KTM's balls-to-the-wall 2027 1390 Super Adventure S Evo is finally making its way into US dealerships, and I'd recommend getting yourself a cup of tea before reading the list of upgrades over the previous iteration. I should say, however, that calling this the "2027" model, as KTM is, is a bit of a stretch because, as we all know, the brand went through a range of financial and production issues last year, resulting in some of its models being delayed. Some outlets tested this model in 2025, so take the '2027' part with a handful of salt.
One of the most exciting, probably the most exciting, upgrades for the new 1390 Super Adventure S Evo is its new powerplant. This engine has gone from a 1,300cc unit in the previous iteration to a 1,350cc unit in the outgoing model, and with that extra 50cc comes more horsepower and torque to the tune of 173 HP and 107 lb-ft of torque. But it's not just a larger capacity engine that's producing the extra ponies, as the internals have been reworked, too.
The bike uses KTM's new 'CAMSHIFT' technology, which is supposed to provide improved rideability at low revs, higher peak performance, and lower emissions and fuel consumption. At higher revs, the inlet cams shift sideways, opening the valves longer and higher to provide more fuel to the cylinder, and that's when the engine makes peak power. In the lower rev range, the inlet cams dial back the valve timing and lift, which should make the bike less aggressive and easier to ride at lower speeds. Since this new model has more power on tap, you'll be happy to know it should also handle better, too.
The 1390 Super Adventure S Evo is a more road-focused adventure bike than the 1390 Super Adventure R, and all of its new components support this, although it looks like it'd still annihilate a dirt road. One of the main features separating the 1390 Super Adventure S Evo model from its more off-road-focused sibling is its WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension. Compared to the previous generation, the SAT has been tuned to be more precise with consistent damping behavior at higher frequencies.
KTM's engineers achieved the semi-active suspension upgrades using new PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) sensors and a new through-rod fork construction that combines design elements borrowed from Open Cartridge and Closed Cartridge suspension elements. The idea behind this suspension upgrade is that the bike will better adapt to changing road conditions on the fly and lead to a sportier or more comfortable ride, depending on your riding style.
While we're on the topic of a more comfortable ride, it's worth noting that this model's powertrain is paired with KTM's all-new Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). It's a first on a KTM production bike and allows the rider to choose between traditional manual shifting, by way of the foot lever or bar-mounted paddles, or a completely twist-and-go automated transmission. This feature is sure to split opinions; however, if it works anything like Honda's e-clutch, it should make riding just as enjoyable and engaging, when that's what you want, or more comfortable and relaxing if you switch to auto.
Continuing the 1390 Super Adventure S Evo's extensive list of electronic upgrades is a new touchscreen, portrait-mount V80 TFT dashboard, which is the interface between you and the supercomputer keeping you on the road. The 8” touchscreen features inductive technology to enable easy operation even when wearing thick winter gloves, while anti-reflection, anti-fingerprint, and anti-glare are supposed to help you see the dashboard in harsh conditions.
Via the touchscreen, you can delve deep into a world of all-new Ride Modes and Connectivity features, including a new Navigation feature providing route planning, including Waypoints, A to B planning, offline routing, and preset POIs. One of the great things about this navigation system is that it allows for map navigation to be used without the need for a cell phone, which is an extremely rare feature on any modern motorcycle. Of course, that's not where the tech ends.
The latest Super Adventure S Evo features Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Brake Assistance, Collision Warning, and Distance Warning. The new ACC system, combined with AMT, features ACC Stop & Go. When activated, this system will bring the motorcycle to a complete stop if the vehicle ahead comes to a halt. Once the vehicle moves, the motorcycle will resume its motion with the push of a button or a twist of the throttle.
All these new rider aids are made possible thanks to the use of the 5th-generation front radar sensor made by Bosch. This features performance optimization, improved truck detection, a higher maximum speed, and updated cancellation thresholds, with Dynamic, Street, and Group Ride functionality.
With all the tech and gigantic engine, you know this model won't be light, but its 502-lb ready-to-ride weight is in line with its heavyweight ADV competition. With that said, its 6.1-gallon fuel tank is on the small side when compared to the rest of the field, giving a claimed 213-mile range. It has 223mm of ground clearance, which is competitive, and riders will be happy to know that its seat height is adjustable from 847-867mm, making it one of the more accessible bikes in the class.
The new 2027 KTM 1390 Super Adventure S Evo will be rolling off the Austrian production line in February and will be available at authorized KTM dealers in March 2026. It has a US MSRP that starts at $22,699 with an optional Tech Pack bringing the price to around $23,599.
