KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 - First ride review from KNOX
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- čas přidán 7. 04. 2021
- KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 - First ride review from KNOX
We were lucky enough to get the chance to rider the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S at the UK press launch last week and this is our first ride review of the bike - hope you enjoy it!
First thing to say that inline with the name - the 1290 Super Adventure S is a lot of motorcycle and packs a lot of “SUPER”! the 2021 model is 90% new - an incredibly amazing amount of rework to make this bike. With new bikes, we’re often looking at new colours, a brake upgrade or a new exhaust, so 90% new is incredible. The updates and features are of epic proportion and we could be talking here for hours.
However, the first and biggest impression is the way the bike feels when you take it off its side stand! The totally revised chassis and weight distribution have made it incredible for shorter riders and make it very confidence inspiring to manage at low speed and on looser surfaces. In a similar theory to the KTM 790 Adventure R, the fuel tank is now split into 3 separate containers which seems to significantly reduce the feeling of weight on the bike and makes it incredibly well balanced.
Riding a big adventure big like this with a high seat and high centre of gravity is horrible at low speed, so this new design is a massive thing and improves rider confidence.
The engine is the famous 1300cc v-twin used in the Super Duke R and produces 160hp and 138nm of torque. However, it is not an accurate description to say the 1290 Super Adventure S is the Super Duke R on stilts, it’s a lot more refined than that. The engine is a lot softer and has been tailored to perfectly match the Super Adventure. That’s not to say its slow in any way, it’s got more performance than you’d likely ever want, 3rd gear power wheelies are super easy and any sports bike aren’t going to get away from you on the road.
Handing wise, the KTM Super Adventure is incredible and belies its physical appearance, a blend of Supermoto, naked and adventure riding position, combined with Gen.2 WP semi-active suspension. The ability to alter suspension settings electronically via the TFT screen is incredible and makes for an unthinkable ability to be riding aggressively with a sporty suspension set up and then 2 minutes later be wafting through a bumpy, potholed village.
Finally, the Adaptive Cruise Control on the Super Adventure is an incredible piece of new technology developed with Bosch. As you can see in the video, it works!!
To back up this UK Press launch first ride, we are due to borrow the Super Adventure S for a few weeks up here in the Lake District over the next couple of months, so please stay tuned for a more full review on a longer term point of view.
As mentioned in the video, if you would like to know all the details in very accurate details, KTM produced a very informative piece explaining it all - • GET THE COMPLETE INSIG...
You can also find details on how and where to test ride this awesome machine here - www.ktm.com/en-gb/models/trav...
Hope you enjoyed this review, please like, comment and subscribe and we’ll see you next time!
Aaron
KNOX
p.s Thanks to Simon and Richard of KTM who looked after us all day and kept us fed and watered and thanks to Max, Phil and Dan of Toofastmedia group for the brilliant video and photography work.
Knox products worn on test:
Knox Dual Active Base Layer - www.planet-knox.com/product/m... Knox Urbane Pro Utility Shirt MK2 - www.planet-knox.com/product/u...
Knox Richmond Jeans MK2 - www.planet-knox.com/product/r...
Knox Handroid POD MK4 - www.planet-knox.com/product/h...
Knox Waterproof Overjacket - www.planet-knox.com/product/z... - Auta a dopravní prostředky
This channel needs some attention, it really is super underrated. Keep it up guys. The production quality is top notch
Absolutely
Thanks a lot appreciate the feedback! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour Hey thanks for pinning my comment 😃
I agree. People need to see and listen to these guys way more.
I was searching for a channel like this 😀
Great review! The best review I’ve seen on the KTM. The way you explain everything on the new bike is brilliant. Thank you!
Many thanks, so glad you think so! Aaron KNOX
Best Review about the Super Adventure. Thank you very much for this. I´m from Germany and your Review is more on Point and better to understand than the other Reviews in german. Very very good.
Many thanks Thomas! Glad it was helpful! Aaron Knox
Had my 1290 SAS for a week and 600 miles now - its the best bike I have had and I have had a goodly number. Beautiful balance, anti dive is amazing, ACC is handy even the seat is comfy! I can't stop riding it!
Nice one! Enjoy it! All the best, Aaron KNOX
This review has made my mind up. I’m getting one. Excellent real world stuff and after so many reviews just banging on and on comparing it to a BMW GS it was a breath of fresh air not to hear it. Many thanks mate and you have a new subscriber.
Thanks Peter, glad you thought so! All the best, and hope you enjoy your new 1290 SA, its an awesome bike! Aaron KNOX
class review, one of the best out there. keep up the good work.
Thanks, trying! 😀 Aaron Knox
Best UK based review so far, informative and relevant. We'll done
Thanks Dave, trying! 😀
Your English is music to the ears ! Thanks for review! Going to buy one very soon
Thanks, appreciate the feedback! That's great, I'm sure you'll love the Super Adventure, its amazing! Aaron KNOX
Great, excellent Review! BTW you're the best making reviews! Thanks for helping to choose, giving precise and relevant info.
Thanks, really appreciate the kind feedback! Aaron KNOX
Great review, really looking forward to trying this one! This or the new V4 Multistrada is the big question... going to have to try both! 😎
Hey how are u?
Saw ur channel after a long time .
Got unsubbed automatically somehow
Thanks! Clash of the titans?!
You mean the same Multistrada thats been recalled to have a new engine fitted ?
How have I not found this channel sooner? I know and use your armour but this is a fantastic review. I look forward to seeing more like this! 👌
Many thanks for your kind feedback and welcome to the channel! Aaron KNOX
Stunning
Great job , nice review format. Keep it up!
Glad you liked it!
You’re a very pleasant personality, good job 👍🏻👍🏾
I am getting mine next week 💪🏻💪🏾
Thanks! I'll show your comment to my wife! 🤣🤣
Enjoy your bike, it's incredible!
Aaron Knox
Perfect review! Thank you. Good job.
Thanks for watching! Aaron KNOX
Amazing review, your channel is amazing guys, well done!! 👍👍
Thanks Nelio, really appreciate your kind feedbacK! Aaron KNOX
I’m over 60, dodgy spine and only 5’9” but I still love these style of bikes, I ride a fully loaded GSA no issue. This will certainly on my list next time but only for the road. If I wanted to off road I’d have nothing more than a 400. Good review...
Thanks! Yes, this is brilliant, and agree with you, we'd prefer a lighter weight machine too off road! Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Really want to try out this thing, looks the business! Great video guys
Yeah, you'll love it!! 🤩🤩
Wonderful presentation to a wonderful bike. Thank you. Subscribed.
Thanks for the sub! Aaron KNOX
Great overview thanks 👍
Glad it was helpful! Aaron KNOX
Great review....mine should be ready for me to collect next weekend all being well👍
Thanks Tim! Lucky man, sure you'll absolutely love it, blew me away!! All the best, Aaron Knox
Hey congrats man, that beast surely would be a big source for some big smiles
Excellent..very well reviewed...
Thanks good review. Subscribed on streangth of this vid.
Thanks a lot! Aaron KNOX
Underated Channel. You guys deserve more subscribers.
Thanks Abhilash! Aaron KNOX
Great Review 👍
Thanks Chris! Aaron Knox
Thank you for the great review. Especially your take on the suspension. I've been kinda leery about S vs. R suspension.
Thanks, glad it was helpful. Yes, the R version has regular suspension vs the S with Semi active. I think if you are going to be riding mostly on the road, the S is very hard to beat. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
excellent video and review, I greet you from Argentina, I have a ktm790 adventure, we are waiting for the arrival of this tremendous 1290, keep it up
Many thanks Enrique! Love from UK Aaron KNOX
Great review!
Bought it two weeks ago. That’s my first KTM and I ‘m impressed!!
Came from Tiger 1200 XCA ‘19 and the difference in weight and power is outstanding
Unfortunately, no fridge box.... hahaha
Thanks, glad you thought so! Enjoy the bike, sure you'll have a lot of great riding! Aaron KNOX
Interesting, I’m on a Tiger 1200 XRT at the moment but considering one of these. How’s the weight feel compared with the top heavy Tiger?
What a bike! I think if I was in the market for an Adventure bike (when I'm 50 or so 😜) this would be very much at the top of my list! Lovely review guys! 🥰
Thanks Andy! Yes, its brilliant and the perceived sacrifice of fun moving to an denture bike is not real with this bike #wheeliemachine! Aaron KNOX
KTM have been upping their designs every year. Their design dept. is pushing out some badass looking bikes
Yes, they are hitting it out of the park and definitely make the most exciting machines out there! Aaron Knox
Always find the preload, spring adjustments so tricky on bikes that need manual settings so used them as I got them from my dealer. Thanks for your honest review, was deciding to trade my VFR 1200X to get this new 1290 S where this review totally convince me to. Cheers :)
That's great Ali! Sure you'll love it, it's a fantastic bike! All the best, Aaron Knox
Looks awesome.
Oh yeah!!! 😜
I just bought the 2021 1290 sas.had the 2017 for 3 years.This is even better.tried the multistrada v4,but this is so much more fun and just better!
Would you say the 2017 is still a good bike to have if I couldn't afford the new 21?
Great job man. I love V-Twins. Like my aircooled Multistrada. I had a 690 enduro. Thinking my addition bike gonna be the Superadventure 😊
Thanks Inge! I am sure you'll love this bike... in fact, I defy anyone to ride this bike and not love it, its brilliant! Aaron KNOX
Good review 👍🏻
Thank you! Cheers!
Just found your channel and been considering this bike, as I currently have a 3Y old BMW Urban G/S and looking for more power and sophistication, and I think this will be my next bike in 2022 many thanks.
Cool, enjoy it, its a brilliant machine! Aaron KNOX
Woah something besides the best gloves? Love the KTM
Great review, I have a 1190 adventure with 112000 km on it, been a great bike but the new one looks awesome, time to upgrade.
Wow that's a lot of mileage! Sure you will love the new one! Many thanks, Aaron KNOX
you tryng also ducati multistrda v4???withc is better for cyti ktm 1290 or Ducati??
Great review, I want one for 2022.....
Thanks David! Its a brilliant bike! Aaron KNOX
Hey there! Coming across the RC8R wasn’t arranged by KTM but complete serendipity. You might not have realised at the time but I backed off behind the Volvo since it was turning right (see indicator light) and as a warning to you guys... following you after that was pretty fun! Happy ride
Hey! Nice bike, love the RC8, pretty rare and you're lucky to own such a cool bike! All the best! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour thanks Aaron! Good channel and see you around either in the road or a trackday
Great video cheers, I'm 5-9 and struggle with my 2017 ktm 1290 adventure just traded it in hope its as good as everyone is saying cheers Chris
Haven't tried the previous version, but was amazed at the weight management of the Super Adventure S! Enjoy yours. Aaron Knox
Cheers Aaron , it still is amazing had some amazing touring holidays on mine 1000 mile days effortless ugly though lol best allrounder packhorse of a bike
Cheers
Chris
Thanks Chris!
KTM loves their V-twins and I dig that very much!
It's the perfect match for this bike... turn TC off for mega-wheelie time! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour Yup, spectacular engine
Why is the dash blurred ? Because hidding an eror on that yellow background ?
Great review and a great looking bike. As i noticed when you testride the bike you then mentioned that the quickshifter wasnt that great? Have you changed your opinion about that now? And you mentioned that the seat was hard for a longer run and you would change that? Just curious about this. Otherwise it looks like a great bike. Thanks for a great review
Glad you enjoyed it. I didnt say any of those things ref the quickshifter or seat, think they are both excellent! Maybe you're thinking of someone else's review? All the best. Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour then i am sorry. Must have been another review. So many out there now on this bike. Sorry, take care
I ordered one last week and am looking forward to putting some miles down.
You'll love it congratulations! Aaron KNOX
Why is the yellow warning box on nearly on every time your riding it.
An awesome bike, but I reckon the market is moving more to the middle weight adventure bikes. Just as good in everyday world with the mass.
Great review 👍
Thanks Rich, glad you enjoyed the review. Aaron KNOX
Go on then all fully loaded which one is best. ? BMW 1250 GS Ducati V4s or. KTM1290s based on agility road holding front end feel etc.
$million question?! Of course everyone will have a different opinion, but based on what I experienced last week, as an engaging, fast and fun adventure bike that can do it all, the KTM will take some serious beating! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour have you road the duke v4s in comparison?
@@bigderek07 no I haven't, sure its great though! 👍
How did you find the wind protection? Does the screen cause any turbulance or are you in a nice quiet "bubble"?
Actually very good! Much better than the 790 Adventure R we tested. At the same time, I wouldn't say a bubble either. It deflects nicely, but you aren't cocooned... does that make sense? Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Very nice review! You helped me ordering one. Do you help me also paying it? ;) I have a 2018 Adv1290s and I was astonished by the improvements of the new Adv1290s'2021, just with a small test drive! Really amazing stuff from KTM! Honestly, the only downsize I have with the new Adv is the lack of transmission shaft. For my On-Road and 2up Touring rides it would be very helpful! My vote is chain for the R version, shaft for the S or an hypothetical T version.
Thanks, glad it was helpful. Pretty sure you won't regret it, its an incredible machine and cant wait to ride it again soon! Aaron KNOX
Wow, perception of ADV is so far off, it's a liter bike with the fun factor as you found out. Great review 👍🏽
Thanks glad you liked it. In fairness there are quite a lot of adv bikes that match that perception, and even this Super Adventure isn't the same as a 1000cc sportsbike, but on the road there wouldn't be much difference I don't think. Thanks Aaron Knox
Great review! What about fuel consumption? In line with the GS (5,0l/100km ish) or as bad as multistrada? (6.5-7l/100km) Keep up the good work!
Thanks Lars, sorry, we didnt really test the fuel consumption and the riding was a bit spirited. I can say though that we did about 200 miles and we did it pretty much on 1 tank, just filled up a few miles away again before we returned the bikes to KTM HQ. Maybe that helps? Thanks, Aaron KNOX
@@KnoxArmour Good enough! Having really long going thoughts about buying one.
What would you choose between the S1000XR 2021 and KTM super adventure s 2021 ? :D
Hard question, but if you want to try trails etc, the Super Adventure is probably a better option. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Thanks.
A sane super adventure bike that has been really well developed and thought out. Very thorough review - thanks. My brother has the 1290 Sport version. This is much better.
Thanks Andrew!
Just bought a new 2022 SAS, the only bike to wean me off my 2018 R1200 GSA.
Could you select offroad suspension for very bumpy roads to make it super plush ?
Yes definitely, it is quite widely adjustable and in the softer settings is very plush. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Sorry to hear you liked preload at max. That doesn't leave any adjustment for carrying a passenger and luggage.
Yeah those settings are the most sporty which I personally like coming from my sportsbike with aftermarket racing suspension... those settings give a great sporty feel and then when you go slower they soften up. however I believe that the electronic suspension still adjusts further than that automatically once it recognises the extra weight on the bike. Its really clever stuff. Thanks Aaron Knox
Hey are you not the biggest guy, and the KTM IS BIG. Is it big? Is it a big ADV BIKE. 5’9”. You need a KLR….. LOL. BEAUTIFUL BIKE. I ride a 1200 multi enduro and love it…. Nice vid…..
Nice review. Will u be at ABR Festival end of June?
Thanks, actually no plans to... although we may go as end consumers for fun! Aaron KNOX
Have you ridden a BMW S1000XR, first gen ? If so can you do a comparison, a common thing across CZcams ?
Haven't actually ridden the S1000xr, rode the S1000r and thats an amazing bike. Sure it would be a great comparison. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Not quite sure. Did he like it?
I've had my Busa since 2007, never altered the suspension? Maybe im missing out??🤣🤣🤣
Ive ridden bikes for years without doing anything with the suspension... but having recently replaced the suspension on my GSXR and experiencing better and correct set up's, it does make a massive difference to the handling, particularly when you start to ride a bit faster and definitely on track. Would recommend getting yours set up if you have a specialist near you. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Surprised KTM didn't bump the power up a bit to compete more with the new Multi V4S. It's still the same power since it was released back in 2015, not that it needed anymore but.....
Understand that, but in fairness, none of the Journos on test jumped off and said they wanted more power. Think sometimes spec sheets say one thing, but reality is often quite different as we have seen from other motorcycle set ups that perform much better than the spec sheet would lead you to think. But in any case, 160hp and about 100lb/ft torque is not to be sniffed at! :)
Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Does it still have high speed wobble issues
Not that I noticed. has a good steering damper fitted on this model. Thanks Aaron KNOX
I'm not seeing mention of heated seats, I hope the option hasn't been removed. That would be a deal-breaker.
Hi, believe there is a heated seat option, in fact there are no less than 9 different seat options! Aaron KNOX
17:25 missing an electric motor for the moment too. I could really see this in an electric version, soon with luck.
Is the seat rock hard ?
Hi, no I thought it was really comfortable... I ride a sportsbike but we did 200 miles and I'd be more than happy to do another 100 or so, no problem!
They do have about 9 different seat options though so you can get a softer one if you want, although the stock one is a great blend of comfort and still being able to feel whats going on underneath you. Thanks Aaron Knox
Hey watch it, I am 60, and considering this bike !
Ha, sorry, no offence intended! Aaron KNOX
I recognise that location from Allen Millyard's Z1 Super Six video.
So funny you say that... we actually saw him on our ride out on some amazing zed 6 cylinder custom bike and he stopped for a chat! 🤣
@@KnoxArmour What a small world. If you have not yet check out his channel, the man is an engineering genius. His creations are legendary.
Loving your content BTW, especially the love for Royal Enfield. Keep 'em coming.
@@Kefuddle haha yes I believe so, his bike is an engineering masterpiece, believe he made the engine himself... was a bit surprised he took it up that dusty road though with all that super clean chrome! 👌
Good review, just about to trade my 250gs for one. Just as an FYI though 25 litres of petrol weighs about 18.5 kgs...
Thanks. Yes mistake on that one, although of course you have to add in the plastics from the fuel tank etc which would also increase the weight. Thanks Aaron Knox
QC on their digital screen is a bit suspect went all blurry for a bit there 😋
Yeah something funny going on there! ;) Aaron KNOX
Ktm are on it right now.
Totally agree!
The reason why this bike isn’t imported to North America remains a mystery, but Harley Davidson’s Pan America must be glad.
23 liter fuel weight 17.25 kilo not 25
Ok fair shout, guess I was ad-libbing a bit there, but the broad point remains and the feeling as a rider is significant in terms of balance and low speed maneuverability. Thanks Aaron Knox
What? You didn’t change your suspension settings/clickers for two years? Pretty ridiculous pretty silly
Crikey is that the only thing you took away from the piece!? Not silly at all... most bikers never touch their suspension settings. Aaron KNOX
For you who don't know this bikes are so incredible with a few mods like 170 hp, super Duke gearing whellie's at 100 mph with my girl I'm an ex moto cross racer have a 160 thousand between my 1190 and 1290 if you love to Ride an have some balls you won't be disappointed ride on
Glad you agree! Aaron KNOX
Okay, holy shit.....I never knew a bike like this exists....
The Super Adventure can do it all!
👍👌
Better than a gs1250 then??
$million question!! 🤣
Of course everyone will have a different opinion and there can never be an objective best, but I think its amazing and would be over the moon to own one. Thanks, Aaron Knox
At 60's you start to think about buying a 1250GS 😇
I had the older 1290 SA-S, loved it and can't wait to get this one. Sadly, with the way the world is going, I think we are seeing the last of the great petrol bikes. I doubt we will see bikes like this for much longer. Not to mention, it's almost impossible to travel internationally like we did before. That will never return. I'm glad I had my international trips behind me.
Do you think world will not get back to the previous conditions ?
@@FastRu-kl7iy No, it won't. The global NGO's like the "World Economic Forum" will make sure of that.
@@nathanboeger978 myself and my friends in Holland think the same. Hidded Global Government is changing Global Order. Unfortunately.
Fear you might be right... there are so many bikes I'd like to own now and over the next 10 years before electric becomes mandatory. Thanks Aaron KNOX
sold mine 4 weeks ago , nice bike but not worth the money , it wont corner for shit , i am 19 stone and 6 foot though , luggage is over £1300 no built in sat nav and KTM dealers are prob the worse on planet earth . didnt take it off rain mode in 9 months no need to its fast but in straight lines , best thing was i was getting 53 mpg
Who started this company? Aaron’s pop?
Yes, Geoff Travell started the company in 1981 and still is the owner along with Margaret Travell who is Commercial Director. I am their son and have been in the business for 20 years, my sister April is our Lead Designer.. its a family business at its heart, but of course there are a lot of people who have worked with us for a long time too! Hope that answers your question? Thanks Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour thanks, i always figured you did until I heard about some of the “firsts” attributable to Knox any they sounded before your time. It has a small family business vibe. I’d love to work there. I love working for businesses that I can use up my whole pay check buying their products for like...a solid year after starting 😅
"I look at this bike, and think it's gonna be heavy and feel big, slow, wallowy in the corners and probably fit me when i'm 60.... Turns out, it's not!!"
Enough with the prejudice! 😖
Can we all agree to skip the worn out cliche's about adv.bikes, and just review the damn thing objectively?
I mean, if you review bikes for a living, and you become that surprised about how this bike rides in 2021, i have to ask:
Where have you been for, at least, the last 6-7 years? 😯
I hear the same comments in so many "pro" reviews:
"I expected this and that... but it wasn't!"...
It's like the reviews on french and italian cars:
"This is a very good car, but watch out for reliability issues!"...
Get over it, and stop keeping the old myths alive.
Such comments belong in the past. 😎
Everyone has perceptions... just being honest with mine! Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Wow🙄
Not for me . rely on a computer and then one day it stops working when you're thinking it's going to brake for you. The meaning of motorcycling is being at one with your baby. Just like you can switch sports mode on and off, there should be a turn off switch for all that autobraking nonsense. Auto braking made by Bosche? My Bosche washing machine was not reliable at all. Sticking with the 990.
Love the review but hot tip: don't MUTE the sound of a KTM!
Thanks Gordan, we'll remedy that once we do a follow up piece in the next couple of months. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
I'm from central Australia I'm fucking dying to test .......it will be mine........im 75 not out. got lots to do. grow old disgrace fully he ha!
23 lit = 17,5 kg ;-)
Yes, mistake on my part... however, point remains that the weight is lower and that weight transfer is significant. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
It’s a tank. Take that of road, pick it up off the ground 10 times. Joke, it’s a city adventure bike for posers.