added benefit of helping getting on and off. The 1290 R weighs 228kg with fluids, but the 23-litre fuel tank empty. So, somewhere around 245kg leaving the gas station. This blends big, heavy and powerful together making braking performance a very real necessity. Happily, the R is blessed with excellent Brembo brakes. Up front the twin 320mm discs have four-piston calipers which are powerful with lots of feel, although I’ d like a lighter lever pull for my perfect princess rating. Even on gravel, slowing rapidly there is awesome feel and stopping force with no unwanted ABS intrusion. The rear has a 267mm disc with a two-piston caliper and it works great. I hardly ever ride with the rear ABS on as I enjoy using a rear brake, which works like it should and find rear ABS unhelpful on gravel at any time.
ELECTRONICS The dash is a huge TFT screen with masses of information and connectivity. Handlebar control buttons allow you to press to your heart’ s content. There is a small phone compartment with USB charging socket. Cruise-control, a quick-shifter and heated grips are optional, at
an increased price. I opted out, but will probably revisit the heated grips option next winter. One thing I don’ t like is the darn malarky required to turn the TC off. It requires three different buttons and seven presses in a certain order – and then the throttle needs to be closed. This doesn’ t sound like‘ Ready to Race’ to me. It’ s not, it’ s a bloody pain in the arse. Please KTM, sort this out. One button, one press would be welcome.
THE SKINNY So, what is a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R really all about? For most, it is a stunningly capable all-roads giant tourer. For others it’ s that AND a fearsome gravel hoon bike. For a handful of riders, it is genuinely a hugely big and powerful monster dirtbike too. But for all riders it will be an unforgettable blast that leaves a lasting smile and impression. And, finally, even if you never have the slightest intention of riding gravel or, heaven forbid, going off-road, just throw some sticky road rubber on and enjoy an eyeopeningly fast, comfortable and well-equipped all-road machine – with the option of going dirty if you ever fancy giving it a go.
66 KIWI RIDER