I couldn't afford this machine either back when you did this review, but now I'm seeing them going for 10K or less with low milage on them so I'm very tempted. The amount of performance and tech they offer is remarkable, though l haven't actually ridden one yet and am guided more by what I'm reading and watching atm. I'm down in Cassie and reckon this bike would absolutely love our roads. Thanks for a terrific review. Cheers!
Thanks for the kind words. Yeah, they're a great bike and better value for money 2nd hand now if you get a good one I reckon. I'm not sure of any long term maintenance issues from getting an older bike but there would have to be heaps of info online about any common issues. Cassie? Or Tassie? Absolutely brilliant bike for Tassie. I loved riding down there.
FYI, in sport mode they feel chug chug at 100kph in top gear, but in street mode they are smooth. And you can turn off the rear abs in any mode. When I go offroad, I put it in sport mode, rear abs off and traction control off... 148hp on the dirt is great fun!
Nerb1 Ah, thanks mate. I should have consulted with you before I finished editing it! lol I was in street mode, but it didn't feel right in 6th, it wanted to keep going faster, but I couldn't so I spent most of the ride in 5th where it felt much better. 148hp on the dirt! Your balls are big! HaHa!
Thought u were gonna capture a wreck @ 7:50min clip... great review and your smiles & passing gave away your enjoyment, haha !!! ;) Nice info & explanations, too !!!
Dracati Ducati So did I for about 5 seconds or so as he went off the road. I reckon he was crapping himself, the insurance excess was $2,500 from memory if we crashed a bike whilst testing. I definitely enjoyed it. It's hard not to enjoy test riding bikes! Thanks mate. :-)
Oh how tall the dual-sport bikes are. KTMs are especially tall. I have to tiptoe on my dad's 350 EXC-F. It's good they let you turn off the ABS on the dirt, when I first heard of that, I thought it would be dangerous on a loose talus slope when you need to intentionally lock up your rear brake.
+Adventures in Real Life Yeah, these bikes are great I reckon with all the electronic wizardry. As long as people learn to ride without it first so that they do not rely on it. This was tall, but not too tall for me. The Adventure R though is a bit taller, so I am not sure how I would go on that one.
I just got off a 2006 V-Strom DL1000 and got a 2012 DL650 ABS. I've got it all customized to my size with lowered pegs, better windscreen, highway pegs, mirror extenders, 12v accessory socket, flashing headlight and taillights. Overall it's a better bike in almost every aspect, safer, more economical, nicer design, quieter, and smoother - except for one thing: EXCITEMENT! That pulse-quickening, giddy feeling when the revs and power are building fast and the scenery starts to blur and your hands are being tugged from the bars. That's what the KTM can do for you, but for a steep price, almost double the 650's. So I'll be content to date the goody two shoes librarian, while lusting for the slutty cheerleader......
+johnny mars HaHa! Yeah, I know exactly what you mean! My Strom is definitely the sedate librarian when it comes to putting the power down. The only DL1000 I've ridden was the 2014 model which I also have a video of and I really enjoyed that bike as it felt no heavier than my 2008 650 but had heaps more power, better braking and handled better. I also test rode the Africa Twin last weekend (video coming soon) and felt the same way about that. Although it looks like a big bike and definitely is one, it didn't feel so big whilst riding it and the power was very slutty cheerleaderish! ;-)
shineesideup HaHa! Yeah, I try to be informative, but sometimes the screaming does get in the way as with my 1290 Super Duke test ride last year. My cruiser test ride is definitely less information and more screaming laughter.
To be totally honest, I can't remember exactly as it was 2 years ago I rode this bike, but I get the feeling it was smooth. If it was jerky I probably would have noticed it at the time and mentioned it. Check out a friend of mine's channel, Nerb1, he has the R version and should be able to help you with any questions.
Great review mate, you really addressed most of what people would be wanting to know, I reckon. I think the V Strom may be a bit unique in how far forward the instruments sit from the bars, which gave you that feeling of being to far forward. Lovely bike, so are the similar bikes from BMW and Ducati, I think, but the prices are way beyond me. I'd love to see what the big Hondas are like, as they are a fair bit cheaper and still reliable. I guess they may be missing some of the technology though.
***** Thanks mate, I appreciate the feedback. Yeah, I can't help but compare every bike to the V-Strom. It's only natural. Yep, beyond me too, but maybe one day. Maybe you should hit up the local Honda guys for some test rides?
nice ride! cods wasn't happy with it but everyone's different! and that's what i respect about you fellas doing it each to there own.. honest opinion's!
Escape Behind Bars Yeah, ***** doesn't know what he is talking about! lol I tried to give an honest review, but it's hard to pick things when a lot of modern bikes feel better than my own. There were a few little things that I didn't like as much as my own bike, but most of them were just because I was not used to them, whereas I am used to the way that my bike feels.
Brian West Yeah, that's it. Even the Strom is too high for some people. This was taller, but not by much and was not really an issue for me. Just different, that's all.
+MotoLexy&SupaNautica Yeah I think the high priced Euro bikes may be the only ones. I have only seen mention of it in BMW, KTM, Ducati, Aprilia etc. Each call it a different name but it is basically the same thing from what I understand. Electronic wizardry at it's best!
When we first started on bikes, I was looking at the Boshce Videos, was a very big fan of the MSC. I like ABS, but the MSC is where the real wizardry is. ABS won't help you if you have any lean angle, this is where that MSC is so important. WANT, NEED, ASAP, but the money to get these babies aint so easy to come by
+MotoLexy&SupaNautica Yep. The money is a huge stumbling block. When I bought my bike I couldn't afford the ABS model so I don't even have that. After crashing in 2012 I said to myself that the next bike would have ABS at least. I think learning to ride safely without electronic wizardry is important, but the electronics are still a great thing to have.
Yep, there will always be that occasion where the wildlife want to test the boundaries, like jumping out infront of us on a bend. Or like what happened to me and many others, the reaction we have to other peoples misfortunes leading us to our own misfortunes. The MSC might be the closest thing we have to bringing motorcycles a step closer to having the aids to make them good enough for mass commuters in a relatively safe alternative to cars. Can you imagine if all bikes were made to have them mandatory? with the option to switch them off of course, just so all the guys out there that swear they are better riders than Rossi can feel like they still have a purpose for their 1000cc supersport racing on Public Roads, because you know, apparently these guys are modern day gods and so superior to the rest of us. I almost feel bad to say I'm a rider, it makes them upset and they are constantly spewing out more shit while talking and it generally makes the place untidy.
That looks like a beast of an adventure ride. Lots of great features. Wow, they had you do a tight turn on gravel? I would've been nervous doing that. How do you hear about these test rides?
WheelsNotHeels It is an awesome bike. If only I had the $$. lol It was a bitumen car park that we turned around in, but it has lots of large loose gravel all over it and is pretty rough with a tight slow turn needed. Not too bad though if you take it easy. It is a local dealership that runs them, they have loads of stores throughout the region. We have a local motovlogger group on Facebook and whenever the event is coming up, someone always posts it to the group. One of the motovloggers actually works for the dealer and is in the video in the background. :-)
***** Yeah, they are not cheap, but there is a lot of technology and quality parts built into them so I guess it is worth it for those who have the $$.
A mate of mine up here has one. They do sound unlike anything else. I know they have a big engine but you said "litres per km". How thirsty are they? Joking mate, good review. A superbike crossed with a monster truck.
troyboy986 HaHa! I didn't pick up on that! I am sure that most people will work out what I meant. Hopefully the haters will be all over it! :-p Thanks mate, I wanted to ride the Tiger as well, but couldn't get on it! I might have to try and ride one directly at the dealer. Or do what ***** did last year.
Busa Richard, I think I have seen Karina on the 990 more than you anyway. Just make sure you hide the keys to the 1190 or she might steal that one. ***** the '15 Tiger has ride by wire now as well. So Cruise control is standard on all models and I think traction control and ABS. I would really like the cruise option. I think you would like the Tiger mate. Very easy to throw around corners and comfy seat. I have found the seat is more comfortable in the higher position as the angle doesn't push you into the tank as much. The screen on my bike is not adjustable( the new one is) but the higher seat height seems to cure the buffeting a bit too.
I would like to try the Explorer as well. A good comparison for you would be to ride the X and the R back to back. The difference between the smaller alloy wheel and the larger wire wheel.
Pomdownunder Pomdownunder No, it is a test ride day put on by the dealer. I did a video on the day here: th-cam.com/video/WAUWVzmFA2k/w-d-xo.html You will have to come along next year!
Does the blur come with the bike as well, basically screw it, your above the speed limit, you don't care and need to see this! haha Now, we just need all of these metric system changed into English units and were set! Good full review:)
NicheRiding Yeah, I think that blurring is a safety feature that KTM do not advertise. Nooo, metric all the way! If the whole world went metric, life would be a lot more simple for everyone. Thanks mate. :-)
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
![World' Best Adventure Bike: KTM 1190 [Full Review]](/img/n.gif)
I couldn't afford this machine either back when you did this review, but now I'm seeing them going for 10K or less with low milage on them so I'm very tempted. The amount of performance and tech they offer is remarkable, though l haven't actually ridden one yet and am guided more by what I'm reading and watching atm. I'm down in Cassie and reckon this bike would absolutely love our roads. Thanks for a terrific review. Cheers!
Thanks for the kind words. Yeah, they're a great bike and better value for money 2nd hand now if you get a good one I reckon. I'm not sure of any long term maintenance issues from getting an older bike but there would have to be heaps of info online about any common issues. Cassie? Or Tassie? Absolutely brilliant bike for Tassie. I loved riding down there.
Yes I just bought one the price has dropped I can’t wait till the dealer releases it to me I want to put more lites on it
FYI, in sport mode they feel chug chug at 100kph in top gear, but in street mode they are smooth. And you can turn off the rear abs in any mode. When I go offroad, I put it in sport mode, rear abs off and traction control off... 148hp on the dirt is great fun!
Nerb1 Ah, thanks mate. I should have consulted with you before I finished editing it! lol
I was in street mode, but it didn't feel right in 6th, it wanted to keep going faster, but I couldn't so I spent most of the ride in 5th where it felt much better.
148hp on the dirt! Your balls are big! HaHa!
Nerb1 How many kms have you got on yours now?
wobbly sauce 21,000 i think.
Thought u were gonna capture a wreck
@ 7:50min clip...
great review and your smiles & passing
gave away your enjoyment, haha !!!
;)
Nice info & explanations, too !!!
Dracati Ducati So did I for about 5 seconds or so as he went off the road. I reckon he was crapping himself, the insurance excess was $2,500 from memory if we crashed a bike whilst testing.
I definitely enjoyed it. It's hard not to enjoy test riding bikes!
Thanks mate. :-)
Oh how tall the dual-sport bikes are. KTMs are especially tall. I have to tiptoe on my dad's 350 EXC-F.
It's good they let you turn off the ABS on the dirt, when I first heard of that, I thought it would be dangerous on a loose talus slope when you need to intentionally lock up your rear brake.
+Adventures in Real Life Yeah, these bikes are great I reckon with all the electronic wizardry.
As long as people learn to ride without it first so that they do not rely on it.
This was tall, but not too tall for me. The Adventure R though is a bit taller, so I am not sure how I would go on that one.
I just got off a 2006 V-Strom DL1000 and got a 2012 DL650 ABS. I've got it all customized to my size with lowered pegs, better windscreen, highway pegs, mirror extenders, 12v accessory socket, flashing headlight and taillights. Overall it's a better bike in almost every aspect, safer, more economical, nicer design, quieter, and smoother - except for one thing: EXCITEMENT! That pulse-quickening, giddy feeling when the revs and power are building fast and the scenery starts to blur and your hands are being tugged from the bars. That's what the KTM can do for you, but for a steep price, almost double the 650's. So I'll be content to date the goody two shoes librarian, while lusting for the slutty cheerleader......
+johnny mars HaHa! Yeah, I know exactly what you mean! My Strom is definitely the sedate librarian when it comes to putting the power down. The only DL1000 I've ridden was the 2014 model which I also have a video of and I really enjoyed that bike as it felt no heavier than my 2008 650 but had heaps more power, better braking and handled better. I also test rode the Africa Twin last weekend (video coming soon) and felt the same way about that. Although it looks like a big bike and definitely is one, it didn't feel so big whilst riding it and the power was very slutty cheerleaderish! ;-)
Great review like to see you on a GS1200
nice review mate. a lot more informative than the ones i did on this day - and a lot less screaming! haha
shineesideup HaHa! Yeah, I try to be informative, but sometimes the screaming does get in the way as with my 1290 Super Duke test ride last year.
My cruiser test ride is definitely less information and more screaming laughter.
does the bike have a smooth throttle response at low rpms or is it rather jerky? talking about its city riding capability
To be totally honest, I can't remember exactly as it was 2 years ago I rode this bike, but I get the feeling it was smooth. If it was jerky I probably would have noticed it at the time and mentioned it.
Check out a friend of mine's channel, Nerb1, he has the R version and should be able to help you with any questions.
Good review mate. I like that you can adjust the handlebars too.
TheSpikeyBiker Yeah, they are adjustable forward and back which would make a big difference to some people. Thanks mate. :-)
Great review mate, you really addressed most of what people would be wanting to know, I reckon.
I think the V Strom may be a bit unique in how far forward the instruments sit from the
bars, which gave you that feeling of being to far forward.
Lovely bike, so are the similar bikes from BMW and Ducati, I think, but the prices are way beyond me. I'd love to see what the big Hondas are like, as they are a fair bit cheaper and still reliable. I guess they may be missing some of the technology though.
***** Thanks mate, I appreciate the feedback. Yeah, I can't help but compare every bike to the V-Strom. It's only natural. Yep, beyond me too, but maybe one day. Maybe you should hit up the local Honda guys for some test rides?
nice ride! cods wasn't happy with it but everyone's different! and that's what i respect about you fellas doing it each to there own.. honest opinion's!
Escape Behind Bars Yeah, ***** doesn't know what he is talking about! lol
I tried to give an honest review, but it's hard to pick things when a lot of modern bikes feel better than my own. There were a few little things that I didn't like as much as my own bike, but most of them were just because I was not used to them, whereas I am used to the way that my bike feels.
aaaannnnndddddd......a fuck you
haha cods! shots fired by aus! ;)
They are nice. Yeah, the height might be a problem for some but ADV bikes have that whole clearance thing.
Brian West Yeah, that's it. Even the Strom is too high for some people. This was taller, but not by much and was not really an issue for me. Just different, that's all.
Did I hear that right? 15,000km service intervals?
Sweetman Sweetman Yes you did. It's pretty huge hey!
Great video Aussie! :)
Angry Skipper Thanks mate. You'll have to come along next time.
Currently looking for any other bikes that have the MSC in them. I'm sure the new S1000RR has it, but would like to know what else is out there.
+MotoLexy&SupaNautica Yeah I think the high priced Euro bikes may be the only ones. I have only seen mention of it in BMW, KTM, Ducati, Aprilia etc. Each call it a different name but it is basically the same thing from what I understand. Electronic wizardry at it's best!
When we first started on bikes, I was looking at the Boshce Videos, was a very big fan of the MSC. I like ABS, but the MSC is where the real wizardry is. ABS won't help you if you have any lean angle, this is where that MSC is so important. WANT, NEED, ASAP, but the money to get these babies aint so easy to come by
+MotoLexy&SupaNautica Yep. The money is a huge stumbling block. When I bought my bike I couldn't afford the ABS model so I don't even have that. After crashing in 2012 I said to myself that the next bike would have ABS at least. I think learning to ride safely without electronic wizardry is important, but the electronics are still a great thing to have.
Yep, there will always be that occasion where the wildlife want to test the boundaries, like jumping out infront of us on a bend. Or like what happened to me and many others, the reaction we have to other peoples misfortunes leading us to our own misfortunes.
The MSC might be the closest thing we have to bringing motorcycles a step closer to having the aids to make them good enough for mass commuters in a relatively safe alternative to cars. Can you imagine if all bikes were made to have them mandatory? with the option to switch them off of course, just so all the guys out there that swear they are better riders than Rossi can feel like they still have a purpose for their 1000cc supersport racing on Public Roads, because you know, apparently these guys are modern day gods and so superior to the rest of us.
I almost feel bad to say I'm a rider, it makes them upset and they are constantly spewing out more shit while talking and it generally makes the place untidy.
They are good machines the KTM's! really well designed. I dig the dash system.
regulardan Yeah, they are put together pretty nicely. I like the dash too.
Same with the 1290 Super Duke that I rode last year.
That looks like a beast of an adventure ride.
Lots of great features.
Wow, they had you do a tight turn on gravel? I would've been nervous doing that.
How do you hear about these test rides?
WheelsNotHeels It is an awesome bike. If only I had the $$. lol
It was a bitumen car park that we turned around in, but it has lots of large loose gravel all over it and is pretty rough with a tight slow turn needed. Not too bad though if you take it easy.
It is a local dealership that runs them, they have loads of stores throughout the region. We have a local motovlogger group on Facebook and whenever the event is coming up, someone always posts it to the group. One of the motovloggers actually works for the dealer and is in the video in the background. :-)
Nice vid man, I want to go on a group test ride one day.
InfamousStryfe This is an awesome event. My third year in a row.
I want to try and test ride a few more bikes as it is heaps of fun.
it's a beast!
Any issues with engine heat felt by the rider?
+Paul Cherbini I didn't notice any excessive heat. But I only rode it for 30 minutes, so that wasn't really long enough I guess.
God review, and a nice bike. Bit expensive, though.
***** Yeah, they are not cheap, but there is a lot of technology and quality parts built into them so I guess it is worth it for those who have the $$.
***** Great review mate. Like the looks but the height and money keep me from the showroom.
***** Thanks mate. :-)
Yeah, for me it is definitely the money. My income is more aligned with Suzuki. But that's OK. :-)
8:22 I was reading some things on the bike while I was listening to you in the background and scared the piss out of me. Had volume on max >.
+DeeKay Oops! Sorry about that! HaHa! I was a bit excited at that point in time. :-p
A mate of mine up here has one. They do sound unlike anything else. I know they have a big engine but you said "litres per km". How thirsty are they? Joking mate, good review. A superbike crossed with a monster truck.
Joe's 1190 is better on fuel than my 990, I'm going to get an 1190 in the new year and give my 990 to Karina :-)
troyboy986 HaHa! I didn't pick up on that! I am sure that most people will work out what I meant. Hopefully the haters will be all over it! :-p
Thanks mate, I wanted to ride the Tiger as well, but couldn't get on it! I might have to try and ride one directly at the dealer. Or do what ***** did last year.
Busa Richard, I think I have seen Karina on the 990 more than you anyway. Just make sure you hide the keys to the 1190 or she might steal that one.
***** the '15 Tiger has ride by wire now as well. So Cruise control is standard on all models and I think traction control and ABS. I would really like the cruise option. I think you would like the Tiger mate. Very easy to throw around corners and comfy seat. I have found the seat is more comfortable in the higher position as the angle doesn't push you into the tank as much. The screen on my bike is not adjustable( the new one is) but the higher seat height seems to cure the buffeting a bit too.
troyboy986 I am definitely keen to give one a test ride. Or maybe more than one to test the different sizes!
I would like to try the Explorer as well. A good comparison for you would be to ride the X and the R back to back. The difference between the smaller alloy wheel and the larger wire wheel.
I still stick by my review, I was not impressed with this bike BUT it has a lot of potential.
***** It definitely has potential. With a bit of tweaking it could possibly be as good as your V-Strom.
I just didnt like the footpeg, gear and brake placement as well as the indicators etc. It ruined the whole experience for me.
So is this a bike meet?? And someone let you borrow the bike???
Pomdownunder Pomdownunder No, it is a test ride day put on by the dealer. I did a video on the day here: th-cam.com/video/WAUWVzmFA2k/w-d-xo.html
You will have to come along next year!
Ah we don't have them in England 😕 but yea I'd be up for coming along to it next year for sure, are you limited to how many you can't ride??
Pomdownunder You can only book two bikes, but when you are at the event, free spots often open up.
Does the blur come with the bike as well, basically screw it, your above the speed limit, you don't care and need to see this! haha Now, we just need all of these metric system changed into English units and were set! Good full review:)
NicheRiding Yeah, I think that blurring is a safety feature that KTM do not advertise. Nooo, metric all the way! If the whole world went metric, life would be a lot more simple for everyone. Thanks mate. :-)
nice bike!
JoeJoe Moto It is mate! If only I could afford one!
I rode it too, and adventure R :P
iSlander Of course you did, what didn't you ride over the last year? lol
***** :D Theres so many bikes I want to test-ride :D
But I was riding Adv R and Adv in May.
First!
Not exactly my cup of tea, but still a very nice bike and it certainly has plenty of bells and whistles. Cool stuff!
Tim Kreitz Adventures It would be your cup of tea if you rode one Tim!
Tim Kreitz Adventures Well, about time!
Tim Kreitz Adventures It would go well out in West Texas mate. The ultimate ghost town machine!
Nerb1 I am almost sold mate. I'd nearly leave Suzuki for a KTM!
But the reliability of the Suzuki is too good!
Hahaha and mr cods comin up after ya to give it his negative review!
shadetree surgeon Yep. The Yin and the Yang of the Mr Men! lol
I'd prob never be able to get my leg over it!
***** That's what the foot pegs are for! Use them as a step ladder!
Gimme.