- Features radar system mounted on the headlamp
- Sports an updated design
- Underpinned by a new aluminum sub-frame
The 2020 model of KTM’s full-size adventure tourer, the 1290 Super Adventure, has been spotted testing. While the motorcycle sports a new design and tweaked cycle parts, it also seems to be equipped with a radar setup for the adaptive cruise control functionality.
KTM had demonstrated the radar-based cruise control technology last year. The system comprises of a radar sensor which is placed on the headlamp assembly. When the motorcycle exceeds the speed of 30kmph, the cruise control system can be activated. While in motion, the radar sensor detects the moving vehicle in the front and applies brakes and accelerator, as and when required, depending on the changing distance from the vehicle ahead.
After over a year now, the same setup has been witnessed on the next-gen 1290 Super Adventure. The radar unit sits at the bottom of the headlamp assembly which, although retains the split LED setup, has been redesigned to look bolder. The fairing of the motorcycle is also larger now with more lines and creases across the bodywork.
In terms of hardware, a major change appears in the form of an aluminum sub-frame, as opposed to the steel unit on the current model. This is likely to tweak the rider and pillion ergonomics of the bike. Furthermore, the swingarm of the motorcycle has also been redesigned. Meanwhile, it continues to ride on 19-inch wheel at the front and 17-inch wheel at the rear with WP suspension setup and Brembo brakes. The spotted test mule was the road-biased S model while KTM will also introduce the adventure-oriented R version.
The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Adventure is likely to be powered by the same 1301cc, V-twin motor. However, the beefier exhaust canister signifies it has undergone changes to meet tightening Euro V emission norms. On the ongoing model, this motor churns out 159.5bhp of power and 140 Nm of peak torque.
The KTM 1290 Super Adventure is not available in India and there are no reports about it either. However, the Austrian bikemaker will be launching its smaller sibling, the 790 Adventure, which is likely to come by next year.
Source – Bennetts
