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KTM 1290 Adventure 2017 - Reliability

  • 11-06-2025 02:44PM
    #1
    rustynutz
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 811 ✭✭✭


    I am planning a trip to Morocco for later this year, I am considering buying a 1290 Adventure for the trip. I'm looking for some opinions on reliability, particularly the 2017 model. I've heard all the horror stories about the newer KTMs with poor build quality and electrical issues, but I'm wondering if the 2017 model is reasonably reliable for the trip.

    I've owned 3 KTMs up to now, most recent being a 20151290 superduke which I loved, and I never had issues with it.



Comments

  • #2
    skallywag
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,075 ✭✭✭skallywag


    Not sure if it has any bearing on your decision, but KTM very nearly went bust v recently, but were rescued at the last minute. I would imagine it would not be a surprise if they folded in the future some time soon.



  • #3
    rustynutz
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 811 ✭✭✭rustynutz


    I wouldn't be overly worried about KTM going bust, these bigger companies will always be bought put. I ended up going for an Aprilia Tuareg 660 in the end, after some thought, I think the KTM would just be too top heavy once loaded up



  • #4
    Banzai600
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 485 ✭✭Banzai600


    Tenere 700 or Tuareg….V Strom DE model. they all have enough oomph and low down grunt for what you want, and they will be an easier sell over the ktm and easier to fix if you need spare parts to be ordered.



  • #5
    rustynutz
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 811 ✭✭✭rustynutz


    I actually bought a Tuareg last week, it was 2 k cheaper, 5 years newer and had 20k less kns on the clock than the 1290 I was looking at. I'm happy with it, it feels very light, it seems to carry its weight low down, and has enough power to keep the boredom away



  • #6
    galwaytt
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,717 ✭✭✭✭galwaytt


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123578305#Comment_123578305

    Met a guy on one yesterday eve, never seen on in the flesh before. Impressive bike - still big too.

    Ode To The Motorist

    “And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, generates funds to the exchequer. You don't want to acknowledge that as truth because, deep down in places you don't talk about at the Green Party, you want me on that road, you need me on that road. We use words like freedom, enjoyment, sport and community. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent instilling those values in our families and loved ones. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the tax revenue and the very freedom to spend it that I provide, and then questions the manner in which I provide it. I would rather you just said "thank you" and went on your way. Otherwise I suggest you pick up a bus pass and get the ********* ********* off the road” 



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  • #7
    rustynutz
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 811 ✭✭✭rustynutz


    It looks big, but feels very light and nimble. That's what drew me to it, I can't imagine even doing gravel roads on the bigger, heavier GS SAR etc



  • #8
    Banzai600
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 485 ✭✭Banzai600


    avoiding the other bike was a good idea imo.

    the smaller twin was the way to go. Ive rode that Tuareg, plenty of oomph from that engine, you wouldnt think it was a 660. i would probably sway more towards the 700 tenere myself, personal choice, but still no cruise control on this years model ?



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