KTM 790 Adventure R: First Look

We first laid eyes on KTM’s 790 Adventure R prototype model just over eight months ago after a series of spy photos were released into the world. And judging by your response, you were as excited as us to see that KTM had developed a lighter, more manageable and more affordable ‘mid-capacity’ version of their ‘maxi-enduro/travel’ machines.
Here we are in 2019 and the Austrian manufacturer has unveiled an exclusive first look at this intriguing new adventure machine in Olbia, Sardinia. Here’s what KTM has released about it so far…

The all-new parallel-twin powered Adventure 790 Adventure R has been developed in tandem with KTM’s latest Dakar-winning weapon, the KTM 450 Rally, to be the link between its enduro bikes and street range in 2019.
KTM’s annual European event, this time hosted in Olbia, Sardinia, provided incredible on and offroad tours across three days of guided riding and tuition from KTM ambassadors and racers. Exclusive to just 150 places for like-minded KTM Adventure owners only, the event sold-out extremely quickly and the lucky few made unforgettable memories and formed new friendships as they conquered the island’s incredible variety of sea view sandy trails, twisty mountain passes and even extreme off-road routes with unexplored terrain.

With the bike inspired by the demand of its customers and dealers, it was some of these hardcore riders who were the first to see and hear up close an early, pre-production version of the KTM 790 Adventure R. After the opening riding day of the event, the background and positioning of this exciting new bike was formally introduced to the assembled riders by KTM staff and also ridden at the event by Chris Birch – an eight times New Zealand Enduro champ, triple Roof of Africa winner and 2010 Red Bull Romaniacs laureate, among many other accolades.

Made in the ‘ready to race’ style benefitting from KTM’s unrivaled offroad competition DNA, this is more than just the look of a rally bike; the lightweight KTM 790 Adventure R will have the performance and purpose to back up this image. For enduro pilots who demand to go further than ever without ever taking the easy route or for adventure riders who desire to tackle the paths least explored, this will be a motorcycle to back-up the ambitious.

After riding the bike, Chris Birch said: “I’m honestly blown away by the new KTM 790 Adventure R. Naturally, I’ve got a lot of experience on enduro bikes and the awesome ability of the big KTM Adventure models, and this just feels like the perfect combination of them both. Obviously, what I rode is still a prototype, but it´s looking in terrific shape. Can’t wait to ride the final product!”

KTM PR Manager – Luke Brackenbury, said at the event: “KTM listens to its customers and dealers throughout the world and the demand for a very hardcore, mid-capacity Adventure bike was something that was repeatedly raised. Make no mistake, this new KTM will be the most performance-focused middleweight travel enduro on the market with a spec sheet to rival machines of a much bigger displacement.”

For extreme travel enduro riding, the KTM 790 Adventure R will be a street bike with serious off-road capabilities and unrivaled performance in its segment. Full details of the bike will be revealed at EICMA, Milan on November 6, 2018.

KTM 790 Adventure R Standout Features

Utilizes new KTM LC8c 799cc parallel twin engine, tuned for a wider spread of torque when compared with KTM 790 Duke
Over 400km fuel tank range
Low seat height for ultimate control in all situations
Low-slung fuel tank for optimum center of gravity
Fully adjustable WP suspension front and back with long travel and PDS for the shock absorber
Radial mounted, four-piston front brake calipers with ABS and offroad ABS options
Adjustable ergonomics to match the rider and the riding situation
Spoked wheels in true offroad sizes for optimum tire choice
LED lights all over
Full suite of electronic rider aid options, including lean angle sensitivity and ride mode technology
Compatible with a wide range of official KTM PowerParts

Did you ride one of the Six KTM Adventure Rallys?

Well, KTM has an amazing opportunity for the top two qualifiers from each KTM Adventure Rally this year to compete in an exclusive class at the 2019 Merzouga Rally in Morocco on a KTM 790 Adventure R. That includes the full ‘factory’ treatment with KTM coving your flights, hotels, registrations, and give your a fully supported ride on a new 790 ADV R. Watch this video to find out more and visit www.ktm-adventure-rally.com