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Adventure Motorcycles

2021KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

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The 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a versatile middleweight adventure tourer powered by a 1301cc 75-degree V-twin producing 158 horsepower. Designed for riders seeking both on-road comfort and off-road capability, it excels as an all-around performer with advanced electronics and impressive torque delivery.

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 217.0 kg
Seat height: 880 mm
Power: 158.2 HP (115.5 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

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

vs the 2020

Spec	2020	2021
Power	158.2 HP (118.0 kW) @ 8800 RPM	158.2 HP (115.5 kW)
Seat height	890 mm (35.0 inches)	880 mm (34.6 inches)
Front suspension	WP USD Ø 48 mm	WP Xplor USD Ø 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 & 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 880mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will not reach the ground comfortably on the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, 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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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption 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 (115.5 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 128 CO2 g/km
Torque: 140.0 Nm (14.3 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.50 litres/100 km (18.2 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.7290 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 108.0 x 71.0 mm
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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1580 mm
Seat height: 880 mm
Dry weight: 217.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 242 mm
Reserve fuel capacity: 5.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis
Front suspension: WP Xplor USD Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension: WP Xplor PDS shock absorber
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

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	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg
Seat height	890 mm	890 mm	880 mm	890 mm	890 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

The 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R motorcycle is a top-of-the-line adventure bike that delivers impressive performance on and off-road. With a powerful 1301 cc V-twin engine, this bike is capable of tackling any terrain with ease. Its advanced electronics, including multiple riding modes and traction control, make it suitable for all skill levels. The bike's adjustable suspension and comfortable ergonomics ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride, even on long journeys. Overall, the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a highly capable and versatile motorcycle that is perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a fantastic choice for riders looking for a high-performance adventure bike. Its superior power and handling, combined with advanced electronic features, make it an excellent option for tackling rugged trails and long-distance touring. With its durable construction and comfortable design, this motorcycle is sure to provide an exhilarating and enjoyable riding experience for any adventure seeker. If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line adventure bike, the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R should definitely be at the top of your list.

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