New KTM adventure bikes arriving in May
The R versions of the 1090 and 1290 first, followed by the 1290 SKTM's updated adventure fare will start going on sale locally in May 2017, with the 1090 R and 1290 R the first two slated to hit dealer floors, followed by the street-focussed 1290 S – in very limited numbers – a few weeks later.
Prices are still to be announced, while KTM Australia says the base model 1090 won't be sold Down Under, nor will the 1290 Adventure T (as in touring).
KTM unveiled its updated 1090 and 1290 adventure range at the Intermot show in Cologne last October, replacing the 1050 and 1190 models.
Related reading: Intermot show coverage
The 1290 range is powered by a retuned (and now Euro 4 compliant) version of the brand's 1301cc 1290 Duke engine, which is good for 160hp. The 1290s come adorned with the latest Inertial Measurement Unit and its associated direction-sensitive electronic rider aids; all gain a multi-directional quickshifter; and all now boast a full-colour TFT screen.
The off-road-biased R separates itself with wire-spoke rims – a 21-inch wheel at the front and an 18-inch rear – as well the usual R-specific orange-coloured frame. It's suspended on WP's top-spec, fully adjustable suspenders, which offer up to 220mm of wheel travel.
The road-focused S model rolls on cast wheels – a 19-inch front and a 17-inch rear – and opts for a semi-active electronic version of WP's top-shelf suspension which offers less travel (and a lower seat height) compared to the R's set-up.
The up-spec 1090 Adventure R model is powered by an updated and Euro 4 compliant version of the 1050cc 75-degree V-twin, capable of 125hp.
It offers fully adjustable WP suspension and adjustable ergonomics (handlebar and footpegs), as well as switchable ABS, traction control and four engine maps.
As well as the obligatory orange frame, the R model gets 21-inch and 18-inch wire-spoked wheels.
Bikesales will be riding KTM's new adventure models at the local press launch in the Blue Mountains from April 26-28.
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