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Adventure Motorcycles

2018KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

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The 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R targets experienced adventure riders seeking a capable, mid-weight tourer. Known for its ride-by-wire technology, switchable ABS modes, and genuine off-road credentials, it balances street performance with trail-ready geometry. Wire-spoked wheels, 250mm ground clearance, and disengageable traction control make it equally at home on pavement or unpaved terrain.

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 217.0 kg
Seat height: 890 mm
Power: 158.2 HP (118.0 kW) @ 8800 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage 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 & trail20%

Cornering90%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring75%

Two-up65%

Track75%

Best for: Built as a high-speed sport-tourer that blends naked-bike aggression with long-distance comfort features like cruise control and a windscreen.
Built for: A fierce, muscular V-twin character with sharp throttle response, premium semi-active suspension, and a planted, road-focused chassis.
Not ideal for: This is not the bike for riders seeking genuine off-road capability, tall adventure-bike stance, or a relaxed beginner-friendly ride.

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 890mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will not reach the ground comfortably on the 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, with a moderate knee angle of around 100 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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Range and running costs

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Units

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Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Power: 158.2 HP (118.0 kW) @ 8800 RPM
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: 0.7290 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 108.0 x 75.0 mm
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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1580 mm
Seat height: 890 mm
Dry weight: 217.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 250 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated
Front suspension: WP USD Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension: WP-PDS Monoshock
Front wheel travel: 220 mm
Rear wheel travel: 220 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: 90/90-21
Rear tyre: 150/70-18

Other

Color options: White/orange/black
Comments: Small windscreen. Ride-by-wire system. Switchable Bosch ABS, 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	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg
Seat height	890 mm	890 mm	890 mm	880 mm	890 mm	890 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

The 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a top-of-the-line adventure motorcycle with impressive performance and features. With a powerful 1301cc engine, versatile riding modes, and advanced electronics, this bike is designed for off-road adventures and long-distance rides. Its rugged design and advanced suspension system make it capable of tackling any terrain, while its comfortable ergonomics and advanced safety features ensure a smooth and secure ride.

Overall, the 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a standout choice for riders looking for a high-performance adventure motorcycle. Its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and rugged design make it a top contender in its class. With its versatility and capability, this bike is sure to impress even the most experienced adventure riders.

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