2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R | First Look Review
The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R receives a range of useful updates to its engine, chassis, electronics, and more.
The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R makes no bones about its off-road prowess. If the wire-spoke 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel don’t tip-off the R’s dirt bias, the shortened windscreen and WP XPLOR suspension do. KTM has updated its top-dog off-road-ready ADV for the new model year.
More interested in a street-biased ADV?
Check out the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S
A fully adjustable WP XPLOR upside-down fork still highlights the full-size ADV, but KTM developed a new separate function compression and rebound system after extensive off-road testing. It also reworked the WP XPLOR rear shock’s progressive damping system for improved bottoming resistance and greater control. Travel at both ends remains 8.7 inches but newly fitted Bridgestone AX41 tires should deliver superb grip in the dirt and sure-footed pavement performance.
The revised 1290 Super Adventure R lives up to KTM’s Ready to Race slogan with KTM Factory team-inspired livery and rally-style bodywork. A three-piece, 6.1-gallon fuel tank and twin radiators seamlessly integrate into the new bodywork for improved ergonomics. The 1,301cc V-Twin benefits from the new cooling system but also features an advanced oil circuit and thinner cases for a 3.5-pound weight savings.
A new airbox helps the LC8 engine breathe freely thanks to a vertically ribbed air filter that directs sand and dust to the bottom of the airbox. KTM mounts the 75-degree V-Twin to a revised chromoly-steel frame with a steering head that has been moved rearward by 15mm. There’s also a new aluminum subframe and a lengthened swingarm for improved stability.
The 1290 Super Adventure R’s ride modes (Street, Sport, Off-Road, and Rain) gain a 6-axis IMU and less intrusive traction control. The optional Rally mode provides the most off-road flexibility with nine levels of adjustable traction control. Users can also add KTM’s optional Rally Pack and Tech Pack that includes a quickshifter, hill-hold control, and motor-slip regulation. Off-Road ABS comes standard, however, and decreases ABS activation on the front wheel while disengaging ABS on the rear.
A new 7-inch TFT dash boasts KTM MY RIDE Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control helps riders pound the pavement on the way to new trailheads. For far-flung adventures, a waterproof compartment offers USB charging for personal devices. A new RACE ON remote keyless system, now featuring Anti-Relay Attack (ARA), allows the rider to start the bike, lock the steering, and open the gas cap without using the key.
The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is poised to take-on the most technical terrain yet, but pricing and availability are still TBD.
For more information or to find a KTM dealer near you, visit ktm.com.
The post 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
