KTM 790 Adventure R vs Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin - Cycle News
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ก.ย. 2019
- We've been going adventure mad here at Cycle News recently, so we thought we'd grab the two best bikes on the market today and throw them head to head in the KTM 790 Adventure R and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin.
These are the pick of the crop right now, and the Honda has won every ADV test we've put it in, so can KTM's new adventure weapon finally know the Honda off its perch? - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
I own an AT DCT model.. I absolutely love it!, I jokingly say that the Africa Twin looks like the super hero good guy and KTMs have an evil bad guy look to them.
Yeah. And that look carries over to performance. Or, another metaphor would be the safe, mid-60s Beatles, who could take your 16 year-old daughter out for Sunday punch ("Here, There, and Everywhere"), versus the mid-60s Rolling Stones, who you'd lock your daughter up for a month if you caught her even listening to one of their records ("Under My Thumb").
I am wondering how it is for desert sand like in Las Vegas. Too heavy? Would a middleweight like the Tenere 700 be better? DCT is a nice option.
For the desert, Honda XR640R , BAJA CHAMPION !!! STILL ONE OF THE STRONGEST BIKES EVER BUILT !
CHEERS
AT was specifically designed to be the super hero good guy. The "Good Bike" is more comfortable and easier for most riders and can go for wonderful rides that can be restfully cruiser-like or swiftly sport-like, depending on your mood.
The KTM was designed to be the bad-ass angry guy from the same movie. "Angry Bike" was designed for a specific kind of rider, and is not comfortable just going for a RIDE. Angry Bike must be RIDDEN.
The suspension in general on the 790R is amazing, just when your about to hit something that you think may toss you, it just eats it up. Power is more than enough, that's why there is the adjustable rally mode. I love my 790R, it's great on the road, and really is an animal in the dirt, expensive, but what quality thing in life isnt? Thanks for a real review in the dirt!
You got it!
Great review, thanks. Glad you talked about weight, such a crucial factor in how a bike feels and performs. One constructive criticism, would have liked to hear about service intervals and complexity (big consideration for long distance, out-there travel) and some discussion on likely longevity / reliability.
Good commentary, but the background music loop was irritating after 20 seconds. Some important things you didn't mention are the tubeless rims and the cruise control option on the KTM. Both are huge benefits and difficult/expensive to add to bikes that don't have them. Cheers
They actualy did mention the cruise control option towards the end...
@@cijetovina Good. Thanks. Missed it
Great video, however it would have made more sense comparing with the normal Adventure 790, the R is obviously much better off-road. But great job really.
Couldn't watch it through - the background music/torture was too much.
Shame I would've liked to have seen it.
Why do so many TH-camrs think we need background music ?
Dean Shaw turn it down instead of complaining.......
@@markmolineux7389 how does dean separately turn down the music from the narration?
Good video. The music became soooo annoying and repetitive. And too loud in the mix.
Noted.
Agreed on the background music.
I agree. I had to turn video off halfway.
I agree too
Funny how things change, when the AT came out, it was touted as more dirt bike than a street bike, now all of a sudden after KTM releases the 790, the AT is all of a sudden more street bike. That speaks volumes about the 790
LOL, totally this is what happened, even riders of the AT bought into it being marketed as a real serious off road bike. Now, AT owners are talking street rides, too funny.
I had the AT, The KTM 790 is far better for long distance, backroad exploring, if you light riding faster, harder, and funnier.
Great point, the same thing happened in street, think it was a Motorcycle.com vid, they had just named the Triumph Street Triple their bike of the year then a few months later the KTM 790 Duke blew them away in a head yo head. KTM must have something w/ that LC8 engine & bike geometry
@@THEelduderino the parallel twin in the 790s and 890s isn't the lc8, is it? I thought the lc8 was the designation for all of their v-twins.
@@T3merity yeah, KTM’s naming conventions confuse me too. From Cycle World “890 Adventure R utilizes KTM’s updated LC8c 889cc DOHC parallel-twin engine”. I think KTM used it in 890 Duke also, just different internals, they may just over use the nomenclatures, I thought I also saw a V twin called a LC8
@@THEelduderino Interesting. I didn't know that!
I have been spending alot more time lately on my 790R. Had come from the AT. There is absolutely no comparison between these 2 bikes. The 790 is not just a little ahead of the AT in an off road environment, but leaps. The lower weight is a huge advantage alone. The 790 is alot more fun, faster and more capable. Even on the tight pavement turns, these 790 rocks. 2 different bikes, not a fair comparison.
What about scheduled maintenance? Oil changes valve adjustments?
Exactly, when the comparison is close then other quality of life stuff needs to be considered too. Even something like what is the actual range? the fuel capacity doesn't tell you anything unless you know the consumption. doesn't the big tank AT get nearly 500km per fill now? On my current bike one of the annoyances is stopping every 2-2.5 hours [250km] for fuel.
Send it till she blows!
That noise in the background is killing me.
i yelled at the kids to turn their shitty music down - turns out it was me all along : - /
KTM takes it every time!
the ktm is light, nimble and powerful..better suited for off roading..whereas the honda is heavier, stable, and comfortable for long rides..but if they are priced the same i'd go for the honda ;)
The KTM is definitely not light - just a bit lighter than the AT. Both bikes are big pigs compared to actual light weight adventure bikes like the 690 and Husky 701.
Me too..Honda parts are everywhere..the dealership
Support is awsome. KTM, IS NOT!
@@chuckbowen4334 I think you'd be surprised at the KTM dealer network. While there are Honda dealers in many places, not all created equal and not all stock the things you need.
@@benjahnz But are the 690/701 really adventure bikes? Or are they just really big dirt bikes?
@@BobcatSig Well they are kinda dualsport/adventure bikes in my mind. They can cruise comfortably at highway speeds and don't need oil changes every other ride. Semantics though really.
I admire Honda for their engineering and build quality, but I have never ridden a Honda that excites me.
Excitiment excitement comes with a cost, major recall alert 🤣🤣🤣🤣
you would expect being in the industry you might have known the AFT was about to be revised to fix a few of those things that make it 'old'. hope to see a comp with new AFT
A lot of times these videos are made weeks if not months before they're finally uploaded. I'm sure they had no idea about the updates that were just announced a couple days ago.
fare play
Great review. Background music excepted (too loud and not needed). Diluted the message. Thanks for all the effort!
finally...! an Africa Twin compar'o that's not DCT :-) Honda was pushing that pretty hard, lol
This bike has been put up against, literally every other ADV, from the "mighty" GS down to this Unicorn new comer, and it always holds it's own ...or wins ...I don't think there is anything else to say ...Africa Twin FTW ha!
I had an AT, now a 790, the AT has an obvious following, and those are so very loyal to it. But, there is no question to anyone, when in a off road environment the ktm is far more manageable, faster and safer to ride. Saying it wont supply you with a funnier day off road would make little sense, because it is. The difference on weight on a scale means nothing between these two, even though weight is everything in the dirt, as the place the weight sits gives it a drastic difference. That is stated clearly in this review. If you want a better off road machine then get the ktm, its better for that. If you want better suspension, more performance get the KTM. I liked my AT, only had it for 2 years, Now there is something better suited for my riding. I never had a issue with my AT, but have had many problems with my crf250r over the years compared to my Ktm 450exc. Some of us that ride ktm's do not buy into the crap about them being unreliable. There are two manufactures of off road bikes that flood my riding area, including my baja trips, Orange ones and every one else. So Doubt very much there is a big reliability issue. Manageability is the issue of biggest concern with an off road adventure bike, if it wasn't ,we, including AT riders would be riding KLR's.
Its so hard to find a 790 adventure r used that I started looking into other mid size ADV bikes. I was really looking into the africa twin. Than I watch a video like this and brings be back to the 790.... gosh darn it....
Nice job making a decision. Lot's of comparisons on the Tube have spineless conclusions with the predicted "toss up" if you like this then that, if you like that then this. Thank you.
What is minimum octane rating for the KTM vs Africa Twin? Some places here in Texas only have 87 octane.
Gotta be 87
beauty and the beast. C'mon, the KTM is still not a lightweight, 30kg difference are a lot. But which things can you do with the KTM which are not doable on the AT? Both are not 100kg 125cc two strokes. On such heavy bikes the rider is the limit. Watch Mick on his AT from Australia. Great driver! And the talentless rest of us can enjoy the bikes on "normal" offroads and on highway. I drove the AT at 120mph without any issue
So true.. Right now "everybody" is druling over the tenere 700 as if a 190kg dry weight bike can do miracles off road, that an Africa Twin can't..
Offroad you feel every kg. So the weight difference + low fuel tanke make a HUGE difference
@@pepperthepep offroad you feel every kg - very true, esp. when you have to pick it up. I'll keep my KLX250 for the nearly spindle-deep mud of UK winters. No f***in way would I go near an AT. Dry gravel roads, sure. Mud - no way.
I think that the Africa Twin should be compare with the KTM 790 adventure, but not with the R model, which is much more similar and much cheaper. In this comparison the KTM adventure "standard" win without a doubt. We are talking about 2000 euros difference. You can add a comfort seat and many more things to adapt to yours personal preferences
@mld and... there's no 1090
Honda just announced a new AT for 2020, improved all around, including tubeless tires... FYI. Great review (just remove the background music please). In my opinion for light off-roading, you can also use the heavier KTMs and BMW GS, which will perform fine and get you there on the highway and twisty roads super comfortably. When it gets technical, all these bikes are just too damned heavy. Looking to try a 690 dual purpose to see if that makes a real diff.
I know not many people do this but I my dream would be to hop on a bike and travel the world. I wonder if it would be easier to get parts for the honda more so than the ktm in more remote places, and I’m also curious to see if there is a big difference in fuel efficiency?
So now please create one when the updated are launched. It will be interesting to see what you folks think.
Curious to see the 2020 version reviewed by you guys
The MY2021 890 ADV you mean?
Love it! Displacement is just about a mute point. What’s the better bike. Listening to this, change the windscreen on the 790 and best of both worlds?
Moot
I also was down to AT or 790R.
Went for the 790R.
Choice of heart over brains (which I admit am not overly equiped with...).
Anyway, We'll see how things pan out.
Great review. Thank you.
I'd absolutely love to read your review of your 790R here - esp. comfort and reliability
@@Unfunny_Username_389 On a trip in the upcoming weeks doing mixed tarmac/gravel in the French/Italian Alps. Will post a bit here.
A decent review, but Honda’s 2020 model is updated significantly including cruise control and more torque. Of significant importance to those who actually use these bikes for ADV use is range and fuel spec. My 2017 AT will go as much as 250 miles on a tank and will operate just fine on regular grade gasoline if necessary. The KTM runs higher compression and demands premium fuel. I don’t know what the max range is for the 790. Can anyone speak from experience? These considerations don’t matter much in urban areas but are very important when traveling, especially in foreign countries such as Mexico where premium fuel is not available in many remote villages. I applaud KTM for building a significantly lighter bike with premium suspension. That Xplor48 suspension began life on my TE 300i 2T enduro bike. The Honda only runs 45 mm fork tubes on a considerably heavier bike. Of interest is that my 1997 KTM 620ADV runs WP Extreme 50mm front forks on a 350 lb bike. Bigger diameter fork tubes flex less under load. My 620 is better at speed off road than my AT.
790 does 250+ miles. 5.3 gallons and averages over 50 mpg.
motograce Thanks! I recently tested a 790S on both the street and the dirt. The extra $1000 for the R model is money well spent. The 790S was painfully stiff in the dirt, but really sporty and precise on the pavement. Younger riders will prefer the KTM, older riders the Honda. The lack of adjustability really compromises the bandwidth of this bike. The innovative fuel tank placement pays big dividends in handling and stability.
@@garthlundquist8316 mate im 22 and have a AT, what are smoking 🤣🤣🤣 the true DAKAR queen..
Reliability is THE most important thing with adventure riding. Therefore Honda wins hands down.
th-cam.com/video/NtLsIDFYv8M/w-d-xo.html. KTM the chosen machine
Somebody hasn't owned or been to the AT forums, I sold that hunk of shit.
AT doesn't get to claim reliability just because it has a Honda logo on it. That's just nonsense. It's got issues. ADV bikes may be subjected to a lot of punishment.
Durability and reliability of a honda.
Gerry v I own an AT and sadly have to disappoint regarding this topic🙄
@@Philoxxxx ahh do tell plz?
casperi2 Ok so here is my list of problems I had with it. (with many errors in my writing I'm afraid)
The spoked wheels started to show visible corrosion at a mileage of 6000km. The bike always was parked in garages (appart from campingtrips)
The common starter-button-unit problem caused the bike to sometimes not start at all or start after maybe 10mins. Sometimes it was fine.
at a mileage of 14000km
The Forks started to heavily leak oil at a mileage of 5000 km. I was on a trip when it happened. A local workshop managed to reduce the leakage to a minimum, enough to get me home. I had to have the seals changed later ~400€
The bikes powdercoating startet to "break away" on parts of the frame and cockpit. Specifically in corners. The exposed steal rusts there now. Happened at under 4000 km.
(Not a technical issue)The speedometer always shows 10% faster speeds compared to the actual Speed. (I compared with cars, Gps and others motorcycles) as a result all of the tripmeters and the indicated fuelconsumption are useless, sadly. The temperature-gauge is accurate though.
The coating on the inside of the fork-tubes wore off pretty fast on one side. (There are plenty of good Photos in the Internet) As a result my Forks got very "sticky" at around 4000 km . Even on very good roads I now feel a constant buckling (up- and down movement). I now keep rotating my Forks ( in the clamps) every now and then. To use the remaining coating. The only complete aftermarket forks (not just the insides)seem to be offered by Öhlins. They cost 3000€.
(Not a technical issue)The Suspension on the AT is very soft.
I wanted to adjust the rear-suspension.
Usually the targeted suspension-setting on the rear is 30% sag for an adventure bike that is sometimes ridden offroad. My Weight is (only) 71kg and to get to the 30% sag I have to preload the Suspension on the Maxim hardest setting. That's not good, I think.
So I have to say: my AfricaTwin is from 2016.
Maybe things got better over time. Maybe I shouldn't buy first-generation motorcycles.
But there also are things I like about my bike and I now already invested a bit in it. So I keep it. I hope our relationship remains good now.
Character, soul, quality, features, performance, modernity, sexiness of KTM ;
Noob here ... looking into my first adventure bike.
Can't help but to wonder the maintenance costs of the Honda vs KTM.
In fact, vs other companies like Triumph as well.
Really really keen to watch this, couldn't hear the guys talking over that music...
Dare i say it:Comparing the F850 to the Honda(You mentioned this was the Two Best Bikes in the Cat):F850=Tubliss,Cruise control,Heated grips x 3,Decent TFT screen,weight,takes maybe 4 Minutes to take air filter out!!,I'll bet the f850 being generally better than the Honda in the dirt(Weak side is the front end being a tad too soft).Cheers and Thks.
maybe compare your 850 to the 790 who won here?
@@chtomlin I will comment down the line although I think you also get a good deal on the 850.I have ridden along side my mate on his brand new 790 and he stalled a couple of times in the tight stuff but in fairness to him I think thats just an adjustment although I think the 850 has more torque low down.I like the perceived build quality of the 790.I believe the front end to be better on the 790.
My issue was seat high, at 168cm or 5"6 the adjustable seat of seat 850GS is a real winner! I managed to ride Twin Africa, but never felt comfortable with manger it high and weight.
what about reliability with these two bikes and after sales value ??
You said "the KTM is 40 lb lighter, but feels 100 lb lighter". That must be a huge advantage off-road.
It is!!!
Cue pissed-off squirrel - 13:37
If I was using a bike for dual tide touring I’d take the Africa Twin - weekend/day trips in the bush/ scrub. If you have a fat wallet for the KTM software package, it’s a very amazing bike. Interested to see how a KTM 390 Adventurer would go up against those 2.
looks like the video of honda, the riders were being timid yet on the 790 they were having fun.
Dr. Sober that’s the weight, it’s a pig.
@@stevemacca786 My 990 weighs as much but would be happy to walk over the AT. That being said, can't wait to ride a 790r, it's going to be so much better.
@@stevemacca786 20kg difference is nothing lol
Same price in US? In Aus the Kato is another $2000
they should have raised the seat of the Africa Twin and at that point you don't feel like you are sitting in the bike..it feels much better in the higher setting but difficult for short riders...in fact.. the 2020 exasperates this "sitting in" feeling with the new design. The Adventure Sports version has taller handlebars and really feels natural and great standing up...(I'm 6.2) but again.. it is tall even for me!
Secondly, with the discounts you can get on a leftover pre-2020 africa twin... you could be sitting on an Adventure Sports for $10900... then it's a completely different aspect... no doubt the KTM is fabulous and the electronics are super cutting edge, but I just couldn't see myself riding 80-100 miles just to get to any sort of backwoods riding here in NYC on that bike....
All being said, I really like the new KTM... they did a great job.
Would you find in the middle of Africa, Asia or South America a mechanic reliable to work on a Honda vs KTM? 🤔 Just thinking about it.
Neither, take a klr if thats a big concern, which it should be. Parts availability is a huge issue as I learnt in south america. The places you get too require most any part you need being shipped in from some where. So I took a klr.
Of course you wouldn’t!
You shouldn’t ride anything to the middle of Africa if you can’t fix it yourself. I mean really.. it’s your life line somewhere so dangerously remote and hot!
That’s why KTM gives you a tool kit with the bike!
You can take the bike apart enough to do most jobs just with that. Take a Torque wrench to put her back together and you’re good to go. It’s just parts then.
I love both, but if Africa Twin had the same weight than Ktm... then would be the winner. I'd like that in comparisons of medium trails always was the "lifting test", that is, laying down the bike in a relatively compromised place (not a flat path) and then lifting it with no help, because the fact is that when you go on dirty you will fall down earlier or later. Then we can see which one is more difficult to lift.
I think both are great bikes, but are really good only in comparison to each other when in their different riding zones. The AT, does not have the suspension, tires, abilities as does the 790 in the back country. Cleaning of the air cleaner is not a thought out, dirt designed feature of the AT. AT wins for street touring easy, ktm wins for dirt adventure easy.
I'm not too brand loyal, but when I own a machine that has nothing but issues out in the bush, in the middle of nowhere, leave you stranded with different issues every ride, I'd never buy that brand again and not to mention a terrible dealer network. Fuel injection issues, electrical issues, engine issues, even had the plastic orifice in the master cylinder come undone and unexpectedly toss me over the handle bars when braking. That brand was KTM. I bought the Africa Twin, but I did look at what many brands had to offer while shopping, when I came across the KTM bikes, with all the bad experience Ive had with their previous bike made it easy to look elsewhere.
1987 KTM?? I have had a few KTMs and they are the best, most reliable, most powerful, have the best suspension, highest quality parts...... No problems
@@ognightrider2052 2012 KTM, it was either a lemon or an example of KTM quality
Sadly, this review is already obsolete. The Africa Twin is greatly upgraded with cruise control, lighter weight, a new frame, bigger 1084cc engine with more power, new suspension, and much more.
Yup, so if it was close before, now most likely AT is a better bike.
And it looks 100000 times better than that insect-headed monstrosity. KTM really doesn't want me to buy anything from them :P
@@bezimienny_andzej6425 And the KTM now will an 890, so.....
Yes; butbstill soooooo much heavier.… Honda lost itself with this evolution. Xxxl size adventure bikes are already a thing of the past… i’d never go again with those more than 200 kg bikes.
@@thierryjaccon4904 interesting - that's my instinct too
It's crazy how similar Jesse sounds and looks like a clean-shaven Zack Courts. LOL
Zack Courts wishes haha - Jesse
Very true! Lol
"The bikes are super comparable" yeah if you compare them to a car. other than that theyre pretty different
I've noticed that all reviews of ADV bikes are done mostly on the streets. Some actually take them off roading. And very few, like these guys, mostly off roading. But regardless of how much off roading the tests are, the bikes are NEVER fully tested loaded. I am talking about as loaded as when you hit the road crossing a continent. That sort of stuff. Other than the people who do video logs of their travels, I don't believe there are any real test riding of these bikes loaded. Pretty useless for someone like me who is trying to pick a bike to cross Central and South America on.
As much as I am intrigued by the KTM, I think that I would stick with the Honda. It's hard to beat the Japanese bikes on reliability. Plus I am sure it is easier to find a Honda dealer/shop in Latin America, than a KTM dealer. I know about KTM's incredible winning streak at Dakar, but people actually believe that that equals reliability of their production bikes, not necessarily. Those bikes are suited with the best of the best costing many tens of thousands of dollars. Their street production bikes might benefit from some way downgraded version of some of that technology, but it is not the same.
I have met some KTM riders with some complaints. And for me a huge problem with the KTM's, is their lousy US warranty. It only covers the engine, transmission, and swing arm. Anything else breaks down and you are on your own and paying out of pocket. Not good!
I call for a redo... compare the African Twin 2020 ES manual transmission
Nice video but within a few minutes all was said. The KTM is a nice sporty off-road bike more for shorter adventure/off-road style trips. The Honda is more of a comfy off-road bike for longer off-road traveling. Didn't really need 18 minutes i.m.o.
why is the ktm more for shorter adventure/off road style trips? For myself, i wanted better performance for long haul off road adventure. The ktm is far better for this and for those river crossing's, steep hill climbs I come across on every ride, I cant turn back because my bike is too big. My AT was a far better choice for long distance road and some off road. My new ktm is far better at long distance off road, and fast riding.
Love the Africa, but look at the front of the two bikes: mud guard just skimming the tyre. Having been ejected by the bike in heavy mud from a clogged guard I have to wonder why Honda didn't go more aggressive like KTM. Got an altrider high rise guard now that looks like that KTM's - much better.
high mudguard can be dangerous at high speeds, beacuse it usually catches the wind and makes the steering more unstable..
@@andrejkumer i regularly hit top speed and feel no awareness of the mudguard causing any issue.
No tests with loaded luggage?
I like the music. Forget everyone else.
when your talking about putting miles in surely that is what DEFINES an adventure bike
KTM can only dream of Honda's reliability
th-cam.com/video/NtLsIDFYv8M/w-d-xo.html. Try that with a Honda - LOL
Good god honda, you been building bikes for decades and could'nt get the front forks from falling apart after 10000km. And street tires? Oh and the spokes not being able to handle wet and dirt grime. Maybe call KTM and get your parts and build a bike that can stand up to tuff stuff.
z zim I have 32k KM on my 2016 Africa twin... no major issues....
Things have changed. A lot of Quality issues with the CRF on fb at groups whereas KTM become more and more solid.
z zim and a crapy windshield combined with an 80ies calculator as a dashboard.
I'm still nervous to buy a ktm because of the electrical issues.......are they still problem prone?
I've never heard of ktm electrical issues. I have a 790, 450, honda at, honda crf250.
Broken sub frame on the AT, forks crapped out. CRF blow the motor way to fast. Never a problem with my KTM's. If you want performance get the KTM, its awesome and same price as a AT.
electrical issues? wasn't that two decades ago?
Honda all day for 365 days a year.For all terrain,pleasant and comfort riding and the big plus apart from reliability is the bigger torque than ktm engine because of the 1000cc instead of 790 cc.
Looks like the KTM seat is quite high compared to the Honda. Shorter riders might've a difficult time getting their feet to the ground.
And normal length people need the higher seat 😜
KTM 😍
The one thing that is on edge with the KTM is the reliability.
I didn't see that with my KTM SMT
That's one of the things holding me back. That and the possibility of a 850 Africa Twin.
@@roberthicks686 Honda builds its bikes on a budget these days. I had an AT for a couple years, lots of small issues and a couple major ones (DCT breakdown, intermittent stalling). Fork wear, spoke corrosion, etc., are common problems.
What do you know about reliability of the ktm 790... We will see it after couple of years when they have aged and seen more miles.
KTM bikes tend to break because they get ridden so hard.
Need more info on the release of the Rally R
Buy a normal ADV R and put a rallykit on it.. that's what KTM have done..
Wonder how the 2020 Africa Twin (base model non-DCT) with slightly strong engine, slightly less weight, and ungraded electronics will fair. If their review says they're this close already, the new AT might have them call a draw.
it's not close. not at all. 790 kills the AT. go test ride them
@@damytzeus My comment was over 7 months ago. I agree that I wouldn't get an AT over a 790R. But I wouldn't get a 790R until I wasn't actively repulsed by the styling. Which is too bad (for me) because it's a fancy piece of motorcycling tech!
@@damytzeus I've also had the pleasure of using the DCT in other applications. Mixed feelings about owning a Honda with one but I LOVED using it in many applications. It's a great choice to have
I rather the torque than the power.
13k is priced well. In which world. I would rather get tenere 700 for 10k. Or even Himalayan 650 for 6k which comes out in 2021
In Canada the 790 is 14, 999......The Tenere is 12,999....;/ Plus 15% tax!
Duke looks like running away from Africa Twin in the starting of the video.
Three questions:
1. Which bike is the best one?
2. Which one would you buy?
3. Which one would you take for a world trip?
Honda DCT
BMW r1200gsa
AT..
1. Best for what main purpose?
2. Answer 1 dictates 2
3. 790 is not, regardless of what some say, around the world tourer. They already have 1090 & 1290 for long haul, 790 is just exponentially better off-road road than the AT in all tests & in some KTM 1090 owner reviews, better than larger KTM’s; lighter w/ better maneuverability while enough travel (in R variety) to take any bump while having enough power to keep up w/ AT & others. Difference is this bike is shown keeping up w/ KTM enduros & CFR 450’s, but those riders at be skilled. If you’re really going around the world, get the AT, but now your back in to GS country so options change. If your riding to a technical trail, 790 hands down. Only thing Honda wins hands down is Reliabilty, but that’s important for option 3
Why didn’t you test the new Africa Twin?
Because this test was done in 2019, before the 2020 model was released.
the result wouldn't matter
Would lean more toward the KTM. If KTM is increasing the displacement of their parallel twin, my vote would be for a 990...PLEASE!
@mld they used to make a 990 but sold that v-twin engine off to the Chinese. you must have missed the parallel twin part...I've ridden the 1090, nice bike but like the idea of a larger parallel twin than the v-twin. If you have been keeping up the the rumors, KTM may be going to an 890 parallel twin but this seems to close to the 790 so a parallel twin 990 would be much better option between the 790 and the 1290 (and drop the 1090).
Noooo!! We want lighter twins .. not heavier ones.. Too many elephants on the market already
@@GallicGarlic I would like to see this as well but I don't see KTM going to a 690 twin...seems like the closest to a "unicorn" we will get is the 790 Adventure and the Tenere 700.
KTM is developing a 890 parallel now
@@humzilla707 that is the rumor being reported, not much of an increase. I've read so many heat complaints on the 1090 and 1290 v-twin...maybe a 990 or even a 1090 parrellel twin would be better for heat management.
Wouldn't the 1090 be a more even comparison in size?
yah, I agree there too, not fair to put the heavier, more road bike, in with this adventure capable monster. Not even a chance.
Your voice sounds like Ozzy Man off Ozzy Man Reviews
No hay comparación...
If you want to ride 1000kms at the range of 120kmph than Africa Twin For you. It's bloody reliable then. Nothing will happen If you ride same distance on mix like off highway & thrashing like 140kmph all day. You are On KTm already.Some issues can crop up. Anyway I am riding on KTM790R someday. But good comparo. Designed to address same philosophy but they are two different personality , Same goes for riders. one(790R) is for hardcore off road riders and one(HAT) is for Ammaturish.You Decide
sorry, there's no comparison. except for cruising on the highway, 790 kills the AT right off the floor -in every way, including aggressive street riding. no contest. and, i've ridden both and own a 790. i really wanted to buy the AT and it just lacks in many ways.
Which tires are on that 790R?
Metzeler Karoo 3 on the R and Avon Trailrider on the standard 790 Adv
We ran the 790 on Bridgestone AX41's and the Honda on Continental TKC80's. We wanted to have them both on the Bridgestones but couldn't get them on the Honda in time. -- Rennie
450 adventure would be mega
Honda for me. Ktm ehh, parts are expensive and might not be as realiable as the Honda AT
parts are not more expensive. its not 1999
Think you’re right on reliability all day, nothing like a Honda. If you can afford it, KTM keeps proving they just perform better out the box
What KTM 790 can do, the AT can do the same as well, its just that in few specific situation KTM will do better. 20 kgs weight difference anyways will not make big upset in hands of a skillful rider.
After having many adventure bikes, i can say there isn't anyting called as Best of Both Worlds. Its a bit less or bit more compromise in either side.
I own a DCT AT and i love it.
sorry. 790 kills the 790 in every way except cruising on the highway. i have buddies who have AT and 790. i really wanted to buy an AT and there's no contest. 790 is a much better bike in every way. i bought a 790
Should have comapred africa with 790adv S
they are trying to sell you on the ktm without looking too obvious about it , hense the few random compliements on the africa twin , lol
Yeah, shocking, huh?
790 is so far ahead of honda this comparison was out of pity. longest travel suspension front and rear of any adv bike is worth the money. Then consider the advanced electronics...
@@1compaqedr8 The problem I would worry about is all the electronics that have no warranty on the KTM.
ok let me guess , you only go offroading and dont do much long dustance travel , in that case your better off with a dirt bike , but let me tell you kiddo , if you do any long distance travel you best be on the honda for comfort and super reliability cause it aint no fun breaking down in middle on hwy , trust me dude
Nitil Patel for super long distance I will use my 1190 Adventure with electronic suspension. 790 for aggressive riding with dirt bikes and friends with EXC models.
If worried about reliability then get the Tenere 700 or a simple v-strom.
AT is the indestructible even-keeled do it all tank, KTM is the whiz-bang hell-raiser that wants to be rode hard and put up wet. 2 different takes on Adventure.
Ljoel McHanley that’s about the best summary I’ve seen, spot on
The Africa Twin is yet another elephant in the World or medium to large trails .. Way too heavy.. The KTM is much more capable off-road
KTM warranty, service, and reliability make the Adventure R a no go.
No contest. The ktm wins. Even for the 1100 AT. The suspension is mush and the power is meh, certainly the electronics on the 1100 are garbage… Honda is the missionary position of motorcycles, they just played it safe with the AT. Added enough power to make it exciting compared to the super tenere and that was it. Fun factor, just plain enjoying the ride and smiles per mile…ktm…and I own a 2020 AT. Looking to trade it in.
Fun factor, just plain enjoying the fuel pump failure somewhere in the woods and miles per smile
The ktm 1090 is the best adventure bike made. Know why, Hydraulic clutch and 125hp. Unless you are vertically challenged then one of these girls bikes will do.
I’m keeping my 1090 till 2030. Great bike.
You may want to comb TH-cam more. Lots of 1090 owners riding the 790, who love the 1090’s, are blown away by the 790’s lower center of gravity, w/ that LC8 & better off-road handling in the R spec. Great suspension, lighter bike w/ lower center combined w/ all the hp needed for off-road has people questioning 1090, 990’s, 950’s. Now add in adaptable TC, ride modes & the new 790 geometry. I personally don’t have a horse in the race but old KTM 1090 fans are convincing me I need to take a ride on a 790
No comparison. KTM all the way!!
Sorry. Had to tap out. I fell asleep
It is 2023 and by now the AT should have been sold in a smaller package - 650 750, better geo, better suspension, F the gadgets - let the damn thing rip and fight or make it die a death, stop being a dinosaur Honda FFS
The music is annoying me and way too loud.
Honda for me
KTM made in China
or
Honda made in Japan
🤔🤔🤔
and? HD is made in China, Indian made in Poland ( some parts made in China). BMW made in India, KTM made in India.
@@grohuthey are made there to make more profits, not to increase quality. HD, Indian and KTM don't have exactly reputation for most reliable machines (KTMs being more performance). BMWs are great but I only know ppl that own1200GS and those are made in Germany.
If I'm to pick motorcycle to ride off road and away from civilization. Reliability is in top of my list.
;) I see many BMW made in Germany with strange fault at engine.
Ktm made in Austria
@@GroovyStyleUnbox also India especialy with 390ccm motor
I never liked the look of the AT, gold rims, paint scheme, cleaning the filters on an actual adventure ride that included a lot of dirt riding, tool kit that is a joke to get at. Plus it was far to big and heavy for long distance dirt exploring, and to big for issue's I came across in the back country. Awesome touring bike though. My new 790 is in a different category, its suspension, riding position, air filter I can clean around the campsite, riding moods, lighter, etc, absolutely rock. Both good bikes. If your idea is endless miles of pavement and you want comfort, AT. If you explore in the back country you will far prefer the KTM.
10 seconds in and you’ve already stated that the Africa twin has won every adventure comparison test we put it through? You’ve already lost credibility.
Meh, if you want a light ADV bike a DR650 is still the best bet. The KTM is far too pretty for real off road use.
The ktm and t7 are starting to make something apparent and these 2 guys stated it. That a really adventure bike is a lighter weight more off road bike than a street touring bike. So this is going to get good watching the acknowledgement that what the manufacturers have been trying to sell and label adventure bikes are really just street touring bikes we have had for years available. I just completed the idbdr again on my old klr. Out of maybe 50 other riders out there only 1 rode 2 up. Most bikes were, klr's and dr's with a few BMW's. When back on the highway coming home every bike was a big 1000cc touring bike, very clean and pretty.
Up till now the only real adventure bikes were still the likes of the DRZ, DR, and klr's. Now we finally have 2 more. t7 and 790, so cheers to that. Hard to beat those old "
adventure bikes for sure".
@@zzim2853 T7 and 790 are still both over 200 kg (ktm are being coy about the wet weight) and have pretty/expensive looking hard plastic body panels. Not in the same class as DR650/DRZ etc. as far as off road pedigree. Still just tarted up touring bikes really, which is fine.
This ktm can be surely a lot of good things. Pretty ain t one of those, looks like it fell off the fifth floor. At least IMHO...
Light ADV bike the DR650??? What about the KTM 690 or the Husky 701 now those are 2 light weight ADV bike that will put a smile on your face all day long!
@@roamtvridingoff-roadadvent8905 Oh totally forgot about those too. Yes I agree, they are properly offroad capable and have a lot more grunt than the old guard. Basically a dualsport/adventure cross over.
My new AT (ABS) was $16500k AUD ride away while the KTM R is $22500k (+) AUD ride away. Makes the KTM an absolute rip off here in Australia, yet makes the AT a rip off in the USA.
Odd how international prices are so different, right?
@@cyclenews it's crazy, but oh well! Just got to work harder so you can buy them all!
where did you find an AT at that price? I am in Oz too and would buy one straight away at 16500!
@@fabriceboone4700 It's in U.S. pricing. We are an American publication.
@@cyclenews Unlikely...Jeremia Jonhsom wrote 16500AUD...that means australian dollars. 16500 usd is 24500aud...
KTM
Wouldn't it be more fair to compare the Africa Twin with the KTM 1090?
We did in 2017. The Africa Twin won.
Thinking the ktm is by far the best bike though you need hearing protection while its running sounds Like a Steam powered Caliopé
How very wrong you are
Why aren't you wearing ear plugs anyway????!!
Phil Williamson The cheapest, most effective mod known to man.👍🏻
I own a 2017 Africa Twin and a KTM EXC500 f. The KTM super light barely street legal 350 pounds wet basically an off road racer
Awesome bike. Street biased I ride the AT dirt I ride my old DRZ or new EXC. I travel on ATits perfect doesn’t have stuff that going to strand you.
KTM I need my own race mechanic the Honda much more reliable. KTM way better off road.
oh my god , you are comparing a 500 exc with AT . one is an adventure bike the other is basically just for dirt . Where did u go to college ?
Different usages and requirements ..
The KTM500 excf weighs 258 pounds ready to go off the showroom floor. Where in the world did you get 350 pounds?
if ktm made a 390 adventure would you buy it?
Sorry
I meant 250 not 350 pounds on my exc f must’ve been asleep. I read it’s like 242 pounds dryor something. It feels super light. I just got it only rode it twice. And no I wasn’t comparing the two bikes except to say that for many adventure riders it’s divided into two camps. The big KTM 1190,1290 s super tenere s BMW GS Africa twins or smaller dual purpose bikes with bigger fuel tanks racks etc. like the old KLRs or DRZs even Honda xl650s. the new breed of adventure bikes coming in the 700 cc range may be perfect for many. Best of both worlds. That 790 seems awesome just don’t know about those hideous fuel tanks hanging off the sides....