KTM 1290 Super Adventure R: specifications and compatible accessories
One hundred and sixty horsepower and a 21-inch wheel: the most extreme maxi enduro
The LC8 twin-cylinder engine in its most powerful form, on a chassis built for true off-road riding. It is the bike that calls for more protection than any other we cover: when it falls, it falls with 220 kilos and expensive components.
- In summarySuperbike power and enduro chassis: protection comes first.
- Do firstHeadlight guard, CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket, BHG-107 handguards.
- Shared with the SPannier frames, top case plate, headlight guard, handguards.
- On the R onlyThe LOBOO CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket.
- BrandsLOBOO, DENALI, Barkbusters, Eazi-Grip.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin |
|---|---|
| Power | 160 hp at 8,750 rpm |
| Torque | 138 Nm at 6,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain final drive |
| Chassis | Steel trellis frame, long-travel WP XPLOR suspension |
| Wheels | 21 inches front, 18 rear, spoked |
| Weight | 221 kg dry |
| Fuel tank | 23 liters |
| Seat height | 880 mm |
| Production | from 2017, updated in 2021 |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Unmatched power and torque in its category
- 21-inch wheel and long-travel WP suspension
- 23-liter range with an engine that consumes less fuel than expected
- Comprehensive electronics and cornering ABS
- Pannier frames and handguards shared with the S version
Cons
- 880 mm seat height and 221 kg: demanding during stationary maneuvers
- Expensive repairs in the event of a crash
- High tire and chain wear if you use the power
- WP suspension maintenance is not negligible
- Different control unit codes by model year: pay attention to the year
What to install, in order of priority
- 1
Headlight guard with hinged openingMade of 304 stainless steel, with no drilling required. Fits the R and S from 2022: the headlight is the most expensive part to replace. - 2
CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket, R version onlySUS304 stainless steel, 515 grams. Specific to the R: it does not fit the S. - 3
Barkbusters BHG-107 handguard kitFor the R and S from 2021: with 160 horsepower and off-road use, lever guards are not optional. - 4
Side pannier framesDesigned for the R and S: the foundation for mounting aluminum panniers. - 5
CANsmart control unit, from 2021Controls the auxiliary lights and horn from the original buttons. For earlier model years, use part number 790-1290. - 6
DENALI upper auxiliary light bracketFor the R and S: an alternative to the LOBOO bracket, with mounting at the top of the windscreen. - 7
Aluminum side panniersTo be paired with the dedicated racks, for long trips with a 23-liter capacity. - 8
Top case plateOn the original luggage rack: also useful on its own, without side panniers.
Compatibility table
It shares luggage and handguards with the S; anything depending on the windscreen and chassis is different.
| Accessory | 1290 Super Adventure S | 890 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Pannier racks and top case plate | yes | no |
| Headlight protector from 2022 onward | yes | no |
| BHG-107 handguard kit | yes, from 2021 onward | no |
| LOBOO CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket | no, R only | no |
| CANsmart controller from 2021 onward | yes | yes |
| Skid plate and underbody protection | no | no |
Brands with dedicated accessories
LOBOOProtection and luggageHinged headlight protector, CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket for the R, pannier racks, panniers, and top case plate.
DENALILighting and electricalCANsmart controller, DialDim wiring harness, upper and central auxiliary light brackets, horn mount.
BarkbustersHandguardsBHG-107 kit for the R and S from 2021 onward, to be paired with a bar and shell of your choice.
Frequently asked questions
Which accessories are exclusive to the R and not available for the S?
The LOBOO CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket is specified only for the R. The pannier racks, top case plate, headlight protector, and handguards fit both.
Which CANsmart controller do I need?
It depends on the year. From 2021 onward, the part number is 890-1290; for earlier model years, use the one that fits the 790, 1090, 1190, and 1290. They are two separate products.
Does the headlight protector fit all model years?
It is specified for the R and S from 2022 onward. It opens on a hinge for cleaning and requires no drilling.
Does the DENALI central light bracket fit my bike?
Only if the bike does not have the front radar. On versions with radar, the dimensions change: in that case, the upper bracket or the LOBOO one is recommended.
R or S: which one should you choose?
The R if you ride serious off-road: a 21-inch wheel and long-travel suspension. The S if you rack up miles on asphalt, with a 19-inch wheel and semi-active suspension. Most of the luggage is shared anyway.