KTM 790 Adventure R Pre-production Model Revealed

The prospect of having fun on a reasonably powerful mid-capacity adventure motorcycle from KTM is extremely exciting. And considering KTM’s rich history in off-road racing events like Dakar, Motocross, etc., the debut of the KTM 790 Adventure Concept at the 2017 EICMA enthralled off-road enthusiasts across the globe. This month, at the European Adventure Rally, KTM gave 150 lucky Adventure owners a glimpse of the pre-production version of the 790 Adventure R, apart from offering them a three-day off-road-centric trip in Olbia, Sardinia.

The 790 Adventure R was developed alongside KTM’s latest Dakar-winning motorcycle, the KTM 450 Rally. The bike manufacturer wanted to offer the riders a motorcycle that neatly bridges the gap between an enduro and an adventure. And hence, it came up with the 790 Adventure R. At the event, KTM staff explained the background and positioning of this upcoming motorcycle. Luke Brackenbury, KTM PR Manager – Street, said: “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.”

Here are the highlights of the upcoming motorcycle revealed by KTM:

• Utilises new KTM LC8c 799cc parallel-twin engine, tuned for a wider spread of torque when compared to the KTM 790 Duke. Peak power stands at around 100PS.
• Over 400km fuel tank range – likely to be a 20-litre unit.
• Low seat height for easier manoeuvrability.
• Low-slung fuel tank for optimum center of gravity.
• Fully adjustable WP suspension front and back with long travel and PDS (Progressive Damping System) for the shock absorber.
• Radially mounted, 4-piston front brake calipers with ABS and offroad ABS options.
• Adjustable ergonomics to make it suitable for riders of different height.
• Spoked wheels (bigger front and a smaller rear).
• LED lights up front and at the back.
• Full suite of electronic rider aid options, including lean angle sensitivity and ride mode technology.
• Wide range of official KTM PowerParts developed alongside to complement any journey.

With these features, it looks like the 790 Adventure R could be one of the most value-laden motorcycles in its segment. We expect KTM to launch the bike at the 2018 EICMA, where the 390 Adventure concept is also likely to make its debut. When launched, the 790 Adventure R will compete with the Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger 800 XC range and the BMW F 850 GS. Click here to read about the 790 Adventure’s latest sighting as a test bike.