Tech-loaded ultimate adventure motorcycle
There's a new beast rolling onto the scene, and it's set to obliterate any preconceived notions of what a motorcycle can be. The 2025 KTM 1390 Super Adventure S Evo isn't just pushing boundaries—it's redefining them. This machine is so packed with advanced technology and raw power that it might just be the most sophisticated production bike ever crafted.
Let's start with the heart of the matter: the engine. KTM has taken their renowned LC8 V-twin and dialed it up to eleven. The displacement has been bumped up from 1,301 cc to 1,350 cc, thanks to a larger bore and innovative CAMSHIFT technology. This means you're getting a whopping 173 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. The CAMSHIFT system smartly adjusts valve timing and lift based on your revs, ensuring optimal performance whether you're cruising through city streets or tearing up the open road. It's a seamless blend of brute strength and refined engineering.
But power is nothing without control, and that's where the new Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) comes into play. This isn't some gimmicky add-on; it's a game-changer. The AMT allows you to switch between manual shifting and a fully automatic mode. So, whether you prefer the tactile engagement of shifting gears yourself or the ease of letting the bike do the work, you're covered. Shifts happen in a lightning-fast 50 milliseconds, and the system even allows for manual overrides using either the foot lever or handlebar paddles. It's versatility and convenience rolled into one.
The suspension system is equally impressive. KTM touts it as “the most advanced suspension system on the market,” and it's hard to argue with that claim. The semi-active WP suspension adapts in real-time, adjusting damping based on road conditions and your riding style. Electronically controlled magnetic valves ensure that whether you're navigating pothole-ridden city streets or carving through mountain twists, the ride remains smooth and controlled.
Now, let's talk tech—because this bike is brimming with it. A 5th-generation front radar sensor from Bosch unlocks a suite of rider assistance features that feel like they've been pulled straight from a sci-fi flick. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) maintains not just your speed but also adapts to the flow of traffic, even bringing the bike to a complete stop if necessary and resuming motion when it's safe. Brake Assistance enhances your stopping power in critical moments, while Collision and Distance Warnings keep you informed of potential hazards. There's even a Group Ride Assist feature that helps you maintain formation when riding with others.
The bike's new 8.8-inch TFT color touchscreen is your command center. It's intuitive, responsive even with gloves on, and provides access to everything from ride modes to navigation, thanks to KTMconnect app integration. Add keyless ignition, tire pressure monitoring, and hill hold control to the mix, and you're looking at a motorcycle that's as smart as it is powerful.
Ergonomically, KTM hasn't skimped either. The frame has been reworked for improved stiffness and stability, enhancing handling without sacrificing comfort. The seat has been redesigned for better support during long rides, and even the footpegs have been adjusted for a more natural riding posture.
So, what's the takeaway? The 2025 KTM 1390 Super Adventure S Evo is not just another entry in the adventure bike category; it's a leap forward. It's a machine for those who crave the thrill of the ride and appreciate cutting-edge technology that enhances the experience without getting in the way. It's for the riders who see the horizon not as a limit but as an invitation.
Price-wise, while KTM hasn't spilled the beans yet, it's safe to assume it'll hover around the $24,000 mark, considering the previous model's pricing. Is it an investment? Certainly. But for what you're getting—a harmonious blend of power, technology, and versatility—it promises an unparalleled riding experience.
In the end, this isn't just a motorcycle; it's a statement. It's a bold declaration that more is indeed more, and sometimes, pushing the envelope is the only way to truly embrace the spirit of adventure.
Pros:
- Powerful Engine Performance: Equipped with a reworked 1,350 cc LC8 V-twin engine producing 173 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque, featuring CAMSHIFT technology for variable valve timing to optimize power delivery across all RPM ranges.
- Advanced Automated Manual Transmission (AMT): First KTM bike to feature the innovative AMT, allowing riders to switch between manual and fully automatic shifting modes, providing quick gear shifts in just 50 milliseconds to enhance riding versatility and convenience.
- Cutting-Edge Suspension System: Boasts what KTM calls “the most advanced suspension system on the market” with semi-active WP suspension; electronically controlled magnetic valves adjust damping in real-time based on road conditions and rider inputs.
- Comprehensive Radar-Assisted Features: Incorporates a 5th-generation Bosch front radar sensor enabling Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and additional safety features like Brake Assistance, Collision Warning, Distance Warning, ACC Stop & Go, and Group Ride Assist.
- High-Tech Interface and Connectivity: Features an 8.8-inch TFT color touchscreen display that's intuitive and glove-friendly, offering KTMconnect mobile app integration for navigation and connectivity.
- Enhanced Rider Convenience: Includes keyless ignition, fuel cap, and luggage locking for added security and ease of use; equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system and hill hold control.
- Improved Ergonomics and Stability: Reworked frame stiffness for better handling and straight-line stability; redesigned seat and footpeg positioning for increased rider comfort during long journeys.
Cons:
- High Price Point: Expected to be priced around $24,000 or higher, making it a significant investment.
- Complexity of Advanced Technologies: The abundance of cutting-edge features like AMT and radar systems might be overwhelming for some riders and may require a learning curve to fully utilize all functionalities.
- Potential Reliability Concerns: New technologies such as the AMT and advanced electronics may pose reliability issues until proven over time; maintenance and repairs could be more complex and costly.
- Increased Weight: Additional technology and features may contribute to a heavier bike, potentially affecting maneuverability off-road.
- Delayed Availability in Certain Markets: Availability in North America is slated for the 2026 model year, which might disappoint eager buyers.
