Smarter KTM 1290 Super Adventure S revealed for 2021

The new 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has been unveiled complete with an improved design and state-the-art-technology.  

Joining KTM’s ever-popular adventure lineup for 2021, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S offers users improved road-going performance that is backed by the latest generation of rider aids. It follows the reveal of the 2021 KTM 890 Adventure in October last year.

Headlining the enhancements, as previously predicted, is the addition of adaptive cruise control (ACC). The ACC function is made possible by a Bosch radar unit that can adjust the bike’s speed to maintain a safe following distance to the vehicle in front. It has five stages that can be selected by a handlebar-mounted switch.

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Elsewhere, the new 1290 Super Adventure S gets a brand new 7-inch TFT screen which had built-in smartphone connectivity. The larger dash is said to have quicker and more practical menu systems. Additionally, the bike features handlebar-mounted switches on both sides, making on-the-fly adjustments more seamless than before.

While the revised LC8 1301cc engine maintains the same peak power of 160hp, it does have a slightly lower torque figure of 138Nm and is now Euro-5 compliant. The engine is complimented by a two-headed exhaust and a PANKL gearbox with an optional two-way quickshifter.

The powerful donk is complimented by an overhauled chassis that KTM says enhances weight distribution and rider agility. The chassis is shorter overall and there is a longer open-lattice swingarm for more stability under acceleration, as well as a subframe that results in a lower seat height.

Included once again is a full suite of electronic rider aids including cornering ABS, offroad ABS, lean-angle traction control, four ride modes (plus an optional ‘Rally’ mode) and the optional motor slip regulation. Also features is revised WP APEX Semi-Active suspension that boasts augumented damping thanks to new valves while the 6D lean-angle sensor helps adapt to rider behaviour.

As part of the KTM PowerParts catalogue, owners can further upgrade their 1290 Super Adventure S with a vast array of accessories and options. The Suspension Pro package allows individual damping for the fork and shock, automatic preload adjustment and an on/off anti-dive setting. The Rally pack adds ‘Rally’ mode and MTC slip adjuster, while the all-in-one Tech pack includes all the aforementioned features plus hill hold control, adaptive brake light, motor slip regulation and quickshifter.  

The new 1290 Super Adventure S is due to arrive at Australian and New Zealand dealerships in late April, however there is no word yet on pricing. It is also not yet known if the offroad-focused KTM 1290 Super Adventure R will also receive a major update in 2021.