SeptemberOctober 2018 - Issue 48. Bryn Davies tests out the big KTM’s pillion carrying credentials. While I’ve been taking great pleasure in calling the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R ‘my’ bike over the past few months of ownership, the reality is that it’s also my partner’s. She likes to join me on a lot of my rides and, in this issue Whilethe bike is generally solid, the self-destructing forks, delaminating fuel tanks, and other nit-picky things weren't what we expected from Honda. It doesn't look like we yet know how many of these issues were resolved on the on the latest models. The Crosstourer (VFR1200X) had great promise but it's heavy. 1 The 2018 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is an incredibly flexible motorcycle. Its touring credentials are obvious with the optional touring cases installed, and it’s reasonable to expect that a TheSuper Adventure S gets you a 19”/17” wheelset while the R model rolls on more dirt-oriented 21”/18” rims. The 61.4” wheelbase is up at the long end of the big adventure bike range with Ducati’s Multistrada 1260 at 62.4”, compared to Yamaha’s Super Ténéré at 61” and BMW’s R1200GS at 59.3” and the GSA at 58.9”. 143posts · Joined 2018. #13 · Dec 17, 2020. I had a 2015 1290 R, put 22,000 miles on that and sold it to buy a new 2020 SD1290R. I would highly recommend the Superduke, it’s an exceptional motorcycle. Verycapable bike off-road. Comfort mode and usually 2 up preload suspension settings. Translate that for your 1290s as needed. Considering tractionator off-road tires next. I have seen plenty of S models ran at the KTM Adventure rallys. #3. Barekat and 3rdgeargrndrr like this. waderman , Feb 28, 2022. #4. Asomewhat closer comparison might be the more dirt focused KTM 1290R. I think your biggest decision is will likely be DCT or no DCT. After you test the Africa Twin DCT you will have your answers. #5. Iowa_ADV , May 12, 2018. OnMarch 3 I picked up a "new" 2020 Super Adventure 1290 S and at 250 miles the GENERAL FAILURE warning came on along with the yellow triangle warning. teams and the worldwide KTM forum community to discuss topics covering Super Duke, 500 EXC, RC8, KTM 690, 790, 990, . KTM track racing, adventure stories, zE85LF.