KTM 1290 Super Adventure S Honest Review
Vložit
- čas přidán 25. 11. 2022
- My electric office chair from Power Seats: powerseats.eu
My review of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S after riding the R version is full of surprises. Got some confirmations on a few things that appeared in the brand new R too. The real question is: would YOU buy it?
My Instagram page: / thevtold
- KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Honest Review: • KTM 1290 Super Adventu...
- BMW R 1250 GS Honest Review: • Testing BMW R 1250 GS ...
- Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro Honest Review: • Triumph Tiger 1200 GT ...
- Ducati Multistrada V4 Honest Review: • Ducati Multistrada V4 ... - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Thanks for an interesting review! Turn indicator switch works precise the next day. I love this bike! Even rode it this dark foggy and frosty morning from 7 am 🔥 with ergo heated seat, heated bars, two sets of aux lights, custom spoked wheels and many more mods 1290 sas 2021! Everyday is a bliss!
And that's exactly how it should be! Pure fire and joy. I'm glad that you're enjoying your 1290 and all the best with it in the future!
I'm not a fan of the indicators either. I love the fact that they self cancel for turning but when changing lanes I find myself checking the dash to see if I successfully canceled them taking my eyes off the road. I bought the taller heated seat and do find it more comfortable than the stock. I can pretty much ride for hours without much discomfort. Love the reviews V_Told!
Thanks for the hint about the seat! This will be very useful since you can get it straight from KTM. About the indicators, I think KTM needs to be pressured about it. Thanks a lot!
And just like I asked you in one of the previous videos what to choose - and I decided on Super Adventure (version R). I bought it in Łódź (the best conditions for testing, the best discount), I hope that it will be in my garage next week. Thanks again for all the materials 🙂
I'm glad you've made your choice and I see that there's more and more of us actually feeling sort of better on the R. I'm still wondering in confusion on why exactly that is but surely I enjoyed the R more as a whole when riding it. All the best with your R then! :)
This is the one!!!!! The perfect adventure bike. Thanks for the most wanted video. Thumbs up buddy!!!!
Oh yeah, it may just as well be for many of us! Recalling the time with it, makes me excited to roll that throttle wide open ;). Cheers!
Does KTM make a shift lever that can be wider past the corner of the riding boot? In EU scale I would wear a size 53.5 or 18 in US. So shift lever would need to be wider and higher up so I could slide foot under it for up shifting.
Also heated seat, is it a new seat plus software unlock, or factory seat with software unlock?
It would be best to ask some dealer about those I believe.
Hi! I love your headlight protector, is it tinted? where did you buy it? Thank you :)
Hi, I'm not sure if it's tinted but this is the part number: 61914994044 and it's a dedicated accessory for the 1290 Super Adventure model. If you google it for example like this "KTM 61914994044", you should find it already in the shops :)
Hi, thanks for the review!
Would you say this motorcycle is reliable to take on long trips? Reading lots of horror stories on KTM bikes (electrical issues mainly), I am in doubt to buy the 1290 SAS. If power did not matter, how would you say the Yamaha Tracer 9 Gt+ does as a sport tourer bike, compared to the 1290 SAS? In terms of reliability, confort, “luxury” options?
I'm afraid that I cannot tell you much about reliability as this requires years of testing and not one unit but researching many of them to get proper stats etc. But my philosophy is that if buying new, you've got warranty to be able to deal with trouble. If you're buying it used, then yeah, KTM may break down. But so may BMW, Ducati or anything else out there. In the case of a car that's being used daily, this could be a more valid point. On a bike that's so much less complex, I'd not give a crap and just enjoy the performance and riding characteristics. Today, I'd buy myself a KTM with not much hesitation. I simply value what it gives more than I'm afraid of the risks that come with it.
Yamaha Tracer 9 is miles away in terms of engine performance. It will ride fine while the KTM will fly like a rocket ship. I do like to push a bike and enjoy hard accelerations so if you like too, then there aren't many other choices than KTM in here. I'm not sure that this is helpful so let me just say that this is my very personal perspective. I've got myself a car that's also known for being not reliable... I keep it in my head but for 2 years now... not a single thing broke. After I fixed all the stuff that I had bought it broken with. Anyway, there's no rule to the topic of reliability.
Love my 1290SAS. I think the slow speed is awesome, maybe the head bearing was to tight on the one you rode. The indicator is not flash but with time you use it and it works fine. Mine has the extras fitted as the bike you rode, crash bars, sump guard, radiator guards. I use the radar assisted cruise control all the time, it works great and makes long highway work effortless. Tires make a huge difference, I ride gravel roads lots and it feels stable and confident. To me the S model is better for the average rider. I will never do serious of road that the R model would be better. The S model is good on gravel and better the. the R model on the highway, which is where most will spend most of there time. The electronic suspension coupled with the radar cruise control, were the main reasons for me to get the S model. Best bike I have ever owned/riden
I'm glad that you're enjoying your SAS, it's a hell of a machine! I am sincerely hoping that the test bike had the head bearing tightened too much. Thanks for helping me name it too, couldn't figure it out. On paper the S should suit me better too. I'd be interested to know the long-term solution to the indicator switch though.
I just bought a 2022 brand new from a dealer and got an awesome price as it was just on two years old but 0kms. My blinker is fine. A little lacking in feeling but works every time I use it. Doesn’t seem to bother me much. Going well so far.
another good in depth review. For my riding style which is 0 filtering, little slow speed maneuvering, medium to legal turns on slightly bumpy roads, I don't care too much about fancy electronics (gimme a good quick shifter and cruise control, wire throttle so it's easier on the hand), the engine is mindblowing but a bit too much for realistic, legal, every day use, sooooooo overall, I like my 2023 1050 v strom more (ducking for incoming tomatoes :))) ). Also, on the one I tested I found the front brakes, while effective, a bit ... vague? I wasn't sure how hard I was actually breaking. Also, again compared with the strom, it feels like in medium to legal speed turns (60-100), on bumpy roads, the SAS is less stable. While the strom is on rails, I had to make adjustments on the SAS to keep it on track. Maybe I need to check the suspension settings.... it shows sport on the dash whatever that means. Another quirk is with the quick shifter. Sometimes it has lag, like I shift and it takes about 3/4 of a second for the actual shift to happen. The bike I am riding is new, about 550 kms on the clock and is a loaner until my strom is serviced. @16:02 that's exactly what happened to me :))) I had to look to see if it's there. Made me feel like a bow legged cowboy while riding it.
Salut ,est ce que tu sais si on pourrais avoir la même puissance que la Superduke R ,que faudrait il faire ,c est une bonnne question 😀a tu essayer avec le collecteur arrow en titane sans catalyseur et le silencieux ?et le bruit ?
Likely some software changes in fuel maps could influence the power. Perhaps some single components should be changed too, but no idea about the specifics and I wouldn't expect many to already have chosen such a modification ;)
@@VToldsMotoShow
J ai eu ma 1290 ADV R 2023 vendredi 9/06/23. Le moteur est plus souple et plus exploitable que la SDR ,ça suffit !et la partie cycle est fantastique avec les roues 21 et 18 je l’adore 😍
Great review as always & this bike wins with me. Get an aftermarket seat, cat delete exhaust & Pirelli tires & this is a big time winner~ even over the Multistrada with its heat problems. I'll let you know when I have one in my garage~ everyone visits my hometown in Las Vegas eventually & when you visit here I'll throw you the keys & you can ride the Nevada desert to your hearts content.
Thanks and by the way - Las Vegas sounds like fun! I'd definitely play with modifications on this bike to make it as good and enjoyable as possible. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you'll love it even more whenever you get it into your garage. All the best!
CZcams is an international channel and from Spain I appreciate the videos in English... and from other parts of the world too.
Excellent video and excellent test.
I've had 5 bmw gs and I'm also waiting for the new 1300 to decide my next bike (KTM won't be because I don't consider them a reliable enough brand at the moment)... could be an Africa Twin 2024! but I'm sure that unfortunately ;-) it will be a BMW 1300.
Thanks for your tests they are great.
Thank you and I'm glad to be able to help here. I'm also interested what BMW will show us in the new R 1300 GS.
Thank you for great and honest review! How does it compare to BMW R1250 GS in terms of handling in the corners? How flickable does it feel? How would you estimate the bike's perceived weight? (They advertised new tank that should drop the centre of mass. Is it the case?)
I'll be making a thorough video comparison of these two but for now, GS is in my opinion way, way nicer to handle in corners at all sorts of speeds. Perceived weight? That's hard to judge in this particular case since they both weigh pretty much the same, so it would make sense. Still, when moving, R1250GS feels super easy to handle while it's not exactly as colorful with this KTM in the S version.
@@VToldsMotoShow Thanks. Looking forward to seeing this video
Such a great talk through of the bike. I’ve ordered mine and will see what it’s like as I’ve gone ahead and ordered it without test riding it - the ‘S’ model I mean.
Interested to hear if you changed your mind since.
Wow, a bold move by you then! So well... let me just tell you that from some time my channel picture is me on the 1290 SAS. I like it but for myself would likely get the R version despite not willing to do crazy offroading and preferring the electronic suspension especially with that anti-dive function.
Just get the triumph 😆!!! Great video V Told..
Thanks! Instead of a Triumph I think I'd rather go for a BMW GS ;). They're very close though - like very, very close. Cheers!
@@VToldsMotoShow indeed!!!
I have the(2019) KTM 1290SAR, great motorcycle with a few accessories scott/BRP steering Stabilizer, Denali D3/Dial Dim, Ezcan, GPS, Barkbusters full crash bars and more.
I have ridden paved, gravel and off road with No complaints.
The bike is a mile crunching, HP spewing, torque pulling Apex predator of adventure motorcycles!
I like this description. As long as you're happy, the conclusion is that it was a right machine to get. All the best with the R!
There is nothing wrong with the Indicator Switch:
1. Press at 45degress on the 45degree slope part of the switch.
2. Press firmly for 1 second............do not flick the switch as shown in the video
Works perfectly every time when you do it right.
Number 2 could work even though for whatever reason once it failed to recognize that was pressed. Got it on camera. I specifically went and checked all these theses after having trouble with a 1290 Super Adventure R a few weeks before riding the S.
A good review..for some strange reason mine handles slows speeds absolutely fine. Secondly theirs nothing wrong with the indicator switch, just a bit of long term ownership then they are second nature….and I wouldn’t swap it for any thing.
Yo, if the indicators don't switch off... I consider that at least "not desired". Anyway, I'm glad that you're totally happy with the bike as this is exactly how it should be. Super exciting machine for sure! Cheers!
Good review. Currently having my head turned by this bike, not ridden one though. I have an R1250RS. The lack of precision at slow speed seems strange though, as I imagine it has quite a decent angle of steer, and it has 19" front compared to 21" front on the R.
Coming off of a BMW with a boxer engine, you may find demanding steering even more visible in this KTM. R variant does much better at the lowest speeds I believe.
I felt the same way. I preferred the R. I had longed to ride it and it didn't disappoint.
Thanks for sharing, it's a very interesting one and I was really wondering a lot if I'm the only one feeling this way.
Nice review.. I have a 2019 SAS with a few mods and an arrow exhaust.. the bike is a beast and love it... been thinking about possibly upgrading to the new version some day but trying to justify cost over real Improvement and Maybe waiting till the bugs get worked out .. bummer about the steering and the indicator switch .. one question I always find Curious is why people would want a drive shaft on a bike like this??
For obvious reasons It would only be heavier and slower and probably cost more too .. would be a deal-breaker for me.. besides don't most sport bikes all have chains that work perfectly well? They do stretch a little initially but after that I've had thousands of trouble-free miles with only minor adjustments that take a couple minutes..
Thanks for mentioning the topic. Your version may turn out to be better engineered considering the indicators switch. I love that you gave your SAS an Arrow exhaust - great combo. About the driveshaft - it's simply a plug-and-play solution that allows you to forget about it. One of the benefits is that the bike stays cleaner too. Other than that it's likely a bit heavier, more expensive to design and manufacture and may create more power and torque losses on the way to the wheel. On the other hand, looking at BMW motorcycles, at this level of weight and power/torque, will it make any sort of considerable difference? I doubt it. While riding this bike, the other guy on an older SAS had likely a stretched chain issue which was so early on that it caused him to believe that it was a suspension issue. So yeah, replacing it costs too and again - I'd take a look at KTM vs Ducati vs BMW prices keeping in mind that BMW is going with the most pricy solution here. It doesn't seem to make it a worse deal at all. I hope this perspective is helpful. Cheers!
@@VToldsMotoShow thanks for the in-depth reply.. to your point about the drive shaft I do get it Plug and Play nice and clean but just not for me.. I purchased a bike like this for the lightweight performance in an upright comfortable and very capable format.. one of only a very few available.. which is why I have done many other mods to reduce weight and increase performance.. providing maximum fun factor and wheelies! otherwise since Ducati is not for me I would have to consider a BMW or perhaps a Triumph Tiger...? All these bikes are great but the KTM is the Unicorn for me..
I wonder if KTM was trying to fix the high speed wobble when it tightened the head bearing?
If I had one guess, this would definitely be it.
My dream bike. I have a 790 duke, but one day, will get a 1290 SAS. Thank you for the review
My pleasure. 790 sounds like fun too.
Did KTM fix the indicator switch function for 2023?
No news about it so far on my end.
I owned a BMW GSA, a KTM Super Adventure S and now a Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. The Tiger is my favourite.
Nice one! It would be helpful to learn what made you swing towards the Tiger and where it beats the others for you.
@@VToldsMotoShow That would take quite a lot of typing. The only bike videos I do are of riding around Europe (a couple on my channel). I'm not a Vlogger.
@@VToldsMotoShow I guess I could sum it up: I had the BMW for 4 years and just fancied a new bike. Bought the KTM but had too many problems, coolant leaks, excessive vibration, false electrical warnings. Had it 4 Months and traded it in for the Tiger instead of going back to BMW (which are a bit crusty now). Loving the new Triumph but all three bikes a great (If they all worked properly).
The low speed stability is definitely fine on the S but you need to put the suspension in the harder settings. Sport mode for the suspension and throttle are ideal. The comfort setting is for boat lovers and former GS riders without ESA
Ha, the Comfort mode suspension is truly nice on long distance rides. It eats up expansion joints. But she does wallow in the curves in Comfort mode.
I tried Sport but I believe it's not only that of course. It's a mix of geometry, height, other suspension settings etc. and also plenty other stuff. The thing that makes me wonder till now is which difference between S and R contributes to this difference in riding. Anyhow, the bike is a beast.
Hello,le bouton des clignotants n’ai pas bien,il est beaucoup mieux sur les duke 890 !
Hello Peter, but what about the Duke 890? My translator suggests that you're confirming that there's an issue with an indicator switch here that isn't there in the Duke 890. I really hope that there are no other KTM bikes affected with this problem, seriously.
I think you had a faulty indicator switch as no issue with mine over 4K KM’s. My bike steers extremely well and has none of the heavy feeling which I would put down to someone over tightening the Headstock. KTM are making sure it is not loose which would cause wobble but if it is too tight this is just as bad as it makes the steering heavy, just as you describe. You should not feel any resistance to steering that is just wrong. I found mine much easier at low speed than any bike I have ridden, and that is a lot, due to the low centre of gravity with the low fuel cells. At high speed even two up it is like it is on rails but a simple input and it changes direction nicely. After a long journey on motorways I started to like the radar especially as the bike can be set to accelerate and overtake just but using the indicator switch. A good review.
I'm not sure now but I believe that KTM has given a certain Nm level to tighten that part with. Maybe they simply want with too much force now. Good point about the idea being getting rid of the wobble. I've heard and seen some of those instances so this makes sense as a reasonable option. Thanks for connecting the dots for us here.
As for the indicators - I was aware of its operation after having ridden the R version with the same switch several weeks prior. So now I've experienced the same behavior on two separate bikes. Doesn't seem like a coincidence I think.
Thanks a lot!
Guys, hands down the 1290SAS is a winner in MY book.
This is despite having the handle bar 'shudder' at 190 kph upwards. This causes me to reduce speed.
I shud not be doing such speed in any case since reaction time has increased due to age (65).
All said n done.....this is an awesome two wheeler. It makes life worth living.
Regarding the turn signal switch; KTM have addressed this issue for 2023. The switch has a much improved kill action. Still a bit soft in my view but much better that 2022 which i find dangerous. Interestingly if you need to replace a 2021/22 switch for any reason, the default part number is now a 2023 switch. This means KTM have understood concerns. Will be asking for new switch on next service.
Interesting. I've made a quick search but haven't found anything on the web. If they did indeed fix it, or at least tried, they haven't communicated it externally a lot. I really hope that they did or will do that quickly.
@@VToldsMotoShow I've picked up the 2023 SA-S and I can confirm - the turn signal switch works as it should. Much better than 2021-2022.
I own a 2021 1290S and a 2021 1290 super duke r, both with these indicators system. Never a single problem with them. I press the button in oblíquos direction ( in and down at the same time) and if you look to the button form, it makes sense. Anyway the way I see it in your video you already have a broken button.
This is my second date with a 1290 Super Adventure - a few weeks before I had the R version and that's where I discovered the poor thing having trouble. Or perhaps poor little thing myself having trouble with the switch. Anyway, in both examples it worked the same and that's worrisome as it seems to be the design. Here even the sales person had it not switch off during a presentation - this makes me double-sure.
Agree that indicator button on 1290SAS 2021 'sucks'. Had 2017 SAS. No such issues. Just learned to look at display if it is off.
I concluded the same I am
Getting one next week
I DID buy it.
I've had mine for almost two years. I was annoyed by all the strange noises coming out of the engine too. So much so that I put an aftermarket exhaust can on. That was 10db lounder which was too much so I put the stock unit back on. It's not so bad after you get used to it.
The front end wants to shake a little at about 70 kph. I replaced the steering damper but the real fix was to replace the tires.
I put a 40t rear sprocket on to make it a little more relaxed on the highway.
I NEVER use street mode. If I'm on the road I'm in sport mode. When I turn the throttle I don't want to have to wait for the bike to do something.
When I learned to accept the bike for what it is, not what I wanted it to be, that is when I finally decided that it is good as a general purpose motorcycle.
I see riders mentioning the wobble/shaking at the speed that you indicated so clearly there is something to it. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, the seat is too hard for long distance.....
I just use an AirHawk air-cushion seat for long distance touring.
Sounds like a possibility. I just wonder about how secure it is (if at all) or if you can fold it and keep in your top case when leaving the bike alone.
I had the 1290 SAS with Akrapovic for 6 months and it was stolen last month. Bike was perfect for me. It does all great, only suspension for me as Iam only have 75 kg was to stiff and in the alps on bad roads GS bikes where in front and I was jumping up in down and fighting to keep it going fast. But for 2023 I did order (I know it is way more week) the Vstrom 1050 with akrapovic, now that it has got quickshifter and FTF. I had Vstrom before and I liked the Vtwin. But I will probably be back on KTM in 2024 or 2025.
Sorry to hear the theft story, that's really upsetting. Has it happened in the UK? Seems like it becomes pretty common out there. Now, the choice of the new V-Strom may be considered unexpected due to the differences in performance in the first place. Many other areas feel similar to me between the two with the V-Strom maybe being even a tiny bit more comfortable despite not having an electrically adjustable suspension. But its V2 sounds even better than KTM's and also feels pretty aggressive. I hope you'll enjoy the V-Strom enough - should be pretty likely as long as you're not a performance freak. Then KTM may be the only way.
@@VToldsMotoShow it all happened in Slovenia. Sure the power difference in big. I just hope Suzuki will still meet my goals (like it did before) since Iam pretty used to power now with KTM. There is still new KTM 1290 SAS coming for 2024 so if my power need grows bigger I can make a switch 😀.
The indicator switch works perfect. You just need to press down not in
Thanks for the hint, it's mentioned in the video - I felt that there's no difference except for pushing down taking more time which fulfils the requirement of having it engaged for longer than a simple press. I still have to call that faulty design.
@@VToldsMotoShow mine works very well . I just glance it and it’s off.
You should not tighten the steering by tightening the top nut on the yoke - it will damage the bearings.
I don't really know where the specific part is and might've just as well marked the wrong part in the video but as I remember, this is generally what the deal is about.
I have a '22 SAS. The quickshifter works great and makes the 1290 quite fast as you can just bang off shifts and ride that wave of torque. I ride in the Ozarks and seamless up and down shifts don't upset the bike when blasting in and out of curves. What I like about KTM's quickshifter is that it is all internal without external solenoids or hardware to get damaged if you drop it offroad. I've considered going to a shorty screen because Arkansas Summers are very hot and humid and the stock screen blocks too much wind in those conditions.
Thanks for the feedback on the quickshifter. I also think that it works pretty well and would definitely pay to have it in this bike. As for a windshield, I wonder myself if there are some additional accessories like Madstad that would allow you to change an angle of its windshield to get that "out of the way" feeling too. I've had that in my V-Strom 1000 and was a blessing - the best solution possible I think.
Or you spend $1,200 and get the spoke-rimed wheels KTM offers for the S, with a 21” at the front and a 17” at the rear. That would fix the low speed balance issue and let’s you get away with adventure riding over the weekend. I’ve also bought the lone-rider semirigid panniers and I’m the happiest camper. Literally! P.S. I gotta be honest; I’ve also added a $1,000 akrapovich exhaust.
Oh yes, any aftermarket exhaust is a blessing here. I wonder about the wheels and their effect on low speed balance though. All the best with your S!
The previous generation SAS and SAR had a reputation for high speed INstability, hence KTM lengthened the swingarm in 2021-onwards bikes. I believe that's the same reason they instructed dealers to tighten more the steering stem. S should feel nimbler than the R.
I also think that this might've been the most probable reason that could actually fix it. On the other hand, the handlebar may move harder that's a downside at lower speeds as it needs more force to steer.
Testing this in a city? Hmm....
Partially yes. I ride in the city pretty often while not really be in a position to have a few bikes for different riding scenarios. I'm not sure I'd even want actually.
Great review as always! I'm a proud owner of the S variant and I freaking love it. As the other owners are saying about the turning switch you just need to get used to it, I don't have any problem with it and I never had.
About the turning speed I have to say that is not the quickest and precise bike in general but at low speed I've never had problems, maybe again you just need to get used to it, while the turning speed and precision at high speed I found out that they greatly improves if you tweak the suspension settings. If you use the preselected modes it's not very useful and you are just scraping the surface of what you can do, try to harden it and put the preload in high position and you'll see great improvements
Thanks! The switch is very much within my interest and the point is to know exactly what's not entirely perfect with it. So far keep believing that it's about the time as the user's manual mentions to press it inwards. This suggests that the intention is standard. Just the effect isn't necessarily. Thanks for getting back to it as this brings hope. Interesting point about working with preload in terms of making the S more precise at higher speeds. I'm giving all the bikes the same chances on purpose without getting used to them and only then describing my feelings. That would make me notice the differences less. But sure, after time, we'd manage getting along with every bike and maybe some of their weaker points would get diluted a bit. Thanks again for inspiring hints!
The big elefent in the room wasn't mantchnd, and that is the wobbeling that so many people have this is a recoll mast and for that it's a deal breaker for me
Haven't experienced it on this one. Maybe because of the head bearing being tightened in this example as @Paul McDonnell mentioned. It being too loose might've been possibly causing such wobbly behavior. Would make sense to try on an affected bike and see if it helps.
YO! you feel the inclination in the turn lights? Well, you don't have to push the button and wait anything, you just have to press it in the direction of the button's inclination, simple enough. I thought it was intuitive, now I see it isn't. They don't have to recall the bikes, they just need show how to used them...
It's already fixed by a whole different set of switches from 2023 on. Thankfully.
Well, for those who don’t have the chance to get the new one, what I mentioned is a workaround if it’s considered as a problem. I see it as a feature (I’m a programmer 😂)
its probably the bike you ridden, i test ridden it 3 times ddint experince that problem in with slow traffic. But i felt like feeling the bike needs 17 inch front 19 -17 doesnt work. Tyres are awful, that bike needs proper street tyres. R version is so high for us normal humans to ride. Anyway part exchanged my Ktm GT for a new KTm super adventure S, I think its alot easier to live with in City special when commuting.
I wouldn't call the slow riding a problem but just a not-that-good of an experience - especially comparing to some other bikes. The perspective is super important here. I'd ride it fine every day but once I'd hop on a bike that's better in this area, I would wish that KTM was better. That's why I did ride all of these bikes to be able to sort of verify them knowing the benchmarks. I hope that this explains it better.
And hey, Super Adventure with a 17" front rim - interesting!
That chain stretching due to the torque is kind of a turn off. But still a great bike
Yeah, a costly annoyance. Also wouldn't stop me from getting it and having fun with the bike.
@@VToldsMotoShow I bet 😆 🤣 😂. I really enjoy your videos. Keep them coming...
This is a video more about comparing two KTM adventure bikes, but in order to give you my view about those machines I have to start from a different perspective. KTM is a strong brand in the off-road segment in numbers of trophies and competition off road world important events. But it is a motorcycle brand that is still growing. By the other hand, BMW is a full grown motorcycle Brand that didn’t stopped evolving and technically keeps on creating every step of the way, newer and better solutions all the time, with very few little flaws.
I had a crush on a KTM bike, the SDGT, and adored the bike, mostly the V-Twin 1290 cc engine but besides some strange and unacceptable electronic flaws of the bike, hidden, there were questions of sport handling aspects that I only took proper note or conscience when I rode tested the M version of the 2022 BMW S 1000 XR. Besides the front break lethargic response felt in an early stage of breaking, which is not common in a bike that has a declared sports character - but it can be easily tuned-, the difference in favor of the XR performance in comparison to the SDGT’s is overwhelming clear. 😂
In comfort mode with side panniers on, the SDGT wobbles in fast cornering and if you want it to stop doing that, you need to change the suspension settings to street or even to sport mode. With the BMW in the road mode and with the side panniers installed, the bike goes where your vision marks the desired trajectory without demands from the rider increasing and motivating to go further away inclined or to pull harder your riding rhythm or pace. With the KTM, you definitely, must negotiate some of that maneuvers.
Once on the highway, automobile drivers see you, but first, they ear you clearly approaching alerted by the four in line cylinders engine sound (akrapovic exhaust) and they gently leave you free the fast lane ahead. With the SDGT should ask permission to pass them using the maximum front light sign and sometimes they try to chase you just to understand, a few Kms later they couldn’t keep up making you company along the way. The respect is different. With the BMW they know you’re on a touring sports bike. With the SDGT, they want to know what it is😂
I don’t talk about indicators, because that kind of flaws are just sad to acknowledge. They are unacceptable.
So, I don’t know, but I think I’ve said it.
Thanks V-told , be well, ride safe!
✌️✌️
Nice one, I remember you mentioning your SDGT and hell, was wondering how it compares to the XR myself. I've got to admit that performance was the main area that was getting me curious, especially that the new SDGT is having 175 HP, so 10 more than S1000XR. This Super Adventure S along with the R is having 160 and feels like an absolute top beast of the pack. 15 HP more may not make a night and day difference but the sheer idea of it having even more power is blowing my mind. Yet here we are with the S1000XR vs SDGT performance comment from you - surprising! Thanks a lot for it. Just made me... even more interested ;)
@@VToldsMotoShow yes thanks for your assertive answer. In fact, for solo sport touring rides the SDGT is a brutal machine that gives everything right in your face in a blink of an eye. You rev it hard and the power comes like a blow in the stomach, showing availability for more and more if you dare to ask for it. This is the most pleasant engine that I had ever experienced on a bike. At the other side, simple but very raw failures makes you feel not so safe, not so secure as you should, once that you’re riding a bike of that price tag. It’s annoying to acknowledge that fact too. So, between strong sensations and not so strong sensations but still good ones along with BMW general reliability, in the end, what bike will you choose to stay and to keep? For me, that wasn’t a difficult decision…Sold the KTM and bought the BMW S1000 XR, which, by the way, l enjoy more from an aesthetic point of view and for sport touring rides with a pillion it is much more suitable. It’s not a major factor of choice but in any case still is a relevant criteria when that kind of money is on the table, I like to think I’m in titled to have that option on the package and again, with the SDGT that option was virtual, not real. In terms of riding pleasure, both bikes give you a lot of it, the KTM a little more easily faster, and even when you’re falling, feels like flying for a little while, the BMW allows you to know how and where you’re going all times, the technology works so well that even on the limits it’s intervening, not intrusively, but letting you know where you stand. It’s a step or two ahead, I believe. 😎✌️Stay strong my friend and putt your butt on an SDGT fast to confirm or not, what I’ve been saying here. Thanks V-told, your Channel rocks !!
Nice one, I really feel to express that reading your words about the BMW, I was genuinely getting excited. And that’s not so easy to achieve! You’d do a 100x better job than BMW’s global marketing department and that’s a legit and serious compliment! But yeah, the choice that you’ve described is very hard and conflicting inside. Very, very individual and up to what stages in life we all are and how much risk we’re ready to take. Great input - thanks a lot! Especially that not many of us can say anything about a SDGT as you know ;)
@@VToldsMotoShow thank you for the reply. I underline two very smart observations from you:
1. The different stages of life we’re going through; and
2. The amount of risk that each one is willing to take;
Two very correct propositions that work perfectly well together.
Although, the decision is never taken without a certain amount of tension as you already stated in your analysis of my comment. I don’t regret the decision mainly because I wasn’t a bit comfortable about the phantom messages of the electronics of the SDGT and I saw my self choosing another bike to ride from my garage, too often over the SDGT, and that started getting annoying to acknowledge.
On the big picture, concerning point 1., I became more concerned about bike’s safety issues, so I actually have different priorities now. A few years ago, I would have settled the matter differently. The weight of arguments and it’s own importance changes as time passes bye. That’s one thing I can confirm.
The second point, is that in fact with that situation or process, lately, I became more interested in taking the less risk I can, but still maintain that thrill of emotion and adrenaline, both alive.
Thus, the BMW S 1000 XR entered my spectrum of possible choices, a possible solution. That’s how I started getting closer to the bike. Watching your videos and other experts on line, It turned out like defeat with a nice taste of victory as an exit way off the KTM SDGT experience, with a cherry on top (M pack), I didn’t felt empty handed, after all.
The not so effective technical representation of KTM in the Territory was a desengagement factor too. They replied to my claims about the general failure messages, something like, “it was nothing”…🧐
The Bridgestone Battlax Sport Touring T31R tyres that are equipping the XR, also aided, (better than the Pirelli Angel GT that came mounted on the SDGT).
Conclusion: I don’t have time left for second chances. I think I’ve got the next best thing and that’s what I’m always looking forward to.
Thanks again for your kindness and emphatic way of addressing these comments and opinions. Keep on bringing content to the channel. I truly appreciate the analysis you do about the machines chosen to be address on the channel videos, they are full of real life impressions and free speech handled by you and we feel that authenticity. That’s gold ✌️✌️
I think I would prefer a smaller bike. I am big dude but I don’t want to fight it the whole ride
I'm also thinking that this base could be interesting in a slightly different form and 1290 Super Duke GT it definitely getting looks from me.
Reliability?!
Reallyquick and reallyexciting. But reliability? Don't know about this one. Not the best point likely.
I only have a bit over 6000 miles on my '22 SAS, but it has not thrown up any issues yet and I ride aggressively.
Two KTM SA S in 5 years and not a single glitch 😇🙏🏻🙏🏾
Africa twin 1100 dct its the best!!!
Not sure I'd agree overall ;)
Właśnie zmieniam ATAS 1000 DCT na Ktm super adventure 1290 r zobaczymy bo mocą zjada Afrykę na śniadanie 😊.
Indicator will cause accidents. Guess KTM just doesn't care...
I hope that at least they know or will get to know about it before someone will sue them. That's not good for any of us. I'm wishing them the best in developing these beasts, so getting bad PR and financial fines may not help. So in other words - may not be worth it. Let's hope that they will respond.
Ok @VTold I've been watching your hunt.
Here's my list with MCN user review data
The issue is that you need to try a 2020 KTM 1290 adventure S to hit the spot man. More aggressive!!
1. Fun factor
2. Decent power.
3. Pillion comfort.
4. Seat comfort.
5. Reasonable economy.
6. Good top end, fast acceleration.
7. Bulletproof Reliability.
8. GPS on screen.
9. Good looking.
10. Great sound.
11. Off road capable.
12. Fast.
1st 2020 KTM 1290 adventure S
Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5
Ride quality & brakes: 5 out of 5
Engine: 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality: 4.5 out of 5
Value vs rivals: 4.6 out of 5
Equipment: 4.6 out of 5
Annual servicing cost: £220
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd 2020+ BMW S1000XR
Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5
Ride quality & brakes: 4.9 out of 5
Engine: 4.5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality: 4.6 out of 5
Value vs rivals: 4.2 out of 5
Equipment: 4.6 out of 5
Annual servicing cost: £220
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3rd Yamaha Tracer 9 GT
Overall rating: 3.8 out of 5
Ride quality & brakes: 4.4 out of 5
Engine: 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality: 4.6 out of 5
Value vs rivals: 4.8 out of 5
Equipment: 4.6 out of 5
Annual servicing cost: £300
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4th Honda Africa Twin 1100 Adventure Sports manual.
Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5
Ride quality & brakes: 4.7 out of 5
Engine: 4.5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality: 4.7 out of 5
Value vs rivals: 4.5 out of 5
Equipment: 4.4 out of 5
Annual servicing cost: £140
Interesting, interesting, especially the Tracer. Sure there's no typo in the overall rating of it?
@@VToldsMotoShow yes that did look off to me. After watching a lot of owner reviews and even the evolution of the model, the broad opinion would appear to be more of a 4.2 for Tracer 900 GT, mainly due to seat discomfort and dodgy screen buffeting, where the Tracer 9 GT and revised later model with the sexy finish but with the dicky screens, have far higher satisfaction. I'd say 4.6 or higher, so must be a typo. I mean, if you can live with the small displays and fix the screen, it's a pearler (UK English: well good)!
Czemu ty nie prowadzisz tego kanału w języku ojczystym naszym polskim brachu 🫣😩🫢 tragedia a tak fajnie opisujesz w języku ang może dla rodaków możesz nagrywać w naszym języku było by miło i ukłon w strona Polaków myśle ze ludzi przybyło by ci tu sporo
Przyjąłem, że więcej ludzi będzie mogło skorzystać z angielskiego, niż gdybym mówił po naszemu. Dwie wersje językowe to już praca na pełen etat z kolei.
Polish people’s English is much better dan my Polish 😇