The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO: A Review with a Twist
The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO is a beast of a bike, but it's not without its quirks. I recently swapped my trusty 1390 Super Adventure S for the Evo, and what a ride it's been! The Evo's arrival was a bit of a shock, with just 19 miles on the dash. But, I was eager to see what all the fuss was about.
The Good: A Playful Adventure Bike
The Evo is a blast to ride, especially for those who enjoy a big adventurer that feels more like an enduro bike on steroids. It's got a superb TFT dash, mapping, and connectivity that sets it apart from its competitors like the Ducati Multistrada V4 S and BMW R1300GS. The Evo's skillset is impressive, but it's the playful nature that makes it stand out.
The Clutchless Experience
One of the most surprising aspects of the Evo is its clutchless system. I was initially skeptical, but over 1400 miles, I've come to accept that the loss of traditional control isn't a complete loss of control. The Evo's Auto mode is a bit hit or miss, but I prefer riding it fully manual, using the foot lever and paddle-shift on the bar. It's a game-changer for those who want to avoid the clutch when stopping.
Gremlins and Glitches
Unfortunately, the Evo's journey hasn't been without its hiccups. The bike didn't exhibit the false dash warnings that plagued my 1390 Super Adventure S, but it did have its fair share of issues. After 1369 miles, I encountered a Traction Control failure, followed by a Cruise Control malfunction, and an AMT Malfunction. The bike then entered safe mode, restricting engine performance and gear changes. It was a frustrating experience, and I had to wait for KTM to investigate.
Radar-Enabled Adaptive Cruise Control
One of the Evo's standout features is its radar-enabled adaptive cruise control. It works brilliantly, and the ease of adjusting the hold distance is impressive. The system is still a step above basic cruise control, but the next stage of development will make it even more predictive and useful.
The Numbers
In the end, I rode 1391 miles in a month, achieving 43mpg and spending £265.06 on fuel. With 8590 miles until the next service, the Evo is a reliable and efficient companion on the road.
Conclusion: A Bike with a Twist
The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO is a bike that defies expectations. It's a playful adventure bike with a clutchless system that works surprisingly well. While it had its fair share of glitches, the overall experience is a thrilling one. I'm eager to see what KTM does next with this model, and I'm enjoying the ride on my 790 Adventure in the meantime.
