Review - KTM 790 Adventure R

KTM's 790 Adventure R is a on very special bike. It's purposeful, well rounded and ticks a huge amount of the boxes the market wants from an ADV.
So what's the end result? An incredible bike that shows KTM haven't just come a long way, but are pushing hard to make the best bikes possible.
What do you think of the new 790 Adventure R? Let us know down below!
Thanks for watching!
📹Yamaha EU
🎬Jade Evans
🏍Llewelyn Pavey
👔kit.co/llelpav...
Brake Magazine - www.brake-magazine.com
Patreon - / brakemagazine

[@kotxcha]

Great and honest review, as usual. Mine 790R doesn't reset riding modes, or ABS, maybe it's because it's a Portuguese version and KTM decided that we deserved a special attention! All the best.

[@jaimeerrasti3549]

As always, you guys make the best, most honest and comprensible reviews. For example, the way you explained how the suspension works on this bike, being plush but not blowing through the stroke and not upsetting the chasis on rebound is priceless. Thanks Llewelyn.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm glad that helps Jaime! Thanks for watching!

[@nimrod6603]

Totally agree👍🏻

[@ossa60]

this is one of the two best motorcycle reviews I've ever watched...the other was also yours about the tenere 700....congratulations for a great job! I'm now a fan of this channel...

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you!

[@nimrod6603]

Don’t want sound like a fanboy, but ossa60 is right. Next level guys!

[@wm5000]

Been riding a KTM950 Adventure for years, looked after it and didn't feel the need to get a new bike until I watched this. You're good man!

[@FlaviaPitariu]

I hope I can afford to buy your bike someday. A well looked after example. I adore the looks of those 950s

[@wm5000]

@@FlaviaPitariu Yeh they're a thing of beauty and so much fun to ride. I hope you get to too mate.

[@Modelpilot]

W M did you buy one ?? I also ride a 950 adv and considder a 790 r Like to hear your opinion

[@wm5000]

@@Modelpilot Not yet! And will now prob wait another year or so due to events and the disruption to my work & income. How have you found your 950? Mine has an overheating problem in slow traffic and after trying numerous solutions there's been no fix..

[@jimenagulla9081]

Spot on review, forget the dirt mode, put it in rally number 3 or 4 for most dirt riding, 1 or 2 would be preferable for sand or dirt with not a lot of rocks. I love my 790R it impresses me every time I ride it, whether on street or dirt, thanks for the great review!

[@CodgerBiker]

As with the Tenere 700 review, this is the best review of the 790 Adv R I have seen (By far) - and I’ve seen them all! Brilliant, thank you 👍👍

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the lovely comment.

[@leadingedgetec1566]

I also respect and like the review... I want more though... It seemed like a KTM advertisement... I have heard of 790 issues with motor and electronics... None of this was mentioned. I still need more info. Im not a KTM hater... I have 3 currently... 500 xcw, 450 xcf, 1190 R. I know some of the issues and really want a bike that resolves those issues. It's handy to know the issues before purchasing.. ie: the safety functions reset..absolutely drives me nuts. And I havent found an aftermarket fix... no computer flash repair unfortunately. Anyway, I really do hope it's as good as you report... I will have one... just want all the bugs worked out and want to make sure the motor is reliable to stay. Thanks.

[@BackHurtsBad]

Pavey, where have you been all my life ? You have the best honest reviews in the world. Everything you explain and the way you do is as clear as it can be. Thank you ! Keep up the great job !

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the kind words. We'll keep plugging away 😁

[@disekjoumoer]

Very possibly the best review of this bike I've seen. Excellent.

[@terrydemuth4207]

Definately one of the best.

[@dominiqueroumieh9260]

Best review as usual Lel!! I took the 790 for an off-road ride 2 weeks ago. I have a GS 1200 LC and a KLR 650. I liked it sooo much. These are my impressions -Light weight that you feel it easily especially off-road. -Very comfortable ergonomics (sitting and standing position, shifting with Big Enduro boots, levers, Handelbar, foot pegs, windshield, etc.). -Very very capable and smooth 790cc engine (on/off-road).💪 - Very capable, soft and adjustable suspensions.💯 - Smooth and accurate Quick shifter. - Brakes system is so accurate. - Easy menu to navigate into through a great screen. - Fuel capacity and consumption are so fair for a similar engine. Like an experienced off-road friend said "the 790 Adventure R is a bike for everything".😉 I say that he is right! It's a motorcycle for Fun, for Rallye, for serious off-roading and for adventure.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I totally agree. I'd happily live with one.

[@phil2ride312]

How it would do with a passenger? I know its not a 1200gs, but..???

[@dominiqueroumieh9260]

@@phil2ride312 No idea but it can be acceptable I imagine.

[@Xavii1986]

@@phil2ride312 I have no issues neither does my Girlfriend so i think it's fine :)

[@chrissanford8467]

I agree with some of the other posters here - great review. Your observations are concise, fast-paced and pointed. Especially nice - no waffling, "you know's", "ers" or "ums." You should definitely be employed by some of the magazines that test adventure, enduro and off road bikes whose reviews I'm often tempted to fast forward.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I was... I worked as a freelance tester and still do on occassion :)

[@donlopez3185]

Very accurate review. I just hit 5k miles on my 790R and didn’t mind the fuel gauge showing empty after leaning on the kickstand with less than 1/2 tank, but mine just failed and is stuck on Empty. I’ll just stop for fuel at 220-240 miles until it gets fixed. That has been my only problem so far. I always ride in Rally mode, off-road ABS, street/ (or when Ready to Race) Rally throttle and TC 2-7. For long highway rides, cruise control is awesome. The only bike I would trade it for is the 790 Rally. Only negatives, some wind buffeting at high speed and 80 mph is really 75 on GPS. I would rather a 500 EXC or 690 on a motocross track, but for everything else the 790 is perfect. Plenty of power, even 2 up on highway and average 50-55 mpg.

[@FanOWater]

This is the best review of this bike yet. Most detailed, thorough and honest with its issues. You might not have noticed, but as an owner of an R model I have - the plastics scratch and scuff incredibly easy. I seem to have permanent 'dust brown' scuffs where my legs touch the bike when dirt riding. The rear stickers are not stuck on very well either. I'm sure they will start lifting soon. Concerning Rally mode - you have three throttle setting choices within Rally mode - Street, Rally and Offroad. i don't know about Rally mode, but Offroad mode does stay active after shutting the bike off. One point that I think should be emphasized is that it has tubeless tires. The ease of flat repair and the reduction in weight by dumping tubes and levers is a big benefit. That and cruise control are worth the additional cost over the Yamaha. Sometimes the awesome place you are headed is a long way off and giving my right hand a break is worth a lot of money. Cheers

[@BrakeMagazine]

Totally agree on both points. Regarding the plastics, get some custom stickers. A brand called SKDA make their dirt bike stickers for the 790 and it'll keep your bike looking good for longer. Dirt bike style plastics scuff easily, but crash well and are cheap as he'll to replace normally.

[@FanOWater]

@@BrakeMagazine Thanks. Will check them out. I put clear 3M tape on for now. Cheers

[@shameerhafeezullakhan3383]

That's one of the best reviews I've seen in a long time! Cheers!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@johnpark6138]

Great review - doesn't sound like a "press kit" review - but a real review! Thanks!

[@VAARRR1]

most complete, objective presentation, great work, thank you very much

[@pepcomas6941]

Excellent review. I promise i've been watching nearly all internet reviews of this bike using several languages , yours is the best by far . Congratulations , keep on whit this high honest and professional style

[@suppersready4you]

Great review, it answered all the questions I had regarding the 790 I am thinking on buying one of this very soon I owned an adv bike (GSA 1200) but I am looking a powerful lighter motorbike, and I think this is it Thanks and keep up with the great work and honest reviews

[@richreynolds3647]

Great review! I am ordering the 2021 model year, as soon as I can...

[@ktm690endurorally]

Weight full fuel is 212kg... bit heavier than I had hoped, but oh boy it’s a capable bike!

[@NiklasAdv]

its about how the weight is distributed, but you probably know it :D

[@1990-t1j]

Old review but I'm glad I've spotted it. First class review. This bloke knows what he's talking about. I used to ride a 950 Adventure in the mid-00s, then I had a Buell Ulysses. Since I moved to Thailand, I've been riding a 390 Duke which I'm going to keep, but the 790R is still being made in Southeast Asia so it's still available. They don't bother with this Euro 3/4/5 BS here. I will be the proud owner of two very good bikes. The only thing I don't like about these bikes is the TFT which looks like the same one on both. The font down the left-hand side is too small. I have subscribed.

[@michaelcaton9358]

Wow, Making a 200+kg bike look like a 100kg enduro bike in some of those clips. Respect to that!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks G 😁

[@AltoPrado]

189 kgs (Dry)

[@ronanrogers4127]

You should see me ride my 1290SA...I’m pretty good at making it look like a 380kg bike!

[@florinsi]

Marketing bullshit .... for indian orange low quality crap ...

[@kdkd693]

florinsi , says who. What do you ride?

[@robinrinnan]

Great review, top job! You can set it to throttle response “street” also while in rally mode and that fills the gap you missed in the review. Cheers

[@BrakeMagazine]

That's our favourite setting for technical riding. Sorry if I didn't explain that well.

[@שחףשחף-ע9ע]

Excellent coverage, best coverage I've seen. It was fun to watch your Chanel, special this one, continue like this. Big thumb up

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you!

[@jacobzimmerman3330]

Completely agree with most of the comments. Great review. Probably the best one I've watched on the 790 adv R. Well done.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for watching!

[@billiondollardan]

this is a well done review. I feel as if I understand the bike without ever having ridden one. Most reviewers don't communicate their impressions so well

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you!

[@LookattheBiggerPic]

I think everyone else who’s tested the 790 Adventure R have been afraid to say “this is quite possibly the best...” Thanks for saying that! Good insights and commentary as well as nice ride and drone footage - I appreciate your more professional rider viewpoint! Thanks so much for all you do! PS: even if I got one of these, I'd still likely keep my R1200GSA...

[@ritesideofthefence5857]

Great job, you have earned a new sub. Thank you for the awesome review.

[@bostondye3736]

"Lumpy" is such a good testing term referring to throttle response 👍

[@docgreen4934]

Really great and thorough review. Impressive bike too! Yours aye, Alan

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@Simon-pu9qg]

Feeling pretty happy with my purchase right about now, it really is a great bike for every situation! :) However I think you should have spent a bit more time playing around with the rider modes... I exclusively ride in the "Rally Mode" because ABS and traction control doesn't reset while in it, even after turning the ignition off. Also, you can be in Rally mode (giving you the adjustable traction control in nine levels) and have the throttle response set to "street" giving you a smooth bottom end and good midrange pull if you feel the offroad response is too weak. This is how I ride all the time and I adjust the traction control and ABS depending on the terrain. I have replaced my mirrors for foldable ones and I too have some big dents in my skid plate and will go after market or modify it soon. Personally I have some issues with turbulence from the windscreen but that might be related more to my helmet. Anyways, enjoying your content as usual so keep it up!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Hey, Thanks for the tips. We have one coming back for a project bike next week so I'll play about with it more. Thanks!

[@ryanspicer5430]

Fantastic detailed review what a top channel 👍

[@nk0surfer]

One of the best reviews out there, as always!! Keep up the great work!

[@fcsaldanha]

Hey there, having just ridden both the T7 and this bike, I must be honest, this price point is ridiculous and I don't think the 790 is that good, it heats up like a mofo and the ride isn't that confortable, if you are unsure which one to pick, go for the T7, you will get almost the same bike, but way cheaper. Anyways, good job on the review!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I really like the low gas tank on the KTM... I say that as I sit here with really sore ribs after hitting a Deer going 50 MPH on my Yamaha FZ-07 that had a GIVI Tank bag snapped on with a spring loaded ring.. The tank bag did pop off but my rib cage is really sore.. Bent forks bent radiator ect.. My FZ-07 runs fine on 87 Octane gas which is 60 cents per gallon cheaper than 92 Octane Premium. .. I think maybe the KTM requires 91 Octane or so .. In the USA they use the R=M dived by 2 method of Octane rating .. a lower number than Japanese numbers .. I don't know about Europe numbers.. I have very short legs too .. 29" inseam so the non R version of the KTM has a much lower seat then the T7 or 390 Adventure R

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Also I am a little disappointed with the passing power of my FZ-07 I really enjoyed the Power of the Indian FTR-1200 but would not be easy to add side cases to it as an adventure bike It also has a high seat height ..

[@Davmm96]

I'll still wait for the Husqvarna Norden to decide which one I'll get in a few years. It will maybe be a bit higher priced but the looks could be worth it.

[@boggy8557]

Great video! The thing I dont understand is , why would you buy this instead of a 1090R/1290R or a 350/450 EXC? I live quite far away from any trails so I bought a 1290R to also have fun on the roads to get to the trails. Downside, the 1290 is heavy and cumbersome offroad. If I lived closer and wanted to ride more challenging trails I would buy a full on enduro bike and have something light and capable for decent offroading. So, I'm struggling to see where the 790 fits in? The weight seems too much for challenging offroad, the power seems too low for road riding fun. Am I missing something?

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yes. Your misconception is that it's not good on road or good enough off-road. It's more than fast enough on road and the handling is better than the 1290 so it's more fun. Off Road it's awesome at everything but true enduro terrain but it can still do some of it!

[@stonethecrows5334]

Ive had a 790 Adventure R now for 2 weeks and this blokes review is spot on accurate. I brought it for mainly offroad and overall I think its a better bike than my older 950 super enduro. Great review mate.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@Arachnoid_of_the_underverse]

Just done another 2 days training on one, its a superb bike off road.

[@davidrsmith2417]

Great review! I am an old motorcyclist and have owned 18 different dirt or dual sport bikes, most recently an '18 R1200GS. A great sounding engine is part of a great motorcycle. That BMW boxer engine sounds great - deep and visceral. However, neither my DR650 nor my KLX250S have particularly sonorous engine / exhaust sounds. You never mentioned it, but how does the 790R sound to the rider?

[@Xavii1986]

Sounds nice with a Akrapovic without silencer, not obnoxiously loud. Only a tad loud in high revs. But you can really feel the bike! The engine produces high mechanical noise. The stock exhaust is to silent compared to that noise TBH

[@nicolasroy273]

Very good and honest review, I just bought this bad boy... can't wait to get it next week!!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Good choice! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@thesuperfunkomatic]

Excellent review. Other than my 2016 Africa Twin there haven't been a lot of bikes that have inspired me. This one really does. Thanks for your thorough review.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I thibk your be amazed how different it feels to an AT if you ride one too 😊

[@frontiermotoventures8824]

I run a AT and came off a 790 today, off road the 790 is very impressive the front end feels light compared almost like a dirt bike but on the highway give me my AT back.

[@MIKROBI219]

THE BEST motorcycle review I've ever seen. And this KTM - what a fantastic machine...

[@BrakeMagazine]

Wow, thanks! Glad you liked it!

[@railduke68]

Maybe I missed it, but did you try to change the throttle response to street while in rally mode?

[@twopot2009]

If things go to plan, swapping my 1090r for a 790r this week. Just finding the 1090r to heavy green laning. Your unbiased review has just confirmed what I was hoping.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm glad you find it unbiased :D Enjoy the change!

[@texnorthman]

Great review! That issue with the throttle response was why I avoided the 1290R when I was shopping for a big ADV bike. Tying throttle response and engine mappings to the traction and ABS settings is super annoying. On the R1200GS Rallye I could set Road and Off Road mode to have the same mapping and throttle response, but two very different suspension, ABS and traction control settings. Now I swapped my BMW for a KTM 690 Enduro R, and the electronics are a pain in the arse. I can either install a dongle, where I loose the cornering ABS but get the option to have front ABS only. Or I can leave the dongle out, and get the choice between all systems on, or turning ABS off completely, which as with the 790 resets after restarting the bike. And for the traction control I can either have it on, half off but with a slack throttle response, or all off. Want it half on with the same throttle response you normally have? Sorry, not possible. KTM suck at electronics unfortunately - at least from a user interface perspective.

[@Flyash001]

This is the best review I have seen of adventure bikes, thank you

[@sickunit2096]

Nice review and nice riding. Does this bike compare to the 950 Adventure in any way, or are they completely different animals?

[@ricardomastroieni334]

That would be interesting.

[@jj_infotainment]

Compared to the Africa twin 2020 which one do you pefer? And why??

[@James-cz8qj]

Great review as always. Watched your video on tbe Vstrom 650xt. Looking for your pick between the 2 for long tour with little off road riding. Siding to the Ktm for all its electronics features but riding comfortability, which would be better? Thanks & keep the great videos coming.

[@RedRupert64]

Great review. The best. Use the trip meter as your fuel gauge. I like the mirrors because they work well and remind me of my 950 Adventure! 😊

[@DidiervL]

great review! where was this filmed? makes me even more motivated to get my first adventure bike, and come over! :D

[@thomasrosenwirth7035]

I thought getting the offroad dongle (keeps settings after restart) but started trying Rally mode with slip 1-5 offroad. No offroad dongle needed!!

[@anxiousappliance]

What a great, thoughful and informative review. Many thanks

[@BrakeMagazine]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@yagian]

You guys do the best reviews. Thanks for such a detailed and understandable breakdown of the pros/cons of this bike.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you. Very appreciated.

[@reeller9]

In rally mode you can choose between 3 throttle responses: off-road, street, rally. From most gentle to most aggressive. So I don’t think that part about choosing between off-road or rally mode is true. You can stick with rally mode and just choosing the throttle response and I think what Llel was looking for is this street throttle response in rally mode.

[@henrikforsberg683]

Great review! I really like how you analyse the bikes behaviour and how it feels in different situations! Lots of small details, excellent! But i dont like the “transformers”-looking plastic on this bike, so i hope i will like the tenere better! ;)

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm not a fan of the headlight either but I think it grows in person.

[@jimenagulla9081]

Bike is much more appealing in person.

[@Advdna]

A great review of the 790R. Im waiting for mine to arrive and am excited to ride a few BDR's this coming year. I was brought up in South Wales and visited Tirabad many times! Living in Calgary Canada now and its great to see the narrow Tirabad mountain roads, and that wet wet welsh rain! Were the RED flags flying when you did the review? Cheers Al

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yup, they never stop flying!

[@Advdna]

You should come to Canada and review the NEW Timbersled ARO 3 Snowbike kit in the Canadian Rockies. Ill show you the "Tirabad of the Canadian Wilderness

[@rbrtmllr]

The fuel gauge on my 2012 F800GS was roughly the same. It did read from full to empty, but it wasn't linear, so it's not easy to know exactly where 1/2 or 1/4 is. I learned to trust the trip odometer and only read the gauge for the last 40 km or so.

[@nev357]

Have owned 790R for one month and now selling it. Keeping my 1290R.

[@TheJaxsonjack]

How come? I'm curious to hear why?

[@nev357]

@@TheJaxsonjack It didn't make me feel special like my 1290R does. I set up my DR650 to suit me relatively cheap and is far nicer to ride offroad. The 790R is a really good bike but I couldn't see where it was going to fit in with my riding.I also didn't like the rear wheel, it seemed to have a mind of its own. I have since purchased a ktm 350 exc-f as my lite weight single track bike. I have 1290R, DR650, 350 EXC F, Kingquad 750.

[@TheJaxsonjack]

@@nev357 Wow! That's a lot of bikes! I'm a noob to dirt bikes. In fact, I've never ridden one. I've an HD Road Kind I put about 6500 miles on per year and I'm an avid cross country mountain biker ... if those experiences count for anything. I currently trying to determin what would be the best fit for me: Dual Sport or Adventure Bike. I'm about 40 minutes from some a State Recreation Area with a really nice singletrack / trail system. In between there's tarmac and gravel along the way. I've been considering, "on paper", the choices between KTMs' EXC-F 500 Dual Sport vs the 790R. I've looked into other brands as well and really haven't reading much in the way of negatives from *any* of the Japanese offerings when it comes to Dual Sports. I've also considered the Africa Twin, as my local HD sells Hondas as well (although the AT may be too big/heavy of a bike for singletrack). Obviously you have bikes in garage that I'm sure do some things better than other when it comes to distance riding, gravel, and dirt. Since you replied, I'd certainly be interested in your take on things. Appreciate your reply. So, to the question: If you had one bike to do tarmac, gravel, and singletrack, what would it be?

[@nev357]

@@TheJaxsonjack That's simple....THE MIGHTY DR650 it does it all while looking after your wallet. If I could only own one bike, that would be it without hesitation.

[@nev357]

@@TheJaxsonjack You will regret buying an Africa Twin, it's a tourer like my 1290R. The EXC 500f is a weapon. It would be my choice if I was going around the world. 350 exc f is a better option for noobs. Easy to pick up and wont kill you.

[@ricardocuetara1]

Excellent review! Thank you.

[@handsomethief5931]

I have put 6000kms in South Africa 4000 kms in 3 months of these are in loose gravel, rocky roads off track and it’s like cheating , it is so good and forgiving and dies whatever you ask it well !! Love it love it (Karoo 3 is good enough ) explore

[@venturerv6851]

This is an outstanding review of the 790 Adventure R - The video production quality is excellent and the content is spot on, following the thought process that many potential owners will have - extremely well done.... PS What is the make and model of the helmet on the stand? - Richard NZ

[@soulriderleo]

Great review and it just confirms my decision to buy one next month. But I was wondering when you were talking about the RALLY mode & the OFFROAD mode not being consistent or solidified? You never mentioned that in RALLY mode, you have 9 levels of adjustment that control the attack and real wheel response, which really affects gravely road or slippery areas?? Thanks anyway. Can't wait for mine to come in :-)

[@BrakeMagazine]

We messed up on that front. Can confirm Rally mode is great and adjsutable traction control is too.

[@WarrenLee]

What brand / model helmet is that behind you? Please make a review on it. Your reviews are really good 👍

[@szatanica1]

I’ve just finished the test ride on the S version and I’m really super surprised! It feels sooooo light I couldn’t belive it. Comparing to F850GS it’s like a gazelle to an elephant! Lowering the tank was brilliant. The ride was super smoooth, it had no issues at alll (i’ve reached 160km), I had double the confidence on dirt (and the bike had regular road tires), the seat was on a lower position so I had just enough hight to be comfortable (although If I was to buy it I would still use the lowering kit as I’m 165cm). High shield protected very well from the wind although I had the same issue with the beak on my helmet that made those shakes pretty irritating at times, handlebards are very big, great TFT display, great breaks, and the engine is brilliant, so super smooth, I love the KTM roaring sound on the low end. The gears are great, not to long, not too short, setting up the mirrors can be done with one finger and I think I had different ones on the bike that you did (as opposed to GS, which requires a lot of force), it has a navigation mount and a cigarette plug. I do have however these issues: - standing position is just nightmare! The pegs are too highly placed and too close to the bike, the seat is too wide which causes me to round my legs and bend my knees like I’m on a horse. Also they touch the seat a bit below the knee, and it begun to hurt a bit after awhile.This will not work for a long offroad ride, no chance. My muscles got tired after only 15 minutes... Weird. Also the hight of the handlebars are too low for standing: I was bowing like a Japanese jakuza member. Risers needed asap, otherwise say goodby to your lower back. How are you tall guys are handling it, I don’t know... - the suspension is hard as a brick. And it’s not adjustable (on version S!!, R is adjustable) so it will need some money to set this up the way I’d like it if possible at all - the seat is a wooden paddle, seriously. I cannot imagine seating on it for 300-400km, not in this lifetime - the heat from the engine goes straight into the sides of your legs, and it was bothering me, even though it was only 20 deg. C outside! I can’t imagine what happens when I go to Georgia or Middle East and it’s 40...! O_o Those issues can be real problems as I don’t see a simple way of overcoming those, and the bike already is very pricey, so these could be deal breakers for me. I’m looking forward to 390 ADV. It could be a game changer, although I must say 790 has enormous amount of potential.

[@edgeyt1]

Give this a read if you want know how the 790 S copes on long trips. advrider.com/f/threads/madrid-nyc-mongolia-solo-on-a-ktm-790-adventure.1378256/

[@BrakeMagazine]

Please don't take this comment as patronising, it's entirely meant to be helpful. From your description it sounds like the issues you're having are relative to how you're standing on the bike. The standing position on the 790 is very 'dirtbikes like and good technique is paramount to finding comfort. As a tall guy, you can find comfort on literally ANY sized bike, without risers by have a good riding position. I don't have a strong lower back, Yet, like most from a Dirt bike background I want my handlebars low for more control and a lower centre of gravity. We did a how to video on good basic standing position that you can find on our channel page. Thanks for watching and I hope this helps you in your ridibg. Llel

[@szatanica1]

Brake Magazine No, by all means, say what you think, it’s where the value is, I appreciate it. While I do not concider myself a harcore dirt rider, I do own Yamaha WR250R, which I utilised for dirt purposes, I’ve done dozens of training sessions (including one in Heschlingen in A BMW enduro park), so I’d say a know a bit. And I know what it feels like to ride standing on a GS, WR or many others I tried, the 790 is extremly strange to me. I feel completely out of place which no other bike caused me to feel ever. I’ve been actualy asking around last couple of day about this, watched all the vids on YT about 790 looking for clues, but I have not once heard anyone mentioning this issue, which doubles the weirdness of the situation. Thanks for the tip, I do have an idea who to take this issue to (he’s a GS Trophy winner, so I’d say he knows his shit:P). We’ll see. If you have any other ideas, links, suggestion, please, share. :)

[@wilfmoss5242]

@@szatanica1 this is probably too late but... I have a 790R and I'm quite tall so the handlebars were definitely too low for me when standing... Like you describe, I was bent down and it felt wrong... But you can rotate the handlebars upwards and it makes a big difference... Now it's perfect

[@didac106]

great review as always!! direct competitor I don't see the Tenere, but the 850GS ADV. You should make a detailed review about it as well...sick bike

[@BrakeMagazine]

Interesting. I've ridden the 850 GS (not adventure) a lot and it's very different. We might have a littlw group test coming at the end of the Year 😏

[@didac106]

@@BrakeMagazine is it? nice to hear that...you should do a comparison then as comparing this to the Tenere is not very fair lets face it. How is the Dakar preparation going, are you guys still on it??

[@RobbieKiama]

@@BrakeMagazine How would you compare the 2, I feel they are direct competitors. But your comment makes me think differently :)

[@rhugh02]

Just picked up my new 24' 790. My new bike experience was a bit disappointing as the bike came with a thimble amount of fuel. I was worried I wouldn’t make it to the nearest gas station 1 mile away. Halfway home I noticed the clutch was way out of adjustment (too loose) and the lever was pulling into the switch gear housing which was also loose and out of position. OK, not the end of the world fixed everything when I got home, but DAMN.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yeah, that's a thing.

[@Redspath]

Great review! This is the year I'll finally get one!

[@graysonchurch262]

If you had the choice of a 790r second hand ( say about £ 9k) or a Yamaha t700 with ohlins or rally raid suspension for around the same price, which would you choose and why? The bias for use will be off road mixed tet and single track etc plus long trips to Morocco etc. I’ve watched both your reviews for the 790 and t7 and they are by far the most detailed, fair and accurate reviews I’ve seen, well done!! Plus of course, if you and your dad are testing stuff then you have buckets of experience to call on which is great👌🏼

[@BrakeMagazine]

So this is a complex question. I would never assume that aftermarket suspension is good to start with. It's very easy to make suspension crap with adjustment! Setup is important. On a personal level I don't know what I'd choose. The Yamaha with better suspension sounds like a great bike and it's really pretty. The motor is very good at low RPM too. The only carrot that KTM has is the tech. I like the digital display, optional cruise control and the low fuel tank for not needing crash protection. If I was you, I'd pick the pretty one and then buy some of the graphics we're about to release 🤣

[@simonecasadio930]

Great review. Very clear explications, as always.

[@RedRupert64]

Ace. Concis. Just the job. Thanks 👍😊

[@prvdubai]

You have given an open and honest review . Thanks for the same. Is to good for on road too? I'm planning for a tour, would you recommend this model ? Also can you pls give a review for the 1290 too. Thanks again for the great review. Happily subscribed

[@BrakeMagazine]

1290 review is done and coming in September. Yes, it's a fantastic road going bike.

[@AyoHues]

Lol. Glad to see the official KTM accessory heated grips switch is still around after all these years! Alibaba indeed. I like to think of it as the equivalent of Maserati’s signature analogue dashboard clock. 😂

[@BrakeMagazine]

😂😂😂

[@SCORPASRULE]

Another awesome, informative, and well constructed test. Well done Llewelyn, loved it 👊🏻😎👍🏻🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks Mark!

[@e.s.5529]

wow dude what ah hella of a review !! really nice job .

[@BrakeMagazine]

Glad you enjoyed 🙂

[@MichaelFitzpatrick17]

Great, in-depth review

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@Advcrazy]

Great review!! Can you briefly compare the ride and handling if this bike vs my old 950adventute? I absolutely loved that bike and took it through outback Australia for weeks at a time a few times and it never failed to impress me. But I can’t help but wonder if the slightly lower weight of the 790 would make it even better out there!

[@BrakeMagazine]

In three weeks time, yes. We're doing a comparison tomorrow.

[@nimrod6603]

Great review Lel!👍🏻 How would you rate this bike against the 690 enduro R?

[@frontiermotoventures8824]

I've ridden both and the added weight of the 790 is worth dealing with, unless you don't plan on putting any distance and basically want a big dirt bike.

[@nimrod6603]

Yeah, that’s my biggest concern for offroad. As an adventurebike there’s lots to like about the 790. That weight difference keeps me wondering however, wheather I should go for the 690. I have the 1290 SAS now, which is a fun bike, but it’s such an overkill on backroads. I would prefer something lighter with some offroad capability. The problems of life......😂

[@BrakeMagazine]

Agreed.

[@neil9768]

@@nimrod6603 I've got a 690 Enduro R and I just picked up the 790. The 690 will be my hardcore dirt machine, while the 790 will do dirt/travel.

[@nimrod6603]

Hi Neil, Just testrode them both today. I like them both very very much! Much more so than my 1290. And that surprised me greatly. I came away with a new 790R because it does everything, but if I were to ride only locally or lots of offroad, I would have bought the 690. What a lovely engine, what perfect fueling😄 Wind protection is none and saddle way too hard. The 790 has it all. Everything well balanced. The 690 a little more of a fun bike for me. I think you just handed me the perfect solution; I will have to buy both😄👍🏻

[@Eastern_SA]

Any issues with the the 790 so far? Oil leaks or overheating? Any recalls?

[@BrakeMagazine]

A few, like any bike. There is a really good website. Goggle 790 problems. It's a list of issues basically.

[@BillCairns]

Good fair review.... might be worth reviewing there Reliability next year !.... there is a definite clutch problem, the bike is chewing them up. If you are lucky and catch it you can avoid a costly full rebuild. This is not acceptable for a Adventure Bike 🙈 Keep up the good work 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks.

[@bendyer6885]

My question is Is the Ktm worth the extra £3500 over the Yamaha? Great review 👍

[@BrakeMagazine]

No.

[@yipman214]

@@BrakeMagazine We comparing this to the tenere?

[@mikeskidmore6754]

That depends if you like Electronic gadgets a lot or prefer analog .. if you want 25 more HP and are willing to pay much more for Premium grade gas.. but for me the best feature of the KTM is lower center of Gravity with the low gas tank as I am a very short rider.. 29" inseam

[@zzim2853]

how is it the tenere is coming to canada at $13000 area, close to the same as the 790, but elsewhere everyone says its.3500 less. In north america that means the yami will be less than a honda crfL 450 or less than a motorcross dirt bike. The numbers do not make sense here for us. Has someone actually bought the tenere for this price or is it just the word right now? guess we will wait and see here in america's. Is the tenere set to be sold for the same price as the honda 450crfl in europe? It doesn't compute. Why would every other bike follow the same pricing in america but not the tenere?

[@GallicGarlic]

Good question actually.. what about a comparison where one would add options on the Yam’ to make it more comparable to the KTM..

[@bobmcgrath1272]

Good review. Any chance of reviewing the AJP PR7?

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yes. When we figure out where to get one 😂

[@andreborges3849]

Brake Magazine I can give you their contacts. I’m from Portugal and I know they have just started distribution in the UK.

[@alvarhansetun4267]

Well narrated review, and a nice voice to listen ...great!

[@mieszkooracz7370]

What a review? I am amazed! Subscribed.

[@serdarozaydiner]

Thanks for a very informative and enjoyable review....

[@BrakeMagazine]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@KyriakosSoul]

Ktm 790 adventure 2023? What's your opinion in middle weight category?

[@tshansen]

I'm kind of colored by this by myself. But this was actually a really good review :-) Own the bike, love the bike and really hope to see the marked get more of this kind of ADV bikes for more competition :-) Cheers

[@jonberlin6131]

Excellent review!

[@stevec9959]

Excellent review. I want one!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@EdVenture547]

You explained the frustrating ssue with the bike defaulting back into road abs and traction control when in Rally mode with TC and ABS all turned off.... you stop/stall/ idle and they come back on to interfere with your ride. Checking radiator fluid level is an issue as u cannot trust looking at the overflow bottle, very poorly system! Regards EdVenture 547

[@marcusdehep3834]

I enjoyed the video and your enthusiasm. I wish you all the best with the magazine and hope that the funding model supports your great effort. It is in this spirit that I offer a suggestion for your future presentations; reduce the use of the word ‘really’, which happened 70 times between 0:00 and 22:00. (Yes, I know, I should ‘get a life’). I am not trying to be a smart###...I would love to see you go from strength to strength.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks Marcus! I'll work on it 😊

[@aalokinamdar3579]

Awesome video! Request you guys to do a review video of ktm 390 adventure!

[@miamijag]

Excellent and entertaining review

[@mts982]

You should do a video of fixing the aspects of the bike that are bothersome to you, with costs for parts and labor. just a thought.

[@BrakeMagazine]

We'll ask KTM. 😏

[@jimenagulla9081]

For me there are no aspects that should be fixed? I put on a set of real lever protectors, and a enlarged foot for the side stand and have just been riding and loving this bike. I have had no issues with anything yet, only have 1,500 miles and its been a great experience.

[@zzoloss]

Thanks for a comprehensive honest review. Kind regards from Jordan 😍 Rami Khalaf

[@BrakeMagazine]

My pleasure

[@gerrygodden8051]

Great great job, I really like your explanation. Well done. 👍

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks Gerry.

[@Speedytrip]

Great review. In terms of suspensions, I can't think of another company that nails it every, single, time.

[@JeanRolandQUASTANA]

Very honest review. Thanks.

[@dougiequick1]

ideally should have fuel sensor in both "tanks" and give a composite reading between them

[@BrakeMagazine]

Agreed, but they probably don't want to because of the weight.

[@chestergood0068]

I have heard that Honda will be coming out with their Africa twin 850 in 2021, think I'll wait for it.

[@frontiermotoventures8824]

True on the cheap switch, it reminded me or the freeride that I mistakenly bought for my girlfriend (that bike was garbage) I destroyed my pal's mirror on his 790 in a few short minutes so he is happy that ill be paying for his upgrade. When is the 790 vs 700 review taking place? I'm assuming after riding the 790 that it's going to be the top dog in the dirt but I'm wondering by how much.

[@BrakeMagazine]

We're planning a bike of the year group test in December with this and a couple of other bikes we really rate. 😊

[@frontiermotoventures8824]

@@BrakeMagazine excellent I feel like I will get a no bullshit review from you guys, good work.

[@koejoe]

Thanks for the video.. Can't wait for the Yamaha review! Wish Honda had a slightly smaller Africa Twin.

[@BrakeMagazine]

The Yamaha review is already out. Check out the videos on our channel.

[@xeeded]

Ha, funny that Honda decided to upsize.