2021 KTM Super Adventure S review - better than the Multistrada V4?

The 2021 KTM Super Adventure S is 90% brand new. It's still a 160hp monster, but it now has a sharper chassis, more electronic gizmos, fancy anti-dive suspension and it's still absolutely barmy. But would I pick one over the Ducati Multistrada V4? Join me for some waffle and find out

[@joev9224]

Tim. Love the reviews! And, I appreciate your ability to articulate the riding experience and bike characteristics! This may be a strange question. In regards to wind noise, which would you prefer the Adventure SAS or the Super Duke R? I know, at times depending on rider torso height, and size windscreen etc. actually having a windscreen could cause more noise/turbulence than maybe even not having it (clean air). And, I know, in a previous video you may of made some reference to that! i.e. stating, that is why you ride a motard. Just curious on your thoughts. I'm coming off a sport bike to another bike...and I hate wind noise/turbulence... So! Which would you recommend for that? SAS or the SuperDuke R?

[@philiplaurell1163]

Great review.Really enjoyed it. Thanks.

[@timrodierides]

Thanks Philip, really appreciate it. There may well be some more 1290 Super Adventure videos on the way… I might be buying one 😅

[@brucecutts8841]

Picking mine up on the 25th, great review. Hoping that Arrow get a move on with a slip on to restore some of the engines character, that end can and the indicator switch are the source of the only hesitations I have. Oh and I wish they would offer the R colours on the S or al least something more than orange and black or black and orange!

[@forestmotoadventures]

I agree! Love the R version colors

[@davidhughes3051]

I've been humming and haring for the past 6 months or so ....... booking a test ride asap, great review, new subscriber 👈

[@timrodierides]

Thanks David! Yeah, I'm in the same boat to be honest - I think I'll be buying one this year too

[@hedonzx822]

Forgot to mention that I have the KTM Akrapovic exhaust that not only looks a lot better but without the db killers even produces a heavenly sound that’s not even too annoying for the neighbours 💪🏻💪🏾

[@jonbusby3881]

Wow, great video what a bike!

[@rotoehu9266]

Enjoyed this review Tim. I’ve got an idea for a viral video on the channel - an episode where James May gives the etymology of the word nipple (and maybe something completely pointless like the pros and cons of shaft vs chain drive…)

[@andrewedmond7738]

Certainly taking a serious look at this KTM when we finally get them in Australia.This or the GS, that's my issue at this point. Great review brother, thanks.

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

Shipment due in Au soon apparently. RRP $30,620 AUD. Ouch 🤒

[@timrodierides]

Thanks mate!

[@andrewedmond7738]

@@CathodeRayNipplez I certainly agree with the ouch factor mate, but retirement should help soften the blow. Now I will definitely be able to "Ride more, Work less"as my favourite Tshirt states. Going to be a tough decision coming up shortly, thats for bloody sure.

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

@@andrewedmond7738 Awesome! 👍 Wish I had tough decisions like that. Sucks to be you. 😀

[@cliveelleforde]

I think if people understood that you can just push the indicator stalk directly down, instead of in, you will find it works just as any other bike. I’ve owned 5 KTM’s and also the new MST V4, the KTM leaves the MTS V4 in the dust for fun and comfort.

[@timrodierides]

Yeah it just takes a bit of getting used to. I’m hoping to join the KTM world in 2022. Just have to decide between my head (Super Adventure S) and heart (SuperDuke R)…

[@cliveelleforde]

@@timrodierides I have an G3 SDR in the garage until Friday and then it goes in for PX for a new SAS. Reason, you can have as much fun on the SDR as the SAS and run rings around sports bikes with the SAS too, in a bit more comfort. In a real world riding, such as your review, you don’t need to use all its power to have fun on the road in UK or abroad. If we come to reality, most spend time between 60-90, it’s the grunt you want, which both bikes deliver in abundance, confirmed with your laughing. I have tested 6 GS’s that vibrate (All new), owners a V4S MTS, and nothing seems to beat the fun factor of KTM. It won’t win the beauty contest for the front end, but I forgive and forget about that, once I’ve slung my leg over. 😉

[@micha6720]

What You didnt like about multistrada v4? I am try to chose between these two...

[@roblewis0704]

" Hi little boy, get a motorbike and disappoint your mother" love it!!

[@sd5458]

"Headbutt from the rear if you're into that" 😂

[@karolkonrad7484]

I’ve had a bike on a test ride. The handlebar is vibrating like crazy. After 1 hour my hands had enaugh. I’m riding 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260S, so I understand the characteristic of v2 engine but this was too much especially for touring long rides. Apart from that good build quality and very nice wind protection ( I’m 6ft8 ). Services are very expensive though.

[@hedonzx822]

I have mine for a week now and...wat a different bike compared to the former SA S, close to perfection and yes the seat which can slip in the lower position got the attention from KTM and will be resolved. The indicator switch is annoying but that’s about it. Best Bike I’ve owned and ridden so far 😇👌👌👌👌👌

[@Englishbikerdan]

A rider giggling and having fun. That's what you want to see! I think you'll enjoy the SuperDuke R!

[@timrodierides]

I think you might be right ;)

[@geovannieabella4537]

Hi Tim, how will you compare ktm sas to multustrada v4 that you have tested?

[@viasevenvai]

I want the EURO ZERO exhaust.

[@brucecutts8841]

I got the Akro and removed the baffles - transforms it!

[@joev9224]

Did you experience any electronic niggles on the SAS or SuperDuke R?

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

Doesn't sound like a big twin at all. Has an odd sound that I can't quite place.

[@pistolpete6321]

Awesome motorcycle but I’m not sure I could get used to the looks and color, not a fan of either. Fantastic review!

[@timrodierides]

Thanks Pete! You can't see it when you're on it etc. ;)

[@pistolpete6321]

@@timrodierides good point! 😉

[@SmittyAZ]

No one actually makes a good looking ADV bike, it's a prerequisite. (KTM 1290 SAS owner, here.)

[@mauriciobolboa6829]

@@SmittyAZ previous model looks very sexy imo

[@flapjackbeans]

Agree with you on the brakes and defo on the indicators I had V4s swaped it for KTM had 11x BMWs GS GSA1250 etc the KTM is better built bike than the BMW less china in there! but i have issue with the KTM seat (awaiting the heated eco seat after the ktm fix?) also the heated grips 0n setting 3 are poor and I hate the fact you cant run the headlight and the DRL at the same time its the first motorbike ive ever owned that will not allow the rider to turn the headlight on! I too suffer knee bend more on the mid pegs than i did on the BMW I have removed the peg rubbers that helped a bit and also fitted bar risers and you can turn the bar base clamps 180 degrees toward you. BMW is more comfy for sure but also less agile and now where near as much fun as the LC8V Twin. BMW GS flatters your riding style the KTM makes you ride and will punish you more if you fcuk up! Re the chain i was concerned going back to a chain Im 850 miles in so far and its all ok just a small job to fit into your bike maintenance which i enjoy.So yes KTM have lifted the rock and woken a bag of worms for sure lets see how we all feel in a few months after throwing some miles on.

[@matsrekdal3065]

How would you describe the engine vibrations and overall comfort, compared to the V4S and the 1250 GS? Thanks🙂

[@36moto]

Smoother.

[@karolkonrad7484]

This is vibrating like crazy, I’ve had enaugh after 1 hour of test drive. You can’t feel your hands. From my perspective it’s ridiculous. Plus the upkeep is apparently more expensive than Ducati

[@SteveGreenCRMDeveloper]

Great review. I went with the multistrada V4S. Couldn't get past the looks of the KTM or the horrific indicator switch. No idea what they were thinking fitting such an awful feeling switch.

[@timrodierides]

It's a weird oversight. How're you getting on with your V4? That engine is a monster too, just in a different way

[@SteveGreenCRMDeveloper]

@@timrodierides Loving it. Still running in for the first 600 miles so only been able to rev it to about 7,000. First service today 😁 Decision was based heavily on your two reviews.

[@timrodierides]

@@SteveGreenCRMDeveloper hope your ride home from the service is a dry one!

[@tomtraynor5384]

Hmmmm..... I walked right by the new Multi in a drab light grey. Didn't see it amongst the dealer's left-over 1260's sitting near it. Made the old Mult 1260 in red/white right next to it look sharp! I might be able to work around switchgear on KTM for a $4000+ difference. I own both marques--btw. SO I am used to the "Spy vs. Spy" face on KTMs--google that. I mostly look at my Ducati (Air-cooled cafe custom GT 1000). I ride the KTMs.

[@SteveGreenCRMDeveloper]

@@tomtraynor5384 That's why I went for Ducati red. Would have gone sport but wasn't sold on the tri colour scheme. Each to their own. The price difference wasn't an issue to me and the 4 year unlimited mileage warranty is a big bonus.

[@TheWatcherWatching]

So you can't wheelie this bike unless you have the rally pack ???

[@ionutalexandruradu9873]

What would you choose between the S1000XR and KTM super adventure s 2021 ?

[@timrodierides]

The KTM without a doubt. Far nicer engine, lairier and a much more natural feeling adventure bike. I find the XR buzzy, gutless unless you thrash it and generally a bit cheap feeling

[@troppo4872]

Push the indicator switch DOWN to cancel.

[@kuhndj67]

I've been a Ducati guy for years but just bought a Husqvarna 701 Enduro. Obviously I'm pretty tolerant of European brand niggles (lots of little issues with my Duc's over the years, but never stranded)... but I've had two "stranding level" problems with the bike in the first 200 miles (failed slave cylinder and fuel disconnect problem)... so it seems to me that KTM's reputation for being the most unreliable brand is well earned. Because the V4S is bigger and heavier than I want in a ADV-sport bike I'll stick with my older Multi... but given my experience I'd definitely get the V4S over the KTM (though I'd not really get that either... unless they really do release a Pikes Peak version with 17" wheels and SSSA).

[@JpOcDenver]

Pikes peak then? My ‘13 Multi BLEW UP at 20k miles early this year. Still deciding what to do.

[@Hemlck]

I agree with your review comments! The indicator switch is poor and the seat has a design fault which means it won’t stay in the higher position. Apart from that it’s perfect ...have mine for a month or so now and love it👍

[@timrodierides]

Ah thanks Tim! Yeah, I rode the SuperDuke R immediately after riding the Super Adventure and it's clear they've nicked the indicator switch from that bike - the ergos of the SuperDuke mean the indicator switch makes sense on the naked bike… but not on the SAS!

[@suezix8689]

I've tried both, and I'd personally pick the KTM every time.

[@LucasvomdachDe]

And why u prefer the ktm? I prefer the look from ducati

[@suezix8689]

@@LucasvomdachDe Sitting position, feel, they way it tackles the twisties like a roadster. All mostly subjective.

[@timrodierides]

@@suezix8689 Yeah, they're both excellent, just different types of excellent…

[@suezix8689]

@@timrodierides Indeed. Difficult to fault either in purely objective terms, it's down to personal preferences.

[@roytong1908]

ducati v4: sport+touring KTM adv: sport+touring+off road BMW gsa: touring+offroad BMW gs:like ur wife KTM :like a young girl ducati v4:like a mistress 😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

[@chr11sf]

I wonder if we'll ever see good looking bikes again?

[@forestmotoadventures]

I do think the 2021 R version is beautiful 🤩

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

Interesting thought. What individuals consider a good looking bike is a huge can o worms question. Personally I think most new bikes look better than their siblings for ten or twenty years ago while others love lots of chrome with no plastics etc...

[@timrodierides]

@@CathodeRayNipplez Yeah, I'm a bit weird in that I'm pretty looks-agnostic if a bike rides well enough. I probably draw the line at the Yamaha MT-10 though.

[@CathodeRayNipplez]

@@timrodierides The MT-10 is real? I thought it was a goofy sci-fi movie prop.... 😆

[@paultannahill5043]

Did I hear you say the phrase "sensible KTM riding?" As a guy who has had a 990 Adventure and now a 1090 Adventure, R, I'm not sure that's possible. Oh, and thanks for making me think I might need a 1290 Adventure!

[@timrodierides]

Haha yup I realised that’s a bit of an oxymoron. You know what, I think I might need a 1290 Adventure as well…

[@timrodierides]

Haha yup I realised that’s a bit of an oxymoron. You know what, I think I might need a 1290 Adventure as well…

[@chrislecouteur2360]

That's the problem with KTM.... nice looking bike. But ever thing over complicated, everything is in a sub menu, try getting the heated grips on lol bmw press on button 😁 and if you touring don't forget your chain lub. Great bike for a test ride or a quick blast on a Sunday. But after a few weeks you pick up on the little things sub menu button feel cheap. How do i know my mate just brought one 6 weeks later lol

[@eriklindhardsenact7596]

Yeah but take into account the chain drive has more power to the back wheelnonly 3% loss compared to bmw gs shaft drive which reduces by 20% no brained I think?

[@bloitus]

1:02 caught me udderly off guard >.

[@timrodierides]

Haha

[@Swedeonamotorcycle]

KTM all the way.. But i prefer the R..... Even though i am on a 1250GS Adventure right now.

[@forestmotoadventures]

Love the blue/white/orange color scheme of the 2021 R version!

[@timrodierides]

@@forestmotoadventures I love the colour scheme of the R but I do all my riding on the road so appreciate the electric suspension. I wish I had the off-road skills to justify an R!

[@Mtbjitsu]

Get a wings exhaust for it!

[@timrodierides]

I’m tempted but it’s not pretty when viewed from behind. Bit like me.

[@Mtbjitsu]

@@timrodierides I had them on my KTM smt a few years back. They are quality and they sound lovely however, the arrow Sonora looks much better but does cost 40% more.

[@deancostello14]

Coming back to watch this video again after seeing one of these get absolutely nailed down the Hartside Pass in Cumbria at the weekend. Was fairly on it on my M140i but when I seen that cow face get closer and closer in my mirrors I indicated left to let him go. What a thing to see, I can normally bother quite a few fat bikers in my 1 series but not this, props to the absolute mad cunt riding! I still want a Multistrada more though.

[@emak4558]

Might consider not waving your hand in front of the camera so often.

[@timothydubber549]

Another good video but made unwatchable by adverts I’m afraid. 5 in 17 minutes, often disrupting you mid sentence. Completely ruins a great review...

[@timrodierides]

Sorry - KZbin automatically placed them! I've deleted all but one now.

[@timothydubber549]

Excellent! Not a moan by the way, just really annoying to try and hear your thoughts on the bike disturbed every 2 minutes!

[@36moto]

Yep. Its a great bike though.

[@atillahatipoglu3794]

Big problems in preload adjustment…and ktm stiill can not respond…friendly advices

[@67daltonknox]

I had a 2015 Multistrada. It was a POS. The Skyhook suspension wanted to do tank slappies at moderate cornering speeds. The throttle maps let any old lady in a Prius out drag me at the lights, but once in a while would go bananas wheelieing me into the car in front. At 5,000 miles there was a pile of metal filings on the oil pan drain bolt, the longest 3/16 inch. The clutch slave cylinder leaked so it had to be bled every month. The cost of maintenance and repairs was ridiculous. I now have a 1290 SAS. Better in every way. I hear VW wants to sell Ducati. Pity the fool who buys it.