KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO 2025 including Prototype Test

The exterior of the KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO 2025 has been revamped to meet both aesthetic and functional demands. The seat and the bike's ergonomics have been designed to make longer rides more comfortable. Wider pegs and a footpeg position lowered by 8 mm provide a more relaxed knee angle, which is intended to reduce fatigue, especially on long tours. The fairing design promises even better aerodynamics, while a newly designed windshield, now adjustable by 70 mm instead of 55 mm in height, aims to improve wind protection.

The chassis of the KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO has been further developed in collaboration with WP. The semi-active damping technology (SAT) has been revised and is now supposed to allow for even finer tuning. New sensors for pulse-width modulation and an optimized fork design combine elements from open and closed systems, which should further improve adaptation to various riding conditions. These changes aim to make the riding performance more stable and predictable both on the road and off-road.

The frame stiffness has also been increased to improve handling at higher speeds and on challenging terrain. This provides the motorcycle with a balanced mix of stability and agility, making it suitable for a wide range of riding conditions.

The wheel sizes remain identical to the predecessor with 120/70/19 at the front and 179/60/17 at the rear, but the often criticized original equipment tire of the 1290 Adventure S has been replaced by the proven road-oriented Dunlop Trailmax Meridian.

At the heart of the KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO lies an enlarged engine. The displacement has been increased to 1,350 cc, similar to the 1390 Super Duke, resulting in enhanced power. The engine now delivers 173 hp at 9,500 rpm and an even more substantial torque of 145 Nm, which, however, kicks in at 8,000 rpm—over 1000 rpm later than the 1290 model. Nevertheless, there is more than enough grunt available even from low revs, as I discovered during the test ride with the prototype, but more on that below.

The introduction of CAMSHIFT technology is also expected to bring improved control over the valve timing. At lower revs, the lift of the intake cams is reduced to ensure smoother power delivery, while at higher revs, the valves open longer and wider to achieve maximum engine performance. This approach combines efficiency with the ability to have the engine's full power on tap when needed.

A technical innovation already known before the announcement of the Super Adventure at KTM is the automated manual transmission (AMT), which will make its first practical appearance in the KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO 2025. This technology allows the rider to choose between manual shifting and a fully automatic riding mode. In manual mode, gears can be changed either via the foot shift lever or using paddle shifters on the handlebars. The automatic mode takes over shifting entirely, offering a straightforward riding experience without compromising the thrill of riding.

The AMT, which has its origins in the prototype for Johnny Aubert at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo, expands the options for the rider, especially during long rides or in dense urban traffic where frequent shifting is required. This technology allows the ride to be simplified depending on the situation, without sacrificing control over the bike. The wheelie sessions on KTM's Instagram channel clearly show that this automatic system is not synonymous with boredom.

Another innovation is the V80-TFT instrument cluster (with 32 GB storage and 3 GB RAM supporting eSim, GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi), integrated into a portrait-oriented, 8-inch touchscreen. This display is designed to be easily operable with gloves and remains readable even in challenging lighting conditions. Anti-reflective, anti-fingerprint, and anti-glare coatings help ensure the display stays clear even under strong sunlight.

Through the TFT display, riders can access a variety of settings and information, including riding modes, connectivity options (including an offline navigation system), and adaptive cruise control (ACC).

The latter is already known from the 1290 Super Adventure S, but now offers a traffic distance-keeping function in conjunction with the AMT, which can autonomously stop and start the motorcycle in stop-and-go traffic. How this will work in practice, such as whether a warning notice in the display will appear saying "foot down now," remains to be seen.

The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO 2025 is equipped with the latest generation of adaptive cruise control (ACC), supported by a new fifth-generation Bosch front radar sensor, which includes a brake assistant, collision warning, and distance warning. This system can automatically regulate the distance to vehicles ahead and is intended to provide increased safety, especially on longer highway journeys.

Additional safety features are expected to include improved truck detection as well as various modes for dynamic rides or group rides. These functions aim to make riding on various routes safer and more relaxed.

The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO 2025 will be available from the start of the 2025 season at authorized KTM dealers. The price for the new flagship model is expected to be above the current KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, which currently lists at 23,990 euros in Austria and 21,599 euros in Germany, with KTM offering a discount equivalent to the VAT on the outgoing model in both markets. A good time to make a move, at least for those who can do without the additional power, features, and the automated manual transmission (AMT).

In mid-September, KTM invited selected journalists to a special event at their main factory in Mattighofen. Besides an intensive tour through all the facilities (including research and development!), the second day featured a ride with various prototypes. Among them was a KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO equipped with AMT. The half-hour I spent in the saddle of the mighty adventure bike was extremely promising. The engine - what a powerhouse! Even at low revs, it shows a smooth throttle response, already hinting at the incredible power potential this engine holds for its class. The display animations are fluid, and the information is detailed. The semi-active suspension responds so well that you immediately feel at home on the big bike. The initial impressions of the AMT were also positive; gear changes are quick and smooth, at least in automatic mode. When shifting manually, the feel with the foot shifter is good, although the buttons on the left handlebar of the tested prototype are still somewhat unfamiliar. Additionally, the AMT currently lacks a kickdown function.