KTM 1290 Super Adventure R tweaked for 2023

Redesigned for 2021, KTM’s Super Adventure R has proven to be a mighty machine, offering a high level of performance, tech and usability, both on and off-road. And for 2023, it sees some light updates.

It’s not all just about the shiny new colours though, as the LC8 engine has seen some updates that mean a 1.6kg weight loss alongside a couple of extra horsepower, that bring the grand totals up to 160hp and 138Nm torque. With a 23-litre three-piece tank and 15,000km service intervals the big KTM offers plenty of usability with its poke, and also includes some changes to the heat system, in order to improve the heat dispersion around the rider.

As far as components go, it’s much of the same high-spec goodness thanks to WP XPLOR suspension front and rear with 220mm of travel, which has been ever-so-slightly refined for the 2023 model. As you can imagine, a raft of electronic rider aids such as traction control, stability control, ABS and more is run through a Bosch 6D lean angle sensor, while the 7” display now has the potential for Turn-by-Turn+ guidance, with the ability to set waypoints and diversions through the handlebars too if you really fancy an adventure.

As you can imagine, this also means you get Bluetooth connectivity, alongside all the other electronic goodness including a raft of riding modes that include off-road settings, a remote key, cruise control, and some neat little touches like Automatic Turn Indicator Reset and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The new Super Adventure R should already be hitting the dealers as you’re reading this, with prices starting at £17,299.