2023 KTM 890 R vs Tuareg 660

[@darthtyrannosaurus946]

As a potential buyer of either bike this is the combined review I’ve been waiting for. Thank you

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Thank you...much appreciated

[@mikehogan2829]

Ok, and what do you prefer? And why? Thanks a lot for your opinion!

[@ahppa]

I agree and think there's a disconnect between "world adventure ready" and "service scarcity" but I also hope that aprilia keeps the tuareg platform strong to encourage more dealers to support aprilia products.

[@RatBike750]

I hope they fixed the camshaft issues on the newer models. Hard to know until more miles are on the newer bikes. KTM, please tell us why camshafts fail on many of these bikes... We paid good money and just want to know why some bikes are failing so we can have confidence in our bikes and fix them properly and permanently. Too much to ask?

[@briangc1972]

What about the brake rotor problems as well?

[@RatBike750]

@@briangc1972 and clutches

[@gergelyfatrai2315]

On the 890 you can program riding modes to the up or down button and then switch easily while riding... Or you can program anything to those buttons btw. Otherwise thanks for the comparison video. Great job and good insight. Well done.

[@mattmccourt3591]

I realized that after the fact - thanks for the comments..glad it helped...!!!

[@markkimble3202]

Thanks for your review. I just found your channel…..I noticed the clip in your intro that I recognize: you must have done a tour with Ricardo and Epico Moto…..I recognized the orange hose around the exhaust. I’ve been down with him twice and loved every minute. Good luck with your channel!

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Thank you and yes Ricardo is outstanding...heading back again next year....check out my Colombia Series earlier this year and maybe we crossed same areas...thanks again!!!

[@brianreynolds8425]

Enjoy the videos and glad to find this one down here in Louisville. This all said, wish you had touched upon mpg/range on the two bikes and also how busy the Tuareg is on the highway at 75-80 versus the 890.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Thanks and thanks for feedback....much appreciated!

[@erickmontero6222]

Great video thanks for putting it out there! I’m in OH coming from an Africa twin looking at both of these. Short rider but used to tall bikes somewhat. Local ktm dealer has a great deal on a ‘23 890 r that would make it cost about the same as the Aprilia. Torn between the two.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

the big question is...are you going to do more off road than on...if you think 60/40 Off to ON the KTM...if 60/40 On Road....660...the 660 is very capable off road...but more comfortable on road then the KTM - Longer hauls on the KTM you will need a comfort seat and the bigger windshield....unless you get the S model not the R....also think about dealer network....Im in Cincy...and only Aprilia dealer I knew was Iron Pony...not close for me so that was a deal breaker in the end. If you go Aprilia make sure to get quick shifter added...but solid bike all around.....again if you want to tear up the dirt...that 890 is bad ass on the trails....good luck and enjoy which ever one you choose!!!

[@T30-z5w]

The weights you listed are dry weights. My 790 with gas weighs 478 lbs. I will bet you the Tuareg with gas weighs close to 450. The reality for me is given their weight, both of these are fire/dirt road bikes at best so get the one that’s the most comfortable for you given your inseam and reach. To me the KTM seat is not very comfortable. Even the seat concepts upgrades don’t help much. The power parts heated seat is the best I’ve used so far unfortunately my on/off switch for the seat failed after two rides and I’m still waiting for a replacement (no covered by warranty) from Austria. It’s been months.

[@DigitalProphet_]

On/ off switch for heated grips and seat is controlled from the dashboard - or should be.

[@MLeitao]

You can program the up and down arrows to get fast on riding modes.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I just went out there and played with it...and sure enough it's programable....so thank you...first 600 and still learning...I'll update it on video...thanks a bunch!!!!

[@prov431]

Use that cruise control switch on the 890 - it's sweet. The 890S windscreen is 100% swappable to the 890R.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

yes - cruise is great...and thanks on the intel with the windshield!!! I'm also dropping an update on the Ride Mode Function...there is an option to dedicate a button...so thank you!!!...still learning the machine...

[@baldwin276]

New subscriber and LOVE the channel. Thank you for the outstanding video. Fellow OH Rider here and just checked out the Tuareg today in person for the first time….it checks a lot of the boxes.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Thank you and glad it helped...it's a solid bike...more to come on it but yes it does check a lot of boxes...good luck and hope to see you out there...thanks again!!!

[@baldwin276]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Can’t wait for the next ones!

[@slowestkyd2900]

You have the option on 890 ADV R 2023 to put your riding modes on a quick select button, in this case (up or down arrow). Once done, press on it, select your riding style -> close throttle and READY TO RACE. 😊

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Yes - I realized that after the fact...I actually did follow-up on it...hahah! - thanks!

[@slowestkyd2900]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Takes a little bit of time till all options are discovered. I just choosed the hardest decision between Tuareg 660, Tenere 700 & the KTM 890 ADV R beast. KTM won I do not regret the decision 🙏🏻

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@slowestkyd2900 You won't regret...its been a beast for me...I'm lucky as I have a GSA for comfort if I need it...890R, then 660 then T-& would be my order...enjoy!!!

[@briangc1972]

The riding modes on the Taureg are a single button next to the throttle. You can change them on the fly and without having to close the throttle. Just press with your thumb and the new mode goes into effect promptly while still under power.

[@TheZakkmylde]

@@lifesjourneyat50 but if you had to pick one for touring, would it be the Ktm or The Aprilia?

[@victorp5491]

State 8 motorcycles said to me they could not service the bike for 3 months. So I bought a Tiger 900 Rally Pro 453 lbs wet. I love it.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

WOW - 3 months ugh...I can see why you bough the Tiger...I will say the Tuareg is a great bike but lack of dealerships make it rough...thanks for comment!!

[@hectorstewart7706]

The 900 rally pro is 505 lbs wet.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@hectorstewart7706 but bigger engine and better wind protection....solid bike...have fun!!!

[@briangc1972]

Are you saying that you had a Taureg that needed parts? Or were they just saying 3 months to get in for service? Your first sentence doesn't really make sense.

[@brentmiller5830]

Good video! Thanks and I appreciated your reviews.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Thank you...much appreciated!!!

[@CptSlow89]

Im here for info - which one has better suspension, brakes, power?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

suspension about even for the bikes as well as the breaks....power definitely KTM....its a ripper - the 660 is more comfortable - would recommend on the KTM the comfort seat...for the R model....but Off-Road KTM wins...

[@frankgulla8782]

I have a 2019 790R and it's surprisingly really good on the road. I think once you put more miles on the street you'll realise this. The Aprilia looks like a really nice bike, thanks for the review.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

thank you and appreciate the comments!!!

[@allonmor4078]

A KTM 890 Adventure Standard Vs the 660 would be interesting review.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

True - I'm sure you've seen Ian @BigRockMoto - he doesnt directly compare but he has the standard and 660 and does talk a little about it. Thanks!!

[@highway17adv]

man, i love your energy! thanks for that.

[@JimGoryeb]

Great video! Two things: 1. If you put the windscreen “wing” on the KTM, would they more closely compare in wind protection? 2 “Comfortability” isn’t a word. It’s just “Comfort”. Thanks for the comparison! Really helpful.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I think the windscreen on the S works as well for better protection....thanks for the comments!!!

[@brighton1950]

Mr. vocabulary policeman.Most adjectives that end in able form nouns ending in ability such as suitable, dependable, respectable etc;

[@JimGoryeb]

@@brighton1950 yeah, but not this one.

[@depechemoto]

For what its worth, the wind sounded wayyy louder on the 890 on the highway, then the Tuareg.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Yes it is - the windshield protection on the 660 is better...but the lower fairing on the 890 protects legs better - You can get the windshield from the 890 S which is bigger....thanks for the comments!!!

[@donut3110]

I feel like comparison really shows that sometimes more is just better. In 2023 people want more out of their bike, not just offroad or touring. I feel like the Tuareg is just better, for both the people who want more offroading capabilities and for those who want touring. For so long we've had to choose one or the other, its difficult for people to grasp the concept of having better at everything. The only thing for me is, does the Tuareg have what it takes to meet or exceed Yamaha's CP2 engine? I don't know. That is probably what will make or break my decision as we see more 660's on the road and the longevity of them.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

To me...the dealer network maybe the only thing holding them back...but thank you for the comments...makes sense...

[@briangc1972]

When comparing longevity of the engines, consider that the Taureg engine has been detuned and the redline reduced. So we have an engine that is known for durability at more HP and higher RPMs. That means it will be even more durable than the original engine. Also, if you buy the Taureg, you get a longer warranty. Last, how much longer will the Taureg last if you rev the engine the same as a Yamaha? If you limit your RPMs to 25% less than redline to match the Yamaha redline? The engine will last even longer.

[@RiseRyder]

great information. I didn't realize the 23 890's were already here.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Yeah...Can't wait to get it out in the wild after its first service. Haha...

[@danmize5106]

Great video... The T660 is on my short list as a frist time adv bike owner....so the video was very helpful. I noticed you are in OH? I'm up by CLE but i suspect most of the adv riding will be down south... always looking for folks to ride with!

[@lifesjourneyat50]

There some good riding east…New Richmond area - pending where in Cleveland…I’m originally from there (west side)…but yeah tough to find spots unless East of Columbus and South toward Wayne National…good luck

[@andyw237]

Awesome review, What scares most potential buyers away from Aprilia is overall cost of ownership. I wanted to buy one, but The absurd freight charges and "dealer fees" were out of touch with reality, And that is before the insane service costs! The bike becomes very expensive very fast, if Aprilia and their dealers come back to earth they would have more success. The Tuareg is a great design, but the manufacturer and their dealers are not doing a good job of attracting buyers.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

One thank you...It was $00 for first service but my new 890 KTM r is the same price....the one thing I find difficult is dealer network - very limited...closes one for me is 100+ ,miles aways. - Ownership cost will be interesting for balance of year..I will try to keep track...thanks again!!!

[@sspirito3130]

Can you clarify the 'insane service cost' of the Aprilia? It's cheaper than my old Tenere 700 and Africa Twin. Also, spare parts are half price compared to Yamaha or Honda

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@sspirito3130 Sorry - just noticed it was cut off...first service was $400 for the 660 and $350 for the 890 - Now accessories etc are all the same across any make or model. I have heard that spear parts are hard to come by if you need them - taking up to and including 6-8 months because the product is still relatively new. I find the biggest issue is dealer network on the Aprilia...that would be the big draw back for me.

[@timm1583]

Found my 660 at a good dealer without crazy fees. Its a solid 2.5 hour ride though. will see how expensive it is once we get to first valve checks

[@Twilight_Charger]

I’m not sure where rumor starts and facts end on some of the Tuareg service, parts and dealer fees comments. I have a dealer 20 minutes from my house and an other one an hour and half from my house, S Florida. Regarding parts and service: I got a quick shifter, soft panniers, crash bar, foot brake lever, oil drain plug within a week or two. I also got a service manual and parts catalogue so I can stock pile important items like an extra Clutch or Brake lever. Dealer fees were right in line with Yamaha for a T7 and still way cheaper than an 890 R.

[@timsalabimbombassa]

Interesting, these bikes are so versatile, but at the same time they’re not. I did almost the opposite: My T7 all set up for off-road, with enough road comfort to get there, and ordered a 890 adventure s for on road, with enough off-road to play in the gravel and green lanes. Tires, suspension, seat, wind protection, luggage, mirrors; it determines the focus. But you could just as well use them opposed, if you equip them accordingly. And they could be both at the same time, if you’re not an accomplished old man like you and me, with smaller wallet and less need for comfort.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

that was good...thank you!!!

[@bradadams8540]

Great comparison of both bikes! I own a Tuareg (and also just rode my buddy’s 890R last weekend). I see that you have the Barkbusters on the Tuareg. I’ve read they aren’t compatible with the OEM heated grips. Did you have to modify anything & did you buy the Tuareg-specific guards? Thanks!

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I order the specific Bark busters for the 660 there is an extension specific for then...one thing on them....if you turn fully...the screw nicks the top of bike...caused a scratch on my bike..but they did go on with the heated grips...

[@bradadams8540]

@@lifesjourneyat50 thanks a lot for the reply & heads up!

[@damytzeus]

thank you for video. 890 is quite comfortable for touring.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

if its the standard 890...yes comparable...but between the R version of the 890 and the 660...teh Tuareg wins...just sayin...thanks for comment!!!

[@imbaimba3394]

​@@lifesjourneyat50 why you think this? Because of ktm's seat and windshield? If I change seat and windshield on 890r, do you still think that aprilia is better on road?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@imbaimba3394 I think the high fender would play into it as well...since I did the Rottweiler air box you can't get the comfort seat if you want in low position....yes a bigger windshield would be good...they are both great bikes...I still say if you lean more off road.60/40+ go KTM...if 50/50 or less the Tuareg....the suspension on the KTM is better....thanks..

[@imagine3687]

How do you feel the heated grips work? I'm in the North East and ride in 30 degrees. I've heard they don't give good heat. Thanks for your input!

[@lifesjourneyat50]

They are just OK...you really have to put them on the highest setting to get real heat and even then thru thick gloves - so/so....now on my GSA...the heat is there immediately and on 5....wow.....I will say it's better than nothing...especially since we live in cold areas...good luck!!!

[@pmw350k]

450 lb motorcycles don't have to compete with the single track technical trails of the past, as most have been closed. The ones that weren't were given over to multi-use.

[@Brad-RB]

Nice bikes!

[@DODinsaneCHANNEL]

So I understand that the Aprilia is more comfortable in touring, right? Im looking for a bike with 21” for touring with a passenger! (New Africa is too expansive)

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Yes - if that's one of your main criteria...yes - very comfortable, very capable bike for everything....you'll enjoy!!!

[@DODinsaneCHANNEL]

@@lifesjourneyat50 and what do you suggest between the tuareg and 790 adv S?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@DODinsaneCHANNEL Now you are narrowing it down...one have you ridden either one...the Parillia will feel more road as the KTM will be an in-between with the S...One major factor - Dealership...are you close to an Aprillia dealer...less dealer network. I think the 660 will be more refined feel and the KTM will be more aggressive - it really will come down to how you plan ride. There are more parts available for the KTM's vs the 660. Good Luck!!!

[@DODinsaneCHANNEL]

@@lifesjourneyat50 thank so much 🙏

[@kevf500]

Tuareg 660 , How does it compare to the new Norden 902 expedition ? Is what I would like to know ?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Great Question....Our guide Ricardo in Colombia had the 901 and loved it...wider seat more comfortable but with the aggressive 890R parts...I'm sure the Expedition takes it up a notch....like you...waiting for someone to review it...won't be me...ha!!!

[@Okke-j2n]

How can you compare a 660 against a 890 or 901? Is like to compare a chihuahua against a ROTTWEILER

[@brighton1950]

Good review but the first one I've seen that says that the KTM is geared more towards off-road than touring.All the others say the opposite

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Good point...I probably should have said...it's made more for off road...not necessarily the actual Gearing...that was my intent....thanks for letting me know...appreciate it

[@brighton1950]

@@lifesjourneyat50 thanks for the reply....I didn't mean the actual gearing....perhaps I should've said meant more for off-road. anyhow I like your channel. I'm looking at either the KTM890 or the Ducati Multitrada and coming from a Harley Streetglide

[@brighton1950]

@@lifesjourneyat50 I'm embarrassed....I've just noticed that you were talking about the 890R... Doh

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@brighton1950 all good...it happens...

[@RandomGRK]

But if you could only keep one, which would it be?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I kept the 890- It is better off-road...and if I want a better ride on...I have my GSA....So yes I kept the KTM

[@RandomGRK]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Thanks for letting me know. I have a CRF450L for offroad but wanted something that can tour and offroad nicely which is why I'm looking at the Tuareg but the engine heat issue is swaying me to KTM.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@RandomGRK The Tuareg is more comfortable than the KTM...I took the CAT off the KTM so less heat...they are both hot...they are both capable bikes..now if you want more comforte get the Standard 890...the R like the one I have is more geared to off-raod...

[@RandomGRK]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Thank you. Yes, more comfort for sure but the R looks so much better haha. Thanks for the advice!

[@TheHeinzRudolf]

What Nav mount do you use at the Tuareg?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I use the Touratech mount…pretty easy install

[@catdaddy3302]

I love my Husqvarna Norden 901. It’s the same “beast” as the KTM 890, but it’s too heavy. I’m thinking about trading for the Tuareg 660.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

I had the Tuareg and it's a great bike....you'll love it...

[@CptSlow89]

I have ridden 890 today...wooow

[@lifesjourneyat50]

its a pretty awesome machine....enjoy!!!

[@bikenavbm1229]

you keep saying the KTM is a bettter dirt bike but you never state any reason why, though you did say clearly the Aprilla has a better seat and wind protection to give better touring credentials, or did i miss something, you also said the KTM might be better trailered to the trail, that makes a joke of it as an ADV bike surely. Though the trailer may be later needed, when the 890 camshaft becomes just a shaft or all the oil falls out of the Aprilla.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Fair...I just felt that the 890 was better off road and less on road...and the 660 was better on than off...in comparison....they are both great bikes...they both have their issues...no bike is perfect...KTM will rip it...more comfortable is the 660....thanks for commenting

[@codforlife]

I think you are under selling the Tuaregs off road capabilities. 890 is probably slightly better but not much.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Yes you are correct - the Tuareg is a great bike and very capable off road...KTM slightly better...but not by much...thanks!

[@codforlife]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Seems like the Tuareg is a great value proposition if you don't mind having a hot leg?? 😅 I'm actually looking round my house right now to see what I can sell so I can afford one!!

[@mihucc7689]

😅 I'm the same way😅

[@Okke-j2n]

​@@codforlifeyes but is like to compare a ROTTWEILER against a chihuahua. Try to guess who is the chihuahua....

[@customjrod]

If you could only have one?

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Since I have a GSA for long hauls.....I picked the 890 for off road....but the Tuareg is a solid choice....dealer network maybe the only down fall...

[@brockjohnson4116]

@@lifesjourneyat50 Now if you didn't have the GSA, Or, if you could only keep one of the 3 for your type of riding, which would you keep? :)

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@brockjohnson4116 If I couldn't keep my GSA...the Tuareg..based solely on comfort of riding to places...the 890 is rough....if I was trailering then riding...the 890...

[@williammuir638]

Got to be Aprillia. 😊

[@mattmccourt3591]

It is an excellent bike...

[@defylifeadventure]

Curious how your opinion might have changed in the last 8 months? From everything I see, the Tuareg is almost a match for the 890R off road. The Aussies at MAD TV were wax lyrical about.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

It is a great bike the Tuareg is...and can handle the off road excellent....KTM has a little more power and torque so that is noticeable....but it can get after it...it's no slouch.....biggest thing was no dealer network close to me...150 mile min...it's really nice....

[@flyingjeff1984]

I contacted my local Aprilia dealer (middle TN). "No demo rides--just buy it."

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Really....that stinks...it is a great bike..but you have to ride it to see if its for you....I guess they're not that interested in selling one....wow..sorry to hear that...

[@TheDennzio]

seems an unfair comparo

[@lifesjourneyat50]

Why unfair...both mid weight adv bikes...pros and cons to both...one is more off road oriented the other more road...

[@Nigriff]

Gaaaaaaay music

[@lifesjourneyat50]

@@Nigriff that's funny...haha!!!

[@CoolioDaMan]

The KTM engine is made in China by CFMoto…automatic deal breaker…..

[@valefur72]

Only the 790 is made in China.

[@ShaftDrive]

Every aprilia Ive owned or people I know have owned turned out to be garbage with fault after fault in electrical areas. Mine caught fire after my first 100 km. That brand is garbage.

[@lifesjourneyat50]

whoa....thats not good...I haven't heard that yet on the 660...but damn!!! - Good to Know!!!

[@kanefoster5162]

😮

[@martyn_g]

Also another guy on YT has had oil leaks..

[@r.l.8154]

HAHAHA, stupid statements of the usual idi0t, with which, of course, it would be a waste of time to discuss.

[@blakeberlin6295]

My experience with Aprilia has been great.

[@cellphonenut]

Excellent analysis