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Adventure Motorcycles

2023KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

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The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a versatile middleweight adventure tourer powered by a 1301cc V-twin engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Designed for experienced riders seeking long-distance capability with aggressive off-road potential, it combines refined road manners with genuine adventure credentials. Known for its potent performance, advanced electronics, and agile handling, it excels as an all-around adventure platform.

Capacity: 1301.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 221.0 kg
Seat height: 880 mm
Power: 158.2 HP (115.5 kW)

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What’s new for the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

vs the 2022

Spec	2022	2023
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)
Dry weight	217.0 kg (478.4 pounds)	221.0 kg (487.2 pounds)
Seat height	890 mm (35.0 inches)	880 mm (34.6 inches)

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 2023 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: 155 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: PKTXC1.30LRC-005
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 6.60 L/100km (35.6 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 0.7 CO g/km
Torque: 138.0 Nm (14.1 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.70 litres/100 km (17.5 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.7158 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
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: 880 mm
Dry weight: 221.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.00 litres
Ground clearance: 250 mm
Reserve fuel capacity: 5.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Chrome-moly tubular space frame, powder-coated
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/blue
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	2019	2021	2022	2023	2024
Capacity	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc	1301 cc
Dry weight	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	217 kg	221 kg	217 kg
Seat height	890 mm	890 mm	880 mm	890 mm	880 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 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is a powerful and versatile adventure bike that is sure to impress even the most seasoned riders. With its 1301cc V-twin engine, this bike delivers exceptional performance on and off the road. The lightweight chassis and advanced electronics make it easy to handle in a variety of terrains, while the comfortable ergonomics ensure you can ride for hours on end without fatigue. Additionally, the bike is equipped with top-of-the-line suspension and braking systems, making it a reliable and safe option for any adventure.

Overall, the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is an impressive and high-performing motorcycle that is sure to satisfy the needs of any adventure rider. Its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and top-notch suspension and braking systems make it a top choice for those looking for a versatile and reliable bike. Whether you're hitting the trails or cruising on the highway, this bike delivers an exhilarating and enjoyable riding experience every time.

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