2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S.

KTM has announced key updates to its street-focused adventure-touring machine, the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S. We were huge fans of the 1290 SA-S when we last tested it. Featuring a new steel-trellis frame, revised ergonomics, a new low-slung fuel tank and refined electronics with adaptive cruise control, the latest Super Adventure S is said to be more agile and more comfortable over long distances.

Why are we reporting on a 2022 model in the beginning of 2021" Have we unlocked the mysteries of time travel" Sadly, no. European markets will receive the updated 1290 Super Adventure S this spring, while it will arrive in North America this fall as an early 2022 model.

Chassis Updates
Many of the 2022 Super Adventure S updates center around the revised streel-trellis frame, which KTM says delivers sharper cornering abilities. Sportier handling is always appreciated, and designers achieved this by moving the headtube back 0.6 inch while also rotating the 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine forward, shifting the weight bias towards the front wheel. To balance out these changes, a longer swingarm increases stability under hard acceleration.

Bolted up to the shiny new frame is semi-active WP Apex suspension, providing automatic damping adjustment at each end. The suspension features new valves and is supplemented by a 6-axis IMU that monitors every movement. Those hoping for additional adjustment will have to peek into the K...