KTM 1290 Super Adventure S: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The same 160 horsepower as the R, but designed for covering miles
19-inch front wheel, WP semi-active suspension and road-focused setup: the S is the touring version of the Super Adventure. The luggage is the same as on the R, but the lighting is not.
- In briefThe big KTM for covering miles, with semi-active suspension.
- Do this immediatelyHeadlight guard, pannier racks, BHG-107 handguards.
- Shared with the RPannier racks, panniers, top-case plate and handguards.
- For the S onlyThe DENALI LAH0410700 lower auxiliary light mount.
- 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, WP semi-active suspension |
| Wheels | 19 inches front, 17 rear |
| Weight | 220 kg dry |
| Fuel tank | 23 liters |
| Seat height | 849-869 mm adjustable |
| Production | since 2017, updated in 2021 with optional radar |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Semi-active suspension that adapts to the load
- Adjustable seat, lower than the R
- Better comfort and wind protection than the R version
- Twenty-three-liter tank and touring range
- Luggage and handguards shared with the R
Cons
- 19-inch wheel: a limitation on challenging off-road terrain
- Weight noticeable in low-speed maneuvers
- High fuel consumption with the throttle wide open
- The optional radar limits some auxiliary light brackets
- More expensive semi-active suspension maintenance
What to fit, in order of priority
- 1
Stainless steel headlight guardFor the S and R from 2022, hinged opening and no drilling. The headlight assembly is among the most expensive parts of the bike. - 2
R/S pannier racksSame code as the R version: it is the foundation for long-distance travel, which is what this bike is made for. - 3
Barkbusters BHG-107 handguard kitFor the S and R from 2021: in addition to protection, it shields your hands from the wind on long trips. - 4
Lower auxiliary light mount, for the S onlyCode LAH0410700 specific to this version: it cannot be fitted to the R. - 5
CANsmart control unit, from 2021Control auxiliary lights and the horn from the original switches. Before 2021, code 790-1090-1190-1290 is required. - 6
Aluminum side casesTo be paired with the racks: with a 23-liter tank, it becomes a long-distance machine. - 7
R/S top case plateOn the original luggage rack: also useful on its own for those traveling without side cases. - 8
DialDim plug-and-play wiring harnessAlternative to the controller: plugs into the original connectors without modifying the wiring.
Compatibility table
It shares the luggage with the R, not the lighting.
| Accessory | For the 1290 R | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Luggage racks and top case plate | yes | code specified for R/S |
| Side cases | yes | code specified for R/S |
| BHG-107 handguard kit | yes | from 2021 |
| Headlight protector | yes | from 2022 |
| Lower auxiliary light mount | no | S version only |
| LOBOO CDZJ251 auxiliary light bracket | no | R version only |
| Headlight center mount | yes | motorcycles without radar only |
Brands with dedicated accessories
LOBOOProtection and luggageHeadlight protector, luggage racks, side cases, and top case plate, all specified for the R/S.
DENALILighting and electricalS-specific lower auxiliary light mount, CANsmart controller, DialDim wiring harness, SoundBomb horn.
BarkbustersHandguardsBHG-107 kit for the S and R from 2021, to be paired with a bar and shell of your choice.
Eazi-GripTank gripTank grip pads shared with the 1090 and 1190 Adventure for model years up to 2020.
Frequently asked questions
Do the S accessories fit the R?
The luggage does: luggage racks, cases, top case plate, and handguards have codes specified for the R/S. The lighting does not: the lower auxiliary light mount is for the S only, while the LOBOO CDZJ251 bracket is for the R only.
I have radar: does anything change?
Yes. The DENALI headlight center mount is specified only for motorcycles without radar, because the adaptive cruise control module occupies that position. Check underneath the headlight before ordering.
Is the S also suitable for riding on gravel?
Yes, on gravel roads and hard-packed surfaces. The 19-inch wheel and road-oriented suspension put it at a disadvantage in technical off-road riding, where the R is an entirely different motorcycle.
Which CANsmart controller is needed?
From 2021, the code shared with the 890 Adventure. For earlier model years, the one covering the 790, 1090, 1190, and 1290.
Do semi-active suspensions require special accessories?
No, the mounts remain the same. The practical advantage is that with luggage and a passenger, you only need to change the setting from the dashboard instead of adjusting the preload by hand.