KTM has announced the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, a refinement of the most off-road oriented of the Austrian brand’s adventure range.
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R represents the most ‘off-road’ variant of the Austrians’ adventure roster, designed to contend with the more extreme conditions and terrains.
For 2023, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R receives only minor updates, most of which were also applied to the recently announced 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S.
The 2023 model’s derivation from the 2021 version - the most recent major model update for this motorcycle - means much of its specifications are already known. For example, the twin-cylinder LC8 engine produces 160 horsepower and 138Nm of torque, while weighing 1.6kg less than the previous version from the pre-2020 model.
Additionally, there is the 6D lean angle sensor from Bosch, and XPLOR suspension from WP, including split cartridge technology in the forks and 220mm of wheel travel from the rear shock.
An addition for 2023 is the Bridgestone AX41 tyres, which come as stock for the new model year. Further, the Super Adventure R also receives the ‘Turn-By-Turn+’ navigation that is also fitted to the Super Adventure S for 2023.
The most visible update for the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is the new paint job, which is mostly white as a nod to KTM’s racing history. Finally, there is also a range of official KTM PowerParts to customise the bike as you wish, including luggage options, crash bars, 11 seat options, and “more aesthetic touches,” KTM says.
The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is available in KTM dealers from December 2022.
2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R highlights
- New sporting white colour and graphic scheme
- New ‘Turn-by-Turn+’ guidance and more travel navigation options
- LC8 V-twin engine with 160 hp and 138 Nm of torque
- ChroMo stainless steel chassis weighing 10kg and sculpted for cornering stability and more feeling under acceleration but based on long-travel Enduro sensibilities
- WP XPLOR suspension
- Adjustable and customisable ABS settings and ‘Ride Modes’
- Further options across the bike with a selection of KTM PowerParts
- ‘Race On’ remote key system
- Illuminated switches
- 7-inch TFT dashboard
- Adjustable windshield
- LED lights
- Simplified dashboard interactivity
- Spoked 21/18-inch aluminium wheels with off-road-focused Bridgestone AX41
