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Adventure Motorcycles

2021KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

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The 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a versatile middleweight adventure tourer powered by a robust 1301cc V-twin engine producing 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Designed for experienced riders seeking a balanced blend of on-road performance and off-road capability, it excels at long-distance touring and varied terrain exploration. Known for its agile handling, advanced electronics including cruise control, and reliable liquid-cooled powerplant, this allrounder suits adventurers prioritizing comfort and capability over extremes.

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 220.0 kg
Seat height: 860 mm
Power: 160.0 HP (116.8 kW) @ 9000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Power	160.0 HP (116.8 kW)	160.0 HP (116.8 kW) @ 9000 RPM
Torque	140.0 Nm (14.3 kgf-m or 103.3 ft.lbs)	138.0 Nm (14.1 kgf-m or 101.8 ft.lbs) @ 6500 RPM
Dry weight	215.0 kg (474.0 pounds)	220.0 kg (485.0 pounds)
Front suspension	WP Semi-active suspension USD Ã˜ 48 mm	WP Semi-active suspension, Upside-Down Ã˜ 48 mm

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 2021 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) @ 9000 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 132 CO2 g/km
Torque: 138.0 Nm (14.1 kgf-m) @ 6500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.70 litres/100 km (17.5 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.7273 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 108.0 x 71.0 mm
Compression: 13.1:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition
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: 220.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 220 mm
Reserve fuel capacity: 5.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated
Front suspension: WP Semi-active suspension, Upside-Down Ã˜ 48 mm
Rear suspension: WP Semi-active suspension monoshock
Front wheel travel: 200 mm
Rear wheel travel: 200 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.7°
Trail: 109 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. 2 x Brembo four-piston radial fixed calliper, brake discs, floating
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Brembo twin-piston fixed calliper, brake disc
Rear brakes diameter: 267 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR19
Rear tyre: 170/60-ZR17

Other

Color options: Orange/black
Comments: Small windscreen

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	2019	2021	2022	2024
Capacity	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc
Dry weight	215 kg	215 kg	220 kg	220 kg	220 kg
Seat height	860 mm	860 mm	860 mm	860 mm	849 mm
Fuel capacity	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 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a powerhouse of a motorcycle, offering top-of-the-line performance and advanced features for riders looking for the ultimate adventure bike. With a powerful 1301cc V-twin engine, this bike delivers impressive horsepower and torque, making it a thrill to ride on both highways and off-road trails. The electronic rider aids, including advanced traction control and cornering ABS, provide added confidence and safety for riders tackling different terrains.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the 1290 Super Adventure S comes equipped with a large, adjustable windshield, heated grips, and a spacious luggage rack for long-distance touring. The bike's sleek and aggressive design also adds to its appeal, making it a head-turner on the road. Overall, the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-performance adventure motorcycle that is well-suited for experienced riders seeking an adrenaline-pumping and versatile ride.