KTM 790 Adventure 2020 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features and capabilities, but they also have some notable differences.

In terms of their engines, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has an in-line engine with a bore of 88 mm and a stroke of 65.7 mm, producing 95 HP of power and 88 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a V engine with a larger bore of 103 mm and a shorter stroke of 63 mm, resulting in a higher power output of 125 HP and torque of 109 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshocks at the rear. The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a front suspension travel of 200 mm, while the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a slightly shorter travel of 185 mm. The rear suspension travel is also slightly higher for the KTM 790 Adventure at 200 mm compared to 190 mm for the KTM 1090 Adventure.

KTM 790 Adventure 2020

In terms of their chassis, both bikes have chromium-molybdenum frames, but the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a tubular frame type. The rake angle is the same for both bikes at 64 degrees, but the trail is slightly different, with the KTM 790 Adventure having a trail of 107.8 mm and the KTM 1090 Adventure having a trail of 120 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front and come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a slightly smaller front tire diameter of 19 inches and the same rear tire width of 150 mm but with a smaller diameter of 17 inches.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a wheelbase of 1509 mm and a seat height of 830 mm. It also has a dry weight (with ABS) of 189 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1560 mm and a higher seat height of 850 mm. It has a higher dry weight (with ABS) of 205 kg but a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is praised for its engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 is praised for its very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range, performance modes, the ability to switch off ABS, adjustable traction control, agile and safe handling, adjustable ergonomics, height-adjustable windshield, low weight, and comparatively low price.

However, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 does have some weaknesses, including an unattractive surcharge policy and an original seat that is not optimally shaped. On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 is criticized for its outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures and its non-adjustable suspension fork.

In conclusion, both the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2017 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 790 Adventure offers a more modern design and slightly better off-road capabilities, while the KTM 1090 Adventure provides a more powerful engine and adjustable ergonomics at a lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.