I’m not on the market for an Adv bike but I have it’s road focused sibling, the SDR Evo, and I can agree about the feeling you have from the engine: intoxicatingly good. Nice job as usual ✌️
Entirely agree with your verdict on gear lever, need to take foot off to change gears, it is adjustable, but moving it to next lower position means it then snags on spring of side stand when down shifting. Other than that, and handle bar indicator switch, I absolutely love it!
I like watching your tests. thank you for your YT channel. I agree with other people's comments that if you want to compare the bike's cornering behavior, you should test the S version, which has a 19 inch front wheel just like the GS. Thanks to your test, if I ever change a motorcycle - I own a small GS 850 - a big one is not an obvious choice any more... 😉
Thanks! I'm thinking about the S version a lot but somehow feel that the R should be close enough. Especially after riding an Africa Twin 1100 a few weeks/months ago with that 21-inch front wheel which was very happy to turn at speeds. As for a next "big" choice - it's really interesting nowadays with the R1250GS, the new Triumph Tiger 1200 (it's really a well-engineered bike!) and this KTM. Triumph is somehow perfectly in between the GS and KTM in almost every aspect ;)
Agree with you, why would you take an R version over an S for road riding? It’s a serious off road bike. The S is design for road riding. This review is great but doesn’t make complete sense. He must compare the S version.
@@guypaterson1268 Dude, wake up. Why do you think dealers sell these bikes on street tires? To ride off-road? No, to ride onroad which most people clearly do. This bike is on street tires here too, so you agreeing or not changes nothing and those are the facts - people ride big adv bikes onroad and even use them for touring purposes, including a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. Yeah, S should be more on-road-biased but the story remains the same.
I’m awake thanks. I owned a KTM 1190r and sold it for the same reason the chap before me did. It’s to focused on off road. Have you ridden both versions? KTM don’t mess around with there R versions. I don’t need a 240kg dirt bike. Wish I did.
Thanks for an interesting review. As an owner of a 2021 SAR, Im surprised that you say (1) Its hesitant to turn in the corners and (2) Suspension not that comfortable. Ive spent lots of hours on both the S and R, latest models, and I can promise you the R has a very plush suspension, more than that of the S, one of my main reasons I bought the R and not the S. Its as if the S was 'doing things' on the suspension I dit not want ot to do! Did you check the settings of the preload on your review bike, specifically at the front, it should be set to 0 (zero), for your weight & size. Ive never experienced the stock tyres, the ones you reviewed with, I bought mine with new Perelli STRs fitted, not 1 complaint with the STRs. My bike really has no hesitation in corners, kind of the opposite! Also, the LCD screen on the 2021/2022 model is definitely a big upgrade from the previous model? 90% of reviewers praise this upgrade. I dont agree with your statement that its very much the same as the previous model. I can ABSOLUTE confirm... The SAR is a FANOMINAL, BLAST of a motorcycle to own. Probably really the answer to the cleche question... 'The only bike you need in your garage'! Nontheless, thanks for the review!
This bike came with street tires. The newer the tires, the more eager the bikes are to lean as they're the most round on the top. So it was as good as it gets. Comparing to other bikes in the category, to me it's not as eager to turn. I cannot compare it to the S though as I haven't ridden it. You made me curious if the S would be that much different in terms of dealing with bumps. Having shorter wheel travel in the front and rear could indicate that indeed the S might be stiffer. But then it would be really, really stiff I think. For now I'll trust your judgement. I don't know what the screen was like in the previous model - I've never seen it.
I 100% agree with your point of view, became a master of your suspensions and crazy about the right tire and pressure and you will find that the SDR is the best bike ever for every crazy ride you may have in your mind. I love mine!!!
Thanks! These are BMW Motorrad gloves and I've been using them in al sorts of conditions for years now. They've got a "wiper" attached to one of the fingers and it's a great solution for when the weather suddenly changes and drops of rain start to appear. I'm pretty happy with them but of course in super cold weather you might want to have dedicated "winter" gloves consisting of an internal insert and the main glove. Likely the best solution for very cold days so far. Gotta be more thick than the BMW ones.
I never had problem in leaning angle, it’s a little slower than the v4 and gs in the first turn in but then very progressive. For sure you have to work on the damping, it really change behaviour even with few clicks (the same for comfort since you question about that). The switch can be killed pushing down. Another cool thing is the optional rally mode in which you can tune the TC and have a really aggressive rally map. Agree on the poor muffler sound. And the oem bridgestone are not very good for spirited riding, she likes more agile tires with that 21”.
I do believe that one may make the suspension softer via the manual adjustment. Still, I prefer to keep it in factory settings to not have it biased and I believe that most riders don't play with manual settings even if they're there. I very rarely would use that on some of my previous bikes, so I came to a conclusion that I'm not touching that. But yes, it's a valid point that if you want it to differ depending on where you ride or simply a mood etc., then you can play with that. Thanks!
@@VToldsMotoShow I disagree with your assumption that factory suspension settings are best, or even good. My experience, which I will share for you to consider, has been different. I have a 2022 Triumph Rocket 3 GT (triple black) and the factory suspension settings were terrible. The bike felt like I was clomping along in Frankenstein's boots! It turns out that all the Rockets are shipped with nearly useless factory suspension settings. I assume Triumph has their reasons associated with assembly, testing, shipping or whatever. Very few are adjusted before the owner takes possession of the bike. Many owners have posted about it in forums and dealerships were generally not helpful on this issue. An owner posted an excellent and comprehensive RUclips video to zero and reset the entire suspension (7 manual settings) based on rider weight and intended use. Much better information and instructions than what is in the user's guide. I watched the video, took notes, and adjusted my suspension in less than ten minutes with 1 screwdriver. This made an amazing improvement in the handling of the bike. We are talking night and day difference. It is my opinion that many owners that purchase high end bikes are enthusiasts and have been riding for more than a minute. They will adjust things like the manual suspension settings on bikes. For those that aren't, it doesn't help less experienced riders to discount or gloss over the information. Managing manual suspension setting is well within the reach of the average person and much easier the second time around. Manual adjustments are something that once they are understood can be set and used in conjunction with the riders modes on the bike. Information adds to the enjoyment of the sport.
I have the S, and it handles like a sports bike in the corners!! I think your bent wheel might have been a factor as you're the first person I have heard to say you didn't like the cornering on the 1290.
I actually got on the S a few weeks later and well, it does ride differently. One aspect of handling is better, another seemed worse. Cornering was the better one. As for the front rim, I was one of the first but there was at least one person who rode it for the first hundred or so km and actually that main key was still with them. I haven't really had a chance it bent it I guess as I haven't taken it offroad at all. Anyway, I'd guess that it should take any sort of impact with some confidence. This I'm afraid will have to remain a mystery. But it was bent a lot - if you can see it when it's spinning, it's not good.
I have the 2022 SAS and can tell you it turns brilliantly. The SAR is the off road bias option of the 2 and you are only basing your opinions on road? I'll tell you right now that I would be faster then some sports bikes on a track day on the SAS no problem. It is very stable in the corners and IMO handles as good as the Multi V4S on road. As for the indicator switch ... well I still can't figure it out .. I saw someone mention pushing down on it in your comments section. I will try that.
Yeah, it's pretty stable in the corners once it's there, and this R has street tires, so there's not that much offroad bias here with this particular unit. I totally don't care about offroad capabilities myself. I'd probably play with it here and there as I used to do that with my own bike in the past - even more offroad capable, but that's just to prove to myself that I can. I think that having the S version lower to the ground could help it as the whole center of gravity is lower too. About the indicator - did you mean that it's not that super great for you either?
This requires plenty of little adjustments over time to set it the way you feel you want. I kept the bike in factory settings or in other words - I haven't changed the settings.
Bought my SAS six weeks ago! Best bike I’ve owned in a long time..super easy when you want and a beast when you want. 300 mile days are very easy. Previously I’ve owned 7 GS’s great bikes but don’t get your balls fizzing the KTM, a keeper.
I think it's a good comparison of KTM vs BMW. I feel that the 1290 SAS can give you that additional shot of adrenaline that BMW cannot, even though it may be objectively more "proper" in some areas. But I also value that craziness in a bike. All the best with your bike!
Vito, the indicator sucks no matter what, even without gloves. Now, about stability, I have my SDR for over 6 months, took me a while to tune the suspension for my weight, tire pressure and the right tires, after done the bike is solid as a rock up to 100mph (note that I have the ax41 tires and they got speed limit) still very tall for the twists just need to be aware of that, it is not a super duke R . I love this bike and I take off road every time that I can. You had a faulty bike with bent wheel and the wrong tries used and abused by many, try to get a brand new and you will see. Thank you for the review.
Thanks for the hint. I trust that perhaps there would be better suspension settings than the factory ones as we're all different with different preferences. However, this was an almost brand new bike with only like 200 km on the clock. It seems that whoever had it before me, indeed managed to abuse it successfully. Cheers!
KTM’s 1290 Super adventure r it’s first valve adjustment is at 18,600 miles and Oil changes are every 9,300 miles. And reliability I think that refers to their dirt bikes rather than there ADV bikes there’s a decent amount of high miles ADV Bikes from KTM. I seen a 1190 with 70,000 miles on it and yeah you’re gonna have some stuff Break but that should be said with any motorcycle.
The turn signal - so true! The first week was tough but eventually got better. Not sure is it's me getting used to the button or actually the button required a few cycles and "breaking-in". P.S. the signal button is still weird, when you try to make "bep-bep" in produces a very angry "beeeeep" instead!
Interesting discovery about the horn. I wish I saw your comment earlier as I spent some time on the S version later on and could've checked that. I wonder what the idea behind it is.
@@VToldsMotoShow , may be all buttons require some breaking-in, but the horn is simply used less that the turn signal (for most of us!). Still confused..
NICE VIDEO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK Very important about INDICATOR SWITCH. When you want to cancel don’t just push it in, you need to push it in and down. And it will cancel (this is the big secret) I have the R 2022 model, i changed my tires to Bridgestone AX41, it slides on tarmac but still a monster in tide turns.I did scratch my foot pegs in slower turns all the time. I just switched from supermoto to sar. I’m more off-road oriented but this bike is hell of a fun to ride on tarmac to. For me is the only bike you need ! (If you have a 300 2stroke to 😂) just drop a comment if it works for you the tip about SWICH INDICATOR CANCELING
Thanks for the hint. I actually learned another secret or two. First is that KTM's user's manual states to press the switch and doesn't mention pushing it down. The other, deep secret is that the switch won't work no matter what you do - press it inwards or push down or press and push down at the same time, if it's not held long enough. This is why it fails to register the command - a basic press is too short for it to realize it's happening and what you need to do is to hold it a bit longer. I'm certain that this is not the way it was supposed to be, so it needs to be fixed by KTM. Thanks for bringing that up.
I'm an happy owner of the s version and I think that the suspension are quite stiff in sport and road mode, a little bit better in comfort mode but in general is not as comfortable as a gs for example, but for me that is not a problem because it's kinda sportier compared to other motorcycles in the same category. The only downside of this wonderful machine for me is the heat dissipation. I live in Italy by the sea and in this season if you are not going at crazy speed it's almost unbearable
Thanks a lot for sharing. I was wondering about the heat but it felt not as bad and visible as in some other bikes so far. I explained it by very hot days but if it would feel the same when riding calmly and on colder days, then it wouldn't be good. I hope it's not the case so much. However, your experiences suggest otherwise.
A big NO on the indicator switch, KTM should fix this because this is a safety issue. Other road users can be tricked in thinking you are making a turn ....and you are not ,causing a collision with deadly results. KTM, do not wait for a lawsuit fix this now!
that would be interesting. @Nicolas Risso, thanks for feedback. Sometimes it would react and sometimes not. I'd believe that it should be the same on all bikes - just like the clutch lever being on the left side of a handlebar, not the right etc. I checked it in the user's manual right now and it says to push it in the direction of the cover, which means that KTM states that it should work just like in all other bikes. So a pro tip may be to do not as they say but to try pushing it down.
I tend to agree with most of the appreciation that you did about this bike. It is not acceptable in this range of price to have problems with indicators button!? And the oil leak in a new bike, that’s also another nonsense situation that defrauds anyone’s expectations including the one who is thinking about purchasing this specific bike. Maybe you find that the “S” version is different. In terms of looks, the front is not a strong point of the attractive nature of KTM bikes but I prefer the “S” front, if I had to choose between two insect’s faces. And that is subjective . I think that is a lot of people that love that looks and others that don’t. The stock pipe noise is incredibly bad. So, that would be also, something to be changed. In general, I love the color of the “R” body paint or decoration but it is exclusively for the “R” version, so it is what it is…A premium brand never present this kind of failure and I say it is a failure because KTM doesn’t give you an alternative to a lot of this issues. In consequence they become from issues to convert themselves to conditioning factors. Maybe Deal breaker factors. Man, I wished that you could get your hands on SDGT. It’s my bike of choice of KTM’s range and I would appreciate a lot to know what do you think about it. Thanks for an excellent video about this KTM Adventure R machine!🤙🤙 In a bike of this price scale, would be good to count on with electronic suspension and active cruise control. I think the version “S” has those features.
Yup, the S has electronically-adjustable suspension and active cruise control. I also agree with your view of the R and S looks with a preference towards the face of the S. I did ride the S recently and it was fine in terms of the front wheel, there was no wobble at speeds and no leaks, but the indicator switch was the same and it was also malfunctioning. I actually managed to test it extensively and will present it in my review of the S in some time once it's done. But yeah, it's discouraging to see it not complying with a singular, quick press. It would keep bothering me certainly. Cheers!
You can adjust it however you want - meaning that there likely isn't a "road" or "offroad" setting as it's entirely up to you how you like it where and when.
Turn signal cancel is strange. The pointer is indeed worthless. the old one worked and didn't need a replacement. Try the following that seems to work for me. Cancel it by pushing it in a rolling motion, sounds strange, but It somehow works for me. So just try that 😉.Think the Horn location is to close to the ACC + switch en the L1 and L2 selection is to limithed. Still love the bike, my best buy ever. PS i have the S 🐱
This is a bike I am seriously considering and your review was excellent from the perspective of going beyond the spec sheet and number.s How a bike feels and performs is far more than that and this review was excellent there. A point that would improve your review and I intend this as constructive input for you to consider. I hope you accept it that way. The turn signal indicators. You did not understand how they function. I could be wrong, but this indicates you did not read the user's guide. You own this bike and had it in your hands for a few weeks before posting a 39 minute review and not knowing how things function is not good. If you had not read the user's guide, I suggest you do so before riding a bike you review as this would help the quality of your review.
Thanks for the input. What do you mean by not understanding how the indicators work vs what the user's manual says? What does it say? I actually did check it afterwards after the discussions here and under my other videos about this bike and this is what it says about their operation just like in any other current motorcycle with a singular indicator switch: "Turn signal off - Push the turn signal switch toward the switch housing.". Toward the switch housing means press it inwards, not down. I lated rode a 1290 SAS and played with the switch. If you don't hold it long enough to reset, it doesn't register the command - it's KTM's design fault in my opinion. I hope this helps. Cheers!
Indicator switch. KTM dealers need to learn their bikes. Had the same trouble as you when I test rode one, dealer told me it will loosen the more you use it. Fact is you push it down towards the floor and not press into bars. Then it will work. The only fault I have with mine is the dead stop when hitting limiter but then I guess you shouldn't be doing that anyway. I have the 2022 sas model so handles like a dream
Yeah, somebody is wrong as KTM states this in the user's manual for this MY: "Turn signal off - Push the turn signal switch toward the switch housing." It's not about the direction but time - if you don't hold long enough, it simply doesn't work. I'll show it in my upcoming Super Adventure S video soon.
@@VToldsMotoShow anyway it's not to much of a problem as it has auto turn off indicators so I don't bother turning them off 😁 something else my dealer didn't know about.
@@davidb9323 that’s why KTM built the R and the S. R is off road with it’s 21” front/19 rear wheel and the S with its 19” front and 17” rear wheel . The S is one of the best handling bikes I’ve ridden. I’ve had the Multistrada and Africa twin. Not had much time on the GS tho but enough to know I prefer the KTM
@@davidb9323 yes. I’ve experienced this too. I made videos on my channel . Check them out and you will know what I mean. I got a new bike from them for free/replacement. Still love KTM 1290’s . They are an amazing machines
I had 1290 SAR 2018 model year. Very many problems. Chain sliders go after 350km trip after riding in the sand. Sometimes ECU hangs and the bike will not wake up. You have to disconnect and reconnect battery for it to wake up again. Max speed is limited to 190km/h. Radiator hoses may get loose and bike dumps hot coolant to your leg. Bad handling and stability at very high speed. Bike waving tail at hevy high spped under high acceleration. High wind turbulance at high speed. Shock rebound too quick, forks compression too soft for serious offroad. Seat too hard. S version handles better, less stability issues, but the rest of the problems still there. No single mode switch from road to offroad, so traction and ABS had to be changes via menu separately which takes time and plain stupid thing to do. On/off an bike resets to default settings. R1200GS or GSA are buch better bikes all around.
GSA is for comfort, like riding a giant buffalo that weights 50+ lbs more than 1290 SAR. Have fun on the BDR or dirt roads/trails with that pig! KTM annihilates GSA in the dirt
ok. you know the S is designed to be the better road bike right? I agree the R is not a good dirt bike but that does not mean it should be evaluated in its road bike manners as an example of the ktm 1290 class. my impression of your review is that you could not get access to an S so you made due with the R - for exclusive road use.
To me every bike that's allowed to ride on public roads should be evaluated... on those public roads. Both R and S versions are the same with a difference of taller, manual suspension in the R, wheels size, windshields and availability of the front radar. This R came with street tires and that alone is an indication of how it's usually used by people who buy it. I could buy it myself and wouldn't be tempted to take it offroad. I don't know if an S is a better road bike - there are voices claiming that the R can be behaving in a more comfortable way in terms of suspension and I wouldn't be that surprised if it were true. There's an exact same story with BMW R1250GS and R1250GS Adventure - with the latter one having more front and rear wheel travel and soaking up the bumps more easily. That's what I'd prefer on the road. Of course I'd like to try the S now and I'll likely do so at some point.
Hello j ai eu la 1290 SDR V3 ,moteur Fantastique,plus violent que sur les Adventure! J ai actuellement une duke 890r 2023 c’est un super moteur aussi ,et une partie cycle très véloce ,je reviendrai peu être à une 1290 Adventure R ,j ai essayer la version S ,mais je préfère la R en esthétique 😊
hey m8, about the indicator switch it is just crap(like u have no feeling on it).. every owner i know complains about thid, i went to my dealer and they said that is a thing to change on next generation, i also have the new 2023 890s and the switch is perfect, it as a feeling and click when u press it. besides that i love it everytime i ride it puts a smile on my face :)
Hi, thanks so much for mentioning the indicator switch. It makes me feel that I'm not alone in this fight. You pretty much made my day. I hope that KTM realizes that and really a fix will come soon. All the best with your KTMs!
Yes, that's a surprise after you ride a BMW F800/850GS or Africa Twin 1100 - both with 21-inch front wheels and very happy to turn. That's where I'm taking my conclusion.
One might ask Mercedes G-class or Land Rover Defender owners about this case and well, I'm sure that there would be plenty of other reasons to still keep these cars. In the case of the R - surprisingly, I admit - there are other reasons too. I'm about to make a summary of that too as it's a very interesting point I think.
I have had all the models from the 1190 adventure and this turn signal is terrible, that’s why I will not but it, the rest I like, too bad KTM did that
Thanks for sharing and I'm glad to see that KTM is getting a pushback for this horrible design of the switch. I've seen someone commenting that the brand has redesigned it for 2023 in these bikes but I haven't attempted to confirm that yet. I surely hope that they already have.
This bike is much better to ride than any gs.
I’m not on the market for an Adv bike but I have it’s road focused sibling, the SDR Evo, and I can agree about the feeling you have from the engine: intoxicatingly good. Nice job as usual ✌️
Thanks and I'm glad that you're also enjoying this KTM's engine. It's gold!
Entirely agree with your verdict on gear lever, need to take foot off to change gears, it is adjustable, but moving it to next lower position means it then snags on spring of side stand when down shifting. Other than that, and handle bar indicator switch, I absolutely love it!
Probably we'd get used to the lever. Not so much to the indicator switch. Thanks for your input!
I like watching your tests. thank you for your YT channel. I agree with other people's comments that if you want to compare the bike's cornering behavior, you should test the S version, which has a 19 inch front wheel just like the GS. Thanks to your test, if I ever change a motorcycle - I own a small GS 850 - a big one is not an obvious choice any more... 😉
Thanks! I'm thinking about the S version a lot but somehow feel that the R should be close enough. Especially after riding an Africa Twin 1100 a few weeks/months ago with that 21-inch front wheel which was very happy to turn at speeds. As for a next "big" choice - it's really interesting nowadays with the R1250GS, the new Triumph Tiger 1200 (it's really a well-engineered bike!) and this KTM. Triumph is somehow perfectly in between the GS and KTM in almost every aspect ;)
Agree with you, why would you take an R version over an S for road riding? It’s a serious off road bike. The S is design for road riding. This review is great but doesn’t make complete sense. He must compare the S version.
@@guypaterson1268 Dude, wake up. Why do you think dealers sell these bikes on street tires? To ride off-road? No, to ride onroad which most people clearly do. This bike is on street tires here too, so you agreeing or not changes nothing and those are the facts - people ride big adv bikes onroad and even use them for touring purposes, including a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R. Yeah, S should be more on-road-biased but the story remains the same.
I’m awake thanks. I owned a KTM 1190r and sold it for the same reason the chap before me did. It’s to focused on off road. Have you ridden both versions? KTM don’t mess around with there R versions. I don’t need a 240kg dirt bike. Wish I did.
Hahahaja love how you tell it makes you feel great review!!!!
Thanks for an interesting review.
As an owner of a 2021 SAR, Im surprised that you say (1) Its hesitant to turn in the corners and (2) Suspension not that comfortable. Ive spent lots of hours on both the S and R, latest models, and I can promise you the R has a very plush suspension, more than that of the S, one of my main reasons I bought the R and not the S. Its as if the S was 'doing things' on the suspension I dit not want ot to do! Did you check the settings of the preload on your review bike, specifically at the front, it should be set to 0 (zero), for your weight & size.
Ive never experienced the stock tyres, the ones you reviewed with, I bought mine with new Perelli STRs fitted, not 1 complaint with the STRs. My bike really has no hesitation in corners, kind of the opposite!
Also, the LCD screen on the 2021/2022 model is definitely a big upgrade from the previous model? 90% of reviewers praise this upgrade. I dont agree with your statement that its very much the same as the previous model.
I can ABSOLUTE confirm... The SAR is a FANOMINAL, BLAST of a motorcycle to own. Probably really the answer to the cleche question... 'The only bike you need in your garage'!
Nontheless, thanks for the review!
This bike came with street tires. The newer the tires, the more eager the bikes are to lean as they're the most round on the top. So it was as good as it gets. Comparing to other bikes in the category, to me it's not as eager to turn. I cannot compare it to the S though as I haven't ridden it. You made me curious if the S would be that much different in terms of dealing with bumps. Having shorter wheel travel in the front and rear could indicate that indeed the S might be stiffer. But then it would be really, really stiff I think. For now I'll trust your judgement.
I don't know what the screen was like in the previous model - I've never seen it.
I 100% agree with your point of view, became a master of your suspensions and crazy about the right tire and pressure and you will find that the SDR is the best bike ever for every crazy ride you may have in your mind. I love mine!!!
Good Job!
It would be very interesting to make a comparison review with the previous generation of the 1290 SAR, waiting for it ✌🏼
Thanks, I wonder if any dealer would have a previous generation still available to try.
@@VToldsMotoShow not necessarily a dealer, maybe a follower, If you were around Morocco i would be happy to let you testride mine 😊
it goes even better in proper dirt.Enjoying mine.Thanks.
I can imagine that dirt in "emission-free" air drawing European Union's attention in here.
O warszawska rejestracja, właśnie się zakochałem w tym motocyklu🙂 dzięki za filmik, pozdro!😊
Służę - sprzęt super ciekawy i zaskakujący. Tutaj trochę na plus, tam trochę na minus, ale kopa ma takiego, że nic mu nie podskoczy :)
Great review, I am looking forward to trying one for myself. What type of gloves are you wearing? How do they do in cold weather.
Thanks! These are BMW Motorrad gloves and I've been using them in al sorts of conditions for years now. They've got a "wiper" attached to one of the fingers and it's a great solution for when the weather suddenly changes and drops of rain start to appear. I'm pretty happy with them but of course in super cold weather you might want to have dedicated "winter" gloves consisting of an internal insert and the main glove. Likely the best solution for very cold days so far. Gotta be more thick than the BMW ones.
I never had problem in leaning angle, it’s a little slower than the v4 and gs in the first turn in but then very progressive. For sure you have to work on the damping, it really change behaviour even with few clicks (the same for comfort since you question about that). The switch can be killed pushing down. Another cool thing is the optional rally mode in which you can tune the TC and have a really aggressive rally map. Agree on the poor muffler sound. And the oem bridgestone are not very good for spirited riding, she likes more agile tires with that 21”.
I do believe that one may make the suspension softer via the manual adjustment. Still, I prefer to keep it in factory settings to not have it biased and I believe that most riders don't play with manual settings even if they're there. I very rarely would use that on some of my previous bikes, so I came to a conclusion that I'm not touching that. But yes, it's a valid point that if you want it to differ depending on where you ride or simply a mood etc., then you can play with that. Thanks!
@@VToldsMotoShow I disagree with your assumption that factory suspension settings are best, or even good. My experience, which I will share for you to consider, has been different. I have a 2022 Triumph Rocket 3 GT (triple black) and the factory suspension settings were terrible. The bike felt like I was clomping along in Frankenstein's boots! It turns out that all the Rockets are shipped with nearly useless factory suspension settings. I assume Triumph has their reasons associated with assembly, testing, shipping or whatever. Very few are adjusted before the owner takes possession of the bike. Many owners have posted about it in forums and dealerships were generally not helpful on this issue. An owner posted an excellent and comprehensive RUclips video to zero and reset the entire suspension (7 manual settings) based on rider weight and intended use. Much better information and instructions than what is in the user's guide. I watched the video, took notes, and adjusted my suspension in less than ten minutes with 1 screwdriver. This made an amazing improvement in the handling of the bike. We are talking night and day difference. It is my opinion that many owners that purchase high end bikes are enthusiasts and have been riding for more than a minute. They will adjust things like the manual suspension settings on bikes. For those that aren't, it doesn't help less experienced riders to discount or gloss over the information. Managing manual suspension setting is well within the reach of the average person and much easier the second time around. Manual adjustments are something that once they are understood can be set and used in conjunction with the riders modes on the bike. Information adds to the enjoyment of the sport.
Crazy to buy a motorcycle and not set you suspension to your liking, totally don’t understand that way of thinking 😂😂😂
I have the S, and it handles like a sports bike in the corners!! I think your bent wheel might have been a factor as you're the first person I have heard to say you didn't like the cornering on the 1290.
I actually got on the S a few weeks later and well, it does ride differently. One aspect of handling is better, another seemed worse. Cornering was the better one. As for the front rim, I was one of the first but there was at least one person who rode it for the first hundred or so km and actually that main key was still with them. I haven't really had a chance it bent it I guess as I haven't taken it offroad at all. Anyway, I'd guess that it should take any sort of impact with some confidence. This I'm afraid will have to remain a mystery. But it was bent a lot - if you can see it when it's spinning, it's not good.
Awesome ADV 💪🏍😜👍 thank you and many greetings 🍀
It sure is when it works. And all the best to you ;)
It's fantastic that you left the ktm til last
I have the 2022 SAS and can tell you it turns brilliantly. The SAR is the off road bias option of the 2 and you are only basing your opinions on road? I'll tell you right now that I would be faster then some sports bikes on a track day on the SAS no problem. It is very stable in the corners and IMO handles as good as the Multi V4S on road. As for the indicator switch ... well I still can't figure it out .. I saw someone mention pushing down on it in your comments section. I will try that.
Yeah, it's pretty stable in the corners once it's there, and this R has street tires, so there's not that much offroad bias here with this particular unit. I totally don't care about offroad capabilities myself. I'd probably play with it here and there as I used to do that with my own bike in the past - even more offroad capable, but that's just to prove to myself that I can. I think that having the S version lower to the ground could help it as the whole center of gravity is lower too. About the indicator - did you mean that it's not that super great for you either?
Did you set the right sag for the suspension and tune the suspension for your riding style?
This requires plenty of little adjustments over time to set it the way you feel you want. I kept the bike in factory settings or in other words - I haven't changed the settings.
Bought my SAS six weeks ago! Best bike I’ve owned in a long time..super easy when you want and a beast when you want. 300 mile days are very easy. Previously I’ve owned 7 GS’s great bikes but don’t get your balls fizzing the KTM, a keeper.
I think it's a good comparison of KTM vs BMW. I feel that the 1290 SAS can give you that additional shot of adrenaline that BMW cannot, even though it may be objectively more "proper" in some areas. But I also value that craziness in a bike. All the best with your bike!
@@VToldsMotoShow cheers V.
Gear lever position is very easily adjustable.
I hope you figured out by now the shift lever is super easy to adjust. It's 2 nuts and a twisty arm in-between.
Probably hidden behind the center stand
No, still haven't.
Vito, the indicator sucks no matter what, even without gloves. Now, about stability, I have my SDR for over 6 months, took me a while to tune the suspension for my weight, tire pressure and the right tires, after done the bike is solid as a rock up to 100mph (note that I have the ax41 tires and they got speed limit) still very tall for the twists just need to be aware of that, it is not a super duke R . I love this bike and I take off road every time that I can. You had a faulty bike with bent wheel and the wrong tries used and abused by many, try to get a brand new and you will see.
Thank you for the review.
Thanks for the hint. I trust that perhaps there would be better suspension settings than the factory ones as we're all different with different preferences. However, this was an almost brand new bike with only like 200 km on the clock. It seems that whoever had it before me, indeed managed to abuse it successfully. Cheers!
I’ve heard the reliability of the KTM’s is not that great with its high compression. How far can it go without valve adjustments ?
KTM’s 1290 Super adventure r it’s first valve adjustment is at 18,600 miles and Oil changes are every 9,300 miles. And reliability I think that refers to their dirt bikes rather than there ADV bikes there’s a decent amount of high miles ADV Bikes from KTM. I seen a 1190 with 70,000 miles on it and yeah you’re gonna have some stuff Break but that should be said with any motorcycle.
The turn signal - so true! The first week was tough but eventually got better. Not sure is it's me getting used to the button or actually the button required a few cycles and "breaking-in".
P.S. the signal button is still weird, when you try to make "bep-bep" in produces a very angry "beeeeep" instead!
Interesting discovery about the horn. I wish I saw your comment earlier as I spent some time on the S version later on and could've checked that. I wonder what the idea behind it is.
@@VToldsMotoShow , may be all buttons require some breaking-in, but the horn is simply used less that the turn signal (for most of us!). Still confused..
NICE VIDEO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
Very important about INDICATOR SWITCH. When you want to cancel don’t just push it in, you need to push it in and down. And it will cancel (this is the big secret) I have the R 2022 model, i changed my tires to Bridgestone AX41, it slides on tarmac but still a monster in tide turns.I did scratch my foot pegs in slower turns all the time. I just switched from supermoto to sar. I’m more off-road oriented but this bike is hell of a fun to ride on tarmac to. For me is the only bike you need ! (If you have a 300 2stroke to 😂)
just drop a comment if it works for you the tip about SWICH INDICATOR CANCELING
Is the cornering difficult? As he says? Or is the sas better than this sar ?
Thanks for the hint. I actually learned another secret or two. First is that KTM's user's manual states to press the switch and doesn't mention pushing it down. The other, deep secret is that the switch won't work no matter what you do - press it inwards or push down or press and push down at the same time, if it's not held long enough. This is why it fails to register the command - a basic press is too short for it to realize it's happening and what you need to do is to hold it a bit longer. I'm certain that this is not the way it was supposed to be, so it needs to be fixed by KTM. Thanks for bringing that up.
23:54
…. *** looks down; yup!
Does it has iluminated controls or buttons?
Yes, it does.
I'm an happy owner of the s version and I think that the suspension are quite stiff in sport and road mode, a little bit better in comfort mode but in general is not as comfortable as a gs for example, but for me that is not a problem because it's kinda sportier compared to other motorcycles in the same category. The only downside of this wonderful machine for me is the heat dissipation. I live in Italy by the sea and in this season if you are not going at crazy speed it's almost unbearable
Thanks a lot for sharing. I was wondering about the heat but it felt not as bad and visible as in some other bikes so far. I explained it by very hot days but if it would feel the same when riding calmly and on colder days, then it wouldn't be good. I hope it's not the case so much. However, your experiences suggest otherwise.
A big NO on the indicator switch, KTM should fix this because this is a safety issue.
Other road users can be tricked in thinking you are making a turn ....and you are not ,causing a collision with deadly results.
KTM, do not wait for a lawsuit fix this now!
Indicator, if you push it down instead of in? Heard one guys say it works to cancel by pressing it down..
Yep, I have the S version and you have to pish it down to turn it off
@@nicolasrisso5748 problem solved haha. Now I can buy one 😆
that would be interesting. @Nicolas Risso, thanks for feedback. Sometimes it would react and sometimes not. I'd believe that it should be the same on all bikes - just like the clutch lever being on the left side of a handlebar, not the right etc. I checked it in the user's manual right now and it says to push it in the direction of the cover, which means that KTM states that it should work just like in all other bikes. So a pro tip may be to do not as they say but to try pushing it down.
Yes!
Hows the horn??? Saw one video that was like cartoon horn honk
I've read some comment that double-clicking the horn, does something funny but I haven't tried that. Makes me wonder though.
I tend to agree with most of the appreciation that you did about this bike. It is not acceptable in this range of price to have problems with indicators button!?
And the oil leak in a new bike, that’s also another nonsense situation that defrauds anyone’s expectations including the one who is thinking about purchasing this specific bike.
Maybe you find that the “S” version is different.
In terms of looks, the front is not a strong point of the attractive nature of KTM bikes but I prefer the “S” front, if I had to choose between two insect’s faces. And that is subjective . I think that is a lot of people that love that looks and others that don’t. The stock pipe noise is incredibly bad. So, that would be also, something to be changed. In general, I love the color of the “R” body paint or decoration but it is exclusively for the “R” version, so it is what it is…A premium brand never present this kind of failure and I say it is a failure because KTM doesn’t give you an alternative to a lot of this issues. In consequence they become from issues to convert themselves to conditioning factors. Maybe Deal breaker factors. Man, I wished that you could get your hands on SDGT. It’s my bike of choice of KTM’s range and I would appreciate a lot to know what do you think about it.
Thanks for an excellent video about this KTM Adventure R machine!🤙🤙
In a bike of this price scale, would be good to count on with electronic suspension and active cruise control. I think the version “S” has those features.
Yup, the S has electronically-adjustable suspension and active cruise control. I also agree with your view of the R and S looks with a preference towards the face of the S. I did ride the S recently and it was fine in terms of the front wheel, there was no wobble at speeds and no leaks, but the indicator switch was the same and it was also malfunctioning. I actually managed to test it extensively and will present it in my review of the S in some time once it's done. But yeah, it's discouraging to see it not complying with a singular, quick press. It would keep bothering me certainly. Cheers!
Turystyczna lokomotywa! Turystyczna ciężarówka! :)
Napędzana paliwem rakietowym ;)
U can manually adjust the suspension for road use no?
You can adjust it however you want - meaning that there likely isn't a "road" or "offroad" setting as it's entirely up to you how you like it where and when.
Yes. It's all very easy to adjust and if you're not confident there is a quick guide inside the fairing.
V-Told, od którego konkretnie Warszawskiego dilera wypożyczyłeś SAR'a ?
Wydaje mi się, że w Warszawie jest tylko jeden - przy Trasie Toruńskiej. To ten przybytek.
4:07 my man!
At your service! Always.
4:05 i know what you saw big boy😂 you just had to look at that flat surface🤣🙈
Was only trying to see the brand of those green electric scooters ;)
I had the 1090r loved it, just fell apart, got the Africa twin crf1000l, better built x
37:31
happy-every-day … Stalls DOH
Turn signal cancel is strange. The pointer is indeed worthless. the old one worked and didn't need a replacement. Try the following that seems to work for me. Cancel it by pushing it in a rolling motion, sounds strange, but It somehow works for me. So just try that 😉.Think the Horn location is to close to the ACC + switch en the L1 and L2 selection is to limithed. Still love the bike, my best buy ever. PS i have the S 🐱
Thanks for the hint. It's ridiculous to have to look for workarounds for such a silly issue, damn!
@@VToldsMotoShow So true man so true. But still everytime i am on the beast its a blast
This is a bike I am seriously considering and your review was excellent from the perspective of going beyond the spec sheet and number.s How a bike feels and performs is far more than that and this review was excellent there. A point that would improve your review and I intend this as constructive input for you to consider. I hope you accept it that way. The turn signal indicators. You did not understand how they function. I could be wrong, but this indicates you did not read the user's guide. You own this bike and had it in your hands for a few weeks before posting a 39 minute review and not knowing how things function is not good. If you had not read the user's guide, I suggest you do so before riding a bike you review as this would help the quality of your review.
Thanks for the input. What do you mean by not understanding how the indicators work vs what the user's manual says? What does it say? I actually did check it afterwards after the discussions here and under my other videos about this bike and this is what it says about their operation just like in any other current motorcycle with a singular indicator switch: "Turn signal off - Push the turn signal switch toward the switch housing.". Toward the switch housing means press it inwards, not down. I lated rode a 1290 SAS and played with the switch. If you don't hold it long enough to reset, it doesn't register the command - it's KTM's design fault in my opinion. I hope this helps. Cheers!
@@VToldsMotoShow Thank you for clarifying that.
Indicator switch.
KTM dealers need to learn their bikes. Had the same trouble as you when I test rode one, dealer told me it will loosen the more you use it. Fact is you push it down towards the floor and not press into bars. Then it will work. The only fault I have with mine is the dead stop when hitting limiter but then I guess you shouldn't be doing that anyway. I have the 2022 sas model so handles like a dream
Yeah, somebody is wrong as KTM states this in the user's manual for this MY: "Turn signal off - Push the turn signal switch toward the switch housing." It's not about the direction but time - if you don't hold long enough, it simply doesn't work. I'll show it in my upcoming Super Adventure S video soon.
@@VToldsMotoShow anyway it's not to much of a problem as it has auto turn off indicators so I don't bother turning them off 😁 something else my dealer didn't know about.
The S version corners perfect! The R ‘s 21” wheel is the problem
Why? That’s a big selling point of the new Africa Twin compared to other ADV
@@davidb9323 that’s why KTM built the R and the S. R is off road with it’s 21” front/19 rear wheel and the S with its 19” front and 17” rear wheel . The S is one of the best handling bikes I’ve ridden. I’ve had the Multistrada and Africa twin. Not had much time on the GS tho but enough to know I prefer the KTM
@@jasonsearle2512 There seem to be a lot of reports of bad customer service and reliability issues with the KTM line.
@@jasonsearle2512 Big Rock Moto talks about it in his videos.
@@davidb9323 yes. I’ve experienced this too. I made videos on my channel . Check them out and you will know what I mean. I got a new bike from them for free/replacement. Still love KTM 1290’s . They are an amazing machines
I had 1290 SAR 2018 model year. Very many problems. Chain sliders go after 350km trip after riding in the sand. Sometimes ECU hangs and the bike will not wake up. You have to disconnect and reconnect battery for it to wake up again. Max speed is limited to 190km/h. Radiator hoses may get loose and bike dumps hot coolant to your leg. Bad handling and stability at very high speed. Bike waving tail at hevy high spped under high acceleration. High wind turbulance at high speed. Shock rebound too quick, forks compression too soft for serious offroad. Seat too hard. S version handles better, less stability issues, but the rest of the problems still there. No single mode switch from road to offroad, so traction and ABS had to be changes via menu separately which takes time and plain stupid thing to do. On/off an bike resets to default settings. R1200GS or GSA are buch better bikes all around.
GSA is for comfort, like riding a giant buffalo that weights 50+ lbs more than 1290 SAR. Have fun on the BDR or dirt roads/trails with that pig! KTM annihilates GSA in the dirt
ok. you know the S is designed to be the better road bike right? I agree the R is not a good dirt bike but that does not mean it should be evaluated in its road bike manners as an example of the ktm 1290 class. my impression of your review is that you could not get access to an S so you made due with the R - for exclusive road use.
To me every bike that's allowed to ride on public roads should be evaluated... on those public roads. Both R and S versions are the same with a difference of taller, manual suspension in the R, wheels size, windshields and availability of the front radar. This R came with street tires and that alone is an indication of how it's usually used by people who buy it. I could buy it myself and wouldn't be tempted to take it offroad. I don't know if an S is a better road bike - there are voices claiming that the R can be behaving in a more comfortable way in terms of suspension and I wouldn't be that surprised if it were true. There's an exact same story with BMW R1250GS and R1250GS Adventure - with the latter one having more front and rear wheel travel and soaking up the bumps more easily. That's what I'd prefer on the road. Of course I'd like to try the S now and I'll likely do so at some point.
Hello j ai eu la 1290 SDR V3 ,moteur Fantastique,plus violent que sur les Adventure! J ai actuellement une duke 890r 2023 c’est un super moteur aussi ,et une partie cycle très véloce ,je reviendrai peu être à une 1290 Adventure R ,j ai essayer la version S ,mais je préfère la R en esthétique 😊
I got it right this time with google translate and yeah, visually the R in this color setup is fantastic! Thanks for sharing!
Is there any bikes you actually like...
KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
This bike is made to off road. That's the whole point of the R.
Especially on those street tires from the factory.
@@VToldsMotoShow That's in your country I guess. Everywhere else they have Bridgestone X41 tires.
hey m8, about the indicator switch it is just crap(like u have no feeling on it).. every owner i know complains about thid, i went to my dealer and they said that is a thing to change on next generation, i also have the new 2023 890s and the switch is perfect, it as a feeling and click when u press it. besides that i love it everytime i ride it puts a smile on my face :)
Hi, thanks so much for mentioning the indicator switch. It makes me feel that I'm not alone in this fight. You pretty much made my day. I hope that KTM realizes that and really a fix will come soon. All the best with your KTMs!
22:22
😂
32:40
😂
complain about lean on a bike with 21 inch wheel. really? that’s a surprise for some reason? try the 19 inch front.
Yes, that's a surprise after you ride a BMW F800/850GS or Africa Twin 1100 - both with 21-inch front wheels and very happy to turn. That's where I'm taking my conclusion.
Super Maszyna i świetny Film! Combo 😉
Dzięki i zgadza się - sprzęt niecodzienny!
If you have no intention of going offroad, there is no good reason to get the R, you should get the S.
One might ask Mercedes G-class or Land Rover Defender owners about this case and well, I'm sure that there would be plenty of other reasons to still keep these cars. In the case of the R - surprisingly, I admit - there are other reasons too. I'm about to make a summary of that too as it's a very interesting point I think.
I have had all the models from the 1190 adventure and this turn signal is terrible, that’s why I will not but it, the rest I like, too bad KTM did that
Thanks for sharing and I'm glad to see that KTM is getting a pushback for this horrible design of the switch. I've seen someone commenting that the brand has redesigned it for 2023 in these bikes but I haven't attempted to confirm that yet. I surely hope that they already have.
Wiring electrics terrible really bad shakes at 100mph drinks fuel etc etc .....but great fun best out there I've had two
Quite contradicting so only for a certain type of person at the end of the day.
Bike is good
Seat for touring though, pretty bad
Even the more comfy option
Still very bad
Gs is better
Some say that it's best to get an aftermarket seat. Perhaps this would be a better solution.