ADV Matt-I own a T7 and just purchased a KTM 390 Adventure. I have to say you were in part responsible for me to purchase the 390 for a specific purpose. As for the T7: I love that bike and have no intention of getting rid of it. It’s my long distance , touring, dirt, and my go to ride when I ride with others. After ridden the KTM now for about 500 miles, it is a very different kind of ride. I’m loving it, but I have learned to appreciate both as they are so different. Once you have broken in the T7, I think you are gonna have a different experience. I love that motor! It is a willing partner and it will come alive when asked of it. It’s just not as high strung as a typical Austrian motor. Never hesitate to wring it out if you want to on the road, but boy do I appreciate the laid back linearity off road. It’s willing to do just about anything, held back by its rider’s abilities. As a former KLR owner, I do have to take exception of the comparisons. I find that the only thing the T7 and KLR have in common are reliability and value. The T7’s abilities are far greater and back to that motor! That parallel twin isn’t in the same league as the 650 single. Hang in there, push the limits when it’s time and you’ll find those smiles you once had with the KTM.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. My KLR comparison was really daying the Tenere is parallel twins what the KLR is to single cylinder bikes. Boring but dead reliable. I will give this bike its due, and ride it hard to really find its character. Cheers.
I’ve had two 390’s - the last one was a stop gap till I get my T7 in a week. I can’t wait to get rid of it. The bike doesn’t like low speed at all, particularly compared to my DR I had, the suspension needs work, as the damping is all over the place, and the T7 is far more off road capable.
@@martyn_g the 390 Adv does not like to be ridden at low RPMs. It needs to be operated around 5k and up. If you do that the bike comes alive. I replaced the fork springs and the shock and the suspension is amazing now. Right now, I choose to ride my 390 Adv before my T7. It's more fun, but I have spent a lot of money modifying my bike to get it to suit my riding. I also adjusted my riding style to fit how the bike performs. It doesn't like to be lugged.
Just picked up my Tenere. Ain’t going back to a 390. The engine is in a different league to the highly strung Duke motor. And it hasn’t even broken in yet, lol. To me, the 390 is a Duke GT. Bigger tank then the Duke, more comfortable. It isn’t really an ADV bike. I think it’s just clever marketing on KTM’s part.. leveraging more sales off the back of the 790/890. The worst part is correcting the stupid footpeg position. I stand on the Tenere, and the ergos are near perfect. Also, it crawls in 1st, hand off the clutch. No slipping needed to stop it from stalling, like the 390
The Tenere 700 is the Toyota Tacoma or Subaru Outback of the adventure world. It is the trusty, reliable vehicle to get you into the woods, camping, etc. and get you back home. Peace of mind is worth something! Honestly, the biggest concern should be picking up the bike solo in the woods. I have a T7, and yes, I can pick it up in ideal situations, but I have been in some situations that make me really nervous being solo (which I normally am). Cheers,
The weight is a concern for me too. I dropped it the third day doing a U-turn in really soft dirt. Dropping the bike awkwardly will be a problem, but at least I know it won't break easily, like you said.
You are closing in on 10,000 subscribers, Matt, good show. I have a question that you are eminently qualified to answer. I bought my 2021 390 adventure new, coming off a road bike background, and I've been watching your channel since. I've modified the bike a lot, ridden off-road a lot, loved it, and got to the point I wanted something that would help develop my off-road skills more - so I bought a used KTM 350 EXC-f. Love it. In between, I also thought I wanted to have something better on the highway (not for long distance which I don't do much of), but for comfort and smoothness when with friends that do mostly highway and only do minor off-road riding. So I got a Honda CB 500x. A mistake. What a slow, boring, top-heavy, uninspiring bike it has been. While it is a bit smoother than the 390, I wouldn't go to the trouble of kitting it out for any off-road time. It will be sold in the spring. I still have the urge for something a bit smoother for highway riding than the 390 (ie a twin), but it would have to be a replacement, I don't want 3 bikes. And I wouldn't want to make a mistake, I love the 390. You bought the T700 to replace your BMW. Would you consider it as a replacement for the 390? I'm thinking not, you described it as agricultural, which I would never call my 390. But the itch to have a twin on the highway, as light as possible, is staying with me. And I have the 350 EXC-f for more serious off-road work. Can you comment on swapping out the 390 for a T700?
That is a really great question. The 390 is definitely easier to ride offroad than the T7 based strictly on size and weight, mostly weight. The T7 is very top heavy compared to the 390. It will likely feel like the CB500X but with more guts to it. Now that we are into the winter months and most of my riding is on the road I am more inclined to ride the T7. It has more wind protection and I feel like I sit in the bike more than the 390. When I switch back and forth I really feel like I am sitting on top of the 390. I plan to use my T7 for long distance travel, easy forest roads and easy sections of BDRs. When I know I will be riding more challenging terrain I will get back on the 390. This summer will be interesting for me to see which bike I prefer now that I can switch back and forth so easily. Based on what you want to do you might consider the new Transalp or the Tuareg. They are bit more refined than the T7. I will say the T7 has grown on me. I like the simplicity of it but it does force me to be a better rider and pay more attention to what I am doing between shifting, braking and traction. If I was mainly riding roads with an occasion forest road that a car could drive down I think the T7 would be my choice. It is more refined on the road. Hope this helps. This gives me an idea for a comparison video between the two bikes. Cheers.
Hi Matt. Good video; that sort of honest, neutral self-reflection is tough to do and even tougher to admit and share. The 'wrong bike' happened to me twice: 2017 CB500F (too frantic in town and on the highway, and terrible buffeting); 2017 F800GS (way too top heavy). Both sold very soon after buying with a mixture of annoyance, anger and embarrassment. One a financial loss, the other, happily, not at a loss. Sometimes we buy something that we researched, and really want to like it, but we know that deep down, it just isn't going to work. I'm not saying that you won't feel completely differently about the T7, but if not, I know that depressing feeling. There is a big gap between admiration and affection. Thanks for sharing.
Right on, I feel your pain. I need to stick with this bike for at least 5k miles or more to really learn the bike, then make a decision. I really want to work, we will see.
Appreciate your time Matt. I am considering a bike after a long time away from riding. Rather than go for a sports bike. I am 49 years old and with my thoughts of going travelling on it thought to get a Ducati desert X. Just one thing stops me. The bike does 50 mpg and the v storm 800 de from Suzuki does 70 mpg. Long distance those extra miles make a huge difference.
I tried to get the T7 but there were none ever available. I got the Aprilia Tuareg 660 and love it. Better weight feel over any of the other bikes I rode and efficient electroni8c that stay on when you shut the bike off. Caveat to that, I did not get to ride the 890 because at the time there were no KTM dealers in my area besides I dislike the KTM motors, so noisy. Just My opinion so relax everybody.
Thinking of getting a Tuareg too but have read that getting spare parts is a bit of a nightmare. Hopefully nothing breaks, but it does you could be waiting months before the part arrives 😕
@@diogomorais9938 I think that is a world wide problem, supply due to the plague. I haven't had any issues but I still only have 5000 mile on the beast. And beast she is, I love it better than my AT or my 690 were by far.
@@azlong4596 that’s awesome. Well I think it beats the T7 in many ways not to mention the sound when you open her up 😍 Will check her out again this week.
Great points Matt. Spend more time on it. I’ve owned mine for 2 years and done 16k miles, 2 BDRS (COBDR, IDBDR) and thousands of other miles on and off-road. It just doesn’t break and always gets the job done. I agree about the inspiring you a little but, but give it time. There’s so many bikes, and unlike people who buy them just to review them endlessly, I’m sure you will find a groove as well as providing some great content.
I had some buyers remorse after buying the 390 adv for the first few weeks but then it started to grow on me. Have you seen the video from Big Rock Moto? He recently also sold his GS and went with an 890 adventure. That might be my next choice if this one doesn't work out.
I have seen Ian's videos. If the 890 wasn't $5k more than the T7 I would have seriously considered it. I stoll wanted a Japanese bike. They go forever. For me I was fully in on the 390 Adv after the first few 100 miles. The rest is history, 25k miles later. KTM bikes have so much character.
This is my favourite bike of its type. I love the dash. Utiltarian and agricultural sounds good to me. It looks cool, too. I bet you grow to really like it.
I just bought a 2023 KTM 890 Adventure and after riding now for about 500m, I am very please with how it preforms! And after seeing your videos and how you really like the KTM 390, I was a little surprised that you went with the Tenere 700..instead of maybe the KTM 890 Adventure? Before this KTM I had a Yamaha the super Tenere 1200 great bike, but much too big for me to off road. but this 890 is much more manageable and its a dream to ride on-road also!
I really considered the 890, but the price difference was too significant for me. I also wanted a Japanese bike to change things up. Those 890s sure seem to be the right bike.
@@advmatt I Love my 890 Adventure. I was gonna say that is what's missing. It isn't a KTM 890 :). But in all seriousness, I am surprised to hear that it is so agricultural. On the other hand, I have heard a lot of good things about the Aprillia Toureg 660 and that the engine just has a load of character. I realize it isn't a Japanese bike so it defeats that purpose, but did you try one? Also, maybe the new Honda Transalp is in your future?
@@seandonnelly205 I was interested in the Aprilla, but there are no dealers within four hours, and really hate that the service reminder has to be reset by the dealer. I think the Transalp will be good, if you can find one.
@@advmatt doesn't the service light reset procedure from older Aprillia models work with the 660? A bit of a bummer if not. My old Triumph Tiger 800 XC was the same way. I "reset it" by putting a little gaffers tape over the icon. Out of sight, out of mind :) I get the dealer network bit though. On the Transalp, who knows. Honda decided not to grace the US with 2023 Africa Twin models either :)
Sold T7 bought Tuareg. Much happier.. T7 top heavy and basic.. Tuareg all bells and whistles with more jam and better suspension. So far handles great on and off road. 😊
All your points regarding why you chose the T7 are very rational and I tend to agree. I have a couple Japanese bikes and they are the most reliable and trust worthy steeds in my garage. But, I also have a 390 adv, Ducati M1100, Husky FX350 and those bikes have something more. Difficult to put into words, but once you feel the "soul" of the bike, you know exactly what it feels like. I think you will come around with more time on the T7, but it will never invoke the feeling you get from the unbridled, quirky, dare I say unreliable, fire breathing Austrian/Italian bikes. There was a time where I had to chose between the T7 and 390 Adv, and I picked the 390 (mostly based on cost). 3 BDR's and 10,000 miles later, I haven't had a single issue, and still this bike invokes emotion in me every time I'm on it. Maybe the unreliability claims are outdated. Joined your channel a few years back for the 390 content, but I like your reviews and sticking around for whatever you put out in the future regardless. Keep up the good work Matt.
Thanks, really appreciate your feedback. I agree with you, the fire breathing Austrian bikes have a lot character. That is why the 390 Adv is dang fun. Maybe with a bit more time on the T7 I will discover it's soul.
@@advmatt I totally understand, “bond with this bike.” That’s the same process I’m going through with my FJ-09. I’m not super in-love with it yet but it’s serving its purpose ATM.
Just ride it, get some miles on it and then do the performance upgrades, will blow you away on the difference. Stock bike I test rode and the used bike with the upgrades I bought were so different, enjoy Matt
Addendum....I am 66years old, own 7 bikes. Been riding since i was 12. Raced AAMRR AND LURPS at mod prod and f3 in my 20's in NH NY PA. Pretty broad experience. We skipped class in the 70's when the ISDT ran in the NE. From dirt bikes to inline 4's with cams, pipes and mikunis to Eytalian v twins , now opposed and parallell twins (best yet). Bikes and travel rule !!
Got my T7 in February. Its everything i want in that it is SIMPLE! I dont want traction control, lean angle sensors, tfts, etc. I dont want to fumble with a touch screen or ride modes. I just want to get on, turn the key and ride. It has plenty of power for freeway riding, enough wind protection to make me happy, and it always brings a smile to my face! I have about 2K in add on to mine and the Seat Concepts seat is a must IMO. I just did two 330 mile days over the weekend and the bike was flawless. Mostly 70 MPH 2 lane ST highway, and 50 MPG! I have kept my fully farkled DR 650 for the more off road oriented rides as the 100 pounds less is where its at offroad. Love my DR650, but got the T7 to extend my rides out and explore far away areas. 330 miles on the DR is a little rough! I hope the T7 grows on you!
The T7 is starting to grow on me. I have some changes coming to it that will improve it. It will be a work in progress. I just need to get out and ride. Thanks for the T7 endorsement. I do have to say, I have to fidget a lot with the menu buttons to get it set, reset, and tracking. Cheers, ride on.
I wouldn't worry about offend other T7 riders out there really. You made some good points about your experience first 500. You mentioned the way it rode in the curves...and that you weren't into that necessarily. This is where this bike shines in a mysterious way.....as the top heaviness seems to be working in reverse in the side to side arc motion characteristics. You are coming off a BMW, and the idea that your analogy of the T7 being a twin KLR is good. Yes DE 800, KLR 650( and what ever kawasaki has up its sleeve), the T7, and the Hondas. But truthfully calling the feel of the T7 as a farmbike was the best of all. Yes it is exactly that, a modern farm bike with the reliability and simplicity of a tractor, a horse. I bought mine because it reminded me of my horse riding days.....high neck with the reigns high, and the big long flat back behind the saddle. Tall and top heavy...like a horse. For some that would be a mistake, but keep going down that path and you simple grow to love these types of bikes....over time.
This bike is growing on me, but the tubed tires have already bitten me. Damn tubes. I guess it's the price of simplicity. Each mile gets better for sure. I have some long trips on this bike planned in the near future. I really loved your horse analogy. Cheers.
@@advmatt Ya, the tube tire issue arises often enough out there. I come from riding dirt bikes since I was child. I have dented a wheel or two....which is pretty low odds really. In that context, a dented rim....with no tube....will leave you entirely stranded with no tire repair options...other than stuffing your tire with grass and leaves. The spoked wheels, are stronger and lighter than cast wheels, but inherently have holes. They can be sealed, but then again....those seals could fail worst case. Like many, I do worry about getting a flat and having to deal with a trail side repair, or get back home to get my truck etc. As an enduro racer/rider it was simply a given that changing a tire was a skill you had to learn to be an offroad (adventure) rider.....the nature of it. RIder/mechanic go together on "farm bikes". Interestingly...I have owned a DRZ and rode it for 20 years...still ticking...and always packed a tire repair kit and only once did I have to use...and it was my fault after installing a new tire and tube under time pressure, did it fail (pinched), and the tube was split wide open. It was hitch a ride time to the nearest bike shop which turned out to be a Harley chopper shop in a little 3rd world town in B.C. Lucky me. Without having to tell you, the best way to avoid a flat is good deep treaded tires. I am pushing my luck with a worn out Scorpions...but I am willing to take that chance as I routinely wear out my tires to the max. Each brand has a personality and I would say BMW...rivals in the Paris Dakar world, and Yamaha are in fact opposites in many ways. Keep in mind the Tenere is a Yamaha France evolution, based on that rivalry. With out mentioning Paul Torres.....the fact that he can ride this bike the way he does should give you some clues as to what is actually going on in this bikes concept. He is world class athlete and champion and few can do what he does...but it tells you something about the design...amidst all the top heaviness, and tubedness, there is something mysteriously going on here in the concept, the horse analogy comes back, riding position, stirrups, saddles, etc..there are similarities, on a serious level, that stand out to me. For starters, the basic riding position, and linear motor, and choice of wheel sizes, etc allow him to pull off trials techniques. He is getting paid a ton no doubt to hood wink the newbies, but the slew of (unoffendable) T7 owners who are cluing to the mysterious characteristics of this unusual bike aren't swayed by the slew of T7 owners who don't like them and sell them for something less usually. Less reliable, less horse like, less farm bike like, and tubed
I had exactly the same impressions about the Tenere 700. Budget components, uninspiring and unexciting to ride, unconfortable - didn’t work for me. I bought it to replace my old BMW F800GS, and to be honest the T7 was slightly (only slightly) better in some areas, but not enough to justify the cost difference. I ended up selling the T7 after the first service and I kept the 10 y.o. trouble free F800GS, no regrets. An exciting Japanese ADV doesn’t exist. If you are after a fun bike, you need to start looking at KTM, Ducati, Aprilia. We are not in the 80s anymore, the initial purchase cost, reliability, parts and servicing costs is now pretty levelled between Japanese and European brands.
So, if we were being honest with each other, all of these awesome bikes that weigh over 400 pounds, well they are ridiculous for off road riding, especially since most people riding them are overweight and weak. Even people who are in decent shape are one lift away from a back injury. Fire roads, dirt roads, asphalt, perfect. But if you are going off-road, don’t even look at a bike over 300 pounds, don’t do it, you will be so much happier on the right bike for the right terrain. That’s why bikers tend to own 2-3 bikes.
@@advmatt I took that bike on Jeep trails no problem, and I suck (just don't do anything too crazy). Would be a shame to keep it on forest roads only, that bike wants to fly! :)
I know it's tough to be honest about a bike you've been waiting for and you've seen people praising. I just got a KLX 300 to compliment my 390 ADV and I've honestly been a bit disappointed and made me appreciate my 390 that much more. But I think with time and some mods it'll get better. Keep up the great videos!
I did exactly what you did! Bought a KLX 300 to compliment my 390 adv. I had somewhat of an opposite experience. The off-road capability of the KLX has left my 390 collecting dust. I have so much more confidence(and ground clearance) to explore new areas I just couldn’t go on the 390. I will say the KLX is not fun on long trips, that’s the trade off. I’ve had the 390 up for sale for a few months now, I swear I couldn’t give this thing away. I wish I could convince myself to keep it, it’s a fantastic bike.
@@njwolf2k9 Yeah, sad people underrate the 390 too much. I am more confident off road with the KLX but overall I find the 390 to be more fun and far better all around bike. I think the KTM is far away a better bang for the buck package, but it all depends on what you want to do.👍
T7 owner here. I can understand someone coming from a more road riding background finding it a bit Meh on the road but that's not the market it's aimed at . I've never been a road rider and have come from a dirt background so to me it feels just like a big dirtbike that I can throw around and really ride hard when offroad. If someone doesn't have offroad skills then they'll probably never realize it's potential, get confident with it and it's a blast the tractability with it is great. But as you say on-road it's a bike to get you from A to B , just hopefully B is where the fun starts.
As I mentioned in one of your other videos, I tried a T7 after a 1090R and was super disappointed. I recently bought a leftover 890R for not much more than the gouging prices of the T7. The 890 is amazing, and it was more exciting than the T7 even having to stay under the 6.5k RPM break-in limit. And the low centered weight is a gamechanger! I still have my 390 Adventure, but may sell that, too, since the 890 doesn't feel that much more difficult to handle. The 890 is the most exciting bike of the nearly 40 I've had. The engine is ferocious!
Those 890s seems pretty amazing. I was interested in one but the price difference was a bit much for me at this point. Who knows, down the road I may go that way too.
Part of the “excitement” of KTM is how poor the reliability is…..will it start today, what will go wrong with it today. Just poor quality.. (I’ll never own another one). good luck
I thought from its inception that the T7 was the perfect bike for me. I finally had the opportunity to ride one last year and like you, was not overwhelmed by it. I test rode the Suzuki Vstrom 800, and that was it. I bought it in July and have over 7,000 trouble free miles on it.
For years i had a XTZ 750 Super Tenere, a bike that never made it to you guys in North America, mine was a 96, (the last year they made them), in the same "Sonauto" Dark blue/light blue that many Tenere's came in. (Sonauto was the French Yamaha importer). They used a 750 parallel twin, with Yamaha's 5 valve head that many Yamahas used back then. It was a great engine, that had so much more to give, and responded well to mods. And the 850 or 900 cc version from the TDMs or TRX dropped straight in, if you needed more cubes. They are still really popular in the countries that got them. Their main competition was the Honda XRV750 Africa Twin, another bike the U.S missed. This bike is the XTZ's spiritual successor, the specs are almost identical.
Hey Matt! I really appreciate what you do. I bought the T7 right when it came out coming from an xt250 and being sorta a Yamaha fan boy. I feel like the market has gone crazy for the T7 because on paper it's amazing. But riding it... I felt the same way. It's not necessarily a heavy bike, but it absolutely does not wear it's weight well. It feels so insanely top heavy. I tried to take it off road and anything more than a gravel road felt like a serious challenge because of how heavy it felt. I'm 6ft and it's also a very tall bike. The xt250 was just an absolute pig and horrendous on paper, but man I had so much fun on that thing. It would go over anything with ease. I love the low seat height. It was just so easy and carefree to ride. I ended up selling the T7 right around the 500 mile mark. It just didn't do it for me. And I sold the xt250 and went hard the opposite direction and got a ktm 350 exc-f. And man that's an amazing bike and fun, but.... It's just so much fun to ride a slow bike fast than ride a fast bike slow. So now I'm looking at getting a 390 adventure..... 😂
Absolutely, riding a bike to its limits is way more fun than barely hitting a bike's potential. I think this is why I love my 390 Adv so much. Going from research to riding is a huge leap that doesn't always translate.
Jorge, you sound like the perfect candidate for a WR250R. If you ever see one in the would, ask to ride it. IMHO it's the second-best bike Yamaha has produced. (The FZ1 being a treasure) - Frank
Ha! That's funny that you say that. I bought the 2007 fz1 new back when it came out with fuel injection and I absolutely loved that bike. Someone ran it over and demolished it when it was parked in the parking lot. The wr250 always seemed too expensive for what it is. I actually have a klx300 right now and I enjoy it a lot and think it's pretty good on the highway for what it is. My ktm 350 can go way faster, but it's very uncomfortable over 55 mph and vibrates pretty hard.
@@jorgeAK73 Oh man that is TERIRBLE! I owned a blue 2007 myself, sold it to buy an FZ6. I wanted to try to ride a slow bike fast LOL! I lack the inseam to ride a WR250R daily, but my offroad riding buddy does, and I love to ride it at times. Other than the crazy seat height, it (for me) is just a joy to ride. A smooth ride. I have ridden a KTM 350 and a 500 or two. That much power offroad would be a BAD thing for me! - Frank
I've never ridden a motorcycle that wasn't exciting. You can enter a corner too hot or slide the rear tyre on any bike. I guess it just depends on how you ride it. A dependable (ie japanese usually) bike will be more fun because it will handle the abuse better.
Hi Matt, I have the Super Tenere. While very comfortable, it is no different than the GS in regards to weight. After the T700 came out I thought about getting rid of the T12 and getting the 700. I decided to keep what I have. For peeling off long miles my T12 is the hot ticket. It's just the weight......
The KLR of parallel of twins. 😂😂😂😂😂 That’s the most epic response to a T7 I’ve ever heard. I have only ridden one about 20miles. Was less than impressed
Have you considered the new vstrom 800de? Big rock moto did a review and claimed it feels better offroad than the t7 or even the 890 adventure s and is easier to pickup. It's the bike I'm saving for, it looks awesome. And I can find it in dealers, at least for now.
It crossed my mind, but it wasn't avaliable around me when started my quest looking for a new bike. I do like the way it looks. The difficult thing about new bikes is there is very little aftermarket parts. I like to get wrenching right away. I will keep my eye on that bike though. Cheers.
Hang in there Matt it should improve. However, that being said, if the first 1000 doesn't inspire there may be a problem! I just did a week of AZ/UT BDR action on my big girl and effing loved it. Beat the crap out of her and she keeps wanting more...plus setting the cruise at 95 eats the miles up back to La La land. Keep up the great content Matt. Cheers!
I ride a T7 and was thinking of selling and going with the 390 ADV (weight) but the reliability of the T7 and the fun I have at such a good price keeps the bike in my garage. If the bike's not you, you will sell it in less than 24 hours anyway.
Its funny how the feel of a bike is so subjective and personal to the rider. We all have our own take and this bike has been no different for me. I suspect I might grow into riding it for what it does well and not ride in ways its not. Nothing better than miles, miles and miles to figure it out.
Thanks Matt, great review! It's clear the bike didn't work for you, but I am wondering if you could recommend this bike to anyone, who and what kind of rider would you recommend it to? Thanks👍
Hi Matt I appreciate your low key budget approach and practicality. I looked at the 390 because i wanted to downsize from my GS. I wound up with a 17 Africa twin DCT that gets attention everywhere. Too soft, too heavy, good sound with muffler mod. Did 10k miles in July. Came home thinking I 😮need more suspension. Less weight. My brother has a 23 T7. My gut is UJM, meh. I bought a used 21 890r with 5k miles, pannier brackets and bars for 10k. Has the one lung start on cool days. Crap !! But, it is angry soulful and can be violent. Crazy women can be fun. IMHO, you made a mistake.
I appreciate your insight. Time will tell. KTM does make rockets. I need 1000s of more miles before forming a final opinion, but it might be it was a mistake. Cheers.
I went from a Honda Africa Twin DCT which just was too heavy for me, top heavy and I found the DCT a bit boring, so I went to a 390 Adventure as a reaction to the weight of the Honda, I found the KTM under powered for UK roads, I now have a Tenere World Raid and it is perfect for me, but I only really use it on road and some Welsh fire tracks, no mud....I would fall off. I hope you get to like the Tenere, but if not you won't have any trouble selling it in the US as they are in such short supply.
Did you make a mistake? Yes. As others have said, after comparing the Aprilia Taureg 660 to the T7 and others, I chose the Taureg 660. It has better brakes, a more spirited engine with more power, a MUCH MUCH lower center of gravity, far better electronics with on the fly ride mode changes via a single button on the throttle, CRUSIE CONTROL!!!, and the engine is a proven long distance runner that was slightly detuned with less cam lift and a slightly lower redline from the Tuono 660. Better ABS better traction control, both fully adjustable. My only complaint was the seat did not fit my butt, but $300 later the seat was modified and recovered for me.. Ergonomic and body position was perfect (I am about the same height as you).
I was very interested in the Tuareg but the closest dealer was over four hours away if I needed anything. I should have gone that direction and would have been much happier with my choice, but it's too late now without taking a bath on what I paid.
@@advmatt If Aprilia was smart, they would set up a non dealer repair process. They could easily sell triple the number of bikes if it was well known that you could take it to a pre approved repair shop if the closest dealer was more than 100 miles away. Almost everyone that says they were interested in an Aprilia but did not buy one says the reason was the dealer was too far away.
Reason why I sold my T7 is coz it was just too heavy. After my 1200GS, I was expecting a much nimbler bike. The 40kg weight difference between a 1200cc enduro and the T7 didn't make the slightest difference when dropped. And it being quite top heavy was another reason why I sold it. Looking for a lighter enduro, I just signed up on my KTM390ADV. And this time as my 18th bike, I have a feeling it'll be a keeper for at least a couple of years. As long as of course I "Ride it like I stole it" Matt ;)
I have a 390 adv and had a t7 at the same time. I loved the t7, but it was just far too top heavy for my solo rides offfroad. Ended up carrying a bike winch thing in case I dropped the bike and all sorts. I loved it, but I wasn't comfortable offroad at all , not the bike's fault, but its just too top heavy for me (note, for me!) With the right tyres offroad it handles amazingly. The stock pirelli tyres were truly awful for lack of sideways grip in mud or gravel or sand etc. Also, I had a friend over from Canada, and the T7 there is restricted in first gear , when he rode mine he was blown away by how responsive it was in low gears compared to a north american model..
Interesting, had not heard about any engine restrictions. I have a lot learn about this bike. Nothing lots of miles and adventures can't help do for me.
@@advmatt I hadn't come across any info about restrictions, but he owns one in Canada , came over here, rode mine and was blown away :) I loved my T7, it is great on the road and great off road with the right tyres. 5000 to get it a bit run in and get a good butt shape in the seat and you'll have a comfy fast burro.
I've always felt the same about the T7. Its a great bike but its always just been "meh". Just doesnt excite me. It's too basic. For a middleweight Adventure I would want something a bit more plush with a few more whiz bang farkles and maybe a little more punch. Big Rock Moto just got in a Suzuki 800DE for review. I'm excited to see how it performs. To be honest I think a large part of the T7's popularity is just due to a severe lack of modern options in the Enduro market.
I ride the 390 Adventure. I bought my wife a new xt250. I have more fun on her bike then mine. I have even considered trading in mine for a another xt250 for me. With an upgraded seat of course.
I absolutely love the xt250. I sold it because I convinced myself I need more of a bike and more power and I was so wrong. That's such a great machine...
You stepped down from the BMW GS. There's bound to be some remorse. I fear the same will happen when I trade down from my Goldwing F6B to something smaller and lighter
Actually, the T7 reminds me a lot of the GS. The power delivery is smoothe. No kick around 5k or 6k rpms. The suspension is soggy and it's a more suited for road riding. If you find the right bike, it will excite you. My KTM 390 Adventure is small and is extremely fun to ride. I am not sure what I expected, but I didn't find it. Going smaller isn't always bad. Cheers.
Might just be your break in, getting used to it. I ride my T7 pretty hard on the road through california canyons along various 690s sumos, mt07/09s, various road sport bikes and other scrams more road focused like the sleds. it has NO problem keeping along with the STR tires. maybe push it harder!? good luck, its a fun bike if you believe in it.
Had it out today on twisties wringing it out. It started to show some character. Not happy with how it feels off road but I can fix that. Need to spend more time on it. Cheers.
I looked at their build. It's seems to be very offroad focused and not necessarily a good adventure build for long road miles to get to cool places. But, if I was given a bunch of parts to put on my bike I would do it too.
@@advmatt sounded like the rapid bike evo was interesting enough without an exhaust. These seem to be more popular in Europe. I like the auto tuning capability. What path are you taking on performance?
ADV Matt, I also have both a T7 and 390 Adventure. Sounds like others here are enjoying them too. I bought the 390 because the waiting list for a T7 was too long. I have 3k miles on the 390 and absolutely love it, but there are some quirky things, like it randomly dying on deceleration with the clutch pulled. Weird. The only real limitation is highway riding loaded up with bags requires wide open throttle in 6th. It will hold 80, but no passing power unless I kick it down to 5th and run it up to 10k. Still ok, but if KTM had decided not to kill the 490 parallel twin idea, I would have thought it would be perfect in the 390 Adv chassis. I just bought my T7 two weeks ago and have 350 miles on it. Break-in oil robs some power, so I'm looking forward to changing it. Several friends of mine have had T7s for years and I've ridden them quite a bit, so I knew what I was getting into. I love the fantastic bottom end and linear power throughout the band of the CP2 motor. Smooth power delivery, but as you've said, it doesn't scream like the KTMs do. The 390 has almost nothing until over 6k RPMs, but sure is fun riding it through the top end. With the T7, I'm confident that I can load it up with gear, hop on the freeway, and comfortably and easily cruise at 80-85 all day without fearing my motor will grenade running at 8-9k RPMs constantly. I love both bikes, but then again, I love all motorcycles. Thanks for all the great and informative videos! Very inspirational. I hope to add some myself with some pros and cons of my bikes while on some trips here in the Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming area.
Your experience is the same as mine. As for the 390 Adv stalling issue. I solved my issue by getting the valves adjusted. I know others riders did the same thing also solving their problem. I know you are not at the recommended mileage, but I believe this will solve your problem. Thanks for the feedback. I really appreciate it. My last ride on the T7 was much better and I am getting a feel for it. I am planning to build it out much different than others and from what I have done in the past, so many videos to come, in time. Ride on and enjoy every mile on the bikes, whichever one you are on.
@@advmatt Thanks! I just finished a 900 mile Adventure trip on my T7 up through central and northern Wyoming. Spent some time in the Red Canyon and Wind Rivers areas by Lander and Thermopolis. I highly recommend it if anyone plans to head out this way. The Tenere did very well. Went from 80 mph on the freeway to old dirt cutout roads and back to highway without any hesitation or stops. Had some super heavy crosswinds and the T7 is so much more stable than the 390, obviously due to difference in weight, but still enjoy the 390.
@@bradytew great area to ride. I have ridden through some of those areas. Good to hear the Tenere handles wind much better. One thing you can count on out west is the wind.
Well, can’t doubt that Japanese reliability. I sold my “18 Vstrom for the KTM 390 adv, I was pretty hesitant due to reliability concerns, but at the end of the day, the 390 is soo much more fun to ride. Common sense be damned
The funny thing is I bought an Africa Twin for that "Japanese reliability" and had more trouble with that bike than all the KTM's I have owned combined. I think sometimes that reliability is a little past history and not the current reality.
You went from a GS to a Tenere. Big difference, so the tenere might have to grow on you. I have a feeling you will get that thing in the dirt out there and bond a little more with it. I came to grips with the fact that at 66 I would hurt myself if I took my vstrom 650 on the trails. But I appreciate it more and more everyday and have come to realize that for my mostly pavement riding it suits me better than a 390 would have. (tried to find one last year). If the Tenere is the Tacoma , the Vstrom is the Corolla.😁
Describing it as a twin cylinder KLR650 is probably the most acurate description I have ever heard. If your staying within Japan, it's probably the best choice, but for me, it's not that magical bike we have all been waiting for. - Frank
@@davidmallia628 Hello David, I have ridden two Tenere 700. The first was stock, the second had the factory lowering. The factory lowered one was much less top-heavy IMHO. Much more fun. - Frank
@@advmatt There is a fellow, Tim, who works at one of my clients who has a part time job at Depot, has for a few months now. His wife said 10K max for a new bike, so he is working a second job to buy a Norden 901. I like to mention that he will need to keep the second job for another six months to pay for the farkles. - Frank
I've got a KLR and after testing the Vstrom 650 and the Tenere (which felt very similar), I decided on a used 2015 Vstrom. Felt better on the road than the KLR and got for 3K less than a new tenere. Also got the aluminum panniers, skid plate and crash bars.
Very interesting Matt, ive gone r1200gsa te, vstrom 1000xt, f800gs, vstrom 650xt, ktm 390 adv x2 one for dad n one for me both went back for a full refund full of issues, then a 2018 1200gs te Rallye had to let it go due to a shoulder injury thats now recovered then a Himalayan rejected at 500 miles full of issues for a full refund. Now on a 300 Rally which has been great but desperate need of suspension ive done the rear shock which was a massive difference but the forks are still rubbish was actually considerning a T7 or 800DE Suzuki as we are moving to Scotland in a week weeks and theres 0 trail riding there have you watched ariemann1 quite an interesting channel on the T7. Its good to get opinions like yours though :) cant beat the ones where we have gone out n bought the bikes.
I have watched that channel, a lot. He rides the T7 hard, like a massive dirt bike. He is a superior rider. For the rest if us mortals these bikes are a bit different. Over time I expect I will come to love it, I just need more time and travel on it.
@@advmatt yep thats a very good point Matt :) + we have speed limits like in the UK 60mph on roads 70 motorway and 25 is the recommended limit on trails
Hi Matt, Did you get the BMW because the 390 Adventure wasn't confidence inspiring (maybe offered less directional stability) at highway speeds ... say 60+ mph?
No I replaced my BMW 1200GS with the Tenere because the Tenere has lower maintenance costs and repair costs. The 390 Adv is still my primary bike, especially for offroad riding. I have and will take the 390 Adv anywhere and everywhere. The 390 Adv is a fantastic bike. The Tenere will be used for some long distance touring and as a backup bike when the 390 Adv is due for larger maintenance items.
It is going to take some time before I get chance to rip it offroad but I am looking forward to many adventures, when I am not riding my 390 Adv. Seems like you are happy with the change. Cheers.
Hi, I bought T7 in the same paiting lat year. It is my First ADV bike, and first „OffRoad” experience ever. I used to ride street/sport bikes before. Honestly, my feelings are opposite than Yours. You can ride it WILD and T7 loves being riden hard. You can easly wheelie it using only throttle without using cluth. This Bike rides sand like it was asphalt even with me behind the handlebars (i am totally unexperienced offroad rider) I totally love my T7 and i think this bike is „the one” i would love to ride „till the end” - her or mine 😂 Peace ✌️
I am looking for comments like yours, to hear from long term riders it's a good bike. I know its reliable and capable, I am just looking for a bit more character.
You wanted an exciting bike from Japan? Not going to happen! I had a Super Tenere and it was fine, it was not great on Road, not great off road but it did everything I asked and never complained. I changed the oil and let her run. That bike will probably run for 200,000 boring miles no matter what you do to it. I jumped over to Triumph and glad I did, way more exciting, does it have the reliability? Time will tell. Give it another year and if it still doesn't do it for you then make a change.
In an unrelated comment, can you please do a video on whether the latest 790/890 longer windscreen can be fitted on to the 390 adv, since the latest 790/890 long windscreen appears to be well made and longer, with a slit in the windscreen for greater aerodynamics.
I recently just picked up a KTM 500 EXC-F and funny story is that I was almost in a very similar situation because I had a deposit down on a CRF300L Rally😅…. Luckily Megan talked me out of that and I bought the fun bike that sacrifices some comfort over the reliable bike that would have done everything but it would have just been MEH.. but I will say those T7 do thrash for sure! But when I ride my buddy’s it didn’t do anything for me that made me regret buying the 1290 over the T7 besides the lighter weight. Other than that I can see where you say it’s “Meh” but honestly IMO that’s the Japanese dual sport market in general. Boring “reliable” bikes but if you want excitement it’s gotta be European! 😁
I would have liked one of those but dealer networks are limited where I live. The purchase price creep is significant on those other bikes too. At the end of the day I will likely spend the same amount after upgrades. I like turning a wrench which I should stay busy on this bike.
Well after selling my Africa twin to get this I was excited at first. The AT was just too big and heavy for me doing BDRs at 5'8 and 190lbs.but I loved the AT for the power. So I got aT7 good bike but like you said just kinda boring. It gets the job done without the fun. So I sold that and waiting for the new Transalp with 90hp. Should be closer to the bike I'm looking for.
Hey great info….Of course it’s MEH. It is a dirt bike with road capabilities. I think people misread the T7. Where it shines is ripping down fire roads or tearing up some single track. Other than that then yes, it is a boring, featureless, underpowered road bike. In my opinion it rides like the Africa Twin on the road, BORING, but the T7 surprises you off road. Honestly if a person doesn’t plan on riding the T7 fairly spirited off road, then it’s not worth getting.
I am definitely learning how this bike needs to be ridden. I need to tweak the suspension before I will be ready to really rip it offroad. Every bike feels a bit different, this one is no exception. I think after a few thousand miles the bike and I will figure things out. Cheers.
@@advmatt Everyone has their own pace for sure. The first ride on my T7, which was about a week ago, consisted of about 10 miles of single track and gravel roads😂. Had to break her in right. The suspension is by far the weak link on this bike, well if you are over 160 lbs it is. Take care bud and I look forward to your T7 adventures and reviews.
I am out for a ride on my FZ6, just stopped for a drink... But this video seems awfully long to go over: "Frank's 390 Adventure is just too beautiful to compete with." 😉 - Frank
Hi Matt, I really really really wanted a T7 for a long time but once I was able to actually ride one I knew it was not for me. Way, way to top heavy. I’m on a KTM 690 and just love it for in state but just can’t see doing really long multi state trips on it that require long road sections. I looked at an Aprilla 660 today after watching big rock guy. It’s getting lots of the same “best bike out there” kind of reviews the T7 got when it was new. It’s probably a nice bike but lots of plastic and just seemed cheep. Seemed like you would be leaving lots of body panels on the trail with the first off. It just didn’t seem as quality as other bikes. KTM is a plastic manufacturer IMHO but their plastic just looks higher quality. I’m only 5’8 so height and weight are a big issue for me. I also really want reliability, so I am now thinking about the Honda CB500X. Japanese bikes in the adventure class just all seem “work horse” like to me. Oh, I’m one more that really loved how the 890 road on my test ride but I really don’t want to support the “pay to play/subscription” model. So I don’t see myself getting another KTM.
I hear you. There is no perfect bike. Every bike require some sort of compromise. Maybe weight for the Transalp and see what it has to offer. It seems the price tag will be very competitive.
I think ultimately if you did deeper into the Aprillia...you will discover that this manufacturer doesn't have a great reliability record...just saying.....And obviously this can not be said about Yamaha...Suzuki...Honda. So the choice was yours to purchase a brand with reliability issues.....and the Yamaha I purchased on that basis was my choice....so I don't have to think about it not working one day.....
After changing from a completely different bike in the GS, what does the T7 do that the KTM doesn't? More powerful and has a better off road 18/21 wheel combo - but much heavier..and certainly not a bike for for extended pillion travel. What do I know though lol? Can't think of a bike I've bought that I wasn't thinking of something else pretty soon!😂
Both bikes do very similar things for sure. Maybe that is where I went wrong. These bikes are too similar. I am planning some comparison videos in the future because there are a lot similarities.
@@advmatt I follow Pavlin on Motorcycle Adventures who uses a 700 for long distance adventure riding (after nearly 200k km on an xt660), he has some interesting views on the model.
I have a hunch and a hope that Kawasaki will pull a Adv unicorn out of the magic hat with a Ninja 400 - Versys 300L Chimera that will be a “ 1 & Done Bike” for many riders,- be they beginners or “ nothing to prove “ EZ Adv-ing veterans. Time will tell…,
Indeed, and K can build a good frame, again given the Ninja 400. But it will most likely keep the “road bike persona first and capable off road character second. Fine with me.
Yeah, it kind of is. I really like riding this bike to its limits, which are well within mine. Its fun, and the light weight really makes it more enjoyable.
I'm confused? You wanted 'simple'. When you got 'simple', it strikes you as 'boring'? Not being a T7 fan, I don't think that picking up a 1/4 ton bike in a 'space suit' when hot, tired and thirsty is 'exciting'. Is unreliability 'exciting'? ... not in my book. Is playing with menu options 'exciting'? ... not in my book. If 'exciting' is having to work at it, wringing out 250 - 350 cc might do it, like your 390 Adventure (your 'unicorn' ... whether you realize it ... or not). Wringing out a bike doesn't map with sight-seeing ... in my book. I'm not trying to prescribe any 'right' choice; that's up to each individual. At this juncture, it doesn't sound like you're clear in your own mind about what you REALLY want? Maybe that's changed ... with your experience(s)?
The bike I really wanted was the KTM 490 Adventure, sadly we will never see that bike. So I was left finding the next closest bike that wasn't my 390 Adv, and offered similar capability to my GS. If the T7 had more personality and character I think I would like it more. I am trying to find ways to give it character. We will see how it goes.
The new standard bike is really great. With added adjustable suspension it fits the average rider much better. If the price wasn't so much I would have pursued that bike.
I still have it. I am in transition moving from the east coast to the southwest. I have the 390 Adventure with me on the east coast. The T7 is in the southwest. I am spending about 75% of my time east and the rest west. Both bikes will be seen together in a few months.
...had the same thing with a '19 Africa Twin DCT ...the DCT I loved....nail it and it goes....like an high grade Tesla...FUN...!!! ...but the bike, it was the standard basic....no cruise etc etc ++ tubed [I'm not pullin tubes and patchin on the side of the road] If I had gotten the "fleshed out" AT I probably would have been happy....only did 1500 miles on that one then traded to the Tiger 900 Rally with all the extras. ...the T7....put a ad on ADVrider and it'll sell before a full cup of coffee is consumed +/- ...now on a BMW RT 1200 off a GSA....go figure...!!!
Its good to hear other riders woes with bikes that just don't get the juices flowing. We will see what happens here. I need to get it out on some long distance trips before I give up on it. Cheers.
I will once I roll 10k miles on the bike., should be there in about six to eight months. I need to do some significant travel on this bike and give a fair shake.
A 2-cylinder KLR, top-heavy and overall too heavy bike for ninety-nine percent of people who want to do any serious off-roading. Get a dual sport and a decent street bike. Also tube two tires are a deal-breaker why don't they just put drum brakes on it while they're at it.
All good points, but I like to do long distance travel with offroad riding. I am kind of stuck with heavier bikes that can handle highways but still be competent enough on jeep trails and forest roads. Long distance and offroad don't mix well. Everything is a compromise.
@@advmatt I'm on a tiger rally Pro 900 and a crf-300 l. If you are going to do long-distance travel at least have a bike with cruise control and all of the amenities.
@@markjacobs3956 I had one, R1200GS. It was too expensive for me to own, and it lost its appeal after 42k miles. I test rode the Tiger you have. Amazing bike. If only it was priced a little lower. I have got accustomed to doing long trips without cruise, it's as not as good but doable. Cheers.
@@advmatt the funny thing is people spend $11,000 on a t7 and throw another two or three thousand into them. For that you would be awfully close to a tiger
It's just the way the bike feels to me, it's completely subjective for sure. I think if the engine had more of a power band instead of a linear delivery it would feel more exciting. The suspension is not what I like, but I knew that going in.
The Yamaha isn't a bland, boring, vanilla, meh Honda, but it does have a similar pedigree. Remember, you had that rippy, hawky, zingie 390 under your arse last and it's hard to measure up to a KTM. All is not lost. Film your _glass of tea_ and when you're finished, grab that sweet line of cocaine and take it for a spin once in a while. Seriously, the Ténéré is a great bike. You'll have gobs of content farkling the Scheiße out of it. Just smile extra hard for the camera and when the vid is over, remember you have the 390 somewhere in a garage somewhere waiting for you. thx, S
@@advmatt The T7 is like the Adventure bikes equivalent to what Toyota Corolla is for cars, affordable, slow, low tech, boring and reliable. Whole a KTM 890 Sdventure R is more like a Audi RS, expensive, fast, high tech, fun and a bit unreliable.
@@DigiMannen you could have interchanged KLR with T7 in that first line as well. So Matt's comment about it being the "KLR of Parallel Twins" really does hold up :)
@@seandonnelly205 KLR is lmore like a Nissan Sentra from the 80's. affordable, very slow and heavy, outdated, comfort like a lawnmover and very unreliable.compared to a Honda or Yamaha from the same era.
It's not about the content, it's about never wanting the ride to end because the bike is so much fun. Over time I think I will get there with this bike, I hope.
European Tenere 700s are made in France. North American Tenere 700s are manufactured in Japan, or at least according to the published literature I have seen.
@@advmatt and yes. You made a mistake purchasing it. :) nothing better than gs in terms of whole package. Now you going to loose a lot with attempt to sell 700. :) do not try ktm 1290 they suck long term.
@@advmatt so you decided to put 11k on soulless t700 with chain maintenance expenses (chain slider too!) plus another 4k to make it behave - including suspension job. I tried to replace gs - always came back later after eating shovels of shit with other brands/models. Btw how is you right leg doing after rubbing against clutch cover on t700? :)
@@SAMFICOM all is good. I found I actually like chain maintenance. I get to spend more time with my bikes. The cost to get the GS to perform the way I wanted it to was going to cost more than $4k. I hated the GS suspension. It was soggy and slow. I found its limitations quickly when riding offroad, so if I do put some additional money in the T700 I will have a better feeling ride than the GS, and I can do it all myself. We all have to ride our own rides and have our own experiences. I may regret buying the T700, but I won't regret parting ways with the GS. I will learn from it and hopefully find a better experience. If KTM would have produced the 490 Adventure I would never have gone with the T700.
@@SigmaSheepdog compared to other bikes out there it's just not the same, granted they cost 50% more. I do understand your comment, but the feel of a bike is personal. Cheers.
I watch that channel too. He is professional rider with loads of skills and makes it look easy. Best advice have is be real with yourself. I do t know anything about your riding experience but here are questions I asked myself. How do I plan to ride this bike? Do I have the skills to ride this bike the way you want to? Why do you want this bike? Is there any other bikes that will do what this bike can do? What will cost to own this bike (compared to others)? How do I want the bike to feel? It's all personal preference. Good luck figuring it out.
@@advmatt Thanks for the reply, I’ll never do any off road with the exception of a few fire trails and small roads. I currently own a bmw s1000r and a track gsxr750. I fancy something for chilling out on and taking it easy on comfort, something light with low running costs but with long suspension to soak up the bumpy poor surfaced roads I’ll be riding it on. I test rode a Tuareg660 and loved it but the dealer can’t get me one until the end of July, I looked at the new Transalp too but nothing available until September. My Yamaha dealer has T7’s but no demo bikes atm so I’m not not sure what to do. I am a very experience ex motox, supermoto and road racer and even though I want something to chill on I still want something with a bit of Zest..ya know with some punch for a little fun..
@@mbal4052 based on your riding experience I don't think you fill the punch you are looking for in the T7. You would be better off with a KTM 890, except for maybe the price difference. Good luck.
ADV Matt-I own a T7 and just purchased a KTM 390 Adventure. I have to say you were in part responsible for me to purchase the 390 for a specific purpose.
As for the T7: I love that bike and have no intention of getting rid of it. It’s my long distance , touring, dirt, and my go to ride when I ride with others.
After ridden the KTM now for about 500 miles, it is a very different kind of ride. I’m loving it, but I have learned to appreciate both as they are so different.
Once you have broken in the T7, I think you are gonna have a different experience. I love that motor! It is a willing partner and it will come alive when asked of it. It’s just not as high strung as a typical Austrian motor. Never hesitate to wring it out if you want to on the road, but boy do I appreciate the laid back linearity off road. It’s willing to do just about anything, held back by its rider’s abilities.
As a former KLR owner, I do have to take exception of the comparisons. I find that the only thing the T7 and KLR have in common are reliability and value. The T7’s abilities are far greater and back to that motor! That parallel twin isn’t in the same league as the 650 single.
Hang in there, push the limits when it’s time and you’ll find those smiles you once had with the KTM.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. My KLR comparison was really daying the Tenere is parallel twins what the KLR is to single cylinder bikes. Boring but dead reliable. I will give this bike its due, and ride it hard to really find its character. Cheers.
I’ve had two 390’s - the last one was a stop gap till I get my T7 in a week. I can’t wait to get rid of it. The bike doesn’t like low speed at all, particularly compared to my DR I had, the suspension needs work, as the damping is all over the place, and the T7 is far more off road capable.
@@martyn_g the 390 Adv does not like to be ridden at low RPMs. It needs to be operated around 5k and up. If you do that the bike comes alive. I replaced the fork springs and the shock and the suspension is amazing now. Right now, I choose to ride my 390 Adv before my T7. It's more fun, but I have spent a lot of money modifying my bike to get it to suit my riding. I also adjusted my riding style to fit how the bike performs. It doesn't like to be lugged.
Just picked up my Tenere. Ain’t going back to a 390. The engine is in a different league to the highly strung Duke motor. And it hasn’t even broken in yet, lol. To me, the 390 is a Duke GT. Bigger tank then the Duke, more comfortable. It isn’t really an ADV bike. I think it’s just clever marketing on KTM’s part.. leveraging more sales off the back of the 790/890. The worst part is correcting the stupid footpeg position. I stand on the Tenere, and the ergos are near perfect. Also, it crawls in 1st, hand off the clutch. No slipping needed to stop it from stalling, like the 390
Didn't like mine at 500. Liked it at a 1000. Loved it at 3000. Just ride
The Tenere 700 is the Toyota Tacoma or Subaru Outback of the adventure world. It is the trusty, reliable vehicle to get you into the woods, camping, etc. and get you back home. Peace of mind is worth something! Honestly, the biggest concern should be picking up the bike solo in the woods. I have a T7, and yes, I can pick it up in ideal situations, but I have been in some situations that make me really nervous being solo (which I normally am). Cheers,
The weight is a concern for me too. I dropped it the third day doing a U-turn in really soft dirt. Dropping the bike awkwardly will be a problem, but at least I know it won't break easily, like you said.
@@advmatt i weight only 76kgs and i can easly pick it up - I am not a strong guy at all 🎉
Yes, totally agree. For me it's too top heavy. But I do like riding it, it's great on long distance outback roads.
Exactly the kind of riding I am planning on this bike. Nothing too crazy.
Great reflection Matt. Now you know what you don't want. It is going to be very fun to watch what you do to make the T7 "your bike". 👍
I have plans for sure. Cheers.
You are closing in on 10,000 subscribers, Matt, good show.
I have a question that you are eminently qualified to answer. I bought my 2021 390 adventure new, coming off a road bike background, and I've been watching your channel since. I've modified the bike a lot, ridden off-road a lot, loved it, and got to the point I wanted something that would help develop my off-road skills more - so I bought a used KTM 350 EXC-f. Love it. In between, I also thought I wanted to have something better on the highway (not for long distance which I don't do much of), but for comfort and smoothness when with friends that do mostly highway and only do minor off-road riding. So I got a Honda CB 500x. A mistake. What a slow, boring, top-heavy, uninspiring bike it has been. While it is a bit smoother than the 390, I wouldn't go to the trouble of kitting it out for any off-road time. It will be sold in the spring. I still have the urge for something a bit smoother for highway riding than the 390 (ie a twin), but it would have to be a replacement, I don't want 3 bikes. And I wouldn't want to make a mistake, I love the 390.
You bought the T700 to replace your BMW. Would you consider it as a replacement for the 390? I'm thinking not, you described it as agricultural, which I would never call my 390. But the itch to have a twin on the highway, as light as possible, is staying with me. And I have the 350 EXC-f for more serious off-road work. Can you comment on swapping out the 390 for a T700?
That is a really great question. The 390 is definitely easier to ride offroad than the T7 based strictly on size and weight, mostly weight. The T7 is very top heavy compared to the 390. It will likely feel like the CB500X but with more guts to it. Now that we are into the winter months and most of my riding is on the road I am more inclined to ride the T7. It has more wind protection and I feel like I sit in the bike more than the 390. When I switch back and forth I really feel like I am sitting on top of the 390. I plan to use my T7 for long distance travel, easy forest roads and easy sections of BDRs. When I know I will be riding more challenging terrain I will get back on the 390. This summer will be interesting for me to see which bike I prefer now that I can switch back and forth so easily. Based on what you want to do you might consider the new Transalp or the Tuareg. They are bit more refined than the T7. I will say the T7 has grown on me. I like the simplicity of it but it does force me to be a better rider and pay more attention to what I am doing between shifting, braking and traction. If I was mainly riding roads with an occasion forest road that a car could drive down I think the T7 would be my choice. It is more refined on the road. Hope this helps. This gives me an idea for a comparison video between the two bikes. Cheers.
Hi Matt. Good video; that sort of honest, neutral self-reflection is tough to do and even tougher to admit and share. The 'wrong bike' happened to me twice: 2017 CB500F (too frantic in town and on the highway, and terrible buffeting); 2017 F800GS (way too top heavy). Both sold very soon after buying with a mixture of annoyance, anger and embarrassment. One a financial loss, the other, happily, not at a loss.
Sometimes we buy something that we researched, and really want to like it, but we know that deep down, it just isn't going to work. I'm not saying that you won't feel completely differently about the T7, but if not, I know that depressing feeling. There is a big gap between admiration and affection.
Thanks for sharing.
Right on, I feel your pain. I need to stick with this bike for at least 5k miles or more to really learn the bike, then make a decision. I really want to work, we will see.
Appreciate your time Matt. I am considering a bike after a long time away from riding. Rather than go for a sports bike. I am 49 years old and with my thoughts of going travelling on it thought to get a Ducati desert X. Just one thing stops me. The bike does 50 mpg and the v storm 800 de from Suzuki does 70 mpg. Long distance those extra miles make a huge difference.
Agreed, over long trips you that extra mileage will show. I hear the Desert X is seriously fun to ride though. Ducati maintenance cost.
@@advmatt Yeah going to take out the 800 de and the desert x to see which I like the best.
@@advmatt The Desert X is just pure sex. Lovely bike. The lucky Explorer by mv Augusta is real nice too only not available to purchase for now.
I tried to get the T7 but there were none ever available. I got the Aprilia Tuareg 660 and love it. Better weight feel over any of the other bikes I rode and efficient electroni8c that stay on when you shut the bike off. Caveat to that, I did not get to ride the 890 because at the time there were no KTM dealers in my area besides I dislike the KTM motors, so noisy. Just My opinion so relax everybody.
Thinking of getting a Tuareg too but have read that getting spare parts is a bit of a nightmare. Hopefully nothing breaks, but it does you could be waiting months before the part arrives 😕
@@diogomorais9938 I think that is a world wide problem, supply due to the plague. I haven't had any issues but I still only have 5000 mile on the beast. And beast she is, I love it better than my AT or my 690 were by far.
@@azlong4596 that’s awesome. Well I think it beats the T7 in many ways not to mention the sound when you open her up 😍
Will check her out again this week.
Great points Matt. Spend more time on it. I’ve owned mine for 2 years and done 16k miles, 2 BDRS (COBDR, IDBDR) and thousands of other miles on and off-road. It just doesn’t break and always gets the job done. I agree about the inspiring you a little but, but give it time. There’s so many bikes, and unlike people who buy them just to review them endlessly, I’m sure you will find a groove as well as providing some great content.
Great encouragement, thanks. I want to crush some miles on this bike to really learn it.
I had some buyers remorse after buying the 390 adv for the first few weeks but then it started to grow on me. Have you seen the video from Big Rock Moto? He recently also sold his GS and went with an 890 adventure. That might be my next choice if this one doesn't work out.
I have seen Ian's videos. If the 890 wasn't $5k more than the T7 I would have seriously considered it. I stoll wanted a Japanese bike. They go forever. For me I was fully in on the 390 Adv after the first few 100 miles. The rest is history, 25k miles later. KTM bikes have so much character.
This is my favourite bike of its type. I love the dash. Utiltarian and agricultural sounds good to me. It looks cool, too. I bet you grow to really like it.
I hope so, I think we just need time together.
I just bought a 2023 KTM 890 Adventure and after riding now for about 500m, I am very please with how it preforms! And after seeing your videos and how you really like the KTM 390, I was a little surprised that you went with the Tenere 700..instead of maybe the KTM 890 Adventure? Before this KTM I had a Yamaha the super Tenere 1200 great bike, but much too big for me to off road. but this 890 is much more manageable and its a dream to ride on-road also!
I really considered the 890, but the price difference was too significant for me. I also wanted a Japanese bike to change things up. Those 890s sure seem to be the right bike.
@@advmatt I Love my 890 Adventure. I was gonna say that is what's missing. It isn't a KTM 890 :). But in all seriousness, I am surprised to hear that it is so agricultural. On the other hand, I have heard a lot of good things about the Aprillia Toureg 660 and that the engine just has a load of character. I realize it isn't a Japanese bike so it defeats that purpose, but did you try one? Also, maybe the new Honda Transalp is in your future?
@@seandonnelly205 I was interested in the Aprilla, but there are no dealers within four hours, and really hate that the service reminder has to be reset by the dealer. I think the Transalp will be good, if you can find one.
@@advmatt doesn't the service light reset procedure from older Aprillia models work with the 660? A bit of a bummer if not. My old Triumph Tiger 800 XC was the same way. I "reset it" by putting a little gaffers tape over the icon. Out of sight, out of mind :)
I get the dealer network bit though. On the Transalp, who knows. Honda decided not to grace the US with 2023 Africa Twin models either :)
Sold T7 bought Tuareg. Much happier.. T7 top heavy and basic.. Tuareg all bells and whistles with more jam and better suspension. So far handles great on and off road. 😊
It does appear to be a better bike. Thanks for sharing your experience. Good to hear.
I have a T7 and I think your review is correct. It doesn't do anything great, but it does everything well. Most importantly, it will get you home!
The more I ride this bike the more it is growing on me. It is kind of a Swiss army knife of bikes.
All your points regarding why you chose the T7 are very rational and I tend to agree. I have a couple Japanese bikes and they are the most reliable and trust worthy steeds in my garage. But, I also have a 390 adv, Ducati M1100, Husky FX350 and those bikes have something more. Difficult to put into words, but once you feel the "soul" of the bike, you know exactly what it feels like. I think you will come around with more time on the T7, but it will never invoke the feeling you get from the unbridled, quirky, dare I say unreliable, fire breathing Austrian/Italian bikes. There was a time where I had to chose between the T7 and 390 Adv, and I picked the 390 (mostly based on cost). 3 BDR's and 10,000 miles later, I haven't had a single issue, and still this bike invokes emotion in me every time I'm on it. Maybe the unreliability claims are outdated. Joined your channel a few years back for the 390 content, but I like your reviews and sticking around for whatever you put out in the future regardless. Keep up the good work Matt.
Thanks, really appreciate your feedback. I agree with you, the fire breathing Austrian bikes have a lot character. That is why the 390 Adv is dang fun. Maybe with a bit more time on the T7 I will discover it's soul.
I doubt if you've ridden it hard yet because you're still in the break in period. It'll scream once you have a chance to rev it. Enjoy!!
I felt similarly about my 390 during break-in. 😊Talk to us again, 1000 miles after break-in, when you’ve had a chance to ride it harder.
I am hoping the time and mileage will change my initial impression. I need to bond with this bike.
@@advmatt I totally understand, “bond with this bike.” That’s the same process I’m going through with my FJ-09. I’m not super in-love with it yet but it’s serving its purpose ATM.
Just ride it, get some miles on it and then do the performance upgrades, will blow you away on the difference. Stock bike I test rode and the used bike with the upgrades I bought were so different, enjoy Matt
Thanks, that's the plan.
Addendum....I am 66years old, own 7 bikes. Been riding since i was 12. Raced AAMRR AND LURPS at mod prod and f3 in my 20's in NH NY PA. Pretty broad experience. We skipped class in the 70's when the ISDT ran in the NE. From dirt bikes to inline 4's with cams, pipes and mikunis to Eytalian v twins , now opposed and parallell twins (best yet). Bikes and travel rule !!
Right on. Bikes do rule.
Got my T7 in February. Its everything i want in that it is SIMPLE! I dont want traction control, lean angle sensors, tfts, etc. I dont want to fumble with a touch screen or ride modes. I just want to get on, turn the key and ride. It has plenty of power for freeway riding, enough wind protection to make me happy, and it always brings a smile to my face! I have about 2K in add on to mine and the Seat Concepts seat is a must IMO. I just did two 330 mile days over the weekend and the bike was flawless. Mostly 70 MPH 2 lane ST highway, and 50 MPG! I have kept my fully farkled DR 650 for the more off road oriented rides as the 100 pounds less is where its at offroad. Love my DR650, but got the T7 to extend my rides out and explore far away areas. 330 miles on the DR is a little rough! I hope the T7 grows on you!
The T7 is starting to grow on me. I have some changes coming to it that will improve it. It will be a work in progress. I just need to get out and ride. Thanks for the T7 endorsement. I do have to say, I have to fidget a lot with the menu buttons to get it set, reset, and tracking. Cheers, ride on.
I wouldn't worry about offend other T7 riders out there really. You made some good points about your experience first 500. You mentioned the way it rode in the curves...and that you weren't into that necessarily. This is where this bike shines in a mysterious way.....as the top heaviness seems to be working in reverse in the side to side arc motion characteristics. You are coming off a BMW, and the idea that your analogy of the T7 being a twin KLR is good. Yes DE 800, KLR 650( and what ever kawasaki has up its sleeve), the T7, and the Hondas. But truthfully calling the feel of the T7 as a farmbike was the best of all. Yes it is exactly that, a modern farm bike with the reliability and simplicity of a tractor, a horse. I bought mine because it reminded me of my horse riding days.....high neck with the reigns high, and the big long flat back behind the saddle. Tall and top heavy...like a horse. For some that would be a mistake, but keep going down that path and you simple grow to love these types of bikes....over time.
This bike is growing on me, but the tubed tires have already bitten me. Damn tubes. I guess it's the price of simplicity. Each mile gets better for sure. I have some long trips on this bike planned in the near future. I really loved your horse analogy. Cheers.
@@advmatt Ya, the tube tire issue arises often enough out there. I come from riding dirt bikes since I was child. I have dented a wheel or two....which is pretty low odds really. In that context, a dented rim....with no tube....will leave you entirely stranded with no tire repair options...other than stuffing your tire with grass and leaves. The spoked wheels, are stronger and lighter than cast wheels, but inherently have holes. They can be sealed, but then again....those seals could fail worst case. Like many, I do worry about getting a flat and having to deal with a trail side repair, or get back home to get my truck etc. As an enduro racer/rider it was simply a given that changing a tire was a skill you had to learn to be an offroad (adventure) rider.....the nature of it. RIder/mechanic go together on "farm bikes". Interestingly...I have owned a DRZ and rode it for 20 years...still ticking...and always packed a tire repair kit and only once did I have to use...and it was my fault after installing a new tire and tube under time pressure, did it fail (pinched), and the tube was split wide open. It was hitch a ride time to the nearest bike shop which turned out to be a Harley chopper shop in a little 3rd world town in B.C. Lucky me. Without having to tell you, the best way to avoid a flat is good deep treaded tires. I am pushing my luck with a worn out Scorpions...but I am willing to take that chance as I routinely wear out my tires to the max. Each brand has a personality and I would say BMW...rivals in the Paris Dakar world, and Yamaha are in fact opposites in many ways. Keep in mind the Tenere is a Yamaha France evolution, based on that rivalry. With out mentioning Paul Torres.....the fact that he can ride this bike the way he does should give you some clues as to what is actually going on in this bikes concept. He is world class athlete and champion and few can do what he does...but it tells you something about the design...amidst all the top heaviness, and tubedness, there is something mysteriously going on here in the concept, the horse analogy comes back, riding position, stirrups, saddles, etc..there are similarities, on a serious level, that stand out to me. For starters, the basic riding position, and linear motor, and choice of wheel sizes, etc allow him to pull off trials techniques. He is getting paid a ton no doubt to hood wink the newbies, but the slew of (unoffendable) T7 owners who are cluing to the mysterious characteristics of this unusual bike aren't swayed by the slew of T7 owners who don't like them and sell them for something less usually. Less reliable, less horse like, less farm bike like, and tubed
I had exactly the same impressions about the Tenere 700. Budget components, uninspiring and unexciting to ride, unconfortable - didn’t work for me. I bought it to replace my old BMW F800GS, and to be honest the T7 was slightly (only slightly) better in some areas, but not enough to justify the cost difference. I ended up selling the T7 after the first service and I kept the 10 y.o. trouble free F800GS, no regrets.
An exciting Japanese ADV doesn’t exist. If you are after a fun bike, you need to start looking at KTM, Ducati, Aprilia. We are not in the 80s anymore, the initial purchase cost, reliability, parts and servicing costs is now pretty levelled between Japanese and European brands.
I have a KTM and I have found it to be pretty reliable. I might find myself doing the same as you and moving on from the T7 for an inspiring ride.
So, if we were being honest with each other, all of these awesome bikes that weigh over 400 pounds, well they are ridiculous for off road riding, especially since most people riding them are overweight and weak. Even people who are in decent shape are one lift away from a back injury. Fire roads, dirt roads, asphalt, perfect. But if you are going off-road, don’t even look at a bike over 300 pounds, don’t do it, you will be so much happier on the right bike for the right terrain. That’s why bikers tend to own 2-3 bikes.
Yeah, I agree with you. The T7 will likely only see easy forest roads, no jeep trails. My 390 Adv does the trick.
@@advmatt I took that bike on Jeep trails no problem, and I suck (just don't do anything too crazy). Would be a shame to keep it on forest roads only, that bike wants to fly! :)
I know it's tough to be honest about a bike you've been waiting for and you've seen people praising. I just got a KLX 300 to compliment my 390 ADV and I've honestly been a bit disappointed and made me appreciate my 390 that much more. But I think with time and some mods it'll get better. Keep up the great videos!
Thanks. Mods have started. Personalizing a bike sure helps!
I did exactly what you did! Bought a KLX 300 to compliment my 390 adv. I had somewhat of an opposite experience. The off-road capability of the KLX has left my 390 collecting dust. I have so much more confidence(and ground clearance) to explore new areas I just couldn’t go on the 390. I will say the KLX is not fun on long trips, that’s the trade off.
I’ve had the 390 up for sale for a few months now, I swear I couldn’t give this thing away. I wish I could convince myself to keep it, it’s a fantastic bike.
@@njwolf2k9 Yeah, sad people underrate the 390 too much. I am more confident off road with the KLX but overall I find the 390 to be more fun and far better all around bike. I think the KTM is far away a better bang for the buck package, but it all depends on what you want to do.👍
T7 owner here. I can understand someone coming from a more road riding background finding it a bit Meh on the road but that's not the market it's aimed at . I've never been a road rider and have come from a dirt background so to me it feels just like a big dirtbike that I can throw around and really ride hard when offroad. If someone doesn't have offroad skills then they'll probably never realize it's potential, get confident with it and it's a blast the tractability with it is great. But as you say on-road it's a bike to get you from A to B , just hopefully B is where the fun starts.
Keep riding Matt! Like your reviews and looking forward to your thoughts after 1000 miles.
I will plan an update around 5k miles, that should be enough miles to really get a good feel for the bike. Look for it this fall.
@@advmatt That I will, Thanks again Matt.
That kinda seems in line with a lot of Japanese bikes IMO. They are reliable, do everything well but don't really shine in any particular area.
Yeah, it's been awhile since I have owned a Japanese bike. Reliability wins out for me in most cases.
As I mentioned in one of your other videos, I tried a T7 after a 1090R and was super disappointed. I recently bought a leftover 890R for not much more than the gouging prices of the T7. The 890 is amazing, and it was more exciting than the T7 even having to stay under the 6.5k RPM break-in limit. And the low centered weight is a gamechanger! I still have my 390 Adventure, but may sell that, too, since the 890 doesn't feel that much more difficult to handle. The 890 is the most exciting bike of the nearly 40 I've had. The engine is ferocious!
Those 890s seems pretty amazing. I was interested in one but the price difference was a bit much for me at this point. Who knows, down the road I may go that way too.
Part of the “excitement” of KTM is how poor the reliability is…..will it start today, what will go wrong with it today. Just poor quality.. (I’ll never own another one). good luck
In today's episode, man claims to want a basic, no-frills bike and then is disappointed in the lack of excitement from a basic, no-frills bike.
Yeah, no electronic aids needed because the engine won't rip my arms out the sockets. Point A to Point B, it does. I need to adjust me expectations.
I thought from its inception that the T7 was the perfect bike for me. I finally had the opportunity to ride one last year and like you, was not overwhelmed by it. I test rode the Suzuki Vstrom 800, and that was it. I bought it in July and have over 7,000 trouble free miles on it.
Nice. I was thinking I should have waited for the Suzuki, but I had timing issues. Good to hear your new bike is so good.
For years i had a XTZ 750 Super Tenere, a bike that never made it to you guys in North America, mine was a 96, (the last year they made them), in the same "Sonauto" Dark blue/light blue that many Tenere's came in. (Sonauto was the French Yamaha importer). They used a 750 parallel twin, with Yamaha's 5 valve head that many Yamahas used back then. It was a great engine, that had so much more to give, and responded well to mods. And the 850 or 900 cc version from the TDMs or TRX dropped straight in, if you needed more cubes. They are still really popular in the countries that got them. Their main competition was the Honda XRV750 Africa Twin, another bike the U.S missed. This bike is the XTZ's spiritual successor, the specs are almost identical.
This bike is slowly growing on me, but I have things to sort out on it. Eventually it will be modified into my perfect bike.
Hey Matt! I really appreciate what you do. I bought the T7 right when it came out coming from an xt250 and being sorta a Yamaha fan boy. I feel like the market has gone crazy for the T7 because on paper it's amazing. But riding it... I felt the same way. It's not necessarily a heavy bike, but it absolutely does not wear it's weight well. It feels so insanely top heavy. I tried to take it off road and anything more than a gravel road felt like a serious challenge because of how heavy it felt. I'm 6ft and it's also a very tall bike. The xt250 was just an absolute pig and horrendous on paper, but man I had so much fun on that thing. It would go over anything with ease. I love the low seat height. It was just so easy and carefree to ride. I ended up selling the T7 right around the 500 mile mark. It just didn't do it for me. And I sold the xt250 and went hard the opposite direction and got a ktm 350 exc-f. And man that's an amazing bike and fun, but.... It's just so much fun to ride a slow bike fast than ride a fast bike slow. So now I'm looking at getting a 390 adventure..... 😂
Absolutely, riding a bike to its limits is way more fun than barely hitting a bike's potential. I think this is why I love my 390 Adv so much. Going from research to riding is a huge leap that doesn't always translate.
Jorge, you sound like the perfect candidate for a WR250R. If you ever see one in the would, ask to ride it. IMHO it's the second-best bike Yamaha has produced. (The FZ1 being a treasure) - Frank
Ha! That's funny that you say that. I bought the 2007 fz1 new back when it came out with fuel injection and I absolutely loved that bike. Someone ran it over and demolished it when it was parked in the parking lot. The wr250 always seemed too expensive for what it is. I actually have a klx300 right now and I enjoy it a lot and think it's pretty good on the highway for what it is. My ktm 350 can go way faster, but it's very uncomfortable over 55 mph and vibrates pretty hard.
@@jorgeAK73 Oh man that is TERIRBLE! I owned a blue 2007 myself, sold it to buy an FZ6. I wanted to try to ride a slow bike fast LOL! I lack the inseam to ride a WR250R daily, but my offroad riding buddy does, and I love to ride it at times. Other than the crazy seat height, it (for me) is just a joy to ride. A smooth ride. I have ridden a KTM 350 and a 500 or two. That much power offroad would be a BAD thing for me! - Frank
I've never ridden a motorcycle that wasn't exciting. You can enter a corner too hot or slide the rear tyre on any bike.
I guess it just depends on how you ride it.
A dependable (ie japanese usually) bike will be more fun because it will handle the abuse better.
Yeah, I agree with you. I think I need as much of a break in period with this bike as the bike needs.
Hi Matt, I have the Super Tenere. While very comfortable, it is no different than the GS in regards to weight. After the T700 came out I thought about getting rid of the T12 and getting the 700. I decided to keep what I have. For peeling off long miles my T12 is the hot ticket. It's just the weight......
Nothing beats the T12 for big miles. I am still getting used to the T7, but already appreciate less weight. We will see how the build goes. Cheers.
The KLR of parallel of twins. 😂😂😂😂😂
That’s the most epic response to a T7 I’ve ever heard.
I have only ridden one about 20miles.
Was less than impressed
Have you considered the new vstrom 800de? Big rock moto did a review and claimed it feels better offroad than the t7 or even the 890 adventure s and is easier to pickup. It's the bike I'm saving for, it looks awesome. And I can find it in dealers, at least for now.
It crossed my mind, but it wasn't avaliable around me when started my quest looking for a new bike. I do like the way it looks. The difficult thing about new bikes is there is very little aftermarket parts. I like to get wrenching right away. I will keep my eye on that bike though. Cheers.
Hang in there Matt it should improve. However, that being said, if the first 1000 doesn't inspire there may be a problem! I just did a week of AZ/UT BDR action on my big girl and effing loved it. Beat the crap out of her and she keeps wanting more...plus setting the cruise at 95 eats the miles up back to La La land. Keep up the great content Matt. Cheers!
Thanks. The best way to learn a bike is to rack up the miles. Just what I plan to do. Your trip sounds awesome, I love riding those areas.
@@advmatt Totally agree. Rack 'em up. I have 12k+ (in 7 months) on the new girl already. 🙃
I ride a T7 and was thinking of selling and going with the 390 ADV (weight) but the reliability of the T7 and the fun I have at such a good price keeps the bike in my garage. If the bike's not you, you will sell it in less than 24 hours anyway.
Its funny how the feel of a bike is so subjective and personal to the rider. We all have our own take and this bike has been no different for me. I suspect I might grow into riding it for what it does well and not ride in ways its not. Nothing better than miles, miles and miles to figure it out.
Thanks Matt, great review! It's clear the bike didn't work for you, but I am wondering if you could recommend this bike to anyone, who and what kind of rider would you recommend it to? Thanks👍
Great question. I am still planning lots of miles on this bike and will get a good feel for what it is and is not. Great video idea.
Hi Matt
I appreciate your low key budget approach and practicality. I looked at the 390 because i wanted to downsize from my GS. I wound up with a 17 Africa twin DCT that gets attention everywhere. Too soft, too heavy, good sound with muffler mod. Did 10k miles in July. Came home thinking I 😮need more suspension. Less weight. My brother has a 23 T7. My gut is UJM, meh. I bought a used 21 890r with 5k miles, pannier brackets and bars for 10k. Has the one lung start on cool days. Crap !! But, it is angry soulful and can be violent. Crazy women can be fun. IMHO, you made a mistake.
I appreciate your insight. Time will tell. KTM does make rockets. I need 1000s of more miles before forming a final opinion, but it might be it was a mistake. Cheers.
I went from a Honda Africa Twin DCT which just was too heavy for me, top heavy and I found the DCT a bit boring, so I went to a 390 Adventure as a reaction to the weight of the Honda, I found the KTM under powered for UK roads, I now have a Tenere World Raid and it is perfect for me, but I only really use it on road and some Welsh fire tracks, no mud....I would fall off. I hope you get to like the Tenere, but if not you won't have any trouble selling it in the US as they are in such short supply.
Thanks for commenting. I am interested in how Tenere owners ride their bikes. This is helpful. Cheers.
Did you make a mistake? Yes. As others have said, after comparing the Aprilia Taureg 660 to the T7 and others, I chose the Taureg 660. It has better brakes, a more spirited engine with more power, a MUCH MUCH lower center of gravity, far better electronics with on the fly ride mode changes via a single button on the throttle, CRUSIE CONTROL!!!, and the engine is a proven long distance runner that was slightly detuned with less cam lift and a slightly lower redline from the Tuono 660. Better ABS better traction control, both fully adjustable. My only complaint was the seat did not fit my butt, but $300 later the seat was modified and recovered for me.. Ergonomic and body position was perfect (I am about the same height as you).
I was very interested in the Tuareg but the closest dealer was over four hours away if I needed anything. I should have gone that direction and would have been much happier with my choice, but it's too late now without taking a bath on what I paid.
@@advmatt If Aprilia was smart, they would set up a non dealer repair process. They could easily sell triple the number of bikes if it was well known that you could take it to a pre approved repair shop if the closest dealer was more than 100 miles away. Almost everyone that says they were interested in an Aprilia but did not buy one says the reason was the dealer was too far away.
Reason why I sold my T7 is coz it was just too heavy. After my 1200GS, I was expecting a much nimbler bike. The 40kg weight difference between a 1200cc enduro and the T7 didn't make the slightest difference when dropped. And it being quite top heavy was another reason why I sold it. Looking for a lighter enduro, I just signed up on my KTM390ADV. And this time as my 18th bike, I have a feeling it'll be a keeper for at least a couple of years. As long as of course I "Ride it like I stole it" Matt ;)
Right on! You have a lot of happy miles ahead of you.
I have a 390 adv and had a t7 at the same time. I loved the t7, but it was just far too top heavy for my solo rides offfroad. Ended up carrying a bike winch thing in case I dropped the bike and all sorts. I loved it, but I wasn't comfortable offroad at all , not the bike's fault, but its just too top heavy for me (note, for me!)
With the right tyres offroad it handles amazingly. The stock pirelli tyres were truly awful for lack of sideways grip in mud or gravel or sand etc.
Also, I had a friend over from Canada, and the T7 there is restricted in first gear , when he rode mine he was blown away by how responsive it was in low gears compared to a north american model..
Interesting, had not heard about any engine restrictions. I have a lot learn about this bike. Nothing lots of miles and adventures can't help do for me.
@@advmatt I hadn't come across any info about restrictions, but he owns one in Canada , came over here, rode mine and was blown away :)
I loved my T7, it is great on the road and great off road with the right tyres. 5000 to get it a bit run in and get a good butt shape in the seat and you'll have a comfy fast burro.
I've always felt the same about the T7. Its a great bike but its always just been "meh". Just doesnt excite me. It's too basic. For a middleweight Adventure I would want something a bit more plush with a few more whiz bang farkles and maybe a little more punch.
Big Rock Moto just got in a Suzuki 800DE for review. I'm excited to see how it performs.
To be honest I think a large part of the T7's popularity is just due to a severe lack of modern options in the Enduro market.
I agree with you on the T7's popularity. Price and lack of options drove interest. With newer bikes emerging we see if keeps its appeal. Cheers.
Here's a new bike I hadn't seen The MV Augusta Lucky Explorer. Looks real nice.
KTM owns some of MV Augusta and are trying to kill this line of bikes. They look good though.
@@advmatt lucky explorer looks great
Damon Bradshaw rides that bike like no other, you need to watch his videos.
I will take a look. I will never have the skills to ride this or any bike like those guys.
@@advmatt I am the same, in that I will never have those kind of skills. Plus I’m a fossil.
I ride the 390 Adventure. I bought my wife a new xt250. I have more fun on her bike then mine. I have even considered trading in mine for a another xt250 for me. With an upgraded seat of course.
Light is right. It can't be beat. Ride on.
I absolutely love the xt250. I sold it because I convinced myself I need more of a bike and more power and I was so wrong. That's such a great machine...
You stepped down from the BMW GS. There's bound to be some remorse.
I fear the same will happen when I trade down from my Goldwing F6B to something smaller and lighter
Actually, the T7 reminds me a lot of the GS. The power delivery is smoothe. No kick around 5k or 6k rpms. The suspension is soggy and it's a more suited for road riding. If you find the right bike, it will excite you. My KTM 390 Adventure is small and is extremely fun to ride. I am not sure what I expected, but I didn't find it. Going smaller isn't always bad. Cheers.
Might just be your break in, getting used to it. I ride my T7 pretty hard on the road through california canyons along various 690s sumos, mt07/09s, various road sport bikes and other scrams more road focused like the sleds. it has NO problem keeping along with the STR tires. maybe push it harder!? good luck, its a fun bike if you believe in it.
Had it out today on twisties wringing it out. It started to show some character. Not happy with how it feels off road but I can fix that. Need to spend more time on it. Cheers.
Curious to hear your thoughts in the brake magazine T7 build
I looked at their build. It's seems to be very offroad focused and not necessarily a good adventure build for long road miles to get to cool places. But, if I was given a bunch of parts to put on my bike I would do it too.
@@advmatt sounded like the rapid bike evo was interesting enough without an exhaust. These seem to be more popular in Europe. I like the auto tuning capability. What path are you taking on performance?
@@charlesr9110 I haven't decided yet. The stock muffler has to go due to its location. After that I just don't know.
ADV Matt, I also have both a T7 and 390 Adventure. Sounds like others here are enjoying them too. I bought the 390 because the waiting list for a T7 was too long. I have 3k miles on the 390 and absolutely love it, but there are some quirky things, like it randomly dying on deceleration with the clutch pulled. Weird. The only real limitation is highway riding loaded up with bags requires wide open throttle in 6th. It will hold 80, but no passing power unless I kick it down to 5th and run it up to 10k. Still ok, but if KTM had decided not to kill the 490 parallel twin idea, I would have thought it would be perfect in the 390 Adv chassis. I just bought my T7 two weeks ago and have 350 miles on it. Break-in oil robs some power, so I'm looking forward to changing it. Several friends of mine have had T7s for years and I've ridden them quite a bit, so I knew what I was getting into. I love the fantastic bottom end and linear power throughout the band of the CP2 motor. Smooth power delivery, but as you've said, it doesn't scream like the KTMs do. The 390 has almost nothing until over 6k RPMs, but sure is fun riding it through the top end. With the T7, I'm confident that I can load it up with gear, hop on the freeway, and comfortably and easily cruise at 80-85 all day without fearing my motor will grenade running at 8-9k RPMs constantly. I love both bikes, but then again, I love all motorcycles. Thanks for all the great and informative videos! Very inspirational. I hope to add some myself with some pros and cons of my bikes while on some trips here in the Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming area.
Your experience is the same as mine. As for the 390 Adv stalling issue. I solved my issue by getting the valves adjusted. I know others riders did the same thing also solving their problem. I know you are not at the recommended mileage, but I believe this will solve your problem. Thanks for the feedback. I really appreciate it. My last ride on the T7 was much better and I am getting a feel for it. I am planning to build it out much different than others and from what I have done in the past, so many videos to come, in time. Ride on and enjoy every mile on the bikes, whichever one you are on.
@@advmatt Thanks! I just finished a 900 mile Adventure trip on my T7 up through central and northern Wyoming. Spent some time in the Red Canyon and Wind Rivers areas by Lander and Thermopolis. I highly recommend it if anyone plans to head out this way. The Tenere did very well. Went from 80 mph on the freeway to old dirt cutout roads and back to highway without any hesitation or stops. Had some super heavy crosswinds and the T7 is so much more stable than the 390, obviously due to difference in weight, but still enjoy the 390.
@@bradytew great area to ride. I have ridden through some of those areas. Good to hear the Tenere handles wind much better. One thing you can count on out west is the wind.
A great platform the T7 is. Add an aftermarket slip on, air filter, ECU flash, and quick shifter. Trust me, meh it’s not!😉
I am looking into those mods. Down the road it might be needed.
Well, can’t doubt that Japanese reliability. I sold my “18 Vstrom for the KTM 390 adv, I was pretty hesitant due to reliability concerns, but at the end of the day, the 390 is soo much more fun to ride. Common sense be damned
Totally agree.
The funny thing is I bought an Africa Twin for that "Japanese reliability" and had more trouble with that bike than all the KTM's I have owned combined. I think sometimes that reliability is a little past history and not the current reality.
You went from a GS to a Tenere. Big difference, so the tenere might have to grow on you. I have a feeling you will get that thing in the dirt out there and bond a little more with it. I came to grips with the fact that at 66 I would hurt myself if I took my vstrom 650 on the trails. But I appreciate it more and more everyday and have come to realize that for my mostly pavement riding it suits me better than a 390 would have. (tried to find one last year). If the Tenere is the Tacoma , the Vstrom is the Corolla.😁
Well said. I agree, I need more time on the T7 to learn and explore on it. A year from now it will be a different story, I hope.
Describing it as a twin cylinder KLR650 is probably the most acurate description I have ever heard.
If your staying within Japan, it's probably the best choice, but for me, it's not that magical bike we have all been waiting for. - Frank
It is far from the magical bike we all want. I really think the 390 Adv is as close as it gets right now.
I thought you were going to mention how high, and top heavy, it is. Forget the reliability comparison. You want a KTM 890 Adv or Adv R.
@@davidmallia628 if only my budget allowed those bikes.
@@davidmallia628 Hello David, I have ridden two Tenere 700. The first was stock, the second had the factory lowering. The factory lowered one was much less top-heavy IMHO. Much more fun. - Frank
@@advmatt There is a fellow, Tim, who works at one of my clients who has a part time job at Depot, has for a few months now. His wife said 10K max for a new bike, so he is working a second job to buy a Norden 901. I like to mention that he will need to keep the second job for another six months to pay for the farkles. - Frank
I've got a KLR and after testing the Vstrom 650 and the Tenere (which felt very similar), I decided on a used 2015 Vstrom. Felt better on the road than the KLR and got for 3K less than a new tenere. Also got the aluminum panniers, skid plate and crash bars.
Nice, you did well. Everyone raves about the Tenere, it was hard to pass up when they are so scarce.
Very interesting Matt, ive gone r1200gsa te, vstrom 1000xt, f800gs, vstrom 650xt, ktm 390 adv x2 one for dad n one for me both went back for a full refund full of issues, then a 2018 1200gs te Rallye had to let it go due to a shoulder injury thats now recovered then a Himalayan rejected at 500 miles full of issues for a full refund. Now on a 300 Rally which has been great but desperate need of suspension ive done the rear shock which was a massive difference but the forks are still rubbish was actually considerning a T7 or 800DE Suzuki as we are moving to Scotland in a week weeks and theres 0 trail riding there have you watched ariemann1 quite an interesting channel on the T7. Its good to get opinions like yours though :) cant beat the ones where we have gone out n bought the bikes.
I have watched that channel, a lot. He rides the T7 hard, like a massive dirt bike. He is a superior rider. For the rest if us mortals these bikes are a bit different. Over time I expect I will come to love it, I just need more time and travel on it.
@@advmatt yep thats a very good point Matt :) + we have speed limits like in the UK 60mph on roads 70 motorway and 25 is the recommended limit on trails
Hi Matt, Did you get the BMW because the 390 Adventure wasn't confidence inspiring (maybe offered less directional stability) at highway speeds ... say 60+ mph?
No I replaced my BMW 1200GS with the Tenere because the Tenere has lower maintenance costs and repair costs. The 390 Adv is still my primary bike, especially for offroad riding. I have and will take the 390 Adv anywhere and everywhere. The 390 Adv is a fantastic bike. The Tenere will be used for some long distance touring and as a backup bike when the 390 Adv is due for larger maintenance items.
Also had my T7 for 2 plus years, sold my 790 adventure to get the T7. The T7 rips off road, you will understand soon...
It is going to take some time before I get chance to rip it offroad but I am looking forward to many adventures, when I am not riding my 390 Adv. Seems like you are happy with the change. Cheers.
Hi,
I bought T7 in the same paiting lat year. It is my First ADV bike, and first „OffRoad” experience ever. I used to ride street/sport bikes before. Honestly, my feelings are opposite than Yours. You can ride it WILD and T7 loves being riden hard. You can easly wheelie it using only throttle without using cluth. This Bike rides sand like it was asphalt even with me behind the handlebars (i am totally unexperienced offroad rider)
I totally love my T7 and i think this bike is „the one” i would love to ride „till the end” - her or mine 😂
Peace ✌️
I am looking for comments like yours, to hear from long term riders it's a good bike. I know its reliable and capable, I am just looking for a bit more character.
You wanted an exciting bike from Japan? Not going to happen! I had a Super Tenere and it was fine, it was not great on Road, not great off road but it did everything I asked and never complained. I changed the oil and let her run. That bike will probably run for 200,000 boring miles no matter what you do to it. I jumped over to Triumph and glad I did, way more exciting, does it have the reliability? Time will tell. Give it another year and if it still doesn't do it for you then make a change.
That is what I was thinking. Give it a year, then decide. Reliability is always a key factor. Cheers.
In an unrelated comment, can you please do a video on whether the latest 790/890 longer windscreen can be fitted on to the 390 adv, since the latest 790/890 long windscreen appears to be well made and longer, with a slit in the windscreen for greater aerodynamics.
I can tell you now it won't be a direct fit. I just learned the differences between the 390 and 790/890 windscreen fit. Video coming.
I recently just picked up a KTM 500 EXC-F and funny story is that I was almost in a very similar situation because I had a deposit down on a CRF300L Rally😅…. Luckily Megan talked me out of that and I bought the fun bike that sacrifices some comfort over the reliable bike that would have done everything but it would have just been MEH.. but I will say those T7 do thrash for sure! But when I ride my buddy’s it didn’t do anything for me that made me regret buying the 1290 over the T7 besides the lighter weight. Other than that I can see where you say it’s “Meh” but honestly IMO that’s the Japanese dual sport market in general. Boring “reliable” bikes but if you want excitement it’s gotta be European! 😁
Totally agree with you. Those Austrian bikes have a lot of character.
Desert sled, Tuareg, norden might be be what you need. Or go get an crf450
I would have liked one of those but dealer networks are limited where I live. The purchase price creep is significant on those other bikes too. At the end of the day I will likely spend the same amount after upgrades. I like turning a wrench which I should stay busy on this bike.
@@advmatt th-cam.com/video/HI57M1E-GNo/w-d-xo.html maybe try a slow bike fast as an option. I love the dr650
@@ComfyDadShoes that's how I ride my KTM 390 Adventure. I Rev it hard and take it to its limits.
Well after selling my Africa twin to get this I was excited at first. The AT was just too big and heavy for me doing BDRs at 5'8 and 190lbs.but I loved the AT for the power. So I got aT7 good bike but like you said just kinda boring. It gets the job done without the fun. So I sold that and waiting for the new Transalp with 90hp. Should be closer to the bike I'm looking for.
Nice, hopefully get the bike soon. Seems like the Transalp release has been slow.
Hey great info….Of course it’s MEH. It is a dirt bike with road capabilities. I think people misread the T7. Where it shines is ripping down fire roads or tearing up some single track. Other than that then yes, it is a boring, featureless, underpowered road bike. In my opinion it rides like the Africa Twin on the road, BORING, but the T7 surprises you off road.
Honestly if a person doesn’t plan on riding the T7 fairly spirited off road, then it’s not worth getting.
I am definitely learning how this bike needs to be ridden. I need to tweak the suspension before I will be ready to really rip it offroad. Every bike feels a bit different, this one is no exception. I think after a few thousand miles the bike and I will figure things out. Cheers.
@@advmatt Everyone has their own pace for sure. The first ride on my T7, which was about a week ago, consisted of about 10 miles of single track and gravel roads😂. Had to break her in right. The suspension is by far the weak link on this bike, well if you are over 160 lbs it is. Take care bud and I look forward to your T7 adventures and reviews.
I am out for a ride on my FZ6, just stopped for a drink... But this video seems awfully long to go over: "Frank's 390 Adventure is just too beautiful to compete with." 😉 - Frank
Save it for a time when you are sitting a bit longer. 😏
Hi Matt, I really really really wanted a T7 for a long time but once I was able to actually ride one I knew it was not for me. Way, way to top heavy. I’m on a KTM 690 and just love it for in state but just can’t see doing really long multi state trips on it that require long road sections. I looked at an Aprilla 660 today after watching big rock guy. It’s getting lots of the same “best bike out there” kind of reviews the T7 got when it was new. It’s probably a nice bike but lots of plastic and just seemed cheep. Seemed like you would be leaving lots of body panels on the trail with the first off. It just didn’t seem as quality as other bikes. KTM is a plastic manufacturer IMHO but their plastic just looks higher quality. I’m only 5’8 so height and weight are a big issue for me. I also really want reliability, so I am now thinking about the Honda CB500X. Japanese bikes in the adventure class just all seem “work horse” like to me. Oh, I’m one more that really loved how the 890 road on my test ride but I really don’t want to support the “pay to play/subscription” model. So I don’t see myself getting another KTM.
I hear you. There is no perfect bike. Every bike require some sort of compromise. Maybe weight for the Transalp and see what it has to offer. It seems the price tag will be very competitive.
I think ultimately if you did deeper into the Aprillia...you will discover that this manufacturer doesn't have a great reliability record...just saying.....And obviously this can not be said about Yamaha...Suzuki...Honda. So the choice was yours to purchase a brand with reliability issues.....and the Yamaha I purchased on that basis was my choice....so I don't have to think about it not working one day.....
After changing from a completely different bike in the GS, what does the T7 do that the KTM doesn't? More powerful and has a better off road 18/21 wheel combo - but much heavier..and certainly not a bike for for extended pillion travel. What do I know though lol? Can't think of a bike I've bought that I wasn't thinking of something else pretty soon!😂
Both bikes do very similar things for sure. Maybe that is where I went wrong. These bikes are too similar. I am planning some comparison videos in the future because there are a lot similarities.
@@advmatt I follow Pavlin on Motorcycle Adventures who uses a 700 for long distance adventure riding (after nearly 200k km on an xt660), he has some interesting views on the model.
Your mistake was getting rid of the other bike. Bikes are purpose built, just like other tools, you need different tools for different tasks.
The other bike was not the right tool for me. I need more of a Swiss army knife, not a scalpel. I do get where you are coming from.
*"Agricultural"* says it all! Lol
I have a hunch and a hope that Kawasaki will pull a Adv unicorn out of the magic hat with a Ninja 400 - Versys 300L Chimera that will be a “ 1 & Done Bike” for many riders,- be they beginners or “ nothing to prove “ EZ Adv-ing veterans. Time will tell…,
They have the engine, just need to build a dirt worthy version.
Indeed, and K can build a good frame, again given the Ninja 400. But it will most likely keep the “road bike persona first and capable off road character second. Fine with me.
Is the 390 adventure more exciting or inspiring for you?
Yeah, it kind of is. I really like riding this bike to its limits, which are well within mine. Its fun, and the light weight really makes it more enjoyable.
I suspect you are living an example of the saying: It's more fun to ride a slow bike fast than to ride a fast bike slowly!
Yep, for sure. It's more fun to ride a bike at its limits.
I'm confused? You wanted 'simple'. When you got 'simple', it strikes you as 'boring'? Not being a T7 fan, I don't think that picking up a 1/4 ton bike in a 'space suit' when hot, tired and thirsty is 'exciting'. Is unreliability 'exciting'? ... not in my book. Is playing with menu options 'exciting'? ... not in my book. If 'exciting' is having to work at it, wringing out 250 - 350 cc might do it, like your 390 Adventure (your 'unicorn' ... whether you realize it ... or not). Wringing out a bike doesn't map with sight-seeing ... in my book.
I'm not trying to prescribe any 'right' choice; that's up to each individual. At this juncture, it doesn't sound like you're clear in your own mind about what you REALLY want? Maybe that's changed ... with your experience(s)?
The bike I really wanted was the KTM 490 Adventure, sadly we will never see that bike. So I was left finding the next closest bike that wasn't my 390 Adv, and offered similar capability to my GS. If the T7 had more personality and character I think I would like it more. I am trying to find ways to give it character. We will see how it goes.
I have the ktm 390, but one of the guys at work got the 890... wow thats my dream next step (standard not R)
The new standard bike is really great. With added adjustable suspension it fits the average rider much better. If the price wasn't so much I would have pursued that bike.
Which bike would you say you feel more comfortable in extreme terrain on? Your 390 or this?
390 hands down. I would take the 390 way more challenging places than the T7. It's much easier to ride.
What happened to the 390 adventure?
I still have it. I am in transition moving from the east coast to the southwest. I have the 390 Adventure with me on the east coast. The T7 is in the southwest. I am spending about 75% of my time east and the rest west. Both bikes will be seen together in a few months.
...had the same thing with a '19 Africa Twin DCT
...the DCT I loved....nail it and it goes....like an high grade Tesla...FUN...!!!
...but the bike, it was the standard basic....no cruise etc etc ++ tubed [I'm not pullin tubes and patchin on the side of the road]
If I had gotten the "fleshed out" AT I probably would have been happy....only did 1500 miles on that one then traded to the Tiger 900 Rally with all the extras.
...the T7....put a ad on ADVrider and it'll sell before a full cup of coffee is consumed +/-
...now on a BMW RT 1200 off a GSA....go figure...!!!
Its good to hear other riders woes with bikes that just don't get the juices flowing. We will see what happens here. I need to get it out on some long distance trips before I give up on it. Cheers.
What's the weird flash at the front and back of the bike at 4:51?
I think it was a rendering glitch when I produced the video. I didn't notice it before.
update video please...
I will once I roll 10k miles on the bike., should be there in about six to eight months. I need to do some significant travel on this bike and give a fair shake.
A 2-cylinder KLR, top-heavy and overall too heavy bike for ninety-nine percent of people who want to do any serious off-roading. Get a dual sport and a decent street bike. Also tube two tires are a deal-breaker why don't they just put drum brakes on it while they're at it.
All good points, but I like to do long distance travel with offroad riding. I am kind of stuck with heavier bikes that can handle highways but still be competent enough on jeep trails and forest roads. Long distance and offroad don't mix well. Everything is a compromise.
@@advmatt I'm on a tiger rally Pro 900 and a crf-300 l. If you are going to do long-distance travel at least have a bike with cruise control and all of the amenities.
@@markjacobs3956 I had one, R1200GS. It was too expensive for me to own, and it lost its appeal after 42k miles. I test rode the Tiger you have. Amazing bike. If only it was priced a little lower. I have got accustomed to doing long trips without cruise, it's as not as good but doable. Cheers.
@@advmatt the funny thing is people spend $11,000 on a t7 and throw another two or three thousand into them. For that you would be awfully close to a tiger
@@markjacobs3956 yep, real dang close.
Sounds like a you issue and not a bike issue. You literally havent come up with any valid points.
It's just the way the bike feels to me, it's completely subjective for sure. I think if the engine had more of a power band instead of a linear delivery it would feel more exciting. The suspension is not what I like, but I knew that going in.
Get a 1290 super adventure r
Fire breather!
The Yamaha isn't a bland, boring, vanilla, meh Honda, but it does have a similar pedigree. Remember, you had that rippy, hawky, zingie 390 under your arse last and it's hard to measure up to a KTM. All is not lost. Film your _glass of tea_ and when you're finished, grab that sweet line of cocaine and take it for a spin once in a while.
Seriously, the Ténéré is a great bike. You'll have gobs of content farkling the Scheiße out of it. Just smile extra hard for the camera and when the vid is over, remember you have the 390 somewhere in a garage somewhere waiting for you.
thx,
S
Perfectly said. I have a bunch of maintenance due on the 390 this fall to get it ripping again, so I will be on the T7 for awhile, sipping my tea!
It's Boooring...
Yeah, it kind of is boring.
@@advmatt The T7 is like the Adventure bikes equivalent to what Toyota Corolla is for cars, affordable, slow, low tech, boring and reliable.
Whole a KTM 890 Sdventure R is more like a Audi RS, expensive, fast, high tech, fun and a bit unreliable.
@@DigiMannen you could have interchanged KLR with T7 in that first line as well. So Matt's comment about it being the "KLR of Parallel Twins" really does hold up :)
@@seandonnelly205 KLR is lmore like a Nissan Sentra from the 80's.
affordable, very slow and heavy, outdated, comfort like a lawnmover and very unreliable.compared to a Honda or Yamaha from the same era.
"the bike doesn't inspire me" is your only reason? That's comical. Maybe try riding for the adventure and not for making content
It's not about the content, it's about never wanting the ride to end because the bike is so much fun. Over time I think I will get there with this bike, I hope.
It is not made in Japan. Sorry.
European Tenere 700s are made in France. North American Tenere 700s are manufactured in Japan, or at least according to the published literature I have seen.
@@advmatt and yes. You made a mistake purchasing it. :) nothing better than gs in terms of whole package. Now you going to loose a lot with attempt to sell 700. :) do not try ktm 1290 they suck long term.
@@SAMFICOM time will tell. My GS just wasn't doing it for me and my wallet could not support the repair costs.
@@advmatt so you decided to put 11k on soulless t700 with chain maintenance expenses (chain slider too!) plus another 4k to make it behave - including suspension job. I tried to replace gs - always came back later after eating shovels of shit with other brands/models. Btw how is you right leg doing after rubbing against clutch cover on t700? :)
@@SAMFICOM all is good. I found I actually like chain maintenance. I get to spend more time with my bikes. The cost to get the GS to perform the way I wanted it to was going to cost more than $4k. I hated the GS suspension. It was soggy and slow. I found its limitations quickly when riding offroad, so if I do put some additional money in the T700 I will have a better feeling ride than the GS, and I can do it all myself. We all have to ride our own rides and have our own experiences. I may regret buying the T700, but I won't regret parting ways with the GS. I will learn from it and hopefully find a better experience. If KTM would have produced the 490 Adventure I would never have gone with the T700.
"Rides very agricultural" ....you can't be serious.
Have you ridden one? Compared to other bikes I have ridden that is how it feels to me.
@@advmatt I don't own one, but yes, I have ridden the T7 quite extensively.
@@SigmaSheepdog compared to other bikes out there it's just not the same, granted they cost 50% more. I do understand your comment, but the feel of a bike is personal. Cheers.
@@advmatt It's great that we have a lot of choices out there. Safe riding, Matt!
I watch Arieman and am about to buy a T7 now I see this and I’m not sure
I watch that channel too. He is professional rider with loads of skills and makes it look easy. Best advice have is be real with yourself. I do t know anything about your riding experience but here are questions I asked myself. How do I plan to ride this bike? Do I have the skills to ride this bike the way you want to? Why do you want this bike? Is there any other bikes that will do what this bike can do? What will cost to own this bike (compared to others)? How do I want the bike to feel? It's all personal preference. Good luck figuring it out.
@@advmatt Thanks for the reply, I’ll never do any off road with the exception of a few fire trails and small roads. I currently own a bmw s1000r and a track gsxr750. I fancy something for chilling out on and taking it easy on comfort, something light with low running costs but with long suspension to soak up the bumpy poor surfaced roads I’ll be riding it on. I test rode a Tuareg660 and loved it but the dealer can’t get me one until the end of July, I looked at the new Transalp too but nothing available until September. My Yamaha dealer has T7’s but no demo bikes atm so I’m not not sure what to do. I am a very experience ex motox, supermoto and road racer and even though I want something to chill on I still want something with a bit of Zest..ya know with some punch for a little fun..
@@mbal4052 based on your riding experience I don't think you fill the punch you are looking for in the T7. You would be better off with a KTM 890, except for maybe the price difference. Good luck.