KTM 1290 Super Adventure - 2015 Specifications and Reviews

The 2015 KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a high-performance adventure bike designed for experienced riders seeking aggressive on-road and light off-road capability. Its potent engine, semi-active suspension, and lightweight tubular frame deliver responsive handling and excellent agility for an adventure platform. Best known for combining adventure touring versatility with sport bike performance, it suits riders prioritizing dynamic riding dynamics and long-distance touring.

2015
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General information

CategoryAllround
Year2015
ModelKTM 1290 Super Adventure
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Driveline5/8  x  5/16  X Ring. Primary drive: 40:76.
ClutchPASC anti-hopping clutch/ hydraulically operated
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced oil lubrication with 3 rotor pumps
IgnitionContactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x Stroke108.0 x 75.0 mm (4.3 x 3.0 inches)
Power160.00 HP (116.8 kW)
Engine details75° V arrangement
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter267 mm (10.5 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. Radially mounted.
Rear wheel travel200 mm (7.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionWP Semi-active Suspension PDS Monoshock
Front wheel travel200 mm (7.9 inches)
Front SuspensionWP Semi-active Suspension USD Ø 48 mm
Rake (fork angle)26.0°
Frame typeTubular space frame made from chrome molybdenum steel, powder-coated
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity30.00 litres (7.93 gallons)
Wheelbase1,560 mm (61.4 inches)
Ground clearance220 mm (8.7 inches)
Alternate seat height875 mm (34.4 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Seat height860 mm (33.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.6987 HP/kg
Dry weight229.0 kg (504.9 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsSmall windscreen. Ride-by-wire system.
StarterElectric
Color optionsWhite

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

160 hp
Peak Power
3.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track55%
City60%
Cornering85%
Daily Riding75%
Touring92%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits experienced riders comfortable managing a powerful, tall, and heavy adventure machine.
PurposeBuilt as a high-performance adventure tourer for fast road riding with genuine long-distance and light off-road capability.
Rider FitRiders should be reasonably tall and fit, as the 860mm seat height and 229kg dry weight demand confident handling at low speeds.
CharacterIt has a bold, powerful V-twin character that rewards assertive riding while still offering refined electronic rider aids for control.
Not Ideal ForIt is not a good fit for beginners or shorter riders seeking a light, low-maintenance commuter bike.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2015 KTM 1290 Super Adventure Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 860mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 2015 KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with a relaxed knee angle of around 140 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (3)

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING Feb 2019 · 19V087000

KTM North America, Inc. (KTM) is recalling certain 2015-2016 1290 Super Adventure motorcycles. Fuel may leak from the fuel tank cover mounting insert area.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: KTM has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel tank cover mounting insert, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact KTM customer service 1-888-985-6090. KTM's number for this recall is TB1904.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS Nov 2016 · 16V854000

KTM North America, Inc. (KTM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 1290 Super Adventure motorcycles manufactured December 1, 2014, to March 10, 2016, and 2013-2016 1190 Adventure and Adventure R motorcycles manufactured November 20, 2012, to April 25, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the wiring harness can fray and contact the ABS modulator. If the brake line is electrically conductive, the brake line may overheat and melt.

Risk: If the brake line melts, brake failure may result, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: KTM will notify owners, and dealers will re-position the wiring harness for the electronic control unit, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090.

SUSPENSION:REAR:SHOCK ABSORBER May 2016 · 16V279000

KTM North America, Inc. (KTM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 1290 Super Adventure motorcycles manufactured December 1, 2014, to December 11, 2015. These motorcycles have a rear shock absorber that may leak oil from the rebound damping plug, resulting in a loss of shock function.

Risk: Loss of function of the rear shock may affect the handling of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: KTM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rebound damping plug for leaking and replace the shock absorber, as necessary, and install a new version of the suspension control unit software, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2016. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090. KTM's number for this recall is TB1611.

Source: NHTSA. View all KTM recalls →

Rider Reviews

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