2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure-R | Review

[@pa6816]

Finally i have made the decision between BMW and this KTM. Thank you so much mate. Has taken a long time to decide. Amazing bike and great vid.

[@SamVBikes]

Absolute weapon of a bike 👌🏼 I have the S and it's sublime. Nearly 10k miles in and not a single problem. Love love love it!

[@brucekendall52]

I collected mine 2 weeks ago.Loving it.Make sure you set the Sag and clickers properly as it makes a huge difference.I also installed the touring screen.Waiting for heated grips.Thanks.

[@eddylines7018]

Richly I wish you would do more bike reviews. Enthusiastic,honest review. Great bike keep the videos coming

[@RichyVida]

Thank you, Eddy

[@davewash50]

Great video Rich, of an amazingly capable bike. Looks, sounds, and obviously rides brilliantly! You buddy, are in a bit of trouble. This would make a fabulous Big Lad 2!! Thank you👍

[@RichyVida]

Hahah I concur!

[@dubdario120]

Your best review EVER !,a passionate bloke at the best of times meets your kindred spirit.Youre enjoyment of this bike resonated so muck I thought I was on the bike.Thank you 👍

[@RichyVida]

Thank you Darren 👍

[@EmeraldExplorer1200]

I do like the KTM 1290, aggressive looks nice features, I like the fact the switch gear is actually illuminated, although like you say that horn is pathetic, it certainly needs something to match the aggressive nature of the bike. As always, great review.

[@timrodierides]

Cracking video - I've got an S and love it! Glad you found rally mode set to 3 - really makes it come alive!

[@robertholme3526]

How much I’ve in joyed this. Gs the best bike in the world. No chance I had this bike for 2 weeks . The hairs on my back still sticking up weeks later . 😂

[@Kurlach]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder I’m afraid. It looks like what it is: big, ungainly, heavy, tall (then again, no adventure bike exactly looks svelte and amazing). And after having a Gen 3 1290 SDR, I’d say that KTM reliability issues aren’t urban myth, they’re very real..

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

Any specific quips about the reliability? Not for me but for the others that watch as well.

[@henryvaneyk3769]

Had my 2019 model KTM 1290 SAR now for almost 2 and a half years, 23000km on the clock. Not a single issue so far. Nada.

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

@@henryvaneyk3769 thanks Henry! Any insight or tips on how to keep the bike up and running? Aside from the obvious factory scheduled maintenance?

[@henryvaneyk3769]

@@freidrichnietzsche6643 To be honest, I have not had to go out of my way to keep it running, besides usual services. Obviously a bike treats you back the way you treat it. And I keep it in my garage and not outside in the rain and extreme heat.

[@tonywilliamson4512]

Good review Mr V ,looking forward to your next year's Scotland trip on your new KTM!! And all the mods you do if any.

[@stevepreston3151]

HI Richy what fab video the Hooligan bike suits you never seen you so excited on a test bike, after 8 years of bmw gsa i popped into my local KTM dealer 2 months ago took out the 1290 SAS for a test ride a week later traded in my gsa and love it just so much fun. Love your positive attitude and enthusiasm keep it coming.💪

[@RichyVida]

Thanks Steve! One hell of a bike, for sure!

[@51KTM51Hurricane]

beautiful video and yez... if you go Orange you stay Orange.. Riding KTM since 1989

[@paulpartridge2674]

When you find the correct KTM for you , they just grow on you there is no going back 👍😄

[@stevenbirch3582]

What an amazing and beautiful looking bike. Looks like that's on my test ride list for this year Great 1st opinion review Richy 👌👌

[@eman19487]

Does it only have 4 gears LOL?

[@craigdavies7616]

Great vid👍🏻 those tree cuttings were there when we went down that road last weekend, thought it was a fallen tree at first! So annoying that some people think thats acceptable.

[@timfrost5457]

Great all round review just purchased a 2024

[@simonbeal2148]

It's fair to say you like it 😀 I have a 2017 sdgt but recently tested a super adventure s more suited to me than the r, what an awesome bike even if I'm a little biased towards a bit of 🍊 👍

[@kevinwestwood6668]

Excellent video, former enduro champ Chris birch, as done some great videos, showing what this bike can do off road.

[@stevescherer6704]

Absolutely awesome review so much so that you made my mind up for me 😊 Just put a deposit down on a 23 model.

[@RichyVida]

Ooh lucky boy! Mega bike!

[@nicktaylor1550]

KTM OWN this class of bike and always have done. Hoewever, call me a old git, but you can keep all the graphics and electronics. It's all about suspension, geometry, engine and brakes, which KTM know all about.

[@MrImarcus]

I bought an AT after I saw your first epic trip to Scotland in the snow. Its an absolutely brilliant bike and I love it like my dog, but this KTM looks super special. It's got me twitchin!!!

[@RichyVida]

Exactly this! 👍

[@Martin-jv1vn]

Superb video Rich!!!

[@duncanscott-irving225]

Great review..I have one here in Australia..best mods I've done is go down one tooth on front sprocket... Rallye seat from power parts..motoz rallz tyres..black dog footrests...such a weapon..

[@davidberry2410]

what a beast! great vid

[@glennthompson1123]

Awesome matey, cheers 👍🏻

[@manusk40]

I visited Derbyshire during my holiday in February and it was gorgeous. Went to a couple of your infamous spots. Love the peak district and I am definitely visiting again (hopefully on a bike). Hello from Northern Ireland.

[@RichyVida]

Glad you liked “my” county! Let us know when you’re back over 👍

[@martinehulme8743]

Ohhh the big lad won't be pleased..... Great review as always... 💚

[@splintergg]

They are an awesome bike, the only thing I'm really disappointed about is the weak front wheel, flat spotted the front rim in two different places riding on a dirt road, unloaded and with road pressures in the tyres. I expected better from KTM.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not a GS though is it.....

[@gwa0131]

thank fuck it isn't🙄

[@RichyVida]

Thankfully not!

[@MrImarcus]

It's properly fast, it's properly good off road... its defo not a GS. Lol

[@paulfastbikes361]

The old boys tractor gs is way behind the curve now stepped off one onto the ducati it was in a different solar system

[@mshemilt2858]

Thank God it's not

[@heinbotha1278]

Hi, great review, how smooth is the motor when opening it up? Thanks

[@RichyVida]

Smooth? No. It’s brutal.

[@dalewintle9969]

Great review Rich , what an absolute weapon of a bike , that horn tho 🤦🏼‍♂️🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@leeharrison1659]

A great review pal, I recently bought the s version and getting to grips with it. Loving it so far, especially rally mode 😎

[@RichO1701e]

Congrats on hitting 40k subs Richy! 🎉🥳 Just coming back to this video for a 2nd viewing, binging KTM reviews right now as I'm about to take ownership of a new 890 Adventure. Going to be interesting to see the comparison between the 890 & 1290, and the rest of the range!

[@RichyVida]

Thank you, Rich. Oh nice one, 890 Adventure is a great bike! Congrats pal

[@ianmorgan7198]

Awesome review and the first I've seen on the R, I road tested the S and loved it , I wanted to test the R before making a decision on which to buy unfortunately none of the KTM dealers in my area had one to test however having watched your review I've pretty much convinced myself I really should buy the R.

[@RichyVida]

It is awesome!

[@FelipeCser]

I'm excited can't wait to drive it!!!!

[@anidin92]

Picking mine up Saturday, can't wait lol

[@andrewshore262]

Which dog did you select - my recommendation something like a German Short Haired Pointer………..great company on those long walks when your KTM is yet again back at the dealers, with yet again another electronic problem, or knackered rad, or oil leak. Still a good review though, but wouldn’t touch one with a barge pole.

[@greengoblindave]

A great video Richy. Looks and sounds awesome 👍

[@davidmeadows5665]

I had 2018 1290 SA-S for 12 months just and had so many electrical failures it had to go. Had it serviced on a Tuesday had yet another failure on Wednesday and on Thursday 4.00 pm it had gone and I rode off on a Vstrom 1050XT no wow factor but 100% reliable. Such a shame because it was a great bike in so many other ways but my experience was KeepTakingyourMoney

[@RichyVida]

Yes that’s a shame, David.

[@davemitchell8756]

Great work Richy, road and gravel roads look like great fun, amazing bike. Not so sure about proper off road, I had a vision of you in a peat bog calling for help with that horn 😆. I think something much lighter, less expensive, less horsepower and with less vulnerable electronics would be best for that.👍👏👏.

[@guystevens162]

Wow. That's a great bike Richy. The screen is awesome. And power yes it would definitely drag you out of bed lol. Lights good too. And yes that horn is so pathetic lol. Great video. Hope some more too keep safe. 🙂

[@lovegar]

Great video and I love how you're getting pulled to Team Orange like a big magnet. Dunno if you remember I'm the owner of the Superduke GT you had on test. Still love the bike to death with lots of improvements on it now but when the time comes it's likey I will go SDGT Gen 3 if it comes out but if not very highly likely Super Adventure S...dunno if I'm ready for off road yet 😄

[@GINFINITY]

Is that a pinlock visor you put on the top of default one?

[@RichyVida]

Pinlock inside the dark visor, yes.

[@WheelsNotHeels]

I love your enthusiasm with this bike. Made me bust up laughing when you stopped to demo the horn. Teehee!!! This was so fun to watch. Thank you for the laugh...made my day!

[@RichyVida]

Hope you’re well, Wheels!

[@willhoult]

Great vid what a beast of a bike

[@brianpeatling3810]

Great review mate ktm looks very impressive.

[@expatbiker6598]

My dream bike. Not just yet though because I think once I get it. Nothing else will do it for me. I want variety before I get it.

[@robgreaves2633]

I swopped my 1200 GSA for the new 1290 SAR last year (no difference with 2022) when they first came out - a superb bike that I also use for two-up touring. I have the heated grips on mine but not the heated seats which you can add as an option. I have the low one-piece seat on mine as I am only 5'9" and 29" inside leg.

[@GilbertVanE66]

How do you like riding two up? Ik am going to switch from 1200GSA to 1290 SAR but my wife thinks she won’t have any comfort compared to the GSA? And also, I read that the standard suspension is not strong enough for riding two up with luggage? What’s your experience? Thanks!

[@robgreaves2633]

@@GilbertVanE66 she's not complained tbf so can only assume that it is ok - I have the lower comfort seat fitted on mine

[@GilbertVanE66]

@@robgreaves2633 Thank you👍🏻

[@EpicMotorcycleAdventures]

Great review Richy. So, the question is; when you trading the Africa Twin in fir one?

[@ferittorunaga4594]

Awesome bike ,great video👏👏👏

[@ThisTall]

I sold my 1090 two years ago with the plan to buy the 1290 this year. But I got to say, I’m actually quite disappointed they stopped making the 1090. The 890 to 1290 is far to big of a gap, and I think there was more then enough reason to keep it.

[@English-Motorcycle-Adventures]

Fantastic Review Rich 👏🏻👏🏻 what a Beast & a whole lot of fun. This was the only bike that I seriously considered having. And I Dearnt go test ride the new one. 🤪

[@highlandriders9696]

Great video, really like the interactive dash.

[@nigeloscarmarsden]

Best review of the real Big lad yet. As a KTM owner you have my blessing to trade in immediately and join Team Orange.

[@dalewesson1644]

Hi Richy Could you tell me what the tank rear bag is buddy, was it the pro version Cheers buddy

[@RichyVida]

Yes, Pro Rearbag 👍

[@Christianthephotographer]

It sounds awsome! I've always liked the look of KTM. When you see one it stands out.

[@Themotograndpa]

Richy another great vid got a tiger rally pro what were the Tyres you recommended ?

[@RichyVida]

If you like to play Off-road a bit, and want a 50/50 tyre, Bridgestone AX41’s are superb. Just don’t expect much more than 2000 miles. Same with the TKC80’s. 👍

[@Themotograndpa]

@@RichyVida cheers for that richy have Bridgestones on there now will look at those as a replacement 👍

[@bartrandsnappy]

What tyres did you say were on it mate?

[@chasf1066]

Great review, so having tested the BMW GS and this. If you were going to buy with your own money. Which would you pick.

[@RichyVida]

The GS genuinely doesn’t interest me.

[@johngittins6244]

Great review RV. Waiting to see if big lad turns into a bad lad instead ! TMF is rubbing off ‘quick as you like’ classic TMF. I’m waiting for ‘nationals now 🫖 !

[@RichyVida]

Can’t remember saying that? 🤔 there’ll be none of that “nationals” nonsense either 😂😂 Cheers John 👍

[@debbieclegg2485]

Looks and sounds like a perfect match RV ... I hope Ktm lend you on long term, looking forward to more vids on this one... superb machine 👏 (makes me wish I was taller 😕 😆!) Have fuuuuunnnn! 👍✨️

[@davidsampson3537]

Richy how did you fine it at low speeds ! Is it smooth!

[@RichyVida]

Perfectly smooth. Told ya, it’s a masterpiece 👍

[@marcinskotniol156]

Hello Richy, do you feel any buffeting on helmet on this 1290advR above 100km/h ? I sold my 790R becouse buffeting was so terrible to ride for longer distance , and now I'm looking to buy 1290AdvR.

[@RichyVida]

Well, no. With it having the shorty screen, most of it is directed into your chest. I didn’t actually remember feeling any at all in the short time I had it. I’m sure an owner will help out here, though… 👍

[@gouppy]

My favorite bike too buddy..she's a 10 !!!!

[@nyedavis922]

Lovely stuff, had a go on the previous gen and was blown away. Definitely can't afford one a boy can dream anyway. can you remember where the lane at 23:50 is?

[@RichyVida]

Slayley, Bonsall 👍

[@orangefuture4910]

Good video. How did you find height of the R ? . I've a 2020 SAS . At 5ft 7 it's manageable.

[@RichyVida]

It’s very similar to the AT, if a tiny bit taller..

[@craigstanger4137]

That looks a weapon. Made the decision to move from the trusty old CBR to an adventure bike, just need to do some research into which is best for a shorty....

[@AdamsLifeRiding]

I thought it was to get to the udder side.. 🤣🤣. Fantastic review Richy. 👍🏻

[@RichyVida]

Hahahahaha

[@frankmalone8389]

How does this compare to the Africa twin? And do you still prefer the at?

[@RichyVida]

The AT is going nowhere 👍

[@davidbathe4108]

Loved It Richy I am aKTM man and never get bored That was the review I have been waiting for 👻 I own a 1090r and had to get it lowered How tall are you ? and what was the seat height like on that beast

[@RichyVida]

Thanks David. I’m 5’10” and yes, it was a bit taller than my AT..

[@handerbirdy7671]

I have a 2020 1290 sar... love it, but i was really close buying a AT but i have no trust in the local dealer where i live...

[@motor_ma77]

Watching this isn’t helping my bank Mr Dicky.. Every since I’ve got my license and been enjoying my Fazer I really want the GT now 🤤🔥

[@paulsherwood6010]

Just sold my 2019 s KTM..not sure what comes next GSA or KTM?

[@allant9432]

What a great bike,I wasn't a fan of the looks originally but now I like it,the lights are great on that and it looks very comfy,disappointing its not got heated grips especially in the uk but that horn haha,I'm going to test the toureg660 this weekend,nice review

[@robgreaves2633]

heated grips are actually an option as are the heated seats - I have the heated grips on mine

[@hugosoenen749]

Very useful information, what a hell of a bike. As an AT owner, I have to admit that this bike is just at another level. Only suitable for experienced riders.

[@RichyVida]

Yeah I agree. Absolutely nothing wrong with the Africa Twin. I adore the AT! The SAr is defo more for the experienced rider.

[@myadventuremoto9902]

Awesome video! Definitely upgrade the 890 to that in a few years! I test rode the Harley Pan America down that lane in derby, great lane.

[@RichyVida]

In derby? 🤔 it’s about an hour away from Derby…

[@myadventuremoto9902]

@@RichyVida derby”shire” just outside of chesterfield right? Take the enduro down there a fair bit! 👌

[@RichyVida]

Aah! “Shire” good man! 👍 it’s like saying “Matlock” when you mean “Matlock Bath” 👍👍

[@ericstephenson3607]

Does that tail pack attach to the seat or rear rack.

[@RichyVida]

Anywhere you want it to.

[@ericstephenson3607]

@@RichyVida sw motech ?

[@RichyVida]

Yup. Pro Rearbag

[@ericstephenson3607]

@@RichyVida thanks for that, looks a nice bit of kit for maybe just a day out.

[@jeffmccollum3769]

I think it's a Beauty and it matches your helmet. Buy it!!!

[@kevinpick194]

Jeepers, the guy who agreed to lend that bike must have been crying his eyes out when you went down that muddy, rocky road, wheelied it and spanked it away from a few junctions - not bothering with the run-in, then Richy.

[@RichyVida]

😂

[@EmeraldExplorer1200]

So when is Big Lad going to make way for this beast?

[@RichyVida]

🤔

[@EmeraldExplorer1200]

Dont tell me you're actually thinking about it? 😮

[@RichyVida]

I would gladly buy the SAr, but it wouldn’t be a replacement..

[@EmeraldExplorer1200]

You'll have to build a bigger garage for all those bikes 🤔😁

[@Bemoto]

Top video as always. We need to have a ride on one of these

[@RichyVida]

It’s a total beast, and I totally love it!

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

Hi Rich, that KTM looks great fun and those graphics on the TFT are great. I do wonder though what it would be lie to tour on, how comfy on long rides and how much heat comes off it. That's why I love my GS so much

[@RichyVida]

The heat is deflected right out and away from the bike with this new design.. I’ll have to get one just to see! Haha

[@mattward5335]

Come to the dark side rich 😉 well the orange side !!!! Great vid as always 👍🏍💨

[@timwilson8553]

Why does that slip number 3 have to be so big waste of dash found that quite annoying

[@RichyVida]

What would you put there instead of that, Tim? 🤔

[@timwilson8553]

@@RichyVida without taking a good look at the dash not sure but i think it's a little big for something that would probably be better of in one corner as it wouldn't get changed that much for many once set.

[@mattkennedy1990]

But would you get rid of the Africa twin for the KTM 🤔

[@RichyVida]

No.

[@markcartwright1176]

👍👍👌👌 rode the s version blow me socks off lol

[@Semtexsam69]

What tail bag did you have on that bike please.

[@RichyVida]

Seriously? 😂

[@yorkshireperson]

Yeah you should have mentioned it in the video @RichyVida 😆

[@Semtexsam69]

@@yorkshireperson Yes that is true but i asked during an add break and you answered the question latter in the vlog.

[@jameswick4867]

How long i wonder till you trade the AT for this? haha. Another darn good honest review and video.

[@gryphongryph]

Nice bike, but have KTM improved their reliability, especially electrical problems???

[@RichyVida]

Who knows?! 🤷‍♂️ certainly hope so.

[@brucecutts8841]

In my experience they have - I have had the S version since last June and not had a single error message or glitch after 8k miles. I love the bike esp with an Arrow can on it!

[@kevh8685]

Sdgt 10k 2 years not one issue fantastic bike.

[@MrPtholt]

Well after four years of me owning one and banging on about them you finally get truly bitten by the orange bug..... I loved both of mine, but a word to the wise, only run them till the next model comes out as the residuals sink like a stone every two years when the next version comes (happened with both of mine). In the time i owned them i only ever had one earranty issue, a wisp of oil leaking from a gasket, rest of the time it was perfect. I've moved away from orange and onto Orange and Black... now being into country that surely has to be your next review?!?!?! (and i mean a road or street glide)

[@RichyVida]

I’d love to get hold of some HD’s! They just don’t ever get back to me haha

[@mattrogers5315]

Great review. Hilarious about the horn - that's been my complaint about every bike I've owned, but that one sounds particularly pathetic...LOL

[@waynedl99]

@7:00, looks like you might have just missed us coming up there. There was a Landy broke down in the middle of the road, at the top of the lane (but on the tarmac), and that tree was in the road, I assume the Landy had hit it - I say Landy, it might have been a Range Rover, but one of them tarmac queens. I wouldn't think the council would've left that tree there for more than a day, so assume you were there same day as us - Tues 22nd March

[@RichyVida]

Yeah I thought it was weird seeing all that dumped there.. it was more than a tree, though. It was cuttings and branches.. looked more like a dumped “load” than an accident.

[@ShaftDrive]

I just picked up mine on Friday. I’ve only got from the dealer to home and then back to work. I hope I don’t have any buyers remorse over the gs Rallye lol 😂

[@Northernlanes]

good review, no bumpf just proper info, nice one 👍

[@novendra_]

I have a height of about 170 cm, do you think it is suitable for riding this motorbike?

[@RichyVida]

Sure 👍

[@novendra_]

@@RichyVida how tall are you

[@RichyVida]

5’10. So, 178 ish..

[@novendra_]

@@RichyVida that's pretty high, I'm an Indonesian, the average height of an Asian continent is that much

[@TARRN47]

So do you like it then Rich?

[@Alpikerawlings]

I'm really liking it too want one!

[@theowerle1638]

Richy, I had a deposit on a 22 Africa Twin but my dealer keep pushing the delivery date till I gave up and then I found my my dream bike, brand new 2022 Super adventure 1290 R, I traded my 2016 KTM Super Duke 1290 for it, so far im also impressed. Since you own a AF DCT, would you trade for the SAR if money was not an issue? I would love to know your opinion. FYI I sold my 2021 BMW 1250 GSA last month because it was way too big and heavy, the SAR it is way lighter and more powerful, but the BMW wins in quality for sure.

[@RichyVida]

I’d defo have r the SAr! Not sure i’d let the AT go, though. Congrats!