Its KTM forefathers, the Adventure 1050 and Adventure 1190 were discontinued in 2016, and KTM went back to the drawing board. It was then that the epic KTM 1090 Adventure was born – and I’ll tell you what, it’s one hell of a mean looking, power spewing machine, that’ll have you just itching to go and give it a good blast as soon as you set eyes on it. This 1050cc adrenaline pumping beast will have your heart racing as it eats up the miles with ease, fuelling your appetite for more thrilling weekend or continental tours. After reviewing the bike in issue 39, we’ve taken a moment to reflect and have compiled a list of five things we love about the KTM 1090 Adventure.
The KTM 1090 Adventure is a powerful beast with some serious punch
The new Adventure 1090 has bags more power than its predecessor as an extra 30bhp has been thrown into the mix, so the new 1090’s V-twin engine now pumps out a thrilling output of 130bhp and is delivered with a smooth throttle response. The power to weight ratio on the bike is incredible, the combination of lightweight design and powerful acceleration makes for one hell of an epic ride.
The KTM 1090 Adventure is the ideal companion for touring
This large capacity bike has all the credentials to be an ideal player for the fully loaded adventure touring game. With an adjustable windscreen perfectly placed to battle the elements, you’ll feel protected and at ease when the weather takes a turn for the worst. With heaps of power and a 23-litre juice tank, which KTM claims will give you around 220 miles, the 1090 Adventure has the stamina to tackle the miles easily with exceptional performance.
The KTM 1090 Adventure’s riding modes have got your back
As standard, the KTM 1090 Adventure comes with Rain, Street and Sport riding modes which seamlessly adjust the power output and the traction control of the bike at the times you need it most. So, even if you find yourself tackling the unpredictable grit on a hairy off-road track or you’re battling a spine-tingling set of alpine twisties, these riding modes will make for better and safer riding.
>>> Looking for something bigger? Check out five reasons why the KTM Super Adventure 1290 R should be your next adventure bike.
If you’re looking for comfort the KTM 1090 Adventure has got you covered
The upright riding position of the 1090 Adventure is fantastic, with the hands, feet and arse triangle being absolutely spot on. Not to mention the 3D foam padding to the seat will keep your arse cheeks happy even when you start to rack up the miles.
The KTM 1090 Adventure is lightweight and easier than ever to ride
Weighing in at just over 200kg the 1090 Adventure is light on its toes and is an absolute dream to ride. The bike is set to be the ideal commuting and long distance touring machine for riders wanting to throw in a bit of mild off-roading into the mix every now and then. So whether you’re riding on the asphalt or the dirt, you’ll find the 1090 Adventure bike handles with efficiency and confidence.
All in all, the KTM 1090 Adventure is an exceptional bit of kit and looks to be perfect for those looking for a gnarly adventure machine around the 1000cc mark. The bike not only looks flawless but it has the performance to match, so tearing up those miles on tours will be a breeze, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying a fantastic ride.
You can check out our full review of the KTM 1090 Adventure here.