KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 vs. KTM 790 Duke 2018

The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Duke 2018 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.

Starting with the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017, it boasts a powerful V-twin engine with a displacement of 1050cc and an output of 125 horsepower. This engine is fuel-injected and provides a thrilling riding experience. The bike also features a robust and offroad-compatible chassis, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures. The suspension, provided by WP, consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. These suspension components offer a travel of 220mm and can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The frame of the 1090 Adventure R is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The bike is equipped with double disk brakes in the front, with a diameter of 320mm and four pistons, and an advanced rider assistance system that includes ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The dimensions and weights of the 1090 Adventure R include a front tire width of 90mm and a diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm and a diameter of 18 inches, a wheelbase of 1580mm, a seat height of 890mm, a dry weight (with ABS) of 207kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. Additional equipment includes an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017

On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 is a naked bike with a more compact and sporty design. It is powered by an in-line twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc and an output of 105 horsepower. This engine is also fuel-injected and offers powerful acceleration. The chassis of the 790 Duke is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design, similar to the 1090 Adventure R. The suspension, provided by WP, consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The suspension travel is slightly smaller than that of the 1090 Adventure R, with 140mm in the front and 150mm in the rear. The front tire width is 120mm and the diameter is 17 inches, while the rear tire width is 180mm and the diameter is 17 inches. The wheelbase is shorter than the 1090 Adventure R, measuring 1475mm, and the seat height is lower at 825mm. The dry weight (with ABS) is also lighter, at 169kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 14 liters. The 790 Duke is equipped with double disk brakes in the front, with a diameter of 300mm and four pistons, and an advanced rider assistance system that includes ABS, riding modes, and traction control. Similar to the 1090 Adventure R, it also features an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 stands out with its powerful sporty engine, practical modes for on-road and off-road riding, robust and offroad-compatible chassis, and a wide range of accessories and equipment available from KTM. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 offers a lively and high-revving engine with powerful acceleration, an optimally tuned chassis for sporty riding, an awesome sound even with the series muffler, and many electronic gimmicks and functions. It also provides an extremely precise quickshifter that makes fast riding even easier and a comfortable seating position.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 has a seat height that may be too high for riders with a body height under 180cm, and the engine response can be too sporty for long trips. It may also feel sluggish at low speeds. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 may have rough handling at low revs and can be challenging in city traffic. Some riders have reported oil leaks at the engine block on many 790 Dukes, which can be a concern.

In conclusion, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Duke 2018 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The 1090 Adventure R is a powerful and versatile adventure bike, while the 790 Duke is a compact and sporty naked bike. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.