KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and off-road capabilities. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1050cc, producing 125 horsepower and 109 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 is equipped with an in-line twin engine with a displacement of 799cc, delivering 95 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque. While the 1090 Adventure R offers more power, the 790 Adventure R provides a smoother running culture and rich torque.

Both motorcycles come with a chain transmission and a suspension system consisting of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The front suspension on both models is provided by WP and has a diameter of 48mm. However, the 790 Adventure R offers a slightly longer travel of 240mm compared to the 220mm of the 1090 Adventure R. The rear suspension on both models is also provided by WP and has the same travel of 220mm, but the 790 Adventure R only offers preload adjustment, while the 1090 Adventure R offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustment.

KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles feature a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. However, the 790 Adventure R has a load-bearing engine, which contributes to its stability and maneuverability. The 1090 Adventure R has a slightly steeper rake of 64 degrees compared to the 63.7 degrees of the 790 Adventure R. The trail measurement is also different, with the 1090 Adventure R having 123mm and the 790 Adventure R having 110.4mm.

Both motorcycles come with double disk brakes at the front, providing reliable stopping power. They also feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The 790 Adventure R has an additional feature of ride by wire, which enhances its overall performance.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the 1090 Adventure R has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the 20 liters of the 790 Adventure R. The 1090 Adventure R also has a longer wheelbase of 1580mm compared to the 1528mm of the 790 Adventure R. However, the 790 Adventure R has a lower seat height of 880mm compared to the 890mm of the 1090 Adventure R. The dry weight of the 790 Adventure R is also lighter at 189kg, while the 1090 Adventure R weighs 207kg.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2020

In terms of strengths, the 1090 Adventure R is praised for its powerful sporty engine, practical modes for on-road and off-road riding, robust and off-road-compatible chassis, and a wide range of accessories and equipment available from KTM. On the other hand, the 790 Adventure R is praised for its high chassis quality, great running culture of the engine, practical rally electronics package, and stability and maneuverability on both on-road and off-road conditions.

In terms of weaknesses, the 1090 Adventure R is criticized for its enormous seat height, which may not be suitable for riders with a body height of less than 180cm. It is also noted that the engine response can be too sporty on long trips and sluggish at low speeds. The 790 Adventure R, on the other hand, is criticized for not having a standard quickshifter, a slightly fiddly indicator switch, and a seat that may be more uncomfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

Overall, both the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2020 offer impressive performance and off-road capabilities. The 1090 Adventure R is more powerful and offers a wide range of accessories and equipment, while the 790 Adventure R provides a smoother running culture, practical rally electronics, and better stability and maneuverability.