P72
RIDE REVIEW I 2026 KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R
ment increases 49cc to 1350cc,
achieved through a 2mm larger
bore at 110mm and a 71mm
stroke. Output is claimed at 173
horsepower with 107 lb-ft of
torque, numbers that put the 1390
firmly at the top end of the adven
-
ture bike performance spectrum,
even ahead of the Ducati Multi-
strada V4 S. Despite those eye-
opening figures, KTM has ensured
the engine remains manageable in
demanding off-road terrain where
precise throttle response is es
-
sential.
One of the key technologies
helping achieve that balance is
KTM's Camshift system, which in
-
troduces the variable valve timing
that debuted on the Super Duke a
few years prior. The intake cam
-
shaft can move laterally between
two different cam profiles depend-
ing on engine speed and load.
At lower rpm, the system uses
a milder cam shape, reducing
valve lift and duration to improve
smoothness, torque delivery and
fuel efficiency. When revs climb
above 6500 rpm, the camshaft
transitions to a more aggressive
profile, allowing the engine to
breathe more freely and unlocking
stronger top-end performance.
The result is an engine that feels
tractable and predictable when
navigating technical trails yet still
delivers immense acceleration
when the rider opens the taps on
tarmac roads (or off-road, too).
It's one big electronic maze
because you have up to eight pos
-
sible ride modes to meter torque
delivery, which can turn the 1390
from a fire-breathing trail terror
into a bit of a wet noodle for se
-
date, wet-tarmac riding.
