Why you should sell your bike and buy 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R and not 2021 KTM 1290 R.

My story on selling my KTM 1090 Adventure R and deciding to buy new KTM 890 Adventure R

[@madlang_GM]

“Life is passing by. Better get a new bike.” This man is wise.

[@erictrenbeath9680]

I did just that!

[@cliffordzehmke5650]

Love your view on this bike

[@michaelberlinger8138]

Today I brought home my brand new 890 Adventure R! this video was one of the factors in my decision. thanks again for the great content. Even thought I only rode it one hour back to New York City, just weaving thru gridlocked Friday 5pm traffic (I know! I intended to get back by 3pm, but then had more work meetings), I was already glad of the lighter weight. At 6'2" with slight heels on my moto boots I'm able to flat foot it. Man, I can tell this bike is going to be FUN! (and a great bike to get more into dirt riding with).

[@blackherring2009]

I am truly happy that you made this decision! Once you are on dirt roads and trails this bike will start to shine even more. I clocked over 5000km on mine and I am happy as I was on the first day. I am sure you will enjoy yours!

[@JohnDoe-xm9ql]

Recently I purchased 890 adventure R. Love it. It's a ripper. Just hold on tight. 👍🇺🇸

[@erickschmidt3828]

Loved this video. I'm trading off my 2019 africa twin. I'm getting this same ktm. . The 890 is I think the perfect bike. And I'm also not a Chris Birch but I do like to watch him. Thanks for the information and the video. I'm from Montana

[@blackherring2009]

Glad you liked video. I started to ride only back in 2019 and went through number of bikes before I was able to understand what exactly is perfect for me. I started with Kawasaki Z900, then Husqvarna 701 Supermoto, KTM 1090 Adventure R, Husqvarna FE450, Royal Enfield Himalayan (that I will keep as I love thar bike) and now this one. My wife was starting on Husqvarna 701Enduro and moved to 790 Adventure, she is very happy with it. We are both from Latvia but currently residing in Georgia (country) that is paradise fir any kind of riding. Thank you again for positive comments!

[@erickschmidt3828]

I've had a few bikes. My first sport adventure was a 2009 Kawasaki verseys. Then I had 2 klrs. After those it was a Yamaha super Tennere, Now I have a 2019 Africa twin. It dos great for 90% of my rideing but when I get on some 2 track and single track I'm not likening it. So I'm getting the klr 890 r this week end. I need something that is more dirt oriented, I'm hoping this will be the final perfect bike. I also have a 2019 Gas Gas 250 cc that I love .So between the 2 I should be set

[@michaelberlinger8138]

Can i ask why? I was considering the Africa Twin but without riding anything yet, it seems people think the 890 is surprisingly fun on the road whereas the AT people say ‘gets the job done’ on the road. My only concern with the 890 is suitability for two up tourimg, but thats only guessing that the lower bike weight vs the AT is somehow a factor. And I’m only talking about two passengers (190lbs & 140) plus 40lbs of camping gear (same that we backpack with)

[@erickschmidt3828]

@@michaelberlinger8138 hi Michael. I really liked my twin on the highway and it was ok on the gravel roads. I found the twin felt real shakey like the forks were flexing to the sides. I like the 890 alot better. I've had it on highways gravel roads and some tight 2 tracks and it feels planted in all I've done. If all I did was highway I'd of kept the twin. But since I do off road I like the ktm

[@michaelberlinger8138]

@@erickschmidt3828 thanks Eric! That’s really helpful!!

[@BillyBoblovesthedirt]

Cool accent👍👍. Very good review too.

[@erickschmidt3828]

And as you said life is passing us by. May as well enjoy life and try different bikes

[@BoersenCrashKurs]

Thank you for your review. It was not theoretical but extremely practical and very usefull for me. I'll buy a KTM 890 Adventure R in a few weeks. :)

[@blackherring2009]

Glad that I could help to firm up your decision. You will not regret it. So much lighter feel, plenty of power, this bike can do it all. I am sure you will enjoy it a lot in short and long trips :)

[@Farmaci86]

I got mine few days ago and I still can’t stop smiling 😆🤟🏼 such an incredible motorcycle. I am in LOVE!!!

[@blackherring2009]

3500 km later - same feeling :)

[@Farmaci86]

@@blackherring2009 that makes me so happy to hear

[@michaelberlinger8138]

just got mine today!!

[@stephendebnam5425]

Great review Black Herring , really Informative .I just sold my 450 Exc-f last week and ordered my 890 R today. I as also unaware of the GPS facility .Brisbane Australia

[@blackherring2009]

You will enjoy your 890 R a lot! Especially given riding opportunities in Australia - it is perfect bike! Nearly 400 km. range on one tank. GPS thing is working great, and app costs just 8 EUR so it is very convenient. I have also installed rear racks from Powerparts and bought Enduristan Monsoon EVO soft bags, love the easy clip on system they have with no extra plate needed. For multi-day rides it would be best solution. I have already 5000 km on my bike and I can say that it required only minor additions to be perfect for me: Rally Pegs makes long hours on bike much easier and tall seat from Powerparts also made positive difference. I am happy that you bought this bike, I know you will enjoy it a lot! Friend of mine lives on Gold Coast and he is already tired of asking me to come over to Australia. I gather that maybe in winter of 2023 will go for a month to ride there. (provided that this pandemic is over)

[@shanemeek81]

Loving my KTM 890 Duke also. Amazing engine. Who ever said a Parallel Twin Is boring hasn’t ridden a KTM. Ride safe 👍

[@blackherring2009]

I do agree with you. Few years ago I had a chance to ride KTM 790 Duke, even though weather was mostly rain during those 4 days but I had a lot of fun. I gather that 890 is even sharper.

[@shanemeek81]

@@blackherring2009 It’s by far the most confidence inspiring bike I’ve ridden. The biggest challenge is keeping within the speed limit ! The adventure appears to be the benchmark for the category at present. I loved my Yamaha WR250R, still miss that bike ! Would quickly be forgotten owning a Adventure I’m guessing 😂 I really do love KTM and what they stand for .They put the heart and soul into the bikes they produce.

[@blackherring2009]

@@shanemeek81 Core priority of Adventure bike is that on the roads you ride with that there are no speed limits as mostly there are no roads, so great savings on speeding tickets. :)

[@joeyhyer7654]

Excellent review thank you!! Just picked one up. Coming off a 1190

[@JohannesDalenMC]

During TET in Norway I met a guy on the 890r (I ride a T7). We swapped bikes for half a day and man what can I say- that engine was like a rocket, absolutely crazy fast!

[@tbgtbg6311]

How was the reliability and top heavy element compared to the T7.

[@JohannesDalenMC]

@@tbgtbg6311 He had an issue with the 890 that it didn't start one morning but did later in the day, that's all I know when it comes to the reliability of his bike. When it comes to the top heavy element of the T7 vs the 890r, the 890 is just so much better. It feels like it's 30% lighter because it carries the weight better.

[@richedwards4651]

Great review with really useful pointers, especially around Bluetooth and navigation 👍

[@blackherring2009]

Thank you!

[@Mutsky1953]

Great honest video clearly explains your rational. I am moving from my 1190R which is a damn capable bike, provided you have the skills. One big game changer is its it’s low down weight and easier to pick up. I test rode one and I loved it. Your video is the ‘Seal of approval’ thank you.

[@wilfmoss5242]

Nice video. I have the 790 Adventure R and I love that bike. Amazing on the road and brilliant off the road! I got the KTM Rally seat which I much prefer over the standard.

[@blackherring2009]

Thank you! I agree with you, rally seat is more comfortable for me as it is taller and easy on knees. My new luggage racks and Enduristan soft bags just came in mail, so I will pick them up Monday and after installation will make small video about those.

[@890advrrider8]

I love mine. But it hasn’t been without some minor issues. Hoping for open roads and gravel for awhile haha. Happy riding!

[@brookdow]

Good honest review

[@Parakitedude]

Im about to take this decision and I like your arguments for the 890adr. I also think this is the way to go. The 1290SAR have been on my mind but it is not nibble at all

[@blackherring2009]

I tried both and for me 890 was better in terms of riding comfort. Also it feels significantly more agile and light. I am happy after more than 7000km on this bike.

[@nateklinner9780]

Just completed the Continental Divide on a 790 Adventure S. Great motor. Problems: front brake disk lost spring spacers and cheap kick stand collapsed, bent under riders weight

[@blackherring2009]

How long did it take you to complete?

[@TheMartinH13]

Makes sense to sell a 1090 and 450 to get one of these, it's literally the best of both bikes combined

[@montaego]

Traded my 990 for an 890r this spring. Riding with some lads on 300exc's a few days ago and they couldn't believe that I was able to ride the things they were riding....either could I. Simply amazing bike. Now to straighten out the rear brake lever;)

[@blackherring2009]

Yes, I do agree that it is strange feeling for me to see capabilities of this bike as I try to push it further each weekend ride. Sometimes beyond my skill level and bike makes sure to help me out.

[@sanjosejeff]

That is my new saying “ I’m not Chris Birch “ and I ever will be😂

[@reinhart482]

I’m waiting for 490r to dominate every other adv bike

[@alexmorgan3435]

I test rode the S version a couple of months ago as the KTM dealer would not let me out on their only R model. Loved it except for the screen which was terrible. Got awful helmet buffeting. I'm quite short 5'7" so couldn't understand why the screen wasn't keeping the wind off me. Apparently the screen is adjustable but you have to remove bolts which obviously you cannot do on the fly while riding it. Maybe it was in it's lowest position. The dealer didn't seem too bothered so I left it at that. But still liked the bike, faster than I expected, quite a bit faster actually, but on the downside a bit tall for me being on tip toes. Would ideally like the R version like you. Thanks for sharing your experiences and thoughts. You have a great voice, a bit like the late Sean Connery, James Bond.

[@blackherring2009]

R version short screen is much better, air is clean without turbulence. To adjust tall screen of R version there is just one bolt, you can buy it with oversized knob from Rottweiler Performance and then you will not need any tools for adjustment.

[@alexmorgan3435]

@@blackherring2009 Many thanks!

[@roysafit1841]

Thanks for sharing this and for your input. I have the same bike and absolutely loving it. Quick question about your comment on adjusting the gear lever to prevent false neutrals: what did you do? Lower the lever a bit?

[@blackherring2009]

Yes, quite a bit, and this prevented gear popping back into neutral.

[@MrUnknown08015]

So etwas habe ich gesucht. Zuladung ist auch besser wie bei der 1290R. Manchmal fährt meine Frau mit, da muss es passen. Und Sitzheizung gibt’s es auch für die kleine. Danke für die Hinweise. 👍

[@blackherring2009]

Die Entscheidung zwischen 1290 R und 890R fiel mir nicht leicht. Aber die Ergonomie war beim 890 für meine Größe viel besser.

[@jonasbaine3538]

890r for hard dirt riding. Multi v4 or s1000xr for fast adv street riding

[@RedRupert64]

Thanks. Can you add many waypoints when using KTM's navigation app?

[@nauticalboy4529]

👍great bike mate greeting from🇲🇾

[@blackherring2009]

Thank you!!!

[@nunosantos47]

Hi! Did you ride with passenger on the 890? If yes can you tell me if you ride comfortably? Thanks

[@triplehusky9125]

Good review, Braveheart!

[@AlpineTreeCare]

Great video thank you. Have you had an opportunity to ride with a passenger? I am smaller than you and have decided I need to down size from a GS1250. I enjoyed my 990 Adventure long ago and hoped the 890 would be my ticket to less weight whilst not having to leave my wife at home!

[@blackherring2009]

Thank you! Yes, I did ride with passenger, bit short distance, just in city. I was told by passenger that seating position is more comfortable than on my previously bike 1090 ADV R. Bike got sufficient power to carry passenger and still provide dynamic riding. Please note that I had optional electronics package "Tech Pack" enabled and was riding in Rally mode with very aggressive throttle response, so passenger also had fun. 😀

[@anthonybaiocchi3028]

You can pry my XR650R out of my cold dead hands!

[@samuelmandarelli2645]

Great bikes but KTM designs their bikes for guys that are 6’ tall with 38” inseams. Just way to tall to be manageable off-road.

[@Pebbzor]

I wonder how the Husqvarna Norden 901 will compare to this!

[@blackherring2009]

Well, core difference will be in plastics and headlight. The rest will be basically the same.

[@jonasbaine3538]

@@blackherring2009 suspension is different. That is a major difference. wp apex vs wp xplor. But fortunately 901 suspension is adjustable

[@toddbenfield6546]

@@jonasbaine3538 not the rear

[@jasonwagoner3201]

hell yeah!

[@jackchristodoulou197]

I would love to sell my Honda for a KTM 890R but I hear to many stories about reliability

[@JonasK01]

You can adjust The seat. Yours is in the lowest position.

[@Elskins]

Labs aparāts 👍

[@lequan8766]

I'm 170cm, should I get adv 790 S or 890 R

[@mike.boysen]

Check your title. It says 1290 R which I feel is designed to get clicks

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

Are you still happy with this bike, BH? Is the 890 much better than the 790?

[@blackherring2009]

I am very happy after 5000 km. on this bike. Every thing works as it should, suspension is really good. It is substantial improvement from my 1090R. Wife rides 790 ADV so it wouldn't be fair comparison as she still runs on stock suspension of non R version. Thinking to upgrade her suspension or maybe get new Norden for her.

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

@@blackherring2009 Thanks for the detailed reply.

[@fun2rideadventure]

...what do you think about tenere 700 ... just your opinion please

[@blackherring2009]

I believe that T7 is very interesting bike that is well priced and very capable. Especially Rally version with beautiful color scheme and extras added. As I gather bike is very reliable and I seriously considered it as alternative to 890 R. But without a doubt I leaned towards 890R due to design of KTM with larger volume low tank, more advanced suspension and electronics, more customisation options, all of that justified in my eyes the price difference you have to pay for KTM.

[@fun2rideadventure]

@@blackherring2009 thank you for the replay .... yes KTM 890 ADV R is better bike no doubt... let's see what aprilia tuareg will be ... thank you :)

[@blackherring2009]

@@fun2rideadventure I am not that excited about Tuareg as I am about AJP PR7. Seriously considering it as addition to my fleet. :)

[@fun2rideadventure]

@@blackherring2009 too expensive for what is offering :)

[@pablofaccinetto]

HI, where are the Pegs from?

[@blackherring2009]

Pegs are from KTM Powerparts: Rally Pgegs that I had on my 1090R and they also fit this bike. They are longer and wider, so riding is much more comfortable. Drawback is that you can no longer put foot down right by side of peg you will need to do it in front or back, but it really doesn't bother me. I would highly recommend them.

[@josefrechina8638]

Hi there! Which is the application name for navigation?

[@blackherring2009]

In Google store it is called: KTM My Ride Navigation. Made by KTM Sportmotorcycle GmbH.

[@mtscott]

1.96 is taller than 6’2” 😀 you’ve been short selling yourself with the ladies 😏

[@blackherring2009]

I am not specialist in US/UK measurements. So in those countries I might be shorter.

[@kevindossantos6282]

I sold my 890 Rally R for the 1090 R 🤣

[@jamessymes1]

2 up touring + luggage + motorway.. 890 no. 1290 yes

[@blackherring2009]

I was never suggesting that this is highway touring bike to ride with pillion. It would be possible but pointless, like taking your kid to school in Hummer H1.

[@TheWanderingGeezer]

So you can constantly trailer to the dealer?

[@blackherring2009]

My English is not that good to understand what did you exactly mean. Sorry.

[@jeff40]

Paul Reynolds you a Yammer noob or what? KTM is and has a better product since Roger DeCoster worked with them! Yamaha has the R1 and R7 sportbike and the Tenere is NOT any match for the KTM-890 adventure r period.

[@hellochriis]

You shouldn't buy any KTM "adventure" bike because they are all essentially road bikes. Go for a true dual-sport or street-legal dirt bike if you want some adventure.

[@alexmorgan3435]

Yeah right.

[@jeff40]

So you speaking of a 500 exc-f street & trail KTM or what? They're very good street & trail bikes but no match for a adventure bike like any KTM- 890r, 1190r, or 1290r. Or do you mean the 690?

[@blackherring2009]

If your adventure is in vicinity of 100 km from your residential block then it might be true. But soon enough you are bored with same trails and routes. Severe limitations of dual sport and dirt bike are not of my liking. I had before Husqvarna FE 450 and Husqvarna 701 Enduro, both are great bikes and I loved them. But you are limited with them to relatively small area, they have frequent service intervals, off-road tires and tiny tanks, they are incapable to take any luggage without severely impacting drivability. So let me strongly disagree you on this point. Adventure bikes, like KTM 890R is very capable machine and will be able to get to places dual sports or dirt bikes will not get you.

[@danielhicks5031]

I have 2017 250 exc-f and our trails r a bit far so we trailer along with my dads Honda and also take them to forest service roads so we can dualsport up there with 2 lane mountain roads and it is the best. Plus I can ride to work at home since it’s short distance which is always fun. While I’m still young and like to challenge myself on harder trails I’m taking the street legal dirt bike over the heavy adventure bike. Maybe one day when I’m older I’ll want to go further and carry luggage but not yet

[@hansenallan84]

I need the distance. Optimal would be the 701, but I don't want to ride long distances on that bike. I need to cover a lot of hours to get where I want to go. I agree, it's a compromise, but it's a necessary one.

[@JJamJ]

And you’re supporting KTM and China🥴

[@blackherring2009]

Is it illegal?

[@JJamJ]

@@blackherring2009 No, it’s not and ‘each to there own’ as they say.

[@johnscott9829]

@@blackherring2009 Is the 890 made in China???

[@johnscott9829]

Is the 890 made in China???

[@JJamJ]

@@johnscott9829 For sure.