Test 2017 KTM1090 Adventure R

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I've also recently tested the KTM1290 Super Adventure R. Another great bike in the KTM range, not quite as dirt oriented as this one, but bloody close. Here is the link to the test kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWHRZ5uhqJh0o7M

[@qwertyqwerty-cx8qn]

what is the maximum speed on the highway(speedway)? for such wheels for KTM 1090 Adventure R

[@MacawAviculture]

After watching Adam Riemann on the KTM 1090R videos posted on his YT channel, I decided to buy a 2017 model. Added the KTM rally pegs seen in this vide, a Rekluse auto clutch, a Yoshimura exhaust, a Rade Garage headlight setup, Scott's steering damper, and complete Powercell intake system. The bike came with a center stand installed by the previous owner. For my riding style and skill level, this bike is perfect for both fast pavement rides, and easier off-road trails. I would never consider a newer 790/890/1290 because of all the problems related to their computer-driven electronics or their hideous front headlight. Another great video, thanks for sharing your amazing research!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

That’s a great list of upgrades, thank you for sharing!

[@nicolassolberg5652]

Best dirt-oriented 1090 R review I've seen. Thanks mate.

[@rideforrestride]

The best motorcycle review I have seen in weeks! CHEERS great work!

[@ThisTall]

I’ve seen 100 reviews of this bike since I first seen this video and there’s a ton of good ones but this is a whole other level.

[@jefforegon2916]

This 1090R is about blind LUST for the one thing that it does do better than any other adventure twin made today....play hard off-road for those that like the volume cranked UP. It's comfort, maintenance issues, design faults and other compromises obviously make other bikes "better".....for others....that care about such things.

[@ThisTall]

Considering you own one. What design flaws and maintenance issues in the 1090 are you referring to? Like my comment if you want a reply.

[@offroadtrailrider77]

Great review. I test rode both the 1290r and 1090r at a ktm demo day in texas. I prefer the 1090r. looking forward to getting one and explore the western usa.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I think our American ADV riders will love this bike for exploring the north west of your magnificent country.

[@Kaegis]

What did you like more about the 1090R?

[@aukanmeister]

I totally agree on the suspension, Dave! One can really tell R&D with WP has done brilliantly on this one. A really big step up from the 9xx. Tried it against my 12yr old 950. I was able to keep a lot higher speed over the "bottoming out" bumps. And yet plush and comfy on the road, without tinkering with the settings. Really impressive, and a gamechanger in this class! But I´m still in love with my "new" carbed 990 engine. That is where the 1090 was least impressive compared to mine. I like the snappy, but controllable super strong bottom end on the old engine better. The 1090 was smooth as silk, but needed some revs to get my heart pumping :)

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Yay, Paul, someone who has ACTUALLY ridden the 1090 and then commented. There's a heap of bench racers and the closest they've come is to have possibly read a magazine about it and then they talk through their arse and imply I'm biased because I've raved about it. In terms of engine grunt, I think there's no doubt your 950 will have more punch. But that's not much use out in the Australian Outback when fuel is scarce. They tell me the KTMs are very hard to push in sand :) Great to hear from you.

[@bkbenelli]

Don't mind the creepy storm trooper on the other side of the river 1:51

[@MrDuhfactor]

Wow!! Fantastic! Couldn't give up my 990 for any of the heavy weights, but now? What a great looking bike for those that like the more aggressive off road riding areas. Great review!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Nope, I've had to 990s. You'll be giving you 990 up for the 1090. No doubt :)

[@andrewseeber1190]

Got me thinking now and I own a well sorted 1190R.

[@hmwatchs8]

Great video as usually thank you for cheering, I want to move to Australia seeing this videos .:)

[@wfodavid]

Now that you've ridden the 1090/1290, would you consider the 790 with what little we know about it so far? I'm an off-road racer that has just gotten into this about a year ago and purchased a 500 EXC. Wanting a bit more street capable (read comfortable).

[@JJLalas]

This is clearly the only option capable of replacing my trustworthy and rock solid 990 adventure. I don't even want to get close to one of those beauties...but I'm attending Spain's KTM Days in a week...I'm screwed ;)

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

You are screwed my friend. As soon as you sit on one and move it from side to side you will know. Don't start it up and DEFINITELY don't ride it on the dirt :) . It's just soooooo good.

[@jefforegon2916]

Agreed; you are screwed. I bought my 990Adv brand new in '07 and wore it out riding it so hard for 11 years and 75k dirty miles. I bought the 1090 new 5k miles ago and I am blown away at how much better it is than my awesome 990. The 1090 handles better, faster, easier and safer in all riding circumstances. It is a HUGE improvement off road. The electronics work surprisingly well in off road modes and I use them regularly. This new bike makes my great bad-road rides significantly more fun, and noticeably more comfortable and easier than on my 990. BTW, I never considered the 1290R, AT, nor any other bike to replace my tired 990. The 1090R choice was clear, since I had no patience to wait for a 790R!

[@ThisTall]

AJ ADV did you get to test ride the 1290 at least?

[@LookattheBiggerPic]

Really nice indepth review, lots of details and good ride footage, very inspiring - nicely done!

[@adventurekevin9409]

Excellent video as usual. Please keep em coming.

[@DaddyEric222]

For the Americans out there, that is about 37-38 MPG.

[@johnramsayskier]

Eric Fling appreciate it, I am your typical lazy American and did not want to make the conversion

[@cheatunion]

do a comparison against africa twin please

[@moulin680]

I would like to see that too and I guess it's 1290 and 1200 GS

[@kennethvernonprivate]

Yes....This was my thought as well. I haven't ridden either but had a sit on both at our last moto show and the KTM just felt better??!! If you do have a go at the AT I'd love to here your thoughts. I have narrowed my search down to the two.....Thanks again for the outstanding video and editing. All your efforts are very much appreciated...All the best from CANADA eh!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I asked for a Honda Africa Twin for months. They are not interested.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I may be getting an Africa Twin through a different path in a couple of weeks, but don't hold your breath.

[@cheatunion]

I'm holding it lol

[@apcrally2011]

I hope someone brings it to the advx 17 Bris to Capeyork. We have a course that is the ultimate test for a bike. WIth twice the distance covered than any other organised event in terrain that is wild. I doubt many will take photos or get drone videos because they will simply be in survival mode. This ride is really unknown to the ride community because the track from Brisbane to Cairns only very few have ever done it. With tour operators using the same tracks many riders now have done the same tracks about 4 times on different events.Lads if your doing the advx get ready for battle. There's a couple of days that are harder than the Simspon in my opinion. The 990 had 5 cracks in the rear sub frame , I have thrown away two rims and the body is still feeling sore. Adventure is often not easy.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Come on APC don't spam my site without at least speaking to me. :) many people love you rides so I'll leave this one.....this time.

[@hesigutjo]

I'd really like to see a midweight adventure bikes comparison, not rockets! XD

[@robinsongguitars]

Nice video. I recently purchased a lightly used 1090R. You mentioned upgraded suspension near the beginning of the video. What did you have done? thx

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Upgraded from previous 1190, a cupping mechanism that prevents suspension falling through the stroke.

[@robinsongguitars]

@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Who makes that cupping mechanism and what is it? I have worked on suspension for many years. Was that for the forks or the shock? I found the stock suspension (forks and shock) in need of serious work. Thx again.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

@@robinsongguitars that is standard on all ktm adventure bikes since that model forward and it's just got better. Look it up on the KTM site it is a feature of the bikes.

[@iivaridark6850]

Nice video and well said! After watching Rainer ride 1090 it loolked like it is not a bit lesser bike than the 1190 was in reality and everyday use, but this video gets one thinking there is much development been going on. Good!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I would suggest a truck load of development. I've heard the KTM engineers came out and rode with some our best riders in the Victorian High Country to get their head around, how we ride and the what we, the broader adventure community, need. But let's be clear, this bike has not evolved from the 1190. It might have it's roots there, but there is a huge difference between the two bikes. You've only got to sit on an 1190 then 1090 to see and feel that.

[@totalglitch]

So would this bike be honestly better then the Yamaha T7? I found a 2017 with 500 miles on it for 11500? Too high or worth the price? Thanks for the codeo

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Great bike with great suspension straight out of the box.

[@3rdworldgwaming467]

i wonder how the Honda african twin compares to this....ktm adventure is a gr8 bike but a bit pricey compared to the twin for me....tht & i have more maintenance options after purchase with the Honda....thts the trick to selling a bike....having a good amount of service outlets for the customer

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

You really need to do the maths when you say pricey. Think through what you are getting. You have to compare apples with apples.

[@3rdworldgwaming467]

Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV the thing is the price tag for the Africa twin is very low in my country compared to its competitors like triumph tiger,BMW,ducati multistrada & so on...wenever the price is low I always start wondering where the manufacturer cut corners to keep it low...I'll be trying to get a test ride for the Africa twin this week & my priority is off roading...If I like it I might just buy it cos it's price is quite low compared to the triumph tiger which I finalised on

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

There's is an enormous variance in what each brand is providing for the price and you've going to have your calculator out. It's a great time for cashed up middle aged adventurers. In the coming 12 or so months another bunch of outstanding bikes are going to land. It's great having so much variety and choice.

[@adlippymtb]

Great review what's it like on the highway?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Excellent

[@darrenfitzpatrick9518]

Thanks mate for speedy reply and yet another amazing vid , do they just sit on as l can't see any extra pannier brackets

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

You get an exhaust guard to fit with them. Have a look at the Giant Loop internet site to see fitting. But they are very easy to adjust to get them just right. My step are, 1. sling over your bike and get the pannier width correct with the velcro strip. 2. fit exhaust protector loosely 3. move panniers to the rear. 4. connect straps to pillion pegs, or there about (they are long so you have lots of flexibility. 5. connect panniers to the rear of the bike, usually through the little luggage rack and pull back tight. 6. if you have pannier racks then I weave the pannier side straps through them. 7 most importantly make sure there is movement backwards or forwards.

[@BadLuckRJ]

Great review.

[@Josefselvadek]

Great video and riding ! What about heating from the engine ? That was a big concern on the 1190. What's it like for the 1090 ? Any improvement ? Thanks (y)

[@toddbenfield6546]

Giuseppe Zoppetti still hot!

[@iSlanderEST]

When I rode the 1090, the suspension setup was so bad, that bike actually bottomed out on gravel road... But we didn't have time to setup the suspension correctly, we had only about 20 minutes to ride... And my damn camera failed after 5 minutes of recording it :D

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I don't know why people fiddle with suspension setting when they're on the bike for very limited periods of time. I can only assure you the suspension is outstanding.

[@iSlanderEST]

My guess is that they just wanted to see what know does what and didn't bother to set it back. KTM dealer here doesn't want to allow more than 20 minutes on the bike, if you want more than that, then you need to rent the bike (which isn't very cheep)

[@islanddreaming8591]

AFAIK - I'm gonna be the first person gutsy enough to say the non-macho comment of : " I wish the 1090 had the TFT display and LED headlight of the 1290 .., actually to me its a bit of a piss-off that it doesn't "

[@K2shadowfax]

Dear Santa...

[@Dazza-u4c]

Great video mate.

[@qwertyqwerty-cx8qn]

what is the maximum speed on the highway(speedway)? for such wheels for KTM 1090 Adventure R

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

don't know

[@andrewseeber1190]

Good test.Are you sure the 1090 flywheel is not lighter rather than heavier?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Heavier crank

[@andrewseeber1190]

8:35, Not what Rob says.He also stated at the KTM Rally that it had a lighter flywheel and some engine internals. That's where some of the weight savings came from?

[@andrewseeber1190]

Bit more research. Seems it has a lighter crank but heavier flywheel.A little bit 6 to 1 half a dozen to the other.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I can only go of what I was told. Like you half a dozen of the other, BUT the important thing is that it is noticeably different to the 1190 and more tractable down low.

[@DCCLourens]

As much as the Africa Twin would be more affordable, I can't help but say that this bike has a better overall package than the Africa Twin.

[@andrewseeber1190]

Not by much. $ that is.

[@glenmckay3384]

Hey bud, whats the go with the flashing front headlight? i can't figure out how to get mine to do that. Cheers

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

It has to with the frequency of filming frames per second. You can't naturally see it.

[@Barneys_lens]

Given a choice with your own dollars. 1190R or a 1090R??

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

1090 R, absolutely no question for the dirt oriented adventuring I do.

[@Theecjsmith]

Do you think it's more capable then the 690?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Right now, because I still enjoy big singles, I'd prefer an adventurised Husky 701. But in terms of twins the suspension on the 1090 really is fantastic. I should be riding the Honda Africa Twin in about three weeks from now if the moons align.

[@darrenfitzpatrick9518]

Gday Dave , just bought me self this beast , and Wow 😎, which model saddle back from GL are those they look the business

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Siskiyou Panniers and they fit beautifully on the 1090

[@ThisTall]

Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV ya those foot bags look SOO much better then the hard Panniers in my opinion.

[@bayselec]

Do the panniers you had on need any special racks fitted to the bike?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

No, there just a muffler guard that comes with the bag that is easily fitted. They fix to the passenger foot pegs and the rear rack. The are made by Giant Loop, one of my sponsors. The model is called Siskiyou Panniers.

[@cameronmorgan4585]

Great review, thanks!

[@billhorn6840]

What sagger babes are you using? The orange ones

[@TomasLonGo]

Hey guys! I know this is probably a weird request, but how does the T7 compare to this? I'm the owner of a T7 and I love the thing to bits, but it feels a little lackluster in longer road travels (I travel a lot with a passanger), and I was thinking about trading it for a 1090r with low Kms, but i can't seem to find any good comparison videos to help me make up my mind. Care to lend a hand? Cheers!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

1090 is an excellent bike as my review pointed out. Great engine, great suspension. A better bike than the T7 and I own a T7

[@williamstones1773]

@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I was wondering the same thing as I am wanting better suspension and a bigger tank than what my T7 has, without the need to redo everything...plus a bit more power will never go astray!

[@ThisTall]

Would you take the 1090 on a 2000km rd trip all paved? Or would you just be regretting not having the 1290 the whole time?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I'm a dirt oriented adventurer, that's why I continue to own a 690. Both bikes are exceptional, but I would love the 1290 on the pavement.

[@muertinix]

I wonder how the 1290super adventure r would compare.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I will be riding the 1290 in the coming month, all going well.

[@muertinix]

Great! Looking forward to it :D

[@darrenfitzpatrick9518]

Brill , thanks again mate

[@ombra306]

Love the greek accent, and the bike!

[@LO-to2ek]

Big Lez is that you?

[@billhorn6840]

How did you break in your new bike?

[@JoeJoeMoto]

Damn mate! You know how to sell a machine!! Really did seem like an awesome bike though hey.

[@SickBikeDude]

Ive heard this engine gets hot - did you find that to be true? - if so, is it annoying to you at all? - thanks👍🏻

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I've heard that, but I didn't notice it.

[@samtoshner8002]

How's the heat on your feet? I rode my buddy's 1190 in the desert - I thought my feet were going to be literally cooked.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Nope, I didn't notice that at all. It did have a carbon graphite exhaust guard.

[@samtoshner8002]

Good to know. It was so bad on his it would be a deal breaker for me.

[@cabrassobreruedas]

very nice

[@AdventureMotoEnduro]

sold i want it dave ,

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Yep, it's a game changer.

[@chainsawversustree]

Do you do Blue Rag on it ?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Yes.

[@skipperjackful]

hows it compare to KTM 990 adv r?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I have had to 990s. Shit's all over the 990.

[@ThisTall]

I honestly fear for KTM with this level of R&D. like they’re going to go bust overnight suddenly. The next 2 leading brands combined aren’t doing 10% of the R&D KTM is each year. Nor do they have 1/2 the models in there lineup. I hope they’re sustainable.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

KTM put a tremendous effort into R&D. I've had the pleasure of visiting the factory on two occasions and there is a positive buzz in that place. Their manufacturing processes were inefficient, so strategically it's good they're moving manufacture of some models to India and China. I'm confidant these big moves will secure their future as will there slow but steady move into asian markets.

[@ThisTall]

Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV interesting, are you aware of which models they plan to move to China?

[@Beerzy]

What Giant Loop paniers are you running? They look like a perfect fit.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Sisikyou

[@Goldinils]

4:00 stand up!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Yes, I agree.

[@piotrcan_am7631]

beautiful .. but I can only dream

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

One of my best adventures was on a Bajaj Pulsar 220. You don't need a fancy bike to have a great adventure.

[@piotrcan_am7631]

Maybe someday .. Dreams are there to strive to make them come true .. Best from Poland

[@gpmo317]

I really enjoy your videos but sometimes I feel like it should be called "KTM Motorcycle Adventure TV". The review seems good but the over all adoration for KTMs challenges me to believe its a fair and honest review. There is more than a little bit of fan boy happening here. Keep up the good work otherwise. Amazing cinematography.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

Hmmm...doing a Yamaha gig this week end. Have you looked at the reviews of the WR450 F, WR250 Y, Tenere, Super Tenere. Mate you are right off the mark.

[@gpmo317]

I didn't say you don't do other manufacturers. Taking a peek through your vids, the vast majority are KTM and I've watch a lot of them. It appears maybe not to everyone but to some people that there is a massive bias, and anytime there is a massive bias things get missed or pumped up when doing reviews of products. Once again, I love your shows I watch everyone that hits my sub box and I appreciate your work enough that I click ads for you. Keep it up.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

So you dug yourself in a hole and now you're trying to squirm out of it. The majority of recent videos, that is adventure rides are about KTMs because that's what I've recently ridden and I own a KTM690. Get down to tests and it's far more balanced. As for the Chris Birch videos. He asked me to film him and he just so happens to ride a KTM.

[@moulin680]

Question for you... It's the last year of the 690R, and now I don't know if I get one or the 1090R.. What are your thoughts?? Is the 1090R as tall as the 690R? That have been a sore point for me? But I also love to tear it up on the twists as I make my way to the dirt roads... Thanks for your input!

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I prefer big single for adventure. I currently have a ktm690. I've been looking very closely at the Husky 701. Not sure about seat eight as my 690 has stronger spring in rear to take load and doesn; 'sit down' unless loaded

[@brucekendall52]

Good video,thks.

[@tomasbodnar993]

I love it ktm.

[@gilvietor1918]

Every guy I know, that I meet out places or through friends, who own this bike? Rave about it. I got rid of my 701 for a Ducati Multistrada, which was a mistake. This or the 990 is on my radar now, I am sick of nannies or overly complicated electronics, I'm sure they're a good thing but I just don't like them.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

This bike shits all over the 990. This is an excellent bike.

[@gilvietor1918]

​@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV well, I bought one a year and a few months ago. Needed some work but I have ridden the crap out of it, I love it. I did the Idaho bdr a few weeks ago and wow I bet I jumped it 300 times. I do get worse fuel economy than my buds, but that is probably due to my throttle and giggling.

[@alpap1980]

How tall are you?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

178cm

[@alpap1980]

@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Thank you for your reply. How does it feel in terms of everyday use and maneuverability? I come from a very mild offroad background with a F650gs single and 800cc F650gs twin...now riding a Desert Sled...I have been debating before I commit to the Ducati whether to get a 690 and add a couple of rally raid tanks or get a ready to travel CRF1000L...I could not solve that debate and ended up with the Desert Sled. I am leaning a bit more towards the 1090 R or the Africa Twin solution...need a bike for urban, dirt and highway rides...@ 172cm with 30" inseam...with 5years riding experience...

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

It's a wonderful bike. About the same weight as your 800cc. Lovely engine and brilliant suspension and handling.

[@markjacobs6294]

Oh KTM why do you do this to me...I absolutely love my Tiger 800XCa, but I may be cheating on her simply by watching this...

[@khakimzhanmiras]

KTM and Honda stock fenders suck balls. High fender mod should be stock.

[@TomasLonGo]

Would you take this over a 1290Rfor offroad?

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

yes. The 1090 is more adventure orientated.

[@TomasLonGo]

Thanks :D Have a good day!

[@TomasLonGo]

And btw, can you explain why? i mean 10 kg is not a huge diference (less than 5%) so how come is it so much better offroad than the 1290? suspention is the same ground clearance etc all the same, i'm kinda intriged. If it was your only bike, as a do it all, why would this be better than the 1290 SA R? I'm sorry to bother you with this bs questions but i'm just curious ^^

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

I test the 1290 in August. The different is three things, lower centre of gravity, weight centralisation, less spinning mass. Feels much lighted than the 1190.

[@TomasLonGo]

i'll be waiting for your review then! Apreciate the answer mate! have a good day

[@scootjockey]

The problem is there are no such " dirt roads" etc here in Germany against the law to ride them, thats why most are just posers here rideing on the freeways.

[@gms5]

The Barrier Way?? Don't think so.........

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

You've got me. Road from Jindabyne to Victoria Border.

[@GaryBrubacher]

Sweet :

[@toby7504]

coolest looking bikes on the planet (l think) but l do not trust them...to mutch hisory of trubble ..good video..thanks

[@JJLalas]

Toby 750 I really don't know where this comes from. My 990 is bulletproof. It's been ridden hard for 60.000 kms and has fallen many times. Nothing ever breaks. Cheap parts and accessories also.

[@80hitultracombo]

My Yamaha XT250 would win against this no problem.

[@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV]

No but maybe the WR 250 R :)