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Jun 07, 2024
2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Review [29 Fast Facts]
Already the king of off-road when it comes to open-class adventure motorcycles, the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R gets a new frame, IMU-enhanced electronic wizardry, aggressive dirt tires, and more. With the 1290 Super Adventure S taking care of those who prefer the street most of the time, the R comes loaded for bear from a company that knows a thing or two about off-roading. This is not a motorcycle for the faint-hearted, so tighten that chin strap and ride along with us.
Photography by Don Williams
RIDING STYLE
2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Specs
ENGINE
CHASSIS
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Price: $19,499 MSRP ($20,249, as tested)
Unless you are a large rider, the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is intimidating the first time you get on.The new Bridgestone Adventurecross AX41 tires are a dog whistle to the off-road crowd.Although you can’t see much of it, the R has a new frame this year. The R carries over six gallons of fuel in three different tanks. KTM cut 3.5 pounds off the motor via new engine cases, though we can’t claim to feel it. The electronics have been updated, and that’s where the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R establishes itself in different venues.The Tech Pack’s quickshifter is outstanding, as is the updated Pankl six-speed transmission. The clutch has new friction discs this year. When you ride the R off-road seriously, you will fall in love with Rally mode.The Rally mode changes the power delivery in significant ways.With Rally engaged, how fast you can go in the dirt is entirely determined by your bravery, confidence, and skill. Even if you are more modestly talented off-road, the Super Adventure R is an exceptionally willing partner. Ergonomically, the R is outstanding for riding in the dirt. Learning to use the traction control to balance the beast’s power output is a key that helps unlock the potential of the R in the dirt.While we’re on the subject, the Bridgestone AX41 tires are an essential part of the off-road equation.The Offroad ABS mode is superb, as are the Brembo components. It’s easy to forget about the WP suspension off-road because it does its job so well.While we don’t need semi-active suspension units, electronic adjustment of the damping on the fly would be a huge help. In addition to its off-road prowess, the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is also built for touring.The windshield is adjustable over a two-inch sweep. KTM has tamed the LC8’s V-twin vibes nicely. When out on the open highway, Street mode is the way to go.The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R also has a sport-bike component. Dirt-oriented tires and 524 pounds are your limiting factors in the twisties. The electronics suite is controlled via an array of buttons and switches, with a beautiful seven-inch TFT keeping you apprised of the situation. The display on the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is easy to read, with the most important information in huge fonts.A two-way C1 and C2 switch on the right handlebar allows you to select favorites for quick access. The fob is an integral part of the system, and there are still bugs.The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is both demanding and rewarding.RIDING STYLE2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R SpecsENGINECHASSIS DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Price: $19,499 MSRP ($20,249, as tested)