I really enjoyed your video and talking through your videos.
Nice bike, nice places, Beautiful Country, nice partner , and great life, fantastic relay of information.
Thanks Guy's!
Thanks Kevin, I appreciate it. I'll be out on most of the new 18s once they hit the states.
Great review
I am about to get a 15' and my question is if I can update the software like the 16' brings?
What is wrong with the cartridge? Which one to get?
Thanks so much
Marcelo
Thanks. Yes, you can get the software update on the '15 though chances are the dealer has already done it and the same may be the case for the (right inner rebound) fork cartridge. I don't know exactly what was wrong with them but they were making a "clunk" noise. Assuming the updates have been made on the '15, it's exactly the same as the 16 so I'd buy whichever one is cheapest.
Try to get the 16 if you can, or already have. My 15 has the "clunk" and I'm having difficulty getting them to replace the cartridge. And keep an eye our for electrical gremlins. Mine's been back for repairs a few times. It's too bad. I love the engine and the bike, but I'm not sure I can trust it anymore.
Hi, if your are looking for a great exhaust then maybe the BOS Dessert Fox could be the right one for you. I'm driving this exhaust about 15000km . I like the sound very much and I also like the quality. Another improvement could be to change the tires against Dunlop Roadsmart 3.
The apex speed and the handling is much better. In addition I have mounted a racing shield during the summer months. Better view to the front, higher ventilation and the oscillation is decreased to a minimum on higher speed :-) Kind regards Markus
That bike is loaded. Nice review man.
It sure it. It's like a 2-wheeled Range Rover. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Hi mate, I'm thinking of buying a 1290 super adventure. Do you get any high speed wobble that other owners talk about ? Keep up with the content it's great. Cheers from England
No, I've never experienced any high speed hobble in the 18,000 miles I've ridden it. That said, KTM does have a top speed warning when riding with the saddlebags. Still at 120mph with saddlebags, no wobble. Appreciate the kind feedback.
I like your channel.. easy going and great insight. Love the 2 reviews on the KTM GT and Super Adventure. I ride an '08 FJR (full RaceTec front and rear, I love the twisties) you gotta LOVE the bike. But, been looking into the 2 KTM's. I'm leaning more to the GT (no passenger & the twisties)
Just one thing, but not a big deal.... Gas mileage, did you get any figures from your rides?
I'm sub'd, Keep the vids coming.
Bob, I have the Racetech rear (helped a ton) on my 07 FJR but not the front (though I best that's awesome). I got 41.4mpg out of the Super Adventure. Keep in mind, that was riding 2-up and included 17.5 miles of off-roading. I got 39mpg out of the Super Duke GT. While 99% of it was riding 1-up, I was NOT easy on the throttle at all. *Neither one of these bikes have had their first 600 mile service either. Thanks for subbing! Will definitely keep the videos coming.
Also, if you're gonna be riding solo and love a great handling bike, the GT is probably the way to go. More power than the FJR, nearly 200lbs lighter and with a few tweaks, it'd still make a very good tourer.
Great review sir !
Thank you sir!
Thanks for the great review!! I to had an FJR but my knees just could not stand the bend. After 200 miles they were screaming in pain. Have been looking for an sport touring and stumbled onto adventure bikes. Like the GS and Ducs but both are a bit pricey. Just went to the KTM dealer after watching your video and there in the showroom is a left over 2016 with a 4 grand discount. Just curious , have you heard why the NEW 2017 - SA 1290S with all its improvements is NOT being imported into the states?? It looks to be the perfect bike for my need and the improvement are fantastic. I even like the new headlight. Keep the updates coming, hope you do some maint. follow up on it and include the expenses.
I agree with the knee bend on the FJR. I ended up adding Motorcycle Larry highway pegs to mine to let me stretch out and it made a world of difference. That said, the seating position on the 1290SA is MUCH better. I too was surprised the 1290S isn't coming to the US this year. I suspect it was the "bean counters" keeping it out. Glad to see the 1090 is headed this way though. I do plan to do some follow up videos on the SA soon. Fortunately, everything has been pretty good for the first 5k miles. Need to get some more put on it.
Great will be looking for the new videos. Thanks
Thanks for the great review, looking for a bike with a good overall package that would be used for lots of miles every day, commuting, touring whatever. fortunately my wife will never be a passenger..!! thanks
Thanks for watching Rob and for taking the time to comment.
can you purchase the 1290 S in the USA.and if you can where?
Nope. It's not coming to the US. We are getting the T and R models only.
You can now, but the 1290 T was offered as a sacrificial lamb. :(
Good one!
Excellent review , owning one I can agree with your comments . Amazing engine , suspension , brakes , perfect long distance tourer that can go off road , but is far better off on the black stuff . Keep up the vids , cool channel 👍.
Thanks Lawrence! If you like the channel now, just stay tuned. I have some stuff coming up I think you'll enjoy. And thanks for subbing!
I've watched many of your other videos before watching this one and for whatever reason the thing that stuck out the most to me compared to your other vids is that is the cleanest that I've ever seen your windshield. I know, I'm strange and I know this because my wife is constantly telling me that I am.
LOL, well it was fresh off the showroom floor that day.
Did she use the heated seat ? If so, can she comment on that? Thank you and Good Video.
Not in the middle of summer but we ending up buying the bike and she’s used is plenty of times in the last 17,000+ miles and loves it (when it’s cold).
Did you ever try a bmw 1200gs compared to the ktm?
Nope
good review man
Thanks and thanks for watching!
So what bike would you pick of the two super duke gt or super adventure?
Pretty sure I'll be buying a Super Adventure very soon. I really, really like the GT but for two-up the SA wins hands down.
+2 Wheeled Rider
Great review! I was wondering have you ever tried any of bmw's bike mainly the new GS or the r1200rt?
Thank you! Unfortunately, the nearest BMW dealer is over an hour away so I haven't had the opportunity to ride any of the newer models to do a proper comparison.
+2 Wheeled Rider I currently ride a 2013 concours14 and like to do some long touring when I can. I really enjoy the concours but having owned a few triumphs and Aprilia I can't really fall in love with the Japanese in line 4. I was considering this one of these ktm's but if gonna spend that kind of cash just wanna be sure because could really consider any bike at these prices.
Totally makes sense. You're right, these bikes and the BMWs are some serious cash so you want to be sure before dropping that kind of money. One of the big reasons I will likely go with the KTM is because of the relationship I have with my local shop...and that 1,301cc Twin is AWESOME! :)
Finally someone who rides with a passenger! Can you please tell me, with whatever experience you have, the best adventure bikes for me and my wife? I had KTM in the past and I love them, but like you say, I don't care how awesome it is, my wife needs to be able take long rides comfortably!
I actually ended up buying the KTM 1290SA. Kristen found it much most comfortable than my FJR1300. We did add on the KTM top case with the back rest to give her something to lean up against on longer rides. The furthest we've ridden on it so far in a day is a little over 400 miles. She stayed very comfortable and also appreciated the heated seat with a separate temperature control. The only other ADV bikes she's been on the back of is the 1190 Adventure R and the Ducati Multistrada Enduro. She likes the SA the best.
stefan speidel : I have the 1290 SA 2016. Me and my girlfriend went on a trip to the northcape in Norway ( about 8000km in 3weeks over bad roads) and the bike was absolutely awesome two-up. I would strongly advise to upgrade to the ktm two piece ergo seat, it's wider and softer and just is so much nicer, and if you don't need heated seats they are incredibly cheap too. The heated version is twice the price. The absolute best bike (25 previous bikes) I have ever had the pleasure to own. The huge tank is also a plus. Girlfriend was extremely happy on the back seat.
Isn't the 2016 SA engine different to the GT? I think the GT has been updated to meet Euro 4.
The 2017 (to be launched in a couple of weeks) should have the revised engine.
I rode one yesterday (with a top box on it), the engine and suspension are stunning (coming from a tuned 2013 Multi ST with larger rear sprocket and straight through pipe).
Knee position (which you touched on) was even better than the Multi.
The engines are tuned differently but still essentially the same. They are the same displacement and the same bore/stroke. The GT has slightly bigger throttle bodies and slightly higher compression.
There's also another 13HP in the GT too I think (possibly just the tune as you say). ;) With luck it will be the same one with the same HP in the 2017 SA though.
Yeah, it does make 13 more peak HP. The R, GT, and SA all have the same basic power plant with a few differences. Rottweiler makes an air box kit to really open these 1301cc engines up.
How about a review of that kit including before/after dyno runs? It sounds good. ;)
Best I can say is...maybe.
How much vibration is in that engine?
For a V-twin not much at all. Obviously not quite as smoothe as an inline-4.
great video thanks
Thanks!
how would you rate this against the DVT Multistrada S Touring?
I've only ever ridden a Multistrada 1200 base so I can't answer specifics on the S Touring. I don't really think the bikes are all that comparable. The 1290SA can be fairly competent offroad and that is not something I could see doing on the Ducati. I think the only Multistrada that may be comparable to the 1290SA would be the new Enduro model which I've only sat on, not ridden.
Oh...but the Ducati is a LOT prettier!
Well, Duc Pond is just down the road, what are you waiting for. Do a video on the new DVT S Touring.
I'll reach out to Donnie and see if he's willing to let me borrow one for a few hours to review.
I met with Duc Pond tonight...Ducati review videos coming soon! (Thanks for the motivation)
What height you should have in order to drive it;
Really depends on your riding ability. Plenty of short guys ride dirt bikes with higher seat heights. If I had to put a number on it, I'd say anyone under 5'8" is gonna have a BIG stretch to the ground.
2 Wheeled Rider How cm is 5'8"
172-173
2 Wheeled Rider You mean somebody who have height
I'm saying anyone shorter than that is going to have a tough time reaching the ground. As I said before, plenty of short guys can ride tall bikes.
I've said it before and say it again, KTM's are sweet!! Tell Ride on Moto to let me take out a 1290 Superduke!! 😁
No promises but I'll see what I can facilitate.
This was the first of your videos that I came across a few days ago, and I've since watched most of your KTM ones. You helped me make up my mind, so today I put a deposit down on a brand new 2017 Super Adventure T, that just happened to be on sale at my regular dealer. Looks like you have a pretty great life in the works...congratulations....subscribed!
1) congrats on the new bike! You're gonna love it. 2) Thanks for the sub! Since I'm almost to the18,300 mile mark, I'll be producing many more KTM videos revolving around the first "big" scheduled maintenance on it so hopefully you'll find that helpful 3) Thanks again! I am very blessed to get to do what I love as often as I can. Have some big plans for the channel in 2018.
1290 Super Adventure has a safety flaw in its design, the motorcycle has a major safety problem.
I bought mine six month ago and since day one I have been experiencing head wobble at speed ranging from 100 to 120 mph.
I contacted the dealer and they said “there is a software upgrade regarding the head wobble”
I took the motorcycle to the dealer, after the software upgrade I discovered that the four setting for the damping is not working any more there is not difference in the performance between sports, street, comfort or off-road
I assume you mean you're having the wobble with the bags not on the bike?
I've heard of people having head wobble at 100mph+. But if you look in the manual -> www.ktm.com/globalassets/product-manuals-pim-data/dok_bike_bed_15_3213284_en_om__sen__aepi__v1.pdf
Go to page 91 and they have a warning that states. " not to exceed 93mph with luggage"
Guys we are talking about the rider safety here, if KTM knows about it why the hell they didn't do something about it.
nick be you haven't answered whether or not you experienced this with or without the panniers on the bike.
The head wobble is with or without the panniers.
Great review, but I'm not trading in my 16 FJR. Special thanks to Kristen!
Thanks man! I'll be sure to pass along your thanks to Kristen as well. We're still taking the FJR on the big trip next later next week. I know you're getting a lot of enjoyment out of yours!
Yep, she's a block of muscle...the KTM, that is.
Ronan Rogers of course :)
Awesome Adventure bike
It was a lot of fun to ride.
I can just look at that lady and easily tell she knows her way around a weight room!
if you ever get sick of her let me know....not bothered about the ktm tho haha.
on the FJR1300 comfort (sore knees) I did take someone's advice to raise the seat to the higher setting, that seems to have made the difference as your knees are a little closer together (as the gas tank is a little narrower), not sure if you've tried this or not but it has made a difference in my ride. I know you'll probably be 'tippy toe' at stop signs or lights so maybe that's not an option for you.
Thanks for commenting! I've had mine in the higher position since about an hour after buying it. I agree with you; it does help.
KTM appear to have thought of everything. ....except shaft drive.I'm amazed that they omitted that feature.
I too am surprised that shaft drive wasn't included.
Jungleland33 : Put a chainoiler on it and gone are the drawbacks of the chain. I drove from Holland to the Northcape and back without even checking the chain, just refill the oiler. That was about 5000 miles in 3 weeks, in snow rain and mud. I absolutely HATE shaftdrives after owning lots of shaftdrive bikes. Whining, cluncking, ticking and the constant worrying about it. If a chain gets bad during a trip, just ride into any bike shop and stick a new one on. Although in about 500.000km riding I have yet to do that...
kees ketsers I hear ya.perhaps new technology/ engineering is needed for the shaft drive concept.
needs a back rest for sure
Agreed. Fortunately the top case with backrest is pretty reasonably priced. Not sure if anyone else makes just a back rest or not.
LMAO, She does have muscles.
More than me anyway and I'm a guy.(😔😂).
sure wish it was a shafts drive, I bleed orange.
While I liked the low maintenance of my Yamaha FJR1300, I've put 4,000 miles on my Super Adventure so far and have spent less than 5 minutes lubing and/or cleaning the chain.
Mm. I had a BMW f800 gs with chain drive and spent more than 5 minutes cleaning adjusting and lubing the chain.
Of course the motocross bikes don't count because you are totally abusing them every moment you ride.
Who cares about pounds and miles? Please go metric, like the overwhelming majority of the developed world.
It'll take an act of Congress. That said, you're probably right. Over half of my viewers are outside the US. I will start including metric numbers in the on screen graphics.