The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO sets a new standard in travel and adventure riding

Forget what you think you know about adventure bikes. KTM has dropped another new 1390 Adventure model on the scene that feels like the lovechild of a rally-raid weapon and a tech lab prototype: the 2026 KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO.

This isn’t just an evolution. Like its evil twin the 1390 Super Adventure R with which it shares many common features, it’s a whole lotta brand new tech and engineering for awesome adventures.

Powered by the same freshly reworked 1,350cc LC8 V-twin, punching out a snarling 173 PS and 145 Nm of torque, the S EVO is up there as arguably the most powerful big-adventure machine you can actually ride straight out of the showroom. It delivers power with an attitude and a broad spread of usable grunt, thanks to KTM’s clever camshift variable-valve timing that sharpens bottom-end response and opens the taps on top end horsepower.

The same tech wizardry is loaded onto the S EVO as the R, but given the Evo is more focused on long distance road riding, some of the options differ to match each riding style. All riding settings are managed from the 8” touch screen display with both bikes offering keyless ignition and the same riding presets, but the S EVO bringing adaptive cruise control.

Riding the S EVO feels like strapping a supercomputer to a rally bike. On smooth roads it’s eerily composed; on sketchy trails it doesn’t freak out — it reads the terrain and adjusts to optimise riding comfort for the road ahead.

The 1390 S EVO is KTM’s first bike to introduce a full Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) which combines the traditional manual gearbox with an electronic shifting strategy.

It's an Auto - But Not as You Know It

KTM’s AMT tears down the wall between raw performance and effortless riding. It delivers the ease of an automatic gearbox without stripping away the thrill and control riders expect from a true manual. AMT puts the power of choice firmly in your hands: run clutch-free manual mode when you want full engagement, or switch to fully automated ride mode for pure throttle-and-go freedom. Shifts can happen seamlessly on their own or be called up manually via the gear lever or paddle shifters - depending on how much control you want to take. The clutch lever has gone entirely - so welcome to the future!

One bike. Two mindsets. Zero compromise.

The introduction of AMT on the 1390 also brings a new gear sequence, introducing a more logical layout of P-N-1-2-3-4-5-6. But should you should slip back into the old school thinking though, the electronics will prevent you from accidentally selecting neutral or park while on the move.

The suspension on the S EVO is semi-adaptive with the tech supporting real time adjustments giving plush comfort while on burning up the tarmac, and firmer control on rougher ground.

KTM’s semi-active suspension isn’t new after it was first introduced on the 1290. But the 1390 Super Adventure S Evo ups the game with the KTM boffins building in new Pulse Width Modulation sensors. Along with the epic 48mm upside down forks, everything is fully adjustable via the touchscreen dash.

Unlike the 1390 Super Adventure R which is squarely an offroad machine, the S EVO is designed to roll over a mix of surfaces. With that in mind it includes Dunlop Trailmax Meridian tyres that are grip-happy on unpaved surfaces without feeling like mush on the road.

Design-wise, both 1390 Super Adventure’s are functional machines, and this has been prioritised over looks - but let's be honest, they’re still sexy looking bikes. Sharp angles, an aggressive windscreen, and purposeful ergonomics means each variant is tailored to its strengths.

The S EVO is a touch lighter than the R and it has a shorter wheelbase for greater manoeuvrability in town and narrow streets. The riding position is more relaxed for long rides over several days compared to the more aggressive offroad style on the R. The adjustable seat height allows for greater leg stretch to the pegs with comfort ranking high on the list with this model.

The R is not for comfort-only journeys. It’s here to challenge you as you climb gravel passes, gawk at sketchy river crossings, and sip on unpaved horizons without flinching.

Think of the S EVO as the Swiss Army knife. Tech heavy, supremely comfortable, super fast and smart.

The R is the machete. Rugged, unafraid of harsh terrain, and ready for full-tilt exploration. Both share the same engine core, but the personalities couldn’t be further apart.

S EVO Rider

The S EVO is for riders who obsess over spec sheets, love tech upgrades, and want a single machine that can cover endless highways, twisty backroads, and occasional gravel without complaint. People who want performance and convenience married with cutting-edge electronics - someone who writes their own adventure playlist before they even pack their bags.

R Rider

The R is for adventure purists and dirt fiends - riders who laugh at “light trails” and eye the horizon beyond the pavement. If you ride with grit under your boots, the R is the one you can depend on.

Both 1390 machines are beasts. But if your inner rebel wants smart tech wrapped in orange fury, the S EVO is where your pulse ends up. If you want to take dirt by the throat and smile doing it, the Super Adventure R is your pick.

Triple D have seen both models in the flesh with these first arrivals sold to customers in advance. But there’ll be demo bikes landing in the spring, so stay tuned for dates and deets to follow.

Want to learn more? Then get in touch with our road man Garry for stock and availability for 2026.