A New Benchmark in Performance Touring
KTM’s latest flagship motorcycle, the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO, is designed to sit squarely at the crossroads of speed, control, and day‑to‑day usability. Building on the outgoing 1290 platform, KTM increases displacement and sharpens the package with more power and advanced electronics while keeping the focus on long‑range capability. As a performance touring bike, it aims to deliver superbike‑rivaling acceleration in an adventure‑touring silhouette that can swallow continents. Unlike many full‑size ADVs that lean heavily toward off‑road or pure commuting roles, this KTM flagship motorcycle is more of a high‑tech, road‑biased explorer. It is engineered to feel composed on fast sweepers, stable on motorways, and confident over imperfect tarmac. For riders who want one machine to cover spirited weekend blasts, cross‑border trips, and everyday duties, the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO stands out as a highly capable, single‑bike solution.
Powertrain: Adrenaline with Everyday Accessibility
What sets this KTM flagship motorcycle apart is how it blends serious performance with surprisingly accessible manners. KTM has equipped the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO with an automated manual transmission, making it one of the very few full‑size adventure models to offer automatic shifting. This transforms the bike into a genuinely practical performance touring bike: riders can enjoy brisk acceleration and strong mid‑range without constantly working the clutch in traffic or during long highway stretches. The power delivery is tuned to be muscular yet manageable, aligning with the broader trend of modern adventure machines that channel high power without fatiguing the rider. The automated gearbox also helps newer touring riders grow into the bike’s potential, while experienced riders benefit from seamless shifts when pushing hard, reinforcing its dual identity as both a long‑haul companion and a capable back‑road weapon.
Comfort and Ergonomics for Real-World Motorcycle Travel
Long‑distance motorcycle travel comfort is at the core of the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO’s design. As with the best modern ADVs, it uses upright ergonomics and a relaxed riding triangle, allowing riders to stay in the saddle for hours without punishing their wrists, back, or hips. The chassis is paired with long‑travel suspension that soaks up rough patches, yet remains composed on smooth highways and twisty roads. KTM’s street‑focused S EVO trim emphasizes on‑road comfort: the 19‑inch front wheel with road‑biased rubber provides reassuring grip on tarmac while still allowing light gravel exploration. This balance makes the bike easy to live with in urban environments and genuinely enjoyable on multi‑day tours. Even when carrying a passenger or luggage, the combination of supportive ergonomics and advanced suspension gives the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO an undeniable touring pedigree.
Real-World Usability: From City Streets to Continental Tours
Real‑world usability is where the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO aims to separate itself from many heavyweight ADVs. Large adventure bikes are often impressive but intimidating to manage daily; KTM counters this by pairing its high output with user‑friendly technology and ergonomics tuned for mixed usage. The automated transmission reduces fatigue in stop‑and‑go traffic, while the upright stance and broad steering leverage make low‑speed maneuvers more manageable. On the open road, the same package transforms into a stable, confident performance touring bike that can cover serious mileage at speed. Radar‑based rider aids add an extra layer of convenience and safety, aligning the KTM with other premium, tech‑forward adventure tourers. For riders looking for a single machine capable of weekday commuting, weekend escapes, and long‑distance adventures, the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO hits a rare sweet spot between performance, comfort, and practicality.