KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 vs. KTM 890 Adventure R 2022

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S model year 2017 and the KTM 890 Adventure R model year 2022 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they share some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing 160 HP of power and 140 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R features an in-line twin engine with a displacement of 889cc, delivering 105 HP of power and 100 Nm of torque. Both models have an electric starter and chain transmission.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a front suspension travel of 200 mm, while the KTM 890 Adventure R offers a longer travel of 240 mm, making it more suitable for off-road riding. Both models have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles feature a chromium-molybdenum frame, but the KTM 890 Adventure R has a tubular frame that also serves as a load-bearing engine. The rake angle of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is 64 degrees, while the KTM 890 Adventure R has a slightly steeper rake angle of 63.7 degrees.

The braking system on both motorcycles consists of double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 890 Adventure R offers cornering ABS as standard, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has ABS and suspension that is electronically adjustable. Both models also have traction control and various riding modes.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2022

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the KTM 890 Adventure R has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The seat height of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is 860 mm, while the KTM 890 Adventure R has a slightly higher seat height of 880 mm. The dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is 215 kg, while the KTM 890 Adventure R is slightly lighter at 196 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20-23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 offers a powerful engine, precise handling, traction control with a fun factor, cornering ABS as standard, an easy-to-read TFT display, quickshifter, LED headlights with cornering lights, and off-road capability. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 boasts an off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall riders), agile handling, a powerful engine, a comprehensive electronics package, cornering ABS including an off-road mode, finely controllable brakes, and traction control depending on lean angle.

However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a high price and a power-consuming height adjustment for the windshield, which can be considered as weaknesses. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2022 has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, a seat height that can be challenging for small riders, moderate wind and weather protection, and useful features such as Quickshifter+ that come at an extra cost.