KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 vs. KTM 790 Duke 2018

The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Duke 2018 are both powerful motorcycles with different focuses. The 1090 Adventure R is designed for off-road adventures, while the 790 Duke is a naked bike optimized for sporty riding on the road.

Starting with the engines, the 1090 Adventure R is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1050cc, producing 125 horsepower. On the other hand, the 790 Duke features an inline twin engine with a smaller displacement of 799cc, producing 105 horsepower. Both bikes have liquid cooling and fuel injection systems.

In terms of suspension, the 1090 Adventure R has a WP telescopic fork with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 220mm. The rear suspension is a WP monoshock with the same travel. The 790 Duke, on the other hand, has a smaller WP telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 140mm. The rear suspension is also a WP monoshock but with a slightly shorter travel of 150mm. Both bikes have adjustable suspension settings.

KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017

When it comes to the chassis, both bikes have a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The rake angle of the 1090 Adventure R is 64 degrees, while the 790 Duke has a slightly steeper rake angle of 66 degrees. This gives the 790 Duke a more aggressive and sporty riding position.

In terms of braking, both bikes have dual disc brakes at the front with four-piston calipers and radial technology. The 1090 Adventure R has larger discs with a diameter of 320mm, while the 790 Duke has slightly smaller discs with a diameter of 300mm.

Both bikes are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. They also have adjustable windshields for added comfort.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the 1090 Adventure R has a wider front tire (90mm) and a larger fuel tank capacity (23 liters). It also has a longer wheelbase (1580mm) and a higher seat height (890mm). The dry weight of the 1090 Adventure R with ABS is 207kg. On the other hand, the 790 Duke has a wider rear tire (180mm) and a smaller fuel tank capacity (14 liters). It has a shorter wheelbase (1475mm) and a lower seat height (825mm). The dry weight of the 790 Duke with ABS is 169kg.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

In terms of strengths, the 1090 Adventure R is praised for its powerful sports engine, practical road and off-road modes, robust off-road compatible chassis, and wide range of KTM accessories and equipment. On the other hand, the 790 Duke is praised for its high-revving engine with powerful acceleration, optimized chassis for sporty riding, fantastic sound, and various electronic features.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The 1090 Adventure R has a high seat height, making it difficult for shorter riders to handle. The engine response may also be too sporty for long trips, and the bike can feel slow at low speeds. The 790 Duke, on the other hand, has difficult handling at low revs, making it challenging in city traffic. Some riders have also reported oil leaks in the engine block of many 790 Dukes.

In conclusion, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the KTM 790 Duke 2018 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 1090 Adventure R is a versatile off-road adventure bike, while the 790 Duke is a sporty naked bike optimized for road riding. Riders should consider their riding preferences and needs when choosing between these two models.