KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 are both powerful adventure motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have a V-type engine with a bore of 103 mm and a stroke of 63 mm, producing 125 HP of power and 109 Nm of torque. They both have electric start and use a chain transmission. The motorcycles have a displacement of 1050 ccm and feature a 2-cylinder engine.

In terms of suspension, both models have a telescopic upside-down fork at the front, with the 2017 model having a larger diameter of 48 mm compared to the 43 mm diameter of the 2018 model. The front suspension travel is 220 mm for both models. At the rear, both models have a swingarm suspension with a monoshock, with the 2018 model having a slightly shorter suspension travel of 190 mm compared to the 220 mm of the 2017 model. The suspension components are provided by WP for both models.

The chassis of both motorcycles is made of chromium-molybdenum and features a tubular frame. They have a rake angle of 64 degrees and a trail of 123 mm for the 2017 model, while the 2018 model has a slightly smaller trail of 120 mm. Both models have dual disc brakes at the front, provided by Brembo.

KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models come equipped with ABS, riding modes, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, there are some differences between the two models. The 2017 model has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the 19-inch front tire of the 2018 model. Both models have the same rear tire width of 150 mm, but the 2017 model has an 18-inch rear tire diameter compared to the 17-inch rear tire of the 2018 model. The 2017 model has a longer wheelbase of 1580 mm compared to the 1560 mm of the 2018 model. The seat height is also different, with the 2017 model having a higher seat height of 890 mm compared to the 850 mm of the 2018 model. The dry weight of the 2017 model is 207 kg with ABS, while the 2018 model weighs slightly less at 205 kg with ABS. The curb weight of the 2017 model is 230 kg, compared to 228 kg for the 2018 model. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

Both models come equipped with adjustable windshields.

In terms of strengths, the 2017 model has a powerful sports engine, practical road and off-road modes that perfectly regulate traction control and maximum power, a robust off-road compatible chassis, and a wide choice of KTM accessories and equipment. The 2018 model has a very powerful and refined engine with a wide range of RPM, performance modes, the ability to turn off ABS, adjustable traction control, agile and secure handling, adjustable ergonomics, adjustable windshield height, low weight, and a comparatively low price.

In terms of weaknesses, the 2017 model has a high seat height, making it difficult for riders with a minimum body height of 180 cm to handle, a sporty engine response that may not be suitable for long trips, and slow performance at low speeds. The 2018 model has an outdated design compared to the new 1290 Super Adventures and the front suspension fork is not adjustable.