I'm not a KTM man but when you do the reviews on a KTM, you make me want to buy one. You've got to be my favorite bike reviewer, Chris. You are bonkers! Keep those reviews coming!
I think you summed KTM perfectly Chris, having owned a few now (950SM, 450EXC) and now an 1290SDR (Gen 3) they are all mental, focused but smiles for miles bikes
I subscribed just to support you Chris. You're like a thousand miles ahead all the other reviewers I've seen. So natural, funny and just beautiful. Thank you.
I'm loving these reviews. I'm so glad you told me how the bike actually felt to ride rather than prattle on about specs all day. I'm very glad you didn't talk about the stupid radar cruise.
Exactly. I've been thinking why the other reviewers don't realize that everyone is listing the same technical facts and as you watch many reviews of the same bike, they become really pointless after the first video.
Well, I thought I was uncharacteristically excited about picking my new one up next week, after this review I’m practically 6 years old again on Xmas eve 😃
I've had my 2021 S for two weeks now and put on about 1800 km on local roads. I think it's a good do everything pretty well motorcycle for former sports bike riders (such as myself at age 67). The bike is comfortable on the autopisa, inspires confidence on twisty roads, feels like a big hand is shoving you forward at full throttle when it hits the torque peak and gets decent gas economy. What's not to like? I've not gone off pavement yet but plan to do so.
Honestly one of the best reviewers I think I’ve ever found... is there anymore videos of Chris on another channel? I could watch Chris rode and review all day. I completely respect his skills and opinion... I need more! Also I saw a clip of a R1150GS off-road?!? Where is this video?
Chris is the main presenter on Bike World, loads more stuff with him on our channel and loads more to come. We're loading the Adventure R vid tomorrow morning.
Bloody entertaining as usual mate. You are the best, and thats a fact. Will definitely test one out when we get them in 'Straayaa". May have to re-think the GS option!
Still looking for a modern replacement for my SMT. Nothing in the KTM range, Ducati discontinued the Hyperstrada. This looks too heavy, is it? Wish they would bring out a 890, or even a 990 modern smt, with all the rider aids etc.
Maybe the allegedly new Superduke GT V.3 coming in spring. I have owned all KTMs. SMT was one of my favorites. GT does that job ON ROAD with no issues and at 7/8ths this bike's size/weight.
I like the review but I would honestly say it's not piss ugly. I've had many people actually comment on mine and say it looks rather nice. In any event its structural design is brilliant for its task at hand. I recently traveled 1300 miles from San Diego to Yosemite California. I experienced no issues whatsoever. The bike was comfortable throughout the trip. It went through triple-digit temperatures without ever overheating. The bike handled extremely well in the mountains, in fact it was a blast. I would highly recommend this motorcycle to anyone.
You forgot some stuff. What about engine vibrations? What about engine heat on the rider? What about wind noise around the head at highway speeds? What about cruising fuel economy?
Came here to hear about the differences between the '18 I have and the new one. The opening 3 minutes had me cracking up, you really sum up the beast perfectly ... it's such a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Man, you're not the only one salivating at the thought of an 890 SMT/C. I've been trolling KTM on their Facebook page complaining about the lack of news but they always delete my posts.
Just get one, and it's exactly what Chris said 3 years ago ! After 3 years this bike prove that Ktm can do everyday user friendly reliable bike BUT it still a pure exciting bike to ride, when you jump on it, you know one thing, you will have some fun for sure. And because it's going out , price are dropping, it's actually 17-18 000€ and 4 years of warranty! Even if you put some extra you will still around 20k€ which is +- 8k€ cheaper than the GS and more than 10k€ less than a Ducati! This thing can do everything you want, There is just one probleme, the MITAS, if you put some good tyres on it's just an other and better bike. Yes the other bikes a grate and can be better on some point but the READY TO RACE intro on the dash say everything.
I love my Super Adventure S 2019. Having ridden the 1200GS and Tiger 900 those bikes are nowhere near to this IMO, the fun factor when you are in the saddle of a KTM is over the roof. The 2021 model will be my next bike surely. Btw, I honestly wish I can ride my SAS just 30% as good as you did in this video, unreal man. Respect
@@BikeWorldTVshowThanks, I will post my first impressions here. I can already say that my other bike is a Husky 701 SM and I love it. A friend of mine bought the 1290 SAS a few months ago and we switched bikes halfway our last trip a few weeks ago. I had exactly the same experience as you described in this video, I expected a heavy smooth, non exiting ride but it felt almost the same as my 701 Supermoto, I was blown away 🤯. How is it possible that a heavy bike like this is so easy and fun to ride? With all the luxury and high tech goodies! It was love at first sight. This bike sells itself, it’s that good. KTM nailed it ❤️
3:05 Chris I believe the standard Mag wheels on the SAS have to do with speed wobble issues on the front end. This issue has been going on since the 2013 1190 adventure S model which I own. They had legal cases on the very nervous and unstable front end at high speeds, so I suppose putting standard mag wheels (without spoke tension issues, and easier to balance) was a way to try to avoid more cases. and its also cheaper to make, lets KTM put a 1.000 EUR option for spoke wheels and allows them also to sell more new mag wheels to rider that've bent them riding off road
Can you please ask KTM or better, demand KTM to build an “SMT 1290” on this base??? Or an Super Adventure with an full street setup?? 17/17. Becaus 50% of the buyers will stay on the road. And want This. But with a proper street tire choise.... I am a SMT 990 owner.. And Yes, it realy commes close to it. But the SMT feels more playfull...
I do love Chris's reviews - especially on the KTM S and R... really helpful with my decision of what suits me best, coming from riding KTM's 2014 1190 dual sport for a couple of years now, and finding it extremely capable off road - I rode half of the Vermont BDR on it and dumped a few times, came out with blown fork seals and a newly adjustable mirror, but otherwise the big fatty that it is , gave me everything I could handle, and I found it agile and stable from super slow riding, to really ripping through those backwoods trails. In real life though, I live in Boston and ride all year, commuting and riding the motorcycle more than my CRV dad-mobile. I've watched his reviews of the S and R, and he really doesn't make it easy! I'll never be the kind of outback rider he is, but I sure do like the idea of the R as an apocalypse machine for the ultimate bug out, and the S offers continent crossing comfort and superb power when needed. The R feels like the answer, but the S, for my skill levels, offers more than enough of everything... why is this such a dilemma for me!!?? It says a lot about my indecisive nature, and fear of commitment, I suppose😂. The only thing I would disagree with Chris on his review of the S, is his appraisal of it's aesthetics... pig ugly!?? I think it's quite a beauty😊.
Subbed, another great review, my type of rider... you appreciate a bike that can scare you a bit. I have a 1190R which was an upgrade from a 990 so I am always wondering if an upgrade is worth it. I now only ride road (living in Netherlands) so the S model makes more sense.
I would also throw the Superduke GT V.3 allegedly coming this spring as it has 17" wheel, lower seat, etc. Assuming all ON Road riding though. Both KTMs have instant torque.
@@tomtraynor5384 Thats true, i forgot about the superduke gt for a moment. Im in the market for one of the two but i just cant decide. Im test riding them tomorrow but damn they are both really good.
I not sure very many SAS owners are doing a lot of off roading with them. I have a 2014 1190 S, and the attraction for me was it's a very roomy cockpit for tall riders. It seems like the newer models aren't as tall friendly. KTM didn't bring the 2021 SAS to the U.S. this year, so that was disappointing.
Great review. It's so versatile fueling is excellent, well balanced with new tank pods easy access to the new air filter makes me laugh every time I crack the throttle and I don't have to break the sound barrier to have fun.
Not a bit interested in that motorcycle, but I like the reviewer. He manages more to say in under 9 minutes as other people are capable in half an hour. Well done.
I have a 990 SMT and up until now it's the best bike I've ever ridden. Spyshots of 890 SMT and SMC prototypes were posted online two years ago, but nothing has been heard since.
Easily the best bike review of the 1290. Other reviewers talk for days about adaptive cruise control blah blah blah. You tell us what we need to know, what it Is like to ride the darn thing.
Just found your channel and Chris! excellent review and bike looking to exchange my BMW Urban GS for one of these next year and just got my tickets for the NEC bike show in December, also the 9 thumbs down must be from other journalists who are jealous of your abilities ;-)
I bought one. 200 miles the suspension packed in. 380 miles the electrical systems started shutting down one at a time. Just managed to crawl to the motorway services before it completely gave up. Three hours for KTM rescue to organise recovery. Got the dealer to collect it from my home. They called me two days later to inform me the wiring loom was faulty! Brand new bike with a break in the wiring loom! Now they have to strip it apart to replace the loom and I'm still waiting for KTM in Austria to send the damn parts! As well as the options I ordered with the bike over two months ago still haven't arrived from KTM either. Bash plate, crash bars and top box still outstanding. One of the panniers didn't latch shut properly and I know they must have noticed that at the dealer because it was covered in WD40 around the keyhole. So compared to my 1290 Super Adventure S (which was faultless over 14k) this new one has irritated me beyond belief.
Yet another stonking review. As others have said, so cool to see someone ride these bikes how they should be tested. Modern bikes are getting pretty bloody special at how broad a capability and application they can have. The Super Adv S is definitely on my dream bike list now! 👊😎
As a KTM 1090r and 500 exc owner I do agree it is not the most attractive bike out there. Mine included. I must say,,, The GS and the AT don't hold a candle to the smile factor. KTM is like Dodge, can we fit a Hellcat motor in it?
Why would anyone think KTM made a nice dull sensible comfy touring bike? Nobody that has had a heartbeat and something resembling a brain for the past 20+ years would say that. :D Very much entertaining review once again.
How can you be so precise?? Every single comment is correct. I have this bike and i cant stop smiling every time i ride it! Thats the most strict judge about bikes
From the R review it seems that's the better bike for those doing serious offroad things (obviously). But if you're a rider who's pleased with the level of off pavement riding displayed in this video, long distance and even track days. Am i right in assuming the S is better adapted? Thanks in advance and cheers from Sweden! Great content! 🙂
Hi Chris and Bike World, great job!!! One question, I’ve been riding my hypermotard for 4 years and I would like to change to a new bike similar to it but maybe more comfortable. I was thinking about other naked bike, but when you said that it’s like a super moto but more comfortable, it changed my mind, could it be a reasonable jump?? Or will it be too heavy and difficult to ride?? Another option is the new hypermotard 950 SP. I won’t do off-road.
Finally someone who really want to help you choose the best bike for you instead of the ones who just LOVE to hear their own voice and spewing out statistics.
i am thinking of switching my GSA 1250 for a 1290 SA-R but i heard about of lots of electrical issues with the 2021 1290 so not sure how to do.. I had the 2017 1290 SA-S and that also had issues with the electric... :(
Hey, great video. With which one would you stay with this ktm1290S or bmw 1250GS for off and on road 50-50???. Your honest opinion would be very helpful. Thank you. Salu2 from your most faithful unfaithful Pako
Thanks man! Tricky question that and it probably comes down to whether you want something sportier and more aggressive (the KTM) or a more cruisey subtle ride (the BMW). In terms of outright performance the KTM is faster, but I find the BMW more comfortable. Off road I would be just as happy on either. Personal choice? Hmm, I'd struggle to make one! I have a KTM 990 Adventure and a BMW 1150 GS Adventure - take the KTM for a good ride and the BMW for a long ride!
Another good review mate. I confess to being a KTM convert.Once you ignore all the warnings and get a test ride the bikes are perfect for the classes they are aimed at, you just need the confidence to use them. The one thing that a lot of reviewers miss, and I guess you are asked not to pass this on by ktm, buy one in late October, November massive discounts are available then. For instance, my fully loaded sdgt 14k as opposed to 17.
Spot on,articulate review which stands head and shoulders above most of the wank you've got to trawl through before you find a skilled rider loving the bike. I've got one and as you say it's brilliant.
@@rufus1346 I think I'm going for the KTM. The ducati is way expensive, and I don't like all that much the looks. The global quality and performance, is there, but I don't think it deserves the extra cash.
@@coboisarapatanas I was thinking along the same lines as you and the Ducati is way more thirsty. I have been told KTM's have reliability problems. Before I commit I need to check that out. I might just go for the tried and tested rout and get the GS. I already have the XDiavel if I want to tear it up a bit and an old Rocket 3 for the long haul journeys.
With all the holigan parts being said - it is also damn easy to chug along in 4th doing 30mph through towns and cities or bumbeling along doing 60mph in 6th :) At least that is what the last 30k km on my '18 SAS have taught me ^-^
Torque everywhere. I was chugging along in 3rd at about 20mph, fiddling with my phone with my left hand. Before I got my hand back on the bars I twisted throttle. Yikes, I don't recommend doing that.
I find the 1290 Super Adventure just as comfortable the as the GS, has less wind buffeting, and is lighter. It's also much faster and the suspension on the R model is better.
£16-£17k ? On the configurator with tech pack, Akrapovic and alloy luggage it comes in at £19.5k. Still it’s £4K cheaper than a Multistrada V4S Sport with similar kit
Who's here after watching the review for Super Adv R ?? I am. And I am glued to this channel now. Top Job !!!
You know you can rely on Chris all day long. No BS with interesting and fun review. Good lad.
it's good to find a reviewer who can really ride the thing like it was designed
I'm not a KTM man but when you do the reviews on a KTM, you make me want to buy one. You've got to be my favorite bike reviewer, Chris. You are bonkers! Keep those reviews coming!
This guy has become my buying guide for motorcycles, planning on getting the 890 Duke once I get my big boy license :)
I think you summed KTM perfectly Chris, having owned a few now (950SM, 450EXC) and now an 1290SDR (Gen 3) they are all mental, focused but smiles for miles bikes
I subscribed just to support you Chris. You're like a thousand miles ahead all the other reviewers I've seen. So natural, funny and just beautiful. Thank you.
I'm loving these reviews. I'm so glad you told me how the bike actually felt to ride rather than prattle on about specs all day. I'm very glad you didn't talk about the stupid radar cruise.
Amen, if there was an option to remove that i’d tick it
Exactly. I've been thinking why the other reviewers don't realize that everyone is listing the same technical facts and as you watch many reviews of the same bike, they become really pointless after the first video.
Well, I thought I was uncharacteristically excited about picking my new one up next week, after this review I’m practically 6 years old again on Xmas eve 😃
The amount of content and coverage this ppl are churning out is exceptional!
I've had my 2021 S for two weeks now and put on about 1800 km on local roads. I think it's a good do everything pretty well motorcycle for former sports bike riders (such as myself at age 67). The bike is comfortable on the autopisa, inspires confidence on twisty roads, feels like a big hand is shoving you forward at full throttle when it hits the torque peak and gets decent gas economy. What's not to like? I've not gone off pavement yet but plan to do so.
salute on riding such bikes at 67. Awesome, I hope to do the same in 3 decades...
Really good review. Chris proves if you are a good rider you can ride anythning and still enjoy it. Good job
Appears the Super Adventure S can fill a lot of roles - maybe an excuse to consolidate my garage inventory😗
Honestly one of the best reviewers I think I’ve ever found... is there anymore videos of Chris on another channel? I could watch Chris rode and review all day. I completely respect his skills and opinion... I need more!
Also I saw a clip of a R1150GS off-road?!? Where is this video?
Chris is the main presenter on Bike World, loads more stuff with him on our channel and loads more to come. We're loading the Adventure R vid tomorrow morning.
What a great review. Looking at an Africa Twin but will definitely test ride one of these first.
Bloody entertaining as usual mate. You are the best, and thats a fact. Will definitely test one out when we get them in 'Straayaa". May have to re-think the GS option!
Still looking for a modern replacement for my SMT. Nothing in the KTM range, Ducati discontinued the Hyperstrada.
This looks too heavy, is it?
Wish they would bring out a 890, or even a 990 modern smt, with all the rider aids etc.
Maybe the allegedly new Superduke GT V.3 coming in spring. I have owned all KTMs. SMT was one of my favorites. GT does that job ON ROAD with no issues and at 7/8ths this bike's size/weight.
As I posted above, spyshots of 890 SMT and SMC prototypes were posted online two years ago, but nothing has been heard of them since.
Chris, you are the best. 👊🏼
I like the review but I would honestly say it's not piss ugly. I've had many people actually comment on mine and say it looks rather nice. In any event its structural design is brilliant for its task at hand. I recently traveled 1300 miles from San Diego to Yosemite California. I experienced no issues whatsoever. The bike was comfortable throughout the trip. It went through triple-digit temperatures without ever overheating. The bike handled extremely well in the mountains, in fact it was a blast. I would highly recommend this motorcycle to anyone.
You forgot some stuff.
What about engine vibrations?
What about engine heat on the rider?
What about wind noise around the head at highway speeds?
What about cruising fuel economy?
Plenty of other reviews for that nerdy stuff
@@xtremebroccoli Nerdy stuff is pass/fail for a lot of prospective buyers.
dude I think your the only one who really reviewed the truth about the Ktm sa1290
Top review chris, I’ve got the “old” one and it’s a great do it all bike, just need to take it to a trackday this year
When I heard about this bike, I wanted it.
When I saw the press release, I wanted it.
I watch this, and now I have to have it!
Great vid! Thanks!
Came here to hear about the differences between the '18 I have and the new one. The opening 3 minutes had me cracking up, you really sum up the beast perfectly ... it's such a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Imagine if they brought back the smt with the 1050cc LC8 or even the new LC8c and a
Man, you're not the only one salivating at the thought of an 890 SMT/C. I've been trolling KTM on their Facebook page complaining about the lack of news but they always delete my posts.
@@disekjoumoer glad I'm not the only one. Maximotards never got the recognition they deserved
Would love if you could make a review por the R version, and of both 890 adventure models
We're on it, should be finished in a couple of days.
Just get one, and it's exactly what Chris said 3 years ago ! After 3 years this bike prove that Ktm can do everyday user friendly reliable bike BUT it still a pure exciting bike to ride, when you jump on it, you know one thing, you will have some fun for sure. And because it's going out , price are dropping, it's actually 17-18 000€ and 4 years of warranty! Even if you put some extra you will still around 20k€ which is +- 8k€ cheaper than the GS and more than 10k€ less than a Ducati! This thing can do everything you want, There is just one probleme, the MITAS, if you put some good tyres on it's just an other and better bike. Yes the other bikes a grate and can be better on some point but the READY TO RACE intro on the dash say everything.
I love my Super Adventure S 2019. Having ridden the 1200GS and Tiger 900 those bikes are nowhere near to this IMO, the fun factor when you are in the saddle of a KTM is over the roof. The 2021 model will be my next bike surely.
Btw, I honestly wish I can ride my SAS just 30% as good as you did in this video, unreal man. Respect
I bought my 890r after watching your review and you were spot on. Now i'm seriously thinking of this bonkers thing! I'll be back......
I bought mine yesterday, can’t wait to pick it up. Great review brother ❤️
@@NickName-nickname cheers, let us know what you think.
@@BikeWorldTVshowThanks, I will post my first impressions here.
I can already say that my other bike is a Husky 701 SM and I love it.
A friend of mine bought the 1290 SAS a few months ago and we switched bikes halfway our last trip a few weeks ago.
I had exactly the same experience as you described in this video, I expected a heavy smooth, non exiting ride but it felt almost the same as my 701 Supermoto, I was blown away 🤯.
How is it possible that a heavy bike like this is so easy and fun to ride? With all the luxury and high tech goodies! It was love at first sight.
This bike sells itself, it’s that good.
KTM nailed it ❤️
Great review there - looking even more to the R version review !
3:05 Chris I believe the standard Mag wheels on the SAS have to do with speed wobble issues on the front end. This issue has been going on since the 2013 1190 adventure S model which I own. They had legal cases on the very nervous and unstable front end at high speeds, so I suppose putting standard mag wheels (without spoke tension issues, and easier to balance) was a way to try to avoid more cases. and its also cheaper to make, lets KTM put a 1.000 EUR option for spoke wheels and allows them also to sell more new mag wheels to rider that've bent them riding off road
Can you please ask KTM or better, demand KTM to build an “SMT 1290” on this base??? Or an Super Adventure with an full street setup?? 17/17. Becaus 50% of the buyers will stay on the road. And want This. But with a proper street tire choise....
I am a SMT 990 owner.. And Yes, it realy commes close to it. But the SMT feels more playfull...
I do love Chris's reviews - especially on the KTM S and R... really helpful with my decision of what suits me best, coming from riding KTM's 2014 1190 dual sport for a couple of years now, and finding it extremely capable off road - I rode half of the Vermont BDR on it and dumped a few times, came out with blown fork seals and a newly adjustable mirror, but otherwise the big fatty that it is , gave me everything I could handle, and I found it agile and stable from super slow riding, to really ripping through those backwoods trails. In real life though, I live in Boston and ride all year, commuting and riding the motorcycle more than my CRV dad-mobile. I've watched his reviews of the S and R, and he really doesn't make it easy! I'll never be the kind of outback rider he is, but I sure do like the idea of the R as an apocalypse machine for the ultimate bug out, and the S offers continent crossing comfort and superb power when needed.
The R feels like the answer, but the S, for my skill levels, offers more than enough of everything... why is this such a dilemma for me!!?? It says a lot about my indecisive nature, and fear of commitment, I suppose😂. The only thing I would disagree with Chris on his review of the S, is his appraisal of it's aesthetics... pig ugly!?? I think it's quite a beauty😊.
Hey Chris 🖤
Subbed, another great review, my type of rider... you appreciate a bike that can scare you a bit. I have a 1190R which was an upgrade from a 990 so I am always wondering if an upgrade is worth it. I now only ride road (living in Netherlands) so the S model makes more sense.
Would you get the ktm 1290 superadventure s or bmw s1000xr? Purely on road use...thrashing weekend
Also please do a review on the BMW S1000XR 🙏
I would also throw the Superduke GT V.3 allegedly coming this spring as it has 17" wheel, lower seat, etc. Assuming all ON Road riding though. Both KTMs have instant torque.
@@tomtraynor5384 Thats true, i forgot about the superduke gt for a moment. Im in the market for one of the two but i just cant decide. Im test riding them tomorrow but damn they are both really good.
I not sure very many SAS owners are doing a lot of off roading with them. I have a 2014 1190 S, and the attraction for me was it's a very roomy cockpit for tall riders. It seems like the newer models aren't as tall friendly. KTM didn't bring the 2021 SAS to the U.S. this year, so that was disappointing.
What would you choose between the S1000XR and KTM super adventure s 2021 ?
You said you set it up in rally mode. Do you remember your settings?
Thanks
Amazing video !!!!
Great review. It's so versatile fueling is excellent, well balanced with new tank pods easy access to the new air filter makes me laugh every time I crack the throttle and I don't have to break the sound barrier to have fun.
Not a bit interested in that motorcycle, but I like the reviewer. He manages more to say in under 9 minutes as other people are capable in half an hour. Well done.
2:36 him talking about the bike me thinking if he helped the sheep over the fence
Chris! You’re awesome! What would you buy if you could only buy one, Indian FTR or KTM 1290?
The 990 SMT was such an awesome bike. I wish they made an 890 SMT.
I have a 990 SMT and up until now it's the best bike I've ever ridden. Spyshots of 890 SMT and SMC prototypes were posted online two years ago, but nothing has been heard since.
The Beast, Good job Maestro! Greetings from Germany.
Hmmm. What’s more comfortable? This or the superduke GT? I’ll most likely only do road miles.
Easily the best bike review of the 1290. Other reviewers talk for days about adaptive cruise control blah blah blah. You tell us what we need to know, what it Is like to ride the darn thing.
Just found your channel and Chris! excellent review and bike looking to exchange my BMW Urban GS for one of these next year and just got my tickets for the NEC bike show in December, also the 9 thumbs down must be from other journalists who are jealous of your abilities ;-)
Thanks Karl, Chris will be on the BMW off-road stand, go and say hi.
I bought one. 200 miles the suspension packed in. 380 miles the electrical systems started shutting down one at a time. Just managed to crawl to the motorway services before it completely gave up. Three hours for KTM rescue to organise recovery. Got the dealer to collect it from my home. They called me two days later to inform me the wiring loom was faulty! Brand new bike with a break in the wiring loom! Now they have to strip it apart to replace the loom and I'm still waiting for KTM in Austria to send the damn parts! As well as the options I ordered with the bike over two months ago still haven't arrived from KTM either. Bash plate, crash bars and top box still outstanding. One of the panniers didn't latch shut properly and I know they must have noticed that at the dealer because it was covered in WD40 around the keyhole. So compared to my 1290 Super Adventure S (which was faultless over 14k) this new one has irritated me beyond belief.
How'd you get on with these issues in the end mate?
Yet another stonking review. As others have said, so cool to see someone ride these bikes how they should be tested. Modern bikes are getting pretty bloody special at how broad a capability and application they can have. The Super Adv S is definitely on my dream bike list now! 👊😎
I love my ktm sas-23 now with pirellis rally str its a perfect bike on gravel and tarmac
Really great to see reviews from riders who can Really ride!
amazing machine but so does this make the africa twin an obsolete alternative to this ?
As a KTM 1090r and 500 exc owner I do agree it is not the most attractive bike out there. Mine included. I must say,,, The GS and the AT don't hold a candle to the smile factor. KTM is like Dodge, can we fit a Hellcat motor in it?
Why would anyone think KTM made a nice dull sensible comfy touring bike? Nobody that has had a heartbeat and something resembling a brain for the past 20+ years would say that. :D Very much entertaining review once again.
A great review. I keep looking back to the 950/990 adventure with that high straight seat and narrow front end and wish they still looked like that.
With the new tank design I don’t see that look coming back for their adventure bikes. 690 excluded tho
How can you be so precise??
Every single comment is correct.
I have this bike and i cant stop smiling every time i ride it!
Thats the most strict judge about bikes
Can we get them in the U.S. at some point? I made the sad mistake of selling my 2015, a couple years ago, and really miss it.
Agree... top review as always.
Chris is a sickeningly talented rider. Great looking bike.
How would you compare it to the S1000 XR? Is the XR the middle ground between this and a naked?
I HAVE TO BUY THIS BIKE.
Love your reviews.
Your choice of words are great.
You make a valuable review thank you
what about compare BMW s1000xr？ which one u will choose
That's a Chris Adventure Bike.
From the R review it seems that's the better bike for those doing serious offroad things (obviously). But if you're a rider who's pleased with the level of off pavement riding displayed in this video, long distance and even track days. Am i right in assuming the S is better adapted?
Thanks in advance and cheers from Sweden! Great content! 🙂
Hı Chris; I'm considering replacing my 890 Duke R with the 1290 Adv S. Will I regret it? I love my 890 R, it is a perfect bike.
This dude can talk some shit about a bike and at the same time sell it to you no problem. Quite a talent
great review on a great bike
Chris please tell me you are doing a full review on the new Tuono soon
Quite a good review, objective as always. Thanks !!
Hi Chris and Bike World, great job!!! One question, I’ve been riding my hypermotard for 4 years and I would like to change to a new bike similar to it but maybe more comfortable. I was thinking about other naked bike, but when you said that it’s like a super moto but more comfortable, it changed my mind, could it be a reasonable jump?? Or will it be too heavy and difficult to ride?? Another option is the new hypermotard 950 SP. I won’t do off-road.
Finally someone who really want to help you choose the best bike for you instead of the ones who just LOVE to hear their own voice and spewing out statistics.
Great review thank you
Another awesome review from Chris...... Love from India.
I cannot agree more. Fantastic motorbike.
How do you find the stock tires on and offroad?
Good review dude!
Another cracking review, you Sir are my favourite reviewer.
i am thinking of switching my GSA 1250 for a 1290 SA-R but i heard about of lots of electrical issues with the 2021 1290 so not sure how to do.. I had the 2017 1290 SA-S and that also had issues with the electric... :(
Yes Thank God I will buy one for myself
Great review. Been lucky enough to ride a friend's and it is exactly as you describe. A hooligan, pretending, unconvincingly, to be quite sensible.
Chris is rock! Best wishes from Moscow, Russia !
Hey, great video.
With which one would you stay with this ktm1290S or bmw 1250GS for off and on road 50-50???. Your honest opinion would be very helpful. Thank you.
Salu2 from your most faithful unfaithful Pako
Thanks man! Tricky question that and it probably comes down to whether you want something sportier and more aggressive (the KTM) or a more cruisey subtle ride (the BMW). In terms of outright performance the KTM is faster, but I find the BMW more comfortable. Off road I would be just as happy on either. Personal choice? Hmm, I'd struggle to make one! I have a KTM 990 Adventure and a BMW 1150 GS Adventure - take the KTM for a good ride and the BMW for a long ride!
That is a perfect description for the KTM adventure bikes when comparing them against the GS.
Another good review mate. I confess to being a KTM convert.Once you ignore all the warnings and get a test ride the bikes are perfect for the classes they are aimed at, you just need the confidence to use them. The one thing that a lot of reviewers miss, and I guess you are asked not to pass this on by ktm, buy one in late October, November massive discounts are available then. For instance, my fully loaded sdgt 14k as opposed to 17.
In what currency? This sounds really good bargain,here in Greece 21K + Euros...
@@alekara9564 Pounds stirling.
Spot on,articulate review which stands head and shoulders above most of the wank you've got to trawl through before you find a skilled rider loving the bike. I've got one and as you say it's brilliant.
This or the Ducati MTS V4S?
It's a hard choice. I have been looking at both.
@@rufus1346 I think I'm going for the KTM. The ducati is way expensive, and I don't like all that much the looks. The global quality and performance, is there, but I don't think it deserves the extra cash.
@@coboisarapatanas I was thinking along the same lines as you and the Ducati is way more thirsty. I have been told KTM's have reliability problems. Before I commit I need to check that out. I might just go for the tried and tested rout and get the GS. I already have the XDiavel if I want to tear it up a bit and an old Rocket 3 for the long haul journeys.
so its like 690 but almost twice as heavy?
Sold my busa feeling sad and miserable but i knew it had to go :/ then i find this review and i think this can make me happy again
Say no more. Brother has a KTM 1290 few years old. Just wish they'd come out with a GT that was a GT with shaft drive.
A great honest test video thanks no b S just facts I need to test one before I sign up for a gsa 👍👍
The only negative thing that springs to mind? I wish it looked a tad less equine.
"This bike is more like a supermoto..." aww shit. My 990 SMT just heard that.
I wish they still made the smt
I'm on SMT currently & had placed booking for SAS. Trying to find all excuse to keep SMT.
@@muertinix the smr for me ;)
@@sellapanthiben5316 also I have ordered a 1290 sas2020, but I keep my 990 sm
Can’t wait for the “R” review
Every review, bang on.
With all the holigan parts being said - it is also damn easy to chug along in 4th doing 30mph through towns and cities or bumbeling along doing 60mph in 6th :) At least that is what the last 30k km on my '18 SAS have taught me ^-^
Torque everywhere. I was chugging along in 3rd at about 20mph, fiddling with my phone with my left hand. Before I got my hand back on the bars I twisted throttle. Yikes, I don't recommend doing that.
I find the 1290 Super Adventure just as comfortable the as the GS, has less wind buffeting, and is lighter. It's also much faster and the suspension on the R model is better.
£16-£17k ? On the configurator with tech pack, Akrapovic and alloy luggage it comes in at £19.5k. Still it’s £4K cheaper than a Multistrada V4S Sport with similar kit