2017 KTM 1290 Super Adventure - Long Term Review
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- Опубліковано 15 вер 2024
- 2017 KTM 1290 Super Adventure - Long Term Review: Sadly the time has come to return the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S to those nice folks at KTM UK. During my time with the bike I have got to know it's little idiosyncrasy's and in this, my long term "living with" video I not only share those with you, both the positive and negative points, but also take an in depth look at the cost of ownership of the bike. If you're interested in big adventure machines, and in particular what the Super Adventure is like to actually live with, stay tuned!
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Thorough review - thank you, and well done.
As an owner of the 1290SA here’s my thoughts:
1. Chain drive is fine, and I believe is actually better if you’re a serious Adventure rider as you can actually replace it easily. I fitted a Pro Oiler with GPS that sends a metered dose of oil to the chain according to the distance travelled, which can be varied via the handlebar switch if there’s heavy rainfall. Never had a problem.
2. The luggage is dreadful, and I’m very happy I went with the SW Motech Trax Adventure with the quick detachable frames...is there any better? Superb.
3. Tyres are crap if you get off the asphalt for long. Mine got bogged in wet grass leading into my garage at the farmhouse. I fitted Heidenau K60 Scouts which have been great all round, although I’m speed limited to 190 km/h, and have cruised at 170 without issue
4. Lights are okay, I didn’t think they’re as good as TMF did, but maybe that’s down to my ordinary eyesight. I fitted pretty good Givi S320 LED lights to the crash bars as daytime running lights & of course for foggy and rainy days.
I also fitted a Laser 750 Triple R light bar that neatly fits between the stanchions, and used some custom CNC fork tube brackets. It throws massive light 900 metres down the road. It looks reasonable, neither beautiful nor ugly, but it’s incredible UK manufactured kit.
5. The only failure has been the main switches on the left handlebar, which does all the menu settings and headlight beams. My dipper switch failed, necessitating a whole new switch being fitted under warranty. Failure is not unheard of, but regardless of that it’s a terrible design and very easy to inadvertently turn on high beam
6. Size & bulk - it’s quite large, but not heavy at rest and therefore not heavy underway. I’m 1.79m tall, and it’s at my limits for handling ease because of the height and bulk, but it’s certainly manageable in almost all circumstances. I do need to be extra cautious at rest in traffic because of my tippy toes, and also when doing very slow car park turns at walking pace...practice makes perfect
7. Maintenance - oil and filter changes are easy, if somewhat clumsy & potentially messy because of the twin drain plugs, with the rear plug nestled above part of the exhaust pipe...all doable, but some concentration required.
Rear wheel removal was easy when I got a puncture...but it’s a big wheel and tyre assembly.
Tank removal is somewhat involved because of the cowling etc, but it’s pretty logical. I have the 30 litre tank, which is a beast, so I like to get it below half when I remove the tank.
There’s two very useful Accessory power outlets that are switch activated, which really helped adding lights & chain Oiler pump. Ones up front on the rear left side of the headlight, and the other is back near the tail light assembly under the pillion seat.
I wired in a PDM60 for all of my accessories and it was really easy to find clean routes for all the cables because it’s quite a large bike.
I easily installed an Arrow header (with much smaller cat, and it fixed the backfiring that began when the after market muffler was fitted)...pretty good access to everything.
KTM alloy bash plate easily fitted.
Generally easy to work on, perhaps because it’s so effin big that you generally have good access.
Cleaning - agree with TMF; plenty of nooks and crannies especially around the headlight and wind shield.
8. Riding (isn’t that why we buy them?) - generally brilliant!!! Love the semi active suspension, but don’t really trust its durability (no issues to date, just a fear of the unknown and complex).
Brakes, ABS, traction control & slipper clutch are all superb and confidence inspiring.
No problems with engine heat in a European summer, but the US, Australia etc could be a different issue.
Riding modes work very well, especially throttle control.
Heated grips and seat are for the Arctic. I cook on high.
Balance is superb largely due to the engine design.
A happy owner, who wishes he had more free time.
Wow - great feedback thanks for taking the effort to write that lot down....
Ronan Rogers just dropped on this excellent response...very informative...I've just acquired a low mileage 2017 Superadventure and love it....and yes I've had to have the RIGHT hand switch unit replaced under warranty (race on button etc). I have the Bumot panniers and the big Givi 58l Trekker top box....can you say where is the best place to wire in a pair of aux led lights attached to the engine bars (see profile picture)? Does the 30l tank alter the external dimensions of the bike (is it available as an upgrade?)
Thanks for sharing man 👍👍 I live in British Columbia, I'm gonna get the 1290 R this spring. Cant wait.
@@raywilkinson3129 I am getting one to ride from Ontario to BC. I maybe see you!)
Great summary.. much appreciated.. ride safe
Just chopped in my 2017 GS......Made the mistake of test riding the big Kato....The showroom ( fowlers Bristol) has 5 GS in which were all traded for the 1290. Yes the BMW will give better comfort for a 1000 miles/ day in the saddle BUT with the KTM ergo seat its just as good as the BM....Every other area, the KTM simply blows the BM away...handling /power...Did I mention the gearbox, no more tractor changes - its silky smooth. I have 3000 miles on the KTM and I simply cannot see how anyone would prefer the BM - its simply and old design that has mutated into a monstrosity. My Mrs is equally as happy on the KTM.The negative are the side cases, they are rubbish, fitted touratech same as my old BM..As for the chain, really its no problem, no adjustment in 3Kms only lubed once. As for build quality, I can see why riders are concerned as there is not as much shiny metal meaning more plastic BUT then your saving 30-40Kgs! In the UK KTM have sold double the adventure bikes that BM have this year....Now I can see why! If your unsure about buying a new bike THEN do NOT try the big Kato :)
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF
Great info. I've just traded a 2014 GS for a 2020 SAS. Seems to be a great move so far!
just picked up the 2020 model , great bike , a turned in my Versys 1000 SE 2018 for this one, no regrets and i am still running it in drove 220 km today, got a week to run it in , next saturday she gets her 1000 km service. It is a great bike very much fun, and i love the 2 cilinder engine, thanx for the review it helped making my choice between the BMW 1250 GS and this one, great channel keep up the great work. greetings from the Netherlands, Richard
Thanks Richard - all the best!
Hey, great review.
These reviews are always more useful a couple of years on, as they become available on the secondhand market, post PCP deals etc.
I'm looking at this bike and thought I'd check insurance.
For comparison:
Current bike is a 2005 Honda CBR600RR. Comprehensive insurance £180.
KTM Super Adventure 1290s 2017 (got a reg off an eBay advert) is £260 comprehensive.
Not that much of an uplift for me. 33yr old male in Derbyshire. Comprehensive and 9yr protected NCB. Office management job. Licence 15years.
Hope this helps any perspective buyers.
I just wanted to give you a quick shout out - I have been following your channel for more than 3 years. I really enjoyed your content about the BMW R 1200 GS when I was in the market to make the move to an adventure bike. I had the bike for 2 years and switched to the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S for the 2018 season. Of course I watched everyting I could find about the KTM before I made the switch including your excellent reviews! So in both cases your reviews were very helpful. Anyway, I thought I just let you know that I enjoy and appreciate your content a lot! Greetings from Berlin, Germany!
Greetings motovibes and thanks for getting in touch! Glad you like the channel!
I've noticed here and on a couple of other reviews that heated grips are buried in the menu. All you need to do is press the up arrow on the menu selector and you are immediately into the heated grips menu. similarly, pressing the down arrow puts you immediately into the heated seat menu (if equipped). there is a menu selection to establish this quick action if yours doesn't come that way, as mine did.
I put heated grip in the quick selector
Im not a biker but i really enjoy your channel,its fascinating to learn about a new subject which you explain in such easy no nonsense terms plus you are great company and a nice person,thanks alot for sharing your brilliant videos
Thank you very much, perhaps we should go out on a date?
TheMissendenFlyer 😂😂😂
I absolutely love long-term reviews because of the depth of information they give. This one was especially great, thank you.
Thank you Emilio...
Lovely bike , the heavyweight adventure segment is really rocking atm with the KTM 1290 range, BMW GS range , the Mulitistrada and the Africa Twin. All are better than just good and into great bikes. I cant see why anyone would want a lean forward sports bike nowadays unless for track use. I do fancy that KTM but i know the parts for them are ridiculous expensive, i think that is the only flaw with KTM the after sales parts need to be better value, although its true of Ducati and BMW also this is where Honda have an edge in the UK and USA in aftersales and parts this is why the insurance is so high i bet an Africa Twin would be a third less. Oh well buy what you can afford! 1290 or GS what a hard choice, then there is the middleweight adventure segment 🤪 we really are spoilt for choice 😁
Another practical and balanced review. My go to channel when I want to get real views of a bike that says it like it is. Many thanks -already looking forward to the GS v KTM comparison, keep them coming Mr.
Will do Richard, thanks for the kind words! - TMF
I have a 2018 and ive had it for 1 year. Love it today as driving it from the dealership except got some skills now......agile ....fast...tough reliable and attractive. From harleys. Dirtbikes. Cafe style...i owned them. Nothing comes close to the feeling i get from this bike.
Me: has no money, no job, no parking space, no riding experience
Also me: *I want this bike*
Get a job. Get some money. Buy a bike. Not this bike. But a bike. Ride a while. Experience. Save. Money. Buy. This bike! Job done.
@@mhks68 fuk all that. Go to bike shop. Get PCP finance. Ride bike.
Andy, a good balanced review as ever, with your own USP of UA-camrs 👏 I’m seriously looking to add a new ‘22 version of this, and was surprised not to find a TMF update for the 21/22 model with its many changes.
Nope - not ridden it this far!
Thank you for the review. Always a pleasure to watch.
I believe that it would be more fair to have insurance quote from multiple insurers (although KTMs are in high risk insurance group and thus are expensive to insure).
As R1200GS owner, i gave driveshaft vs chain a bit of thinking in the past and now strongly believe that the strongest point behind driveshaft is lack of maintenance.
With chain you can get scottiler (or similar) and reduce maintenance (bike will be more messy due to potential oil spill).
Driveshafts are nice until there is an issue with them. New one costs close to $1000 and reconditioned ones around $400-450 (no idea how long they will last) and that is for part only. Rubber boots around driveshaft joins are $80 each and final drive $600 (all prices approximate). That is a lot of money if any of these will fail. In contrast, $175 will buy you chain and sprocket kit for KTM 1190 (just as an example). Additionally, unless you ask dealership/mechanic to check your final drive, you cannot see its condition (unlike chain). Driveshafts can last for a very long time but there are posts on the forums when they failed on people with 15k-30k miles. In such case cost of driveshaft and labour associated with replacement will greatly exceed cost of 2-3 sets of chain and sprockets.
Obviously I'm commenting a couple of years late but........ £750 for insurance!!!
I collect mine next week and at 51 yrs old with an average post code and 9 years no claims my insurance is £155. That includes protected no claims and pillion cover etc
Considering your cost of ownership was 2/3rds insurance this drops massively for me.
Great in depth review though 👍
755 for the insurance? in Portugal is 100 euros or something like that!!
I prefer Chain to Shaft, weight saving, and when it will go wrong, you can get a chain anywhere in the world. ;)
These full "living with " reviews combined with your balanced unbiased style are invaluable to anyone considering a purchase. You get so much deeper than the traditional magazine reviews even their "long termers" which you only get piecemeal month by month. Good to see you getting a mention in MCN keep up the good work
Fabulous, thank you Andy, glad you like this format....I try and cover the sort of things I'd look for if I were buying....
Finally test rode one yesterday. ❤️ IT! 🙂 Been out on my Street today. Not ready to give that up just yet. Think I might have to get used to living on bread and water.
Another great video, TMF. I really appreciate you doing balanced reviews - there isn't enough coverage of downsides to new bikes (although i acknowledge top-end new bikes are very good these days), appreciate your efforts!
That is the issue! You have to be real knit picky to find stuff wrong with bikes these days!
Another stocker of a vid bud, loved that. I keep being told to test ride one of these as an alternative to the GS, but the chain and looks put me off I think? I'll certainly take one out though once I'm back riding again. Great vid mate, keep'em coming 👍
Cheers TP1 - I think you'd love the big KTM coming from your sportsbike background, the engine is a corker (but I'm with you on the looks)....
teapotone I've just sold my 57 plate gsa but like urself I'm not sure i wanna go back to lubing chains ... ( never thought I'd say that )
A good friend recently got the 1190 just after the 1290 came out (got a great deal) and he absolutely loves it. I've never seen him ride so fast and smooth as he does on that thing. It sounds mental too with a full Akro on it! But the bloomin' GS virus gets you doens't it. Once you've ridden one for a bit and lived with it, it just becomes the benchmark for all other all-purpose bikes out there. Looking forward to lots of testing in the new year then, stay safe 👍
Crazy isn't it. I used to listen to people moan about chains before I'd ever ridden a shaft-drive and think, what are they moaning about!? But now I've lived with the shaft drive, it just seems like so much grief to have to constantly lube and tighten the chain, especially when you're riding lots of miles all year round. 1st world problems eh! 😉👍
teapotone this was my 1st shafty after owning countless bikes and used to get some weird sadistic pleasure out of cleaning and lubing chains ... wouldn't mind I've binned about 7 cans of half full lube since having the gs haha
First of all, thank you for this quite interesting video. I will be switching from 1290 SDR 2016 to 1290 SAS 2020 in few days, so your feelings and analysis for this bike were nice to hear. I totally agree with you on the fact that the only thing that could "prevent" you from choosing this bike over others in that category is the design... the only point that made me hesitate, a bit.... That LC8 engine is a work of art and is sensational. You add all these great electronic features and the confort of a long travel suspensions bike and you get what I would call the best all around bike of the market. Price of insurance is less expansive in France (in my case) and maintenance service seems to be a little cheaper also....
It may be a nice machine in many ways,but the absence of shaft drive is a deal breaker for me.Thanks TMF.👍
The cost of ownership would put me off straight away. My 2015 Tiger Explorer costs me £170 a year for Insurance, the first 500 mile service was £75 and the subsequent annual services were £160. The Explorer isn’t a perfect bike, but the current crop of adventure bikes just aren’t worth another five grand or so to ‘upgrade’. I’ll be keeping my Explorer for quite a few years yet, but I’ll probably invest in some aftermarket suspension upgrades next year. Great review MF and I’ll be looking forward to the next one. 👍😎
Cheers Mark.....
I bought this bike and I love it! What more can I say?
I regularly get 60.1 mpg dropping to 58.8 mpg, the worst I have had is 55 after a session round Thruxton, amazing economy for a big V Twin and better than I get with my GSA
As always my friend, a fantastic video! I've been looking into this for my Spring 2018 purchase and riding season!
Thank you sir - lovely machine, you won't go far wrong with one of these....
I think a chain is more of an inconvenience when you are on a trip, at home in your garage it's just a bit of extra tinkering, when you come out of your hotel it's nice just to be able to ride off with a glance at your oil window and check the TPMS to see if the tires are still where they should be. If you are riding in dirt and sand I can see the weight of a loaded bike and the power giving chains and sprockets a hard life over a long tour. However if I wanted a really fast adventure bike I could learn to live with it.
Saw one of these in London today. It was enormous! Panniers all over it, it had to be ridden like the owner had a car. I did love the front lights though
Thanks for taking the time to post this video. I found the flicking between daytime and nighttime mode on the screen annoying. But the engine is mental. 3rd and 4th gear round the back roads smile a minute. Glad you mentioned the insurance, I better check that as I'm seriously thinking about chopping in my Tiger sport for one of these.
Yeah my quote may just be a freak one, when I queried it it seemed the keyless ignition loaded the premium, so best specify that (or not) when you're getting your quotes sorted....
Great feed back pal as always. On the back of your review and many others I’ve bought a new one, cheers
Nice one - enjoy!
Loved the honest and the "rider real" review. Ignore his Insurance quote... he's sponsored and paid by a SINGULAR insurance provider. If you're an experienced, no claim type rider you can get a policy for less than half that he'd quoted. I do every year! So the real life ownership costs can be vastly lower. For me...The engine, power delivery, handling and riding experience completely trump the "Belly Button" (everyone's got one) GS owner experience Apart from if you're mechanically inept and hate the idea of a chain final drive. I don't mind personally. I commute through mega traffic on my KTM too. I don't see ANY GS's filtering on my commute nor do I see GS's in their droves through the Alps and hairpins of Europe. My machine does 200 miles on a tank and will out perform any GS......Parts can be expensive though.
Thanks for stopping by Gil, though I detect a bit of antiGSism creeping in! All the best for 2019 - TMF
It does seem steep. I'm 40 in the us, pay 1k US yearly for 4 bikes including a 18 SA-r and a 17 enduro-r
Really enjoy your reviews. Nice to compare cost of insurance, price and cost of ownership of the Ktm 1290. Thanks from Nova Scotia 🇨🇦
Another good review,,, I am picking up my new 1290 Super Adventure s next week... In Australia KTM has an offer on where they are dropping $6200 off the price, on the road price is now $22990 which is an offer no one could refuse,, thats about 12,675 Pounds Sterling at the present rate..
Wow - lot of bike for the money - congratulations and enjoy!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Thanks mate,,,, pick it up tomorrow ;)
Great review, your doing a brilliant job, keep them coming.
Thank you sir - will do....
Having owned a new wet head GS for two years I have just pulled the trigger on a Black Super Adventure, which I pick up Friday. Cannot wait. However much I loved the GS this is next gen, even with a chain. BMW need to catch up soon.
Congratulations David, you're going to have a ball on this beast - out of interest did you try the 2018 GSA???
So how did it work out? I've just ditched a GS for a 2020 SAS and so far so good!
As always a great informative review sir. Being a Triumph man the pannier hassles are a problem. My Tiger 1050 top box and panniers remove very easily. An experiment I conducted shortly after purchase revealed no problems up to 200 km/hr fully loaded with luggage, I backed off at that speed as I ran out of my road. I have considered at length my next bike a KTM and this review gives food for though. Thank you for the time and effort taken. Cheers.
Glad you found it of interest Scott....
Nice long term review. While you say the KTM is a lot of money, it's still way cheaper than a fully loaded GSA. I currently own a GSA1200, but it will be my last!! I think at over £20K it's a step to far. I would be very happy with a new 1290 KTM.
I don't think there's much in the pricing - they're all darned expensive, out of my league I'm afraid!
Great review. Had an Africa Twin, which was stolen, considering trading in my ZZR1400 for one of these, as I love the more upright position.
Watched this video a few times, and despite the “negatives” which are subjective, I think I will pull the trigger for one of these. Won’t be until end of July after my annual trip to the Nurburgring on the ZZR ;-)
Love your videos. 👍🏻
Cheers Bob - enjoy "the Ring"!
A great review again my friend. I ran a previous model in for those nice chaps at KTM and found seat comfort wasn't too much of a problem even when riding all day (I'm a bit taller than you and certainly heavier!!). For me, the most important feature on adventure bike is to know what range you have in the tank and that was where I found the previous model lacking. It told you the range to fill up but when you're on the last block and it's telling you 47ish to the gallon and 140 miles range you do start to disbelieve it!
When it came time to change my bike the overall cost differences steered me very much into the Versys 1000GT; not a perfect bike but certainly excellent value.
I think you certainly need to get Mrs Flyer set up with some kit so that she can give an objective review on pillion comfort.
I mentioned the lack of shaft to KTM and they told me that fitting one is just not in their 'Ready to Race' DNA.
Thanks for the learned feedback as ever Geoff! I have a Versys review "in the can" so stay tuned for that.....and about time we did a biker cafe meet up matey!!
Yep, let's get it sorted!
Another great review. Just traded in my GSA for a 22 plate one. Really excited now. Cheers !
Congratulations David!
Excellent review as usual. I'd agree about the running costs, they're horrendous and are the sole reason I got rid of my KTM- pre-tft- and moved to a GS. All KTMs are all about the engine/chassis combination; they're not very fuel efficient once you rev them, utility that's the nature of the beast. In terms of smiles per mile, they're the best; but those running costs.....
Insurance is heavily influenced by replacement parts cost. Overall, I found, and still find, the GS to be the better real-world option.
Interesting - so did you find high insurance costs too???
1290 Super Adventure has a safety flaw in its design, the motorcycle has a major safety problem.
I bought mine six month ago and since day one I have been experiencing head wobble at speed ranging from 100 to 120 mph.
I contacted the dealer and they said “there is a software upgrade regarding the head wobble”
I took the motorcycle to the dealer, after the software upgrade I discovered that the four setting for the damping is not working any more there is not difference in the performance between sports, street, comfort or off-road.
It will be interesting to see what the dealers explanation is.
These companies should pay you commission. Love your channel, I was all but settled on a new GS...but now I found your Super Adventure S videos. Either way I go it'll be because of your videos! Cheers
I wish! ..and thanks for the kind comments - all the best - TMF
I drove a short time really has an excellent engine but the heat coming from the cylinder is very uncomfortable, excellent review. keep up the good work.
Cheers
Ed.
Hot engines are a plus point when you live in the UK!! Although to be fair I didn't have any heating issues with this bike....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Heat is a big deal in general when you live somewhere where it's 85-105 F during most of the riding season. After living in the UK for just over 40 years, I had to get used to the strange phenomena of being too hot on a motorcycle, I don't recall that ever being an issue in the UK and didn't give it a thought until riding here. When it's 100 F or so it literally feels like the engine heat is burning your legs on bikes where the heat really comes at you,especially in stop start traffic.
You can keep shaft drive. When I went from an FJ1200, which I loved, to an FJR1300, I didn't think an extra 120lb was an issue, but the handling went out the window. The only thing holding me back from a KTM SAS is the heat which you don't comment on in England (possibly desirable), but here in California could be unbearable.
A great review as usual. Personally I don't really like the looks of it (or many KTMs) but I appreciate its qualities. Thanks for doing 'proper' reviews on all aspects, not just performance. Appreciated ;)
You're welcome!
Hey dude in terms of Actual MPG just do the manual calculation - you can then compare how accurate the gauge is compared to "Actual" mpg. Set mile counter to zero, FILL Bike Up when empty or near empty.. take note of number of litres in tank then convert to gallons. When near empty again then divide miles by number of gallons - job done!
Wow, I'd never thought of doing that.....................
An exceptionally lovely review. (I don't believe I've used the word, "lovely," in that way, but I'm an American, and to paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, we and the British are two peoples separated by the same language. I have been in the UK three times - a total of about seven weeks - and had no difficulty making myself understood, even with my strong Northern California accent, or driving a rental car. In 1970, my father and I flew from San Francisco to London, rented a car and just took off with no plan or itinerary. I had no trouble driving on the wrong, that is the left side of the road, *in traffic*. However, when out in the country, a couple of times I found myself on the right, that is, the right side of the road, resulting in some close calls. I'd be concerned with riding in the UK, because the consequences of that mistake could be much more serious.) I am a KTMer for life and currently ride an 1190 Adventure. When I bought it, I promised my wife it would be my last bike. Now, I'm not so sure. I'll have the 1190 paid off in about two years. I can see it coming. In early 2020 a new 2019 1290 Adventure S, discounted at some dealer because the 2020s have arrived. Oh, insurance. I pay about $475 a year - I think about 400 pounds - for full coverage on my 1190 - also no tickets or claims over the last five years. (I have no idea why I have no tickets - several times a week I go out to a stretch of country road that has a full mile straight. When there is no traffic in either direction I'll stop, and do a 0 to 100 - 110 (mph) run. I love the 1190's power.) I live in Athens, Georgia, a small city of about 125,000. I'm sure it would be more if I was in Atlanta, which is about 70 miles away. Thank you, again, for this lovely, lovely review, indeed, and, hey, if you get over here, contact me, and I'll try and help keep you on the right side of the road on the ride through the Tail-of-the-Dragon, a stretch of road on the SW corner of the Great Smokey National Park that has 317 turns in 11 miles (about three hours. north.
Thank you John - you live in a lovely part of the world (we have family friends in Kennesaw) and San Francisco is one of my favourite cities in the world, having had my honeymoon there and then later having worked in the city....thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
First class channel - thanks for your efforts
Thank you Raysaw - much appreciated...
yes indeed
Superb review Mr flyer, lovely bike, costs a little eye watering. As you know still in love with my Tiger Sport . Keep em coming always look forward to your updates on the tube :)
Cheers Paul - I love the Tiger Sport, but you know that...
Great reviews always use yours when thinking of buying a bike I am interested in the 2021 super adventure keep the good work up
As always very thorough and well thought out. Points for the BMW: Let's talk real world use!!!!!
...engine offers feet protection and warmth..that is a big BIG deal!
...along with keeping bike from laying flat! NICE !!!
...I would love to see how the much improved 1250 GS compares in your mind.
...The front tele-lever is just far better in terms in bikes ability to roll with great aplomb !
... valve adjustment on the Boxer.... super easy
... KTM long term reliability unknown
...KTM used loose a greater percentage of value than BMW it seems.
...impossible to have to much light on the front. With Clearwater lights on BMW , KTM can not hold a candle ! ( lol)
.... I can not see a chain for anything other than...short ride ( Sunday mornings etc) /hooligan/race applications. To have to clean after a few hundred miles, keep up with adjustments, worry about rain, and the keeping clean of area where chain slings grime and crud... no thank you. Besides, who carries the tools to grind off rivets, and press them in place. And if one was to go on a adventure to parts unknown... the KLR650 is a far FAR better choice!! In addition, unlike yesteryear, chain failure is unheard of unless it is neglected. One knows with plenty advanced notice... that a chain needs to be serviced and related. For the most part, they are all neglected( to one degree or another) , unless they are cleaned and lubed every 3 to 5 hundred miles, & much sooner if ridden per their intended purpose... IN THE DIRT!!!
.... and last but not least, much less total cost of owner ship and less time cleaning and maintenance..... BMW wins hands down. As for looks, once the boxer lay out gets into your brain, like it did for Max Fritz... no other single track machine with an ICE makes as much logical, pragmatic sense!!!
Wow - thanks for that lot! Agreed!!
Another great review TMF. The one negative for me other than the cost, is that being that high off the ground, with all that wind protection, magic carpet suspension and barely tickling the engine. It's well frankly boring.
But that engine Nigel, it's a beast, it's certainly not boring to me this bike!
Yea but can you actually use it? Unless you're at 'go directly to jail' speeds, what's it like? Kinda dull, for me.
Excess costs are killing the motorcycle industry.
Been riding for 45 years.
It used to be cheap to ride "any bike" in the 70's.
After owning a variety of bikes I've downsized to a 2017 Yamaha WR250R.
Love it.
Haven't owned such a small engine bike for 30 years.
Was surprised that it can easily do 110 km per hr on the Trans-Canada highway. (with my skinny ass on it)
And it's relatively cheap to own,,,in Canada anyway.
Nice one - biggest isn't always best (at least that's what I tell the wife!)....
Well done. I wish KTM would add a shaft drive and a GPS interface. Until then I’m still loving my R1200GS
Christ. By my quick calculation you paid about $5.85 per US gallon for fuel. Almost double what it is in my area. So if it isn't top personal of a question, how do the insurance and maintenance costs of that KTM compare to the GS you've been running?
Yes, fuel here is a tad pricey. ...and to answer your question, not very well, that insurance is the killer....
Outstanding long term review!! Thanks so much. This is one of two bikes I am considering, the GSA being the other. Like you my Head says GSA but after my KTM demo days rides my Heart is shouting KTM, KTM....lol.
In that case - go for the KTM!
Thank you! Great review. Been looking at one today.
Not sure applies but always found the centre stand was easy operation lifting the bike
Cracking bike, but it's a costly piece of garage jewellery. My neighbour has one with the aftermarket Akrapovich exhaust which sounds incredible. Thanks again TMF.
You're super welcome as ever Colin....
Fantastic review as always! Can't wait to see your review for the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800!
It's on it's way...stay tuned!
Very great review. I'm happy that i have buyed one for me. More than enough power, brilliant handling and low fuel consumption (in comparison to my aprilia bikes). Keep up with such as good videos. Happy to see your comparison with the 2018 GS and the brand new Triumph 1200 Tiger. Cheers
Cheers Andi - stay tuned!
What a great review, thanks for putting so much info out there. You do a great job!
Thank you very much!
Thank you TMF, I have the same bike, and completely agree with your summary, including cost of ownership, which is high, although worth it, I think?
Is your insurance so stratospheric-ally high too?? .....or am I being singled out?? ;0)
Oh yes! Excuse the pun, The highest quote was £1800.00 finally paid less than half, after shopping around..
Excellent review as always ! The only thing I miss from every review (not only yours) is the width of the panniers on the bike, so total width and is it within the width of the handle bars.... Sometime its hard to find out and even the dealer can not tell you because the bike is most of the time shown without panniers. Keep up the good work ! Regards from The Netherlands.
Yes good point - thanks Patrick....
Thanks TMF another great in depth review. I love the information you provide, helping us lot decide where to go next. I love the Superduke and GT but for touring I think the BMW GS is still King, particularly for pillions and luggage. The GS would be my choice and WOW that insurance made me cough a bit.
...me too, the highest quote I've seen yet! Mind you it is a very nice, and nickable, machine....
Another very fine "real world' review....good job once again.
Great review TMF, been looking forward to this video from you for a while, as I've mentioned in the past this bike is at the top of my list for next year's adventure bike purchase, so now we just have to see how good the new Explorer XRT is now Triumph have finally thrown the extras toy box at it. Look forward to your review and comparison on that 👍.
Cheers Chill, I imagine it will be a while before I can get a decent got on the Tiger 1200, I'm well down the pecking order when it comes to press bike loans!
Likewise, but the T1200 will be of no interest to me until they up the torque and add another 30+hp. The one I tested last year was a damp squib compared to the 1290 SA or the Multi.
I hate the front lights, but none the less, your review is second to none, again. 🙂
Yes marmite those I guess.....thanks :0)
Your reviews are the best. Thanks
Aww shucks!
m looking at buying a 2016 super adventure T. IVE HAD 3 GS AND 1 GSA,,,I Feel like a change and this has convinced me im not making bubu .great info.thanks.
Outstanding video, would love to see a review on the 2018 Ducati 1260s as I'm torn between KTM and the Ducati for my next bike. Thanks again for the outstanding videos!!!
You're welcome Bryan - I'm riding the 1260 in 2 weeks time....stay tuned!
Excellent!!!! I currently own a 2016 RT and do love it, but I want something more sporty with the versatility and comfort of adventure bike...not interested in the XR, too buzzy.....I want to stick with a twin. Will be anxiously awaiting your review of the Multi. Thanks again!! And hello from Texas!!!!
Hi TMF.Please could you tell me if you noticed any heat problems coming up from the engine?Thinking of purchasing a 1290 but reading online people are saying the heat from the engine is a major concern. Many thanks.
I didn’t notice any no - but then I ride a Panigale!
Nice review. I was thinking of the next gen 1290 sd gt as my next bike to replace my r1200rs but those service and insurance cost have me doubting that. Something to certainly check locally to see if it's as bad as you've found. Can I ask if you're going to comment on pilion accommodation you actually try it out. The bike had a centre stand so you could of tried it out, even on your own if you don't have a test pilot. Checking knee angles, foot clearances, grab handle position/angles and seat padding can't really be done by just looking at it and is very important to those of us that regularly take a pilion. Our buying decision can really depend on it so shouldn't be taken lightly especially for this class of bike.
Yes I would have liked to have taken a pillion but had none available at the time....must try harder...duly noted!
Great review. Love the yellow/white color combo. I wonder if you get better gas mileage by keeping the bike in rain mode all the time.
With Winter fast approaching, viewers might like your opinion on how well the bike keeps the rider warm. Things like hand grip warmers, how well the windshield protects from the cold, as well as the hand guards (when applicable). Maybe mention what layers you are wearing to remain comfortable while riding. I find I can ride relatively comfortable on my GS down to the mid to low 30's F. The one kink in the armor would be the hand guards. I do plan to upgrade them with the touratech add-ons (per your recommendation/video).
Again, great video. Very informative.
Thank you sir - and thanks for the idea!
TMF, you have such an easy going, almost hypnotic style that I'd probably tune in to listen to you talk about washing powder; but I sometimes think that the reviews could do with more of a compare and contrast element with the many other bikes you're ridden (in any particular segment) Just a small critique, whilst you wait for that invitation from Dave to do a bike show (something that's missing off our uk schedules!)
Thank you Samsara, washing powder eh....now there's an idea....and stay tuned for my whole video "comparing and contrasting" this bike with the BMW GS ;0)
Incredibly thorough review!
I aim to please!
Great review mate. Struggle with the costs but also you said the main use would be for touring, yet the panniers are not that great. I suppose it comes down to what you want it for. On another note had to buy a bike dryer today as wife bought her first bike bike and cause of your previous reviews. Keep it up.
Hope you used my amazon link Marc ;0P
Great review TMF, loved it. Would love to see a review and long term test of the multistrada and how it compares against the GS and KTM
Stay tuned QuinnRider......just gave the MTS back to Ducati yesterday ;0) Loads to come on that....
Would love to know which of the big bikes you would go for post all your reviews, especially as a real life everyday bike for a mix of forging, commuting and a weekend run
ooh I like the lean angle sensitive lights, fancy schmancy!
me too!
Nice bike, great review, BMW GSA just has it so right with the tank size and how it mounts the Satan’s as its part of the bike, although the TFT screen on this KTM is lovely mounting a Satan’s seems to have been forgotten about,
Ive had 2 GSA’s now but I do really fancy a 1290, its just so hard to move away from the GSA which is just so well thought out.
Satan's what???
TheMissendenFlyer lol. Bloody predictive text. I meant mounting a SatNav. 👍
I just had a look online for insurance for the KTM, In Australia it is one of the cheapest to insurer a adventure bike, $570 for 12 months full comprehensive. A Ducati 1200 Multi Adventure is $1100/Year and BMW 1200GSA is around $900/year...............same insurer and details.
...as I said, bigger isn't always best!
Just an update, 2023, 30,000km service (18600mls) is about £850. Just had mine done.
Really well-done review as usual but that bike is anything but usual! I'd agree the looks are somewhat polarizing but by all other metrics the positives - espeically that engine - are quite something to consider.
Indeed they are Scott - as I said, on a pure spec comparison the bike is hard to beat, it's a fabulous beast and got me all of a quiver at the time....
Bought one today!!
Congratulations!
I have just put my deposit down on Friday ! I should be getting it by next week. needless to say I cannot sleep!
Congratulations!
Great in depth review, fantastic bike but that insurance quote, my god!!
My thoughts exactly!
Thanks for the great video. Does anyone know how the later model 1190 Adventure R compares with the 1290 in this video? Cost of ownership and the rest? Thank you.
Great review, I owned a KTM1190 adventure, brilliant bike...but the three dealers I had dealings with were all cowboy's so I have since sold my bike unfortunately. If KTM could get some great dealers on board I would love another KTM
The KTM Centre in Hemel Hempstead is brilliant in my experience.....I guess you're nowhere near?
A good dealer is make or break for sure ... thankfully our KTM dealer is head and shoulders over the Ducati one. That said there is always room for improvement. :)
Even the different people at a dealer can make all the difference.
Another brilliant real world review. Thank you sir 🖒
You're very welcome....
Looks a nice bike but for me after owning a r1200gs everything else seems a downgrade, true story bro!
I understand that Fast Frankie, love my GS too......
Have you actually take a spin on one? Really versus the latest GS it kind of comes down to do you prefer extra go or a shaft drive and then of course the looks. I went with the KTM as I like the better propulsion and of course the fancy dash was not available on the BMW earlier this year and a few other reasons.
They are both great bikes but for many reasons I prefer BMW, you prefer KTM and that's the reason we all don't ride the same bikes, have a good day my friend and I will see you at the 100k service!!!!!!!!!!!! True story bro :)
Ive plenty of ride time on both and I think any GAS owner needs to make time to try this KTM - you will see straight away the KTM is a huge upgrade to the BMW GS.
Fast Frankie needs to trade in his old oiled cooled 200,000km GS - money is the big factor here if having to stick with the old GS and convincing yourself you still have the best dual purpose bike :)
Morning Flyer! Fabulous bike but the chain is , IMHO, a real deal-breaker for those of us who are car-less and use our bikes as transport. And those boxes just don't compare with the BM Vario cases. BTW; I do have a favourite pump at my local fuel station... The forecourt's on a slope! HA!
At least you have a good reason for a favourite pump!
I found that in the super adventure s I owned was a little windy, the wind came round the screen onto my body. Great bike and very quick BUT still no bmw ! Another excellent review young man 👍🏼
Ps dealer back up isn’t in the same league as bmw had a few issues particularly with the new dash and dealer service was poor to say the least.
Really? What dealer are you using I wonder? My local outfit (Hemel) are a brilliant bunch of blokes....
TheMissendenFlyer wouldn’t be right to name and shame but over the last two years I have bought 5 new high end ktm’s and obviously spent an awful lot of money. Just disappointing. Anyway back on BMW’s they don’t have the punch but they have everything else 👍🏼
Wow you had bad experiences with 5!!! Can't say you didn't give them a fair crack!
TheMissendenFlyer ha ha no I haven’t had trouble with them all . Niggles but it’s how things are dealt with. Had trouble with the adventure S dash .... a lot !
How does the £755 insurance compare to your R1200GS?
Poorly - I pay about £250 for that....(although difficult to say accurately as I'm on a multibike policy, but even when it wasn't, nowhere near that figure)....
Great review as always. Love the wet mode down to 100bhp (so
Cheers Steve, thought I'd better do away with any lycra for this one!
TheMissendenFlyer shrewd move! 😅
Thank you. Excellent comprehensive review.
Thank you Stephanus - I try my best!
Love your channel, Question: I've just bought a 1290 adventure r and I'm having issues keeping the helmet paired to the bike. Once i turn the bike off I need to re pair the helmet intercom every time. Do you have any suggestions?
I have no idea - sorry (one of the reasons I tend not to use headsets!!)
Did you try setting the suspension to comfort when in street mode on longer rides? I have an 1190 and did that on a tour recently and I found I wasn't as uncomfortable as normal. Didn't move around as much on my seat and didn't have to stand so often. I just put it back to the harder setting when I came to the twisties.
Err, it was a while ago and honestly......I can't remember! (my bad!)....
So if push came to shove the ktm or a gsa as a 2up tourer ? I'm leaning toward the gs but that ktm is very tempting. . Great vid
Well I'm working up to that....stay tuned!
What is the wheel base. Height of bike and seat.Engine heat is very important