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Adventure Motorcycles

2018KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

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The 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a premium adventure touring motorcycle designed for experienced riders seeking long-distance capability with dynamic on-road performance. Known for its powerful engine, advanced Bo589 cornering ABS with offroad mode, and sophisticated ride-by-wire system, it excels at tackling both highway miles and challenging terrain with confidence and control.

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 215.0 kg
Seat height: 860 mm
Power: 160.0 HP (116.8 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail65%

Cornering85%

City riding65%

Daily riding78%

Touring90%

Two-up80%

Track60%

Best for: It's built as a do-it-all adventure-touring machine that excels on fast sweeping roads and long-distance rides while retaining light off-road capability.
Built for: It has a sporty, muscular V-twin character with strong midrange torque, semi-active suspension refinement, and a premium, tech-laden feel.
Not ideal for: It's not ideal for short or novice riders seeking a light, low-seat commuter bike or dedicated hardcore off-road use.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 860mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, with a moderate knee angle of around 95 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 821-900 mm — Long Legs →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Power: 160.0 HP (116.8 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 149 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: JKTXC1.30SAR-008
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 6.35 L/100km (37.0 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 8.1 CO g/km
Torque: 140.0 Nm (14.3 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.7442 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 108.0 x 75.0 mm
Compression: 13.1:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced oil lubrication with 3 pumps

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: PASC slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated

Performance

0-60 mph: 3.10 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.30 seconds

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1580 mm
Seat height: 860 mm
Dry weight: 215.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 220 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated
Front suspension: WP Semi-active suspension USD Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension: WP Semi-active suspension monoshock
Front wheel travel: 200 mm
Rear wheel travel: 200 mm
Rake (fork angle): 26.0°
Trail: 109 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. Radially mounted.
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Rear brakes diameter: 267 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR19
Rear tyre: 170/60-ZR17

Other

Color options: Orange, black
Comments: Small windscreen. Ride-by-wire system. Bosch cornering ABS and offroad mode, disengageable.
Fuel Tank Material: Plastic

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2017	2018	2019	2021	2022	2024
Capacity	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc
Dry weight	215 kg	215 kg	215 kg	220 kg	220 kg	220 kg
Seat height	860 mm	860 mm	860 mm	849 mm	860 mm	849 mm
Fuel capacity	23 L	23 L	23 L	23 L	23 L	23 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a powerful and reliable motorcycle that offers an impressive combination of performance and comfort. With its 1301cc V-twin engine, the Super Adventure S delivers smooth and effortless power, making it ideal for long journeys or spirited rides. The bike also comes equipped with advanced electronics and a range of rider aids, including cornering ABS, traction control, and four riding modes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience in various conditions. Additionally, the Super Adventure S features a comfortable and adjustable seat, a large fuel tank for extended range, and a robust chassis for stable handling, making it a top choice for adventure riders.

Overall, the 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S offers an unbeatable combination of power, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a top choice for riders looking for a high-performance adventure motorcycle. Whether you're tackling long-distance touring or exploring off-road trails, the Super Adventure S delivers the performance and versatility to handle any adventure. With its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and comfortable design, this KTM model is a top contender in the competitive adventure motorcycle market.