KTM 1290 Super Adventure - 2016 Specifications and Reviews
The 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure is a capable adventure tourer designed for riders seeking genuine off-road performance paired with on-road comfort. Known for its potent 1301cc V-twin engine, semi-active suspension, and impressive ground clearance of 220mm, it excels at tackling challenging terrain while maintaining highway-friendly ergonomics. This bike suits experienced adventurers who demand a versatile machine for both serious trail exploration and long-distance touring.
General information | |
| Category | Allround |
| Year | 2016 |
| Model | KTM 1290 Super Adventure |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Driveline | 5/8 x 5/16 X Ring. Primary drive: 40:76. |
| Clutch | PASC slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated |
| Transmission type,final drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Forced oil lubrication with 3 pumps |
| Ignition | Keihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignition |
| Fuel system | Injection |
| Bore x Stroke | 108.0 x 75.0 mm (4.3 x 3.0 inches) |
| Power | 160.00 HP (116.8 kW) |
| Engine details | 75° V arrangement |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1301.00 ccm (79.39 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 267 mm (10.5 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. Radially mounted. |
| Rear wheel travel | 200 mm (7.9 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | WP Semi-active suspension monoshock |
| Front wheel travel | 200 mm (7.9 inches) |
| Front Suspension | WP Semi-active suspension USD Ø 48 mm |
| Rake (fork angle) | 26.0° |
| Frame type | Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 30.00 litres (7.93 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,560 mm (61.4 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 220 mm (8.7 inches) |
| Alternate seat height | 875 mm (34.4 inches) If adjustable, highest setting. |
| Seat height | 860 mm (33.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.6987 HP/kg |
| Dry weight | 229.0 kg (504.9 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Comments | Small windscreen. Ride-by-wire system. Switchable Bosch ABS. |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Grey/silver |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | This bike suits experienced riders comfortable managing a powerful, tall, and heavy adventure machine. |
| Purpose | Built as a high-performance adventure tourer for fast road riding with genuine long-distance and light off-road capability. |
| Rider Fit | Riders should be reasonably tall and fit, as the 860mm seat height and 229kg dry weight demand confident handling at low speeds. |
| Character | It has a bold, powerful V-twin character that rewards assertive riding while still offering refined electronic rider aids for control. |
| Not Ideal For | It 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.
⚠ Safety Recalls (3)
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.
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.
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 →
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