Motorcycle specifications KTM1290 Super Adventure T 2017 Maxi offroad or touring?

KTM's maxi-trailers have never been so plentiful, nor has the market as a whole. They come in all shapes and sizes, and are designed to make the most of what technology has to offer. Here, we're thinking of long roads, long stages, touring with a capital T.
With Katoche's serious overhaul of the Adventure range, it's surprising to see so few changes in this T version compared to the S and R editions. The latter benefit from the latest refinements developed in MAttighofen (or by its partners).
The reason is simple: the 1290 Super Adventure T differs from its predecessor only in its name extension. It needed a small appendage to clearly display its more 'long-distance touring' performance.

having clarified the range, let's move on to the changes. Succinct, really. It's only on the engine side that some changes are noticeable. And even then, only on paper and in the pollution meter. The 1301 cm3 twin receives the care it needs to adapt to Euro4. Less noise, less emissions, but thanks to the good offices of the engine manufacturers, it hasn't lost any of its 160 hp or 14.2 mkg of torque. A crackling, voracious force that has its origins in the beastly Superduke 1290 R. Except that here, we're not looking for ferocity. The Super Adventure is designed to take advantage of almost inexhaustible resources, and equipment of the same level, to take crew and luggage much further than the eye can take it.

if the T has to do without some of the little extras that its S / R pals have slyly monopolized (headlamp unit, compartment with USB port, TFT screen, keyless ignition), it retains the advantage in terms of road weaponry. A true GT on stilts, capable of surprisingly good connections. Its main selling point for long-distance drivers is its 30-liter fuel tank. The biggest in the range. It's also the heaviest Super Adv, with almost 250 kilos ready to go. Not surprising, given its imposing, almost intimidating size, and the profusion of on-board equipment. From the indispensable to the superfluous, not to mention the astonishing.
Shall we get started? Multiple steering modes, semi-active suspension with four damping modes, four-stage disconnectable traction control, ABS cornering, adaptive cornering lights, cruise control, imperative reglable windshield, side protection bars, heated saddles and grips, tire pressure monitoring, spoked wheels, center stand, ergonomically designed handlebars, adjustable seat height and footrests, and hand guards.... phew!!! Let's not go into too much detail - good dealers will love to take it from here.

we appreciate the integrated luggage rack and rack, but not so much that panniers are still on the options list. On the other hand, other options have been added as standard, such as the Hill Hold Control counter-starting system and the MSR adjustable anti-dribble engine brake. A little updated decoration would also have been nice - but no, just a few discreet stickers and the obligatory reflectors accompany this my2017.

no technical changes on the chassis side either. The unmistakable tubular steel trellis frame encircles the enormous twin, holding its spirit in place while supporting the WP suspension. 19" and 17" rims, radial Brembo brakes, an immanent swingarm with visible ribs and exacerbated potential are the sure companions of this most Grand Touring of Adventure bikes.
Basically, does not having changed by becoming a T mean that KTM has slackened its efforts!?!! Yes or no... It could be a token of confidence in its model, so mature that it's unwise to touch it. Or simply that there's no need to make multiple changes if the other models in the range get the better of her. Either way, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure T fully justifies its role as an impressive backpacker.

M.B
Manufacturer's photos