KTM 890 ADV R Review

In this video, I review the KTM 890 Adventure R. While this is a 2021 model, it's not different from the 2022 model. This model is equipped with Rally Mode and the QuickShift up/down.
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[@mark1mod08]

I’ve been riding dirt bikes for 30 years off and on. Never owned any sort of street legal bike until I picked one of these up after I rode my buddy’s for a few weeks. It’s incredible how capable of a dirt bike this machine is. I didn’t know what to expect when I first swung a leg over but it far exceeded my expectations and I immediately bought one a few weeks later. Never thought an almost 500 lb machine could be this much fun. May be selling one or two of my dirt bikes. The two strokes stay though. 😁

[@steveraines4370]

I traded in my 2015 1290 SA T last fall for a 2021 890 R and have absolutely no regrets. I have made modifications including the KTM Low Seat which is more comfortable and lowers the height just a tad. This bike is light and balanced well enough to even do some single track riding without a problem. Great review Mario.

[@kx8960]

An idiot I know with ZERO dirtbike experience, the kind of guy that just HAS to get the most powerful....well, everything, because he's short and has "Little Man Syndrome", bought a 1290 SAR back in early 2021, right before I got my 890 R. I heard all kinds of shit about me (being a lot taller and LOT more experienced on both street AND especially dirt) "not being able to handle a 1290 and that's why I got an 890 R. Well, after immediately trying the SoCal BDR and failing MISERABLY, and not having a good time at ALL, guess what he IMMEDIATELY traded it in for? Yup, an 890 R, just like mine. Except, again, being short, instead of simply shaving the seat and getting custom dirtbike boots with maybe 2" thick soles (because of his ego), he's gone ahead and completely f@cked up his suspension on the 890 R, like on his 1290, because he lowered it. You just can't help some people... I initially looked at an 1190, and then 1290 when they first came out, but man, even in the showroom, I thought they were just too huge it I actually wanted to take it on the dirt for long-distance Adventure Touring, which I DO. Honestly, I thought it was too big even if I pretty much left it on the street. My '91 KX 500 (still have it) is only 230lbs, and even the 890 R is a shock compared to that, but I'm getting better and more used to it. I can't imagine trying to ride a 1290 in the dirt. When the 790 came out, I was sold on the concept, but had to wait until my shoulder surgery (left rotator cuff) was done in 2020. In that time KTM wisely bored it out and fixed some issues, and I got my 890 R. It's got it's quirks (minor stupid reliability issues), but I love it so far, and have over 5,000mi on it, and would have more, except for the thing sitting in the shop (for months!) because of a part the dealer broke and then supply chain issues GETTING the part. WAY more capable in the dirt than I am, MORE than capable on the street unladen (LOVE being able to carry stuff!) or not, WAY more comfortable than my 2015 BMW S1000RR (though nowhere near as fast or nimble) and if you could only have one bike to go anywhere (instead of just staying on the street), this would be THE recommendation I'd make.

[@Terran_tino]

Thanks for making this, picking one up this week and cannot wait! 8500k’s on the clock, mint condition but half the price of buying new… so stoked! Love the video and demo, really well structured and presented, thank you.

[@lpete531]

Awesome review and very detailed. Thanks for sharing 👍🏽

[@JRinPG]

Probably the most informative review I have found. Good job! Liked & Subscribed.

[@2WR]

Thanks Joel. Much appreciated.

[@EbonB]

Nice review Mario. I have a buddy that has the KTM 790 Adventure and he loves it...but he does more on road than off road stuff. They are good looking bikes.

[@venusiian]

love your vids! you need to show us the maps of where you ride off road in VA/WVA. would love to learn more routes

[@Hoshi_Toranaga]

This or the Norden might be my next bike, thanks for the great review as always.

[@r1dutch]

Nice. Been waiting for mine to get to the dealer for two months! As much as I loved both of my 1290s it's time for something lighter.

[@acherouvis]

Great, complete review. Nice job.

[@TheKernables]

I keep my 1290 in off-road mode and I’ve never felt the need to fully turn off the ABS so for anybody worried about that, I wouldn’t. Totally agree about the TKC80’s there great but I only got 2k out of rear😅and I BABIED my 1290 for the first 1,000 miles and didn’t really start getting on it harder till 4-5,000 miles. The 890R is the bike that I tell myself I should have waited for but SHEESH that new 1290R😍

[@mikhailkalashnik0v]

1290 r was just way to heavy for me. I ride 90% remote off road n enjoy tight technical turns. My 2022 890 adv r is still a bit heavy but it will do ;)

[@gillesgenete9598]

about TKC80, I love them on-riad and off-road, but true the rear don't lasg long, 5000km on a off-road touring Africa Twin, 3000km on a sporty off-road Husqvarna 701. Michelin Anakee Wild, Mitas E10 or E09, Bridgestone AX41 are about the same performance and lasting. If I really want to ride hard on muddy single track, I go for Michelin Trackers lasting 2000km. Front allways last twice the rear.

[@timothybroga1704]

Love your review just had my second day on the bike love it agree with everything you said. I wonder if you knew which risers your friend had installed on the bike also the drop pegs he installed if you could post that it would be great and thanks again for a very informative video. RALLY MODE YEE HA

[@2WR]

Vanasche bar risers. The pegs are made by rade garage.

[@ianferrier235]

Very nice review Mario 👍🏻👍🏻

[@cobra4640]

Good to hear from you Mario and thanks for another awesome review. We both own 2016SA yours is probably 20k more miles then mine. Question: Would you ever sell your 2016SA and upgraded it to 890R? Or would you rather buy 2022 1290SA S?

[@2WR]

First question: No. To me they are too different and I don't think the 890R would make nearly as good of a touring bike as my 1290SA. Second question: If I were choosing between the 1290SA S or 890 R as my touring bike, I would go with the SA S. That said, having ridden the SA S for a week in Europe it's a great bike but I don't see it as any sort of upgrade to my current 1290SA and it's missing some things. For one, it doesn't have the 7.9 gallon fuel tank. It's also missing the spoke rims.

[@Zootalaws]

Great review, thanks.

[@mattsanders8023]

Excellent review! I have this bike with Scott's dampner and a few other mods, arrow de cat and stock pipe sound great way louder than stock. 3k miles on tkc 80 rear was toast went TKC 70 Rocks and it is s great tire! Now to get a set of these mirrors!

[@2WR]

Run these mirrors on my 1290, 990 and 890. They’re great.

[@mikebelperio2579]

It’s a damper not a dampener

[@georgesolomon5696]

Hello There, do you have a video on changing the 2 stock radiator hoses on KTM 890 Adv R to something else (i.e., Samco)? Thanks

[@paulvanhout9695]

Very thorough review.👍 The 890 Adventure R certainly a capable overall adventure bike; particularly off-pavement. Has the owner had any issues worth reporting?

[@2WR]

Front brake master cylinder cap had a small deep around it but no other reported issues.

[@robertmorris3241]

What brand is the wind screen extension. Did you have you stock windshield in the low or high position in the video?

[@2WR]

This one amzn.to/3LSjt1i

[@Warerdog24]

Great reveiw

[@AOL0321]

Nice review! Beautiful country! How does the power compare to say the Triumph Tiger 900's triple? I have an 18' Street Triple R and am thinking of upgrading to one of these two.

[@2WR]

Won't know until I ride the new 900

[@lastme3404]

Can you please tell me where you got the windshield extension.

[@2WR]

This one amzn.to/3yhwZrk

[@defylifeadventure]

As a 890 Adventure R owner from new, you forgot to mention that the engine itself sounds like a bag of spanners in a tumble dryer. It's a great bike minus the KTM build quality/fit and finish. I find the taller seat actually much more comfortable than the stock seat without affecting the ability to touch the ground (since it's narrower).

[@2WR]

Yeah, I don't remember if I mentioned the engine note as I had before on the 901 review...it's not a good sounding motor.

[@grandiagod]

@@2WR It sounds MUCH better with a slip on and a decat. Unfortunately that requires a tune.

[@ES44AC-2]

Very nice! I like it.

[@AZ_Baggin]

Hi, can you advise the brand of the windshield deflector used on this bike? Thanks

[@gokalpkasim8340]

+1

[@2WR]

This one amzn.to/3LSjt1i

[@by-jerryleeaventureride3515]

Great bike.i love it.very special.very strong and very light

[@peterchown1552]

Sold my 2016 1290 SA , bought a 890 R & couldn’t be happier with the new bike.

[@peterchown1552]

But to be honest I do miss the SA sometimes,would have been nice to have both

[@gabrielkopp2036]

Why is the speed shift and cruise control standard on the norden and cost extra on the more expensive ktm

[@2WR]

Dunno. IMO should be included in the price. They’re doing the same thing on the new 1290R

[@taylorc4476]

Great review; I am looking at these more and more each day. Question- did you attend the Texas Tornado Boot Camp last year? Maybe at the Bridgestone Camp. I worked part time for them as a medic.

[@2WR]

I did. Had a great time!

[@taylorc4476]

@@2WR I thought you looked familiar, dude. Great channel! Keep it up!

[@shannon22boots]

on average, about what would the fuel mileage be considering a more constant road ride vs an off road style ride?

[@2WR]

I have no idea. I never pay attention to fuel mileage on motorcycles. I know it burns way less than my 990 and I always get 200+ miles a tank.

[@johndemmink3539]

How good would the 890 be on the highway? Is it too light?

[@2WR]

Aside from the seat, it's great on the highway. If you were going to do a big road trip, I might opt for the low fender kit so it catches less wind but it's definitely not like riding a DRZ400 or similar. I would make a good touring bike but not as good as the 1290SA.

[@rajanrairealty8979]

any issues. counter balancer or fuel tank rear

[@2WR]

None so far

[@bigdukesix7580]

I have a ktm 1190 and a 1290. I was at a ktm dealership a few weeks ago and the mechanic said there are several newer Ktm’s made at the CFMoto plant in China. Do you know where this bike is made? I’m hearing the engine for sure is made in china

[@2WR]

Can’t speak for all models out but this particular one was made in Austria.

[@suj3919]

Thanks WOW

[@calikat1751]

Wonderful bike ❤

[@BudFox559]

Could an adventure bike truley be premium gas only. Most of gas off the beaten path is regular,... if you can get it

[@2WR]

They run fine on regular. Premium allows manufacturers to tune to get bigger HP numbers and better fuel efficiency. A lot of what’s driving this is Euro 5.

[@BadAssEngineering]

I would really like to pull the trigger on a newer 2023 890 Adventure not R, but im concerned with long long time reliability. Im the kind of guy who buys a vehicle and keeps it and maintains it for years and years, and since lot of people seem to have longer term issues with KTMs, i was wondering how the brand in general holds up, and if they have improved vehicle quality and long term reliability since Pirier bought KTM from Bajaj

[@2WR]

I’ve got over 60k on my 2016 1290 with a dead fuel pump at 36k being the only issue. My 2008 990 has about 60k on it too with no issues. Just keep them maintained.

[@2WR]

Ended up buying this 2021 890R and so far so good.

[@BadAssEngineering]

@@2WR thank you ✨

[@michaeldixon2336]

Could you tell me the name of the foot pegs that drop down more than the standard to give more leg room? I am 6'4" and do have any recommendations on a more comfortable seat without lowering it? Excellent Video! Thanks

[@2WR]

The pegs are made by Raid Garage. www.radegarage.com/parts-us/ktm-larger-low-pegs-us/

[@ogoshikimura5621]

I am 6’7” my setup is: pegs from Vanasche seat Renazco Racing handlebar to the top mounting spot and raised by 1.5” and rotated forward 2 degrees.

[@MrRourk]

Do Svartpilen 401 vs KTM 390 Adventure

[@acherouvis]

How would you compare the KTM to a Triumph Tiger 900

[@2WR]

Haven't yet ridden the 900 so can't say.

[@steveetier3025]

Maybe do a comparison with the Honda AT? Seems the 890 and the AT match up pretty close power wise. I know not the same exact class but a fun comparison anyway.

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

Also, the new ducati desert sled! Montani Semper Liberi!

[@2WR]

Maybe the AT has gotten better with the newest version but the first gen 1000 was less than impressive with an intrusive tractional control system and a top heavy feel. If I can get my hands on one, I'd review it. From a comparison standpoint, I think the similarities stop at the price point. The AT is heavier and has an extra (nearly) 200ccs.

[@2WR]

The Desert Sled is a fun bike (have a review of it on the channel) but definitely not comparable to the 890R. I bet you mean the new Desert X...that comparo would be interesting.

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

@@2WR correct, the “desert x” not the desert sled.

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

This or the new 1290ADVR? I love the power of the big bikes and love to hoon and don’t mind buying rear tires ;)

[@2WR]

Dunno. Testing the 2022 1290R soon

[@scottbrock884]

Nuts. I wish they made one a wee bit lower in seat height.

[@camgray5662]

Good Video , Just don't like the fuel tank at all, I get the low center of gravity but having the fuel right in the crash zone, and let's face it bikes Do, I would not feel comfortable riding it, Put the tank elsewhere an Hell Yeah it's a Keeper!

[@2WR]

TBD on how well the fuel tank holds up. You make a great point!

[@ron5184]

Boy howdy! Wrong video to watch when you frustrated with HD. Is Rally mode a dealer added option or factory?

[@2WR]

Ron, it’s available through KTM but must be “installed” by the dealer. Essentially you can add it into the price of the new bike or pay to have it unlocked later. Pretty simple activation that just requires the bike to be hooked up to the dealer’s diagnostic tool/computer.

[@jimearhart9888]

Without reading all 117 comments, you didn't cover the heated grip option. Is that an aftermarket purchase or is it a turn on purchase at the dealer or ???

[@2WR]

You need to buy the grips separate and _may_ need to have the option turned on by the dealer as well.

[@jimearhart9888]

@@2WR Thank you very much.

[@rajanrairealty8979]

heavy at 493. I like low 400s. my atk is a mx/Enduro at 280 lbs 4.4 g tank wp susp rotax 600

[@kx8960]

I like low 200's like my '91 KX 500 2-stroke...but you can't get a smaller bike to do everything the 890 can do, especially for long-distance and carrying luggage. It's not happening. If you're riding nothing but local single-track or trailering it everywhere you go, great, if NOT, like me riding 290mi to get to ride Moab AND ride back in comfort (and much longer in the future), then get an 890 R.

[@rajanrairealty8979]

@@kx8960 atk jus add a seat cushion has wp susp 4.4 g tank 280lbs. Same weigh as kx

[@kx8960]

@@rajanrairealty8979 My KX has a 4.5 gal desert racing tank, and weighs 230lbs empty, a full 50lbs lighter than the ATK, HUGE difference. I'm cleaning up the KX to sell though, don't need it anymore. I think KTM could shave a bunch of weight off of the 890 if they paid the attention to detail that manufacturers do for sportbikes. My KTM weighs the same as my 2015 BMW S1000RR, but the BMW has 200hp. So, I'm thinking that with some work they could save 20-40lbs off pretty easily, and I'd gladly take the extra price increase for a factory lightweight kit that I didn't have to install myself.

[@rajanrairealty8979]

Kx shud be light .they eat gas as well but they aren't as durable don't they crack frames n bolts. More for local .the atk 620 is good to also the maico 700 can get new

[@rajanrairealty8979]

@@kx8960 how much for kx

[@TimRHillard]

13:49 fortunately for y'all, I am able to translate motorcycle engine notes into English. This one is saying 'I eat BMWs for breakfast and poop Yamahas and Hondas at night''. Hey, don't blame the messenger, that's just what the motorcycle said🤪...

[@2WR]

😂

[@AdventureTomek]

All those riding options seen overwhelming, nice to have them but a bit much for me. Overall what a great bike, would love to own one in the near future.

[@2WR]

I keep it in Rally Mode most of the time and just adjust the traction control with an up/down click when needed.

[@freidrichnietzsche6643]

Tenere is stripped out machine but much less capability out of the box.

[@tomthomsen11]

My two cents.....Seat Concepts!

[@jonfyfazan]

👏🏍👏👍👌🇳🇴

[@daveogle4239]

DO NOT GO 8000+ MILES BEFORE CHANGING OIL. CHANGE EVERY 3000 OR SOONER>

[@2WR]

All depends on the quality of oil and type of riding.

[@landongooding7461]

Wtf is Millimeters

[@Anonymous-qx9hs]

Only big disadvantage of the bike is the braking system...a brembo system would do wonders for this bike. Plus making it a more reliable. Will makes its sale skyrocket.

[@kx8960]

SRSLY? Have you actually ridden one? I own a 2021 (5,000mi so far), there's ZERO brake issues. I've seen 100mph speeds, and steep mountain paved downhills loaded up, and I'm perfectly happy with them. Many more dirt-oriented even REMOVE one front caliper and disk. I'm 99% sure those ARE Brembo's.

[@kx8960]

@@bradsanders6954 I looked, and I found nothing that either confirms or denies whether they're Brembos or not. They sure LOOK like Brembos, so, until I see otherwise, I'm going to say Brembos. Do you have a source claiming otherwise?

[@harveytile]

@@kx8960 my 2021 890 R has J Juan brakes branded as KTM. Levers also have JJ markings. Mine is an Australian spec, has done just under 9000km and zero issues(engine, brakes, anything). Brakes are definitely one finger pull for all situations. Loving my bike so far.

[@kx8960]

I've never even HEARD of "J Juan", I have seen no markings on mine, but to be fair I haven't bothered to look...why, they work great? As you also noticed. I seem to remember (could be wrong) reading that OTHER KTMS, like the Dukes, had Brembos, and they LOOK like Brembos, so, I don't care as long as they work...and they do. There is a little "judder" right at the end when rolling to a top, but I believe that's the TKC-80 on the front. At speed, you just have good, powerful, smooth braking. I saw over 100mph last weekend having to pass LONG lines of cars/semis, and the brakes were fine, but did notice that I got a fair bit of weave fully loaded with a BIG crosswind and fully loaded with hard panniers and box. You simply can't expect a dirtbike going 100+mph to be as stable as, say, my 2015 BMW S1000RR, and must ride accordingly. For what it is (giant dirtbike), I have ZERO faults with it's handling or braking, on-road and off. Glad my brothas down unda are enjoying theirs like you are! I hope to get down there one day to ride, but as GOOD as you guys are, I've gotta scrape off 30+ years of rust from NOT riding dirtbikes and get better so I can enjoy it more and and embarass myself less! LOL Ride safe Bro!

[@TheVidKid3000]

The poor warranty on these bikes really killed it for me. Only 12 months? Thats a real lack of confidence from KTM on the R models. Gonna stick with a Norden 901 with similar performance offroad, better on road, and 24 month warranty. If theres one of the two that is going to last longer as a "wow look at that bike", its definitely the Norden. When I look at the 890R it just looks like every other offroad bike out there. People who aren't familiar would just assume its a large dirt bike, not anything special. The norden turns heads and will for years to come. Side note: The ABS changes are because of legal requirements in some countries. You aren't allowed to disable front ABS in many countries anymore.

[@ridemfast7625]

I thought the same thing about the warranty. Then looked at the Honda AT and it also is only 12 month. Interestingly the KTM 890 Adventure S is a 24 month.

[@TheVidKid3000]

@@ridemfast7625 yea it's a common issue with adventure bikes. The Norden 901 has 2 year warranty though and is closer to the 890R than the 890S is.

[@ridemfast7625]

@@TheVidKid3000 Have not studied the 901. 901 is sort of in between S and R? Longer suspension then 890 S but Apex. Will look at 901 reviews more if it saves me money:)

[@TheVidKid3000]

@@ridemfast7625 Yea it's essentially the middle ground between an 890 and 890R. A lot more stylish and pretty similar performance to an R, but not quite as durable if you drop it and the suspension is not quite as good, but still amazing and it will really shock you how much you can abuse the suspension. I ride it like it's a dirt bike lol.

[@dirtrider9268]

The US unit if measure is called "Imperial", it would be embarrassing if you were a gearhead and not know that word.

[@2WR]

Thanks. It would also be embarrassing to use "if" instead of "of" and a comma instead of a semi-colon. That said, I'm not embarrassed and doubt you are either.

[@dirtrider9268]

@2 Wheeled Rider Ooh, maybe you could start a channel on punctuation and typing skills, sounds like that subject is your true calling.