KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of engine and drive train, both the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017 have the same V2 engine type with a bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. They both have an engine power of 160 HP, but the Super Adventure R has a slightly higher torque of 140 Nm compared to the Super Adventure S's 138 Nm. Both models have an electric starter and a chain transmission. They also have the same number of cylinders and displacement, with 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both models have an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 48 mm. However, the Super Adventure R has a slightly longer travel of 220 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 200 mm. Both models have a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and the same brand, WP. The travel and adjustment options are also the same for both models.

In terms of chassis, both models have a chromium-molybdenum frame and a tubular frame type. The Super Adventure S has a slightly steeper rake of 65.3 degrees compared to the Super Adventure R's 64 degrees.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of brakes, both models have double disk front brakes with the same brand, Brembo.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models have suspension that is electronically adjustable, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. The Super Adventure S also has cornering ABS and cruise control, while the Super Adventure R has ABS and a quickshifter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, there are some differences between the two models. The Super Adventure S has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The Super Adventure R has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer for the Super Adventure R at 1580 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 1560 mm. The seat height is also higher for the Super Adventure R at 890 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 849 mm. The dry weight with ABS is slightly lower for the Super Adventure R at 217 kg compared to the Super Adventure S's 220 kg. The kerb weight with ABS is also slightly lower for the Super Adventure R at 240 kg compared to the Super Adventure S's 243 kg. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2017

In terms of equipment, both models have adjustable windscreens and LED headlights. The Super Adventure S has cornering lights and a TFT display, while the Super Adventure R has heated grips and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the Super Adventure S has a very sporty and cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, a comfortable and driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, a comprehensive electronics package, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display. The Super Adventure R is fully off-road capable, has a good off-road mode, easy handling, a very powerful and refined engine, state-of-the-art electronic features such as traction control and cornering ABS, and a large and easy-to-read TFT display with LED headlights and cornering lights.

In terms of weaknesses, the Super Adventure S has a somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality. The Super Adventure R has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment of the windshield.