MCN looked into the issue of KTM camshaft issues on LC8c engines earlier this year. You can read the investigation here: www.motorcyclenews.com/news/2024/july/ktm-camshaft-defects/
@@ogasi1798Because there are 890s and Nordens with the same CheeseCam™ Technology. There are literally hundreds of known cases already and KTM are refusing to issue a recall. Anyone who buys a KTM at this point needs to give themselves a shake.
So you saying every 890 will get this issue soon because they built with melted technology , and they still haven't fix it because they have no idea what is going on ha? Check lyndon postkitt' s Norden than see if it is melting or not after 50.000 kms or not . This issue happened model years before 2022 @@ewganhoff
@erickmontero6222 buying an aprilia is asking for reliability headaches and any aprilia model should be avoided at all costs. The t7 is simply the best choice logically for a middleweight adv bike, with the next being an Africa twin.
@@maciek7557 ask them are they putting in the new followers that are 1mm wider. That's what's been wearing out the camshaft. Ktm will pay for your repair !
Ive just bought a Tenere World Raid, I looked at the Aprilia Tuareg which is fantastic, I avoided the KTM due to reliability and the awful response to their oil way/cam disaster. I have a Husky 701 before the fanboys attack me 😂. The Kove looks like a candidate too, needs a bit more refining which will come once there’s lots on the roads.I also have a BMW 1250 Rallye with too much tech, weight and too valuable to ruin a great adventure.Here’s the reason for the Tenere WR, it’s proven reliability, decent KYB longer suspension, less tech, dirt based geometry, less gizmo’s to go wrong. Aftermarket parts and improvements due to its age. £1500 discount too, it’s going to Morocco for 17 days in November, 95% off road into the Sahara and Atlas Mountains carrying all the kit to camp in the dunes. It’s the bike that I trust to do it and it’s actually bloody great to ride. Just get the one you want and use it.
@@anxiousappliance Maybe, but just fk KTM. My brother told me a year ago he was going to buy a Super duke R. I've been around bikes waaaaaay longer than him(25 years longer, he's a noobie). I told him not to. He said screw it, it looks amazing and is fast as lightning. He finally bought a 2022 2 months ago. To date he had to pay to get the check engine light reset, it came on again and he had to pay again for diagnostics and £140 for a sensor(can't remember which), and now, literally today, the bike has completely died on him on his way to work in the rain and had to pay to get recovered. He's been trying to dry it out for 2 hours but it's still dead. Do you want to buy a 4000 mile 2022 Super Duke R?😂
@@wudntulike2no32Kove has a license to copy the CF Moto design, so likely identical components as the CF Moto 790. It makes less power because the fueling and mapping are 10 years behind the KTM software
I am really confused why you would put the Kove 800, probably to most off-road focused mid-weight adventure bike, up against road focused bikes? We want to see it up against the 890R, Tenere Extreme, Tuareg and DesertX - these are the competition (even if it's in a different league price-wise)
Im sure that’s coming. Gonna take some effort and courage for them to explain why the 800x is better offroad than all those bikes. And probably some explaining to do with their big brand sponsors - I know brake magazine doesnt have the balls to do it.
As an owner of two Austrian built KTM’s that have had zero issues. Out of the 3 tested, I would rather the Chinese built Kove over the Chinese built KTM.
Just finished 4.000km asphalt trip on kove 800x. High windscreen (50cm) is a must, handguards with windscreen as well. Same as comfortable seat - factory one gives you 250km of comfort at max. Engine is so good on the highway, however above 160km/h when you have a saddle bag front wheel is not that stable anymore, maybe aftermarket extra fuel side tanks (ktm-style) will help a bit. And in the city engine is ok-ish. On/off around zero throttle requires lots of clutch, and it's very hot below 40 km/h.
Built-in usb gives you only 15w, enough for the phone, not enough to charge modern beefy powerbank during 3h trip. The bike itself is sooo lightweight, especially when you are tired in the evening in the tight parking lot.
Good to hear some feedback on this bike, thanks. If it needs 160+ and weight over the rear to make the 800X unstable, then it is in the same camp as all the other mid-sized adventure bikes, and a non issue!
To solve the front wheel problem you just need to increase the mono shock preload. If not enough you can adjust the triple clamp level making it lower and moving more weight to the front or changing the shock spring with a stiffer one
KTM 790 adventure is excellent in almost every possible way. I’ve ridden almost 9000 km on it so far in a wide range of road and weather conditions conditions and have discovered only one minor flaw (gets hot when going slow). Off-Road really well also. Luxourious, sporty and very controllable.
I would have included the Aprilia Tuareg. But from your pick, I would definitely choose the Tenere 700, even just because of the reliability, and the little difference in price. The Explore, with the lower seat, and suspension, makes it even more appealing to a pensioner with short legs. Otherwise, I would go for a Tuareg 660.
I was team KTM all the way until the cam shaft issue blew up. My 2024 890 was sort of a lemon and I got rid of it at 2600 miles. I went back to BMW after that. Never again, but for this video, T7 all the way. Just upgrade the suspension and you’re set.
Great comparison video, had Aprilia Tuareg 660 and I love it so versatile ❤❤❤.I think it will be right at the top on your next test 😊😂. Keep up with great work 😊❤
My 2024 KTM 790 just blows me away with its performance, comfort, and manageability. (T7 was way too top heavy, suspension disappointingly soft.) I just hope they fixed the cam issue. A little nervous.
@@PM-xm5ew I've read that in an article by MCN ..Motorcycle news..I think.. I'll try to find it and post a link 4 u . Also I haven't heard of a single camshaft issue on the 790 engine cfmoto uses in any fb groups for the bike. I belong to 3. One guy just had his valve clearance checked at 18000kms and they didn't need adjustment, which would be an indication of premature wear.
@@PM-xm5ew this is from adv rider..but not the article that mentions oilflow improvements.. CFMoto retuned KTM’s 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine for the Explore and the other MT series bikes, reducing power and optimizing for reliability. Bikes are supported by a three-year factory warranty (up from two) if the bike is serviced by an authorised dealer.
It’s quite ironic about the Aprilia. But it’s the main hit against the brand as a whole. Be it availability of press bikes, spares or the amount dealerships they just aren’t quite there like the big brands, nor are they expanding like the Chinese. Me? I’d have the Tenere. All the power I need, all the tech I need and reliability. Would love cruise control, tubeless wheels and some other things but…I mean, what’s the use of the thing is at the dealers? Useless to have all the nice things when you can’t do a cam shaft properly. Nightmare fuel.
Tubeless wheels is a do it yourself job. Seal of the nipples, add flex tape to the wheel well and off you go. Not so hard. Did mine and they have lasted 18 months so far without a pressure drop. Sealant and tape all from the hardware shop.
@@johnstaring3210 You’re not wrong but I’ve had enough tubeless jobs go bad that I’m not doing it again on a motorbike. Tubes and carbs are things I’ve sworn off totally.
Thanks for putting this test together .. I am commenting from South Africa so.. it all kinda relative.. A great test and pity the Aprillia was not available as I do believe it’s a very capable bike. Unfortunately one major factor to consider is dealership network.. here we’re are often 400-600km away from dealerships so we need bikes that can get us where we are going with the minimum of fuss, ease of roadside repair n maintenance are crucial to an enjoyable trip… and general ownership experience At the end of the day it’s gonna be horses for courses as they say 🙄😎 The Kove has to be complemented for being compared to these two legendary marques, needless to say Yammie n KTM are huge manufacturers.. by the sounds of your review the only con really is the throttle response… which as a 2023 890 Adv R owner I would say sounds similar to the Rally throttle response, which I do personally think is best for wideopen desert tracks n sand where you need aggressive and immediate throttle response to get you out it… Perhaps the Kove is more of a desert racer😮😉 or more like the brutal 950/950 KTM where the clutch is your traction control… I would love to test both the Kove bikes here in South Africa where we have endless opportunities to take the road less travelled 👌😎👍 Thanks again for sharing Keep the reviews coming 👌
Kove- very cheap and cheerful, Ktm- expensive ( iPad on steroids ) T7 plain and simple fun ( No toys required ) less to go Wrong ( Ktm ) T7 my choice and will be buying the “Standard “ soon 👍
Nothing on this earth could get me to part with a single penny for a KTM 790/890 or any KTM no matter how good it is. The way they & the dealers have treated owners is a disgrace, joke of a company
You can consider Suzuki 800 DE for comparison. I think you should have consider V-strom 800 DE in this bunch. That would give us some more of you view. I hope that is a good contender
They list the Rally as dry weight and the pro wet. A bit deceptive or an oversite. I'd expect the rally to be close to 15-20 pounds less with a titanium exhaust and the other bits they've deleted/changed.
ive been reading Japanese moto websites for nearly 5 years, since i got into biking, and i haven't seen a single article about Kove bikes. not even one. But you guys are shoving this brand into everything, touting it as a rea contender to everything with 2 wheels.
All you have to do is watch Adam Riemann’s videos and see how he rides the Tenere 700 World raid and long distance rides he does with zero issues. The reliability of the Yamaha is amazing and a fantastic true adventure bike, it may not have the HP of the other two but it’s a proven package!
Adam could have owned any brand & model, he's not biased, and he chooses wisely. If Adam rides a T7 World Raid, then that proves that the Yamaha is the pick of the bunch. I'd love to meet him on a ride one day, but he prefers dirt and I prefer the road. I like his videos ... he's on top of his game.
I have a 2020 KTM 1290 SAS which is great fun and has given me no trouble, but the threads and posts for the 790/890 continue to spell out camshaft woe, so they and the CFMoto800 are out.
On principle, I would avoid purchasing any vehicle brand who engages in this dastardly behaviour. They are holding the customer to ransom. "Pay us $1500, or we will make you suffer". It's absolute skulduggery!
I've put Rostra electronic cruise control on my Tenere 700, my F650GS and my old Harley 1988 FLHS for less than $300 total. It's actually made for cars but easily adapted to any motorcycle with a cable operated throttle. Need to be somewhat mechanically inclined but once dialed in works flawlessly.
The Kove will be the next fantastic new bike that will be available in the UK market that NOBODY will buy. I will buy a Kove next year with low miles at half the price, or when the price drops to around 6k as new - old stock, exactly how it happened with the CFMOTO bikes.
Seems like on a ‘typical’ adv bike test (50/50 on/off road) the kove would win outright on performance and blow the others away on a cost basis. Waiting for the review we all want to see - off road against 890 advR. Glad to see a realistic ADV bike test thats primarily on road and offroad only give a second thought. The other 2 bikes are for sure better on road than the kove.
When comparing prices and nit picking things to make a bike look like it's actually not that great of a deal, one should consider the solutions of such found problems. Stuff like gear ratios, wind protection, seat comfort, how cheap can you go and solve those tissues? Quite cheap actually, a wind deflector extension and a mesh seat cover are very affordable, and it'll make the bike probably better in that regard to other bikes, we should never complain and compare comfort if such a cheap thing makes a world of difference, it's like comparing grip by judging bikes with their stock tyres. It's very easy to make an imperfect bike become excellent in terms of comfort, now, the buzzing of the bike, that is indeed something inherent of the bike, you can't change that, that is indeed a great point.
It's a no brainer id take the Japanese bikes over the Chinese built ones (kove & KTM). Also if you spend 80% of your time on the road but a proper sports tourer instead of these tractors.
@Jonathan-L I was actually going to buy a T7, but after every dealer wanted to mark it up to Tuareg pricing, I went with the Tuareg. I was also swayed by a shop manager telling me that they had an owner's T7 sitting all last summer waiting on warranty parts. Dealer network doesn't carry the same weight it used to. Fyi, there are no Aprilia dealers here in Wyoming. Time will tell if that matters. I'll post updates on our channel.
thats the issue with reviews by journos. They have bikes for few hours, maybe one day and ride them at 100% like its race, this have almost nothing to do with real world usage of adv bikes. Its the long term stuff that matters - quality, practicality, wind protection, how comfortable suspension and seat is, smoothness and reliability of engine etc etc... everything else including electornic aids other than abs is gadgetry
You left out the best..cfmoto ibex 800t...ktm motor,Bosch fuel injection,kyb adjustable shocks,heated seat,handlebars,luggage included, adjustable windshield, tubeless wheels, engine guard, fog lights, all included !
Out of these 3, the yamaha has to be the one for people who are looking for a dependable TRUE adventure bike. It has ample power without question, and it's a very proven platform with lots of dealer and aftermarked backup. The Kove will definitely be worth a punt for someone who's not going quite as far a field, and it seems to be offering great value. I think at this point you'd be mad to trust the KTM for anything more than weekend gallivanting. Wish the aprilia was here though, as I have a feeling that would have wiped the floor.
All the negatives of the Kove that Guy and this test has spoken, after 4 days of all roads and off on one, i have to completely disagree. No vibes, no throttle problems , the gearbox okay its not a slide in smooth gear change buts its not notchy either . Great bikes
Is the KTM cam issue something that needs addressed? Yes. Is the 790 still the best value bike in its class? Yes….euro tech at a Chinese price. Also there haven’t been reports of failures yet on 23-24 790s built by CF Moto. All other 790/890/901 engines except 23-24 790 engines are made in Austria…the failures aren’t a CF moto problem, their a KTM problem. The most reliable KTM is probably this “CF Moto KTM”
@@donnyjackson1908 it is still not "at a chinese price" though ... the price for it's Chinese counterpart is £3K less .... the KTM is euro tech at a euro price, hence it coming out more expensive than the Japanese and Chinese bikes ...
@@MotoGoato sure it is. I’m thinking in terms of value for money, you’re thinking in terms of as cheap as possible. Nothing else in the class has the same performance and features for $10k
Why do you NEED to buy the software pack? I didn't. I don't need it or want it, but it's there for those who do. You don't even need to buy the whole pack.
I’ve had 2 KTM’s love them, they are my favourite brand of bike, my favourite team in MotoGP and motor cross, but I currently ride a T7 world raid, and I wouldn’t over my dead body swap it for a 790 or that other thing, I dont care what electronics it has, the T7 is a an absolutely amazing platform, and it also hasn’t got chocolate cam shafts and it’s never had a single issue, my KTM’s on the other hand are a different story, lots of bugs, but great bikes, but I wouldn’t touch the 790 or 890 engines
I have the suzuki 800de cause i need to go with the girl. It's heavy, not gone like. But when i was alone i ramped up full speed over a sandy and rocky hill like it was nothing... It's so much more comfortable than the tenere. If I was going thru a long trip the confort could be a game changer and I'm not skillful enough to use the tenere to the fullest, so I'm happy with Suzy.
Id like to see a proper off-road test of adventure bikes rather than a street biased test. When doing a street biased test, of course the bike closest to a goldwing is going to win. But the closer they are to Gold wings the worst they are off-road. I think if you did more off-road heavy test, where people really dream about taking adventure bikes, you would show the winning in the exact opposite order. kove first, T7 second and KTM last. Ktm bulk and weight very daunting to handle Offroad and throws you around. Manufactures are finally starting to get some more off-road capable adventure bikes, and not glorified street sport touring with a dirt "look"to them. I like to see your tests start to gravitate towards highlighting their real off-road capabilities rather than the street comforts of wind and cruise control.
I don't think the T7 is missing out on anything, it's intentionally built that way. Why do review channels always suggest these bikes need to have this and that, they'd all be the same bike at the end then. If anything leave the gadgets and extra power and add properly sprung suspension and a better rear brake.
Every time MCN (or any reviewer) evaluates a KTM there are many commenting about the poorly made cams (and ...?). Has MCN made video about this? Or how about even a long-term review. It seems that build quality is an issue that needs addressing. As for Kove and CF ... there reasons why they cost 25% less than others - low wages. I fear we're concerned with saving $$ while the middle class goes down the drain. It's a race to the bottom.
KTM is cramped for taller folks. The Aprilia Tuareg is comfortable and fits me better than the VStrom 800DE. T7 just doesn't have the power. I ended up with the VStrom because the KOVE hasn't made it over to the United States yet.
6:03 if that was the price of the T7 here in Costa Rica, I'd probably own one, but it's more like 23.000 USD and our economy is poorer, so we make less money and things cost more, living here is cheaper but buying vehicles and technology is more difficult.
You are right , but these reviews avoid reality . Yes if you are a gym weightlifter , you might have enough flex left in your back to try and lift this by yourself But for the average older rider , lifting the bike up after dumping it in a creek or mud /sand or a steep rocky incline/decline is nigh impossible . But the trend here in Oz , and it appears in UK also is to ride in groups, so everyone gathers around a dropped bike and do the heave ho. The solo riders , need to ride a bike no heavier than 160kg wet , and even then it’s not a doodle in off road conditions to lift upright .
middleweight is a reference point for a sector, largely based on engine capacity rather than actual kerbweight. Its just a pidgeonhole to be able to group them to
@@orionswitnessI'm a strong middle aged bloke, and a bit of a gym rat, doing deadlifts most sessions. 160kg in a tricky lift alone is enough to have me breathing out of my arse! I've done it on a 160 kg dual sport and it is knackering if your bike falls against the camber of a rough single track trail with a steep incline or decline. For fire trails these bikes are sound for ordinary riders. Make it snotty single track and unless you're bloody brilliant, these bikes are just too big.
KTM's lack of reliability is unfortunately well known...That also happens with Aprilia. Kobe..., well, it's still unkown, but I wouldn't dare to try until a couple of years. Yamaha is reliable and durable for sure and well balanced. I'd go for the Japanese without hesitating a single second.
The aftermarket for T7 is like Harley Davidsons You can build a monster or wathever you want it / you to be! If you dont have the money go for aprilia 😄 I have 5k euro on my t7 and i would not trade it for any bike 😉
Aprillia Tuareg all day long. I’m sorry but I wouldn’t trust the KTM. The Kove is definitely interesting but still a few questions about long term ownership. You can’t go wrong with the Yamaha having ridden one quite a lot on and off road.
Do Not forget reliability ,Resale Value, And parts availability. That will dictate to me which one I would Buy. Especially AFTER OWNING AN 890 ADVENTURE R. 😓
thats the issue with "proffesional" reviews, they dont mention the most important aspects, just pure performance test and thats just not reality of ownership of any bike
Right up to the new MCN spec. A comparison of 3 bikes, 2 of which no one in their right minds would throw money at. The KTM engine gaffe is a total scandal and, sadly, it's not been reflected in your mags coverage. I unsubscribed from your output some time ago. I watched this because YT doesn't respect my choices.
MCN looked into the issue of KTM camshaft issues on LC8c engines earlier this year. You can read the investigation here: www.motorcyclenews.com/news/2024/july/ktm-camshaft-defects/
Do any of the CFMoto "clone" motors suffer the same issues?
Do any of the CFMoto "clone" motors suffer from the same issues?
ZsvsacNvsassafavxNz bqjhstyddaagabaher❤😂😂😂🎉 1:25 1:27 1:28 1:28 1:29 1:30 1:30 1:31 1:31 1:31 1:31 1:32 1:32 1:32 1:32 1:33 1:33 1:33 1:34 1:34 1:34 1:34 1:35 1:35 1:35 1:35 1:36 1:36 1:36 1:36 1:37
@@hedonisticvanity no, cfmoto redesigned it
And you took their word for it instead of doing a single piece of investigation yourselves!
790 with the still dodgy camshaft issue 😱
They seem to have addressed that. We'll see.
They said they fixed it in 21, why is their word not good enough?
@@ogasi1798Because there are 890s and Nordens with the same CheeseCam™ Technology. There are literally hundreds of known cases already and KTM are refusing to issue a recall. Anyone who buys a KTM at this point needs to give themselves a shake.
@@ogasi1798 Might not be. I thought the recent notice was the first recognition of the issue ion the 890s.
So you saying every 890 will get this issue soon because they built with melted technology , and they still haven't fix it because they have no idea what is going on ha? Check lyndon postkitt' s Norden than see if it is melting or not after 50.000 kms or not . This issue happened model years before 2022 @@ewganhoff
Ktm - Proven not to last.
Kove- unproven.
Yamaha- will get you home 👍
Yamaha will get you home eventually 😂😂 so little power you could just ride a bicycle
@@youtubed9695 complete nonsense. You are clearly not into offroading. 😂
@@youtubed9695 - 72hp is more than enough off road
@@scooble but it will spend 90% of its time on the road..
@@scoobleabout 62 at the rear wheel.
That was a beautifully shot video. Great camerawork and editing. Very well presented too. 👏👏
agreed, great review
I think the Aprilia Tuareg more than deserves to be in this comparison. It over performs while being a solid price and keeps getting overlooked.
Because it's a garbage aprilia that will leak oil and leave you stranded when the electronics inevitably start glitching out.
We tried to get one, but unfortunately we were unable to. We hope to do another test with the Aprilia included soon.
Did you not watch the video bro literally mentioned that withing the first 2 mins 😂
the Tuareg is a proper beast off road though and is set that way, it belongs against 790R and Tenere extreme + Kove rally x pro when that lands
@erickmontero6222 buying an aprilia is asking for reliability headaches and any aprilia model should be avoided at all costs. The t7 is simply the best choice logically for a middleweight adv bike, with the next being an Africa twin.
Waiting for cams replacement on my 2020 790 adventure r, 2 months now, wish the platform wasn't doomed
@@maciek7557 ask them are they putting in the new followers that are 1mm wider. That's what's been wearing out the camshaft. Ktm will pay for your repair !
Ive just bought a Tenere World Raid, I looked at the Aprilia Tuareg which is fantastic, I avoided the KTM due to reliability and the awful response to their oil way/cam disaster. I have a Husky 701 before the fanboys attack me 😂. The Kove looks like a candidate too, needs a bit more refining which will come once there’s lots on the roads.I also have a BMW 1250 Rallye with too much tech, weight and too valuable to ruin a great adventure.Here’s the reason for the Tenere WR, it’s proven reliability, decent KYB longer suspension, less tech, dirt based geometry, less gizmo’s to go wrong. Aftermarket parts and improvements due to its age. £1500 discount too, it’s going to Morocco for 17 days in November, 95% off road into the Sahara and Atlas Mountains carrying all the kit to camp in the dunes. It’s the bike that I trust to do it and it’s actually bloody great to ride. Just get the one you want and use it.
T7 will grip any hill with the high center of gravity. What do you do for a living, seriously? Hahah.
You made an excellent choice
@@Dailyrider94 Im only a Carpenter 😁.
@@derrickmurphy9859 Thankyou, I think you’re right.
I wouldn’t touch a KTM with a barge pole . Engine issues are well documented and still no acknowledgement.
Electric issues as well
They did acknowledge it finally. I'm thinking the 790 might prove reliable.
@@anxiousapplianceThere are plenty of 890s and Nordens with the CheeseCam™ Technology too.
@@ewganhoff Yeah - I think the new 790s have it sorted - not sure though. Be nice - look like fun bikes.
@@anxiousappliance Maybe, but just fk KTM. My brother told me a year ago he was going to buy a Super duke R. I've been around bikes waaaaaay longer than him(25 years longer, he's a noobie). I told him not to. He said screw it, it looks amazing and is fast as lightning. He finally bought a 2022 2 months ago. To date he had to pay to get the check engine light reset, it came on again and he had to pay again for diagnostics and £140 for a sensor(can't remember which), and now, literally today, the bike has completely died on him on his way to work in the rain and had to pay to get recovered. He's been trying to dry it out for 2 hours but it's still dead. Do you want to buy a 4000 mile 2022 Super Duke R?😂
Ktm is the only one that will fall apart 🎉
The T7 is the only one without recalls on it.
If it starts 😂
@@martyn94ma haha spot on
The Kove is a KTM 790 engine though. They haven't shown if Kove has fixed the issue that KTM won't fix.
@@wudntulike2no32Kove has a license to copy the CF Moto design, so likely identical components as the CF Moto 790. It makes less power because the fueling and mapping are 10 years behind the KTM software
I am really confused why you would put the Kove 800, probably to most off-road focused mid-weight adventure bike, up against road focused bikes? We want to see it up against the 890R, Tenere Extreme, Tuareg and DesertX - these are the competition (even if it's in a different league price-wise)
Im sure that’s coming. Gonna take some effort and courage for them to explain why the 800x is better offroad than all those bikes. And probably some explaining to do with their big brand sponsors - I know brake magazine doesnt have the balls to do it.
all ktms get such good write ups its such a shame the reliability seems to be utter dogshit and only getting worse
They continue to transfer more and more parts and assembly to China. No surprises on the quality drop.
@@SPCRacing1 Even when they all came out of Mattighofen, the reliability was mediocre at best.
As an owner of two Austrian built KTM’s that have had zero issues. Out of the 3 tested, I would rather the Chinese built Kove over the Chinese built KTM.
@@AussieDazza what about a cfmoto 800mt ?
absolutely, especially considering price.
also #phuckktm
@@jamiehalifax4954 It's heavier, the Kove is the one...
@@MickH60 ok
Awesome video! Well put together and well presented Carl. Great job! Not sure which one I would choose? Probably the KTM. Best!
Will put my money with the Kove...
Just finished 4.000km asphalt trip on kove 800x. High windscreen (50cm) is a must, handguards with windscreen as well. Same as comfortable seat - factory one gives you 250km of comfort at max.
Engine is so good on the highway, however above 160km/h when you have a saddle bag front wheel is not that stable anymore, maybe aftermarket extra fuel side tanks (ktm-style) will help a bit. And in the city engine is ok-ish. On/off around zero throttle requires lots of clutch, and it's very hot below 40 km/h.
Built-in usb gives you only 15w, enough for the phone, not enough to charge modern beefy powerbank during 3h trip.
The bike itself is sooo lightweight, especially when you are tired in the evening in the tight parking lot.
Good to hear some feedback on this bike, thanks. If it needs 160+ and weight over the rear to make the 800X unstable, then it is in the same camp as all the other mid-sized adventure bikes, and a non issue!
To solve the front wheel problem you just need to increase the mono shock preload. If not enough you can adjust the triple clamp level making it lower and moving more weight to the front or changing the shock spring with a stiffer one
You can actually reduce the preload on the front forks to level it back out... on road.
KTM 790 adventure is excellent in almost every possible way. I’ve ridden almost 9000 km on it so far in a wide range of road and weather conditions conditions and have discovered only one minor flaw (gets hot when going slow). Off-Road really well also. Luxourious, sporty and very controllable.
It will not last.
@@vgstb I know plenty of 790/890/901 that have 50k+ on their clocks and running without missing a beat.
Get the Kove and have it remapped - job done
Or wait for the Kove 800 x Rally, that one will be an offroad weapon.
Definitely i wold take a KOVE 👍
Got the world raid version of the t7, cant recommend it enough. I love it
What's the difference between the World Raid & Explore model (other than fuel capacity)?
@@Jonathan-L tanks, suspension quality, suspension travel, footpegs, steering damper, seat, luggage rack, windscreen
@@Driftuner Thanks, I'll read up on the T7 range. It seems that Yamaha have got a strong position in the market.
I would have included the Aprilia Tuareg. But from your pick, I would definitely choose the Tenere 700, even just because of the reliability, and the little difference in price. The Explore, with the lower seat, and suspension, makes it even more appealing to a pensioner with short legs. Otherwise, I would go for a Tuareg 660.
Where is the Suzuki VStrom 800 DE ?
Try not to skip a video and then mention stupid stuff
On the pavement somewhere…😂
How are the after-market parts for the Kove?
I was team KTM all the way until the cam shaft issue blew up. My 2024 890 was sort of a lemon and I got rid of it at 2600 miles. I went back to BMW after that. Never again, but for this video, T7 all the way. Just upgrade the suspension and you’re set.
Great comparison video, had Aprilia Tuareg 660 and I love it so versatile ❤❤❤.I think it will be right at the top on your next test 😊😂.
Keep up with great work 😊❤
Its insane there are so many variants of the Tenere yet the US still has the one model.
ouch
Updated ecu is already available for the Kove800.
Link?
Yeah, it's in the reviews on you tube...
My 2024 KTM 790 just blows me away with its performance, comfort, and manageability. (T7 was way too top heavy, suspension disappointingly soft.) I just hope they fixed the cam issue. A little nervous.
@@mattzobian cf moto fixed the cam issue
@@jamiehalifax4954 Wheres the info on that?
@@PM-xm5ew I've read that in an article by MCN ..Motorcycle news..I think..
I'll try to find it and post a link 4 u .
Also I haven't heard of a single camshaft issue on the 790 engine cfmoto uses in any fb groups for the bike. I belong to 3.
One guy just had his valve clearance checked at 18000kms and they didn't need adjustment, which would be an indication of premature wear.
@@PM-xm5ew ktm was getting 104 or so hp out of that motor, cfmoto is getting 94hp...not as 'ready to race'...but less likely to blow up 🤣
@@PM-xm5ew this is from adv rider..but not the article that mentions oilflow improvements..
CFMoto retuned KTM’s 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine for the Explore and the other MT series bikes, reducing power and optimizing for reliability. Bikes are supported by a three-year factory warranty (up from two) if the bike is serviced by an authorised dealer.
Big features of the KTM that you unlock at 15k km is the camshaft failure due to poor design of the motor
It’s quite ironic about the Aprilia. But it’s the main hit against the brand as a whole. Be it availability of press bikes, spares or the amount dealerships they just aren’t quite there like the big brands, nor are they expanding like the Chinese.
Me? I’d have the Tenere. All the power I need, all the tech I need and reliability. Would love cruise control, tubeless wheels and some other things but…I mean, what’s the use of the thing is at the dealers? Useless to have all the nice things when you can’t do a cam shaft properly. Nightmare fuel.
Tubeless wheels is a do it yourself job. Seal of the nipples, add flex tape to the wheel well and off you go. Not so hard. Did mine and they have lasted 18 months so far without a pressure drop. Sealant and tape all from the hardware shop.
@@johnstaring3210 You’re not wrong but I’ve had enough tubeless jobs go bad that I’m not doing it again on a motorbike. Tubes and carbs are things I’ve sworn off totally.
A lot thanks for this test. I am thinking of buy Kove
Thanks for putting this test together ..
I am commenting from South Africa so.. it all kinda relative..
A great test and pity the Aprillia was not available as I do believe it’s a very capable bike.
Unfortunately one major factor to consider is dealership network.. here we’re are often 400-600km away from dealerships so we need bikes that can get us where we are going with the minimum of fuss, ease of roadside repair n maintenance are crucial to an enjoyable trip… and general ownership experience
At the end of the day it’s gonna be horses for courses as they say
🙄😎
The Kove has to be complemented for being compared to these two legendary marques, needless to say Yammie n KTM are huge manufacturers.. by the sounds of your review the only con really is the throttle response… which as a 2023 890 Adv R owner I would say sounds similar to the Rally throttle response, which I do personally think is best for wideopen desert tracks n sand where you need aggressive and immediate throttle response to get you out it…
Perhaps the Kove is more of a desert racer😮😉 or more like the brutal 950/950 KTM where the clutch is your traction control…
I would love to test both the Kove bikes here in South Africa where we have endless opportunities to take the road less travelled 👌😎👍
Thanks again for sharing
Keep the reviews coming 👌
seems like the only thing the Kove needs is an ECU tune to smoothen the engine
google COOBER KOVE 800X LM ECU
@@nighthawk695476400€ is too expensive. For 200€ I'll buy it right away
Kove- very cheap and cheerful, Ktm- expensive ( iPad on steroids ) T7 plain and simple fun ( No toys required ) less to go Wrong ( Ktm )
T7 my choice and will be buying the “Standard “ soon 👍
I would take the T7 over the chinese one and the cheese camshaft ktm{oiling design flaw}
When is the kove gonna hit the shelves???
Nothing on this earth could get me to part with a single penny for a KTM 790/890 or any KTM no matter how good it is. The way they & the dealers have treated owners is a disgrace, joke of a company
Your videos always bring me so much joy and inspiration. Thank you for your energy and willingness to share your talents with us!🎆♀️🏓
You can consider Suzuki 800 DE for comparison. I think you should have consider V-strom 800 DE in this bunch. That would give us some more of you view. I hope that is a good contender
So looking on koves website it shows the rally weighs 363lbs and the pro is 408lbs. I don’t see how that’s possible ?
They list the Rally as dry weight and the pro wet. A bit deceptive or an oversite. I'd expect the rally to be close to 15-20 pounds less with a titanium exhaust and the other bits they've deleted/changed.
I know the suspension on the Tenere Explore has been lowered, but has it actually been "beefed up" as in higher spring rates ??
ive been reading Japanese moto websites for nearly 5 years, since i got into biking, and i haven't seen a single article about Kove bikes. not even one. But you guys are shoving this brand into everything, touting it as a rea contender to everything with 2 wheels.
Kove is the 4th biggest seller of >400cc machines in China.
@@nightcoremetal2518 yes, in China only, after KTM, Benneli and VOGE.
Why no triumph tiger and why no Aprilia Tuareg ?
Great review 👊🏻
All you have to do is watch Adam Riemann’s videos and see how he rides the Tenere 700 World raid and long distance rides he does with zero issues. The reliability of the Yamaha is amazing and a fantastic true adventure bike, it may not have the HP of the other two but it’s a proven package!
Adam could have owned any brand & model, he's not biased, and he chooses wisely. If Adam rides a T7 World Raid, then that proves that the Yamaha is the pick of the bunch. I'd love to meet him on a ride one day, but he prefers dirt and I prefer the road. I like his videos ... he's on top of his game.
@@Jonathan-L What are you talking about? He gets paid by yamaha, akropovic, motul... either directly or by receiving free stuff
Genuine question here: why is the Ducati desert x not considered in this class? Or is it and just not mentioned in the vid
I have a 2020 KTM 1290 SAS which is great fun and has given me no trouble, but the threads and posts for the 790/890 continue to spell out camshaft woe, so they and the CFMoto800 are out.
I can’t get past spending $1000 to unlock some software…
On principle, I would avoid purchasing any vehicle brand who engages in this dastardly behaviour. They are holding the customer to ransom. "Pay us $1500, or we will make you suffer". It's absolute skulduggery!
I hope tenere will come with cruise control and tubeless tyres next year . Still best looking bike in segment.
I've put Rostra electronic cruise control on my Tenere 700, my F650GS and my old Harley 1988 FLHS for less than $300 total. It's actually made for cars but easily adapted to any motorcycle with a cable operated throttle. Need to be somewhat mechanically inclined but once dialed in works flawlessly.
Also added a set of Alpina tubeless wheels.
SUVs are not my thing,I am just amazed at the cost difference between them. Great video thanks.
i have only one thing to say "i love my KOVE"
The Kove will be the next fantastic new bike that will be available in the UK market that NOBODY will buy. I will buy a Kove next year with low miles at half the price, or when the price drops to around 6k as new - old stock, exactly how it happened with the CFMOTO bikes.
Seems like on a ‘typical’ adv bike test (50/50 on/off road) the kove would win outright on performance and blow the others away on a cost basis. Waiting for the review we all want to see - off road against 890 advR.
Glad to see a realistic ADV bike test thats primarily on road and offroad only give a second thought. The other 2 bikes are for sure better on road than the kove.
When comparing prices and nit picking things to make a bike look like it's actually not that great of a deal, one should consider the solutions of such found problems. Stuff like gear ratios, wind protection, seat comfort, how cheap can you go and solve those tissues? Quite cheap actually, a wind deflector extension and a mesh seat cover are very affordable, and it'll make the bike probably better in that regard to other bikes, we should never complain and compare comfort if such a cheap thing makes a world of difference, it's like comparing grip by judging bikes with their stock tyres.
It's very easy to make an imperfect bike become excellent in terms of comfort, now, the buzzing of the bike, that is indeed something inherent of the bike, you can't change that, that is indeed a great point.
It's a no brainer id take the Japanese bikes over the Chinese built ones (kove & KTM). Also if you spend 80% of your time on the road but a proper sports tourer instead of these tractors.
Tenere's are made in France, not Japan.
@@auntieprimrose4138 only for the African market (and maybe some parts of Europe). US, AUS etc Tenere's are Japanese manufactured bikes.
@@broncoridesagain3176 . I'm in the UK, they are made in France for most of the world.
@@auntieprimrose4138 sucks to be in the UK then.
In my country, it's Yamaha all the way. Reliable machine, plus good dealer network.
The only sensible option is the Yamaha....
It's probably best that the Aprilia Tuareg wasn't in the competition, or it wouldn't be much of a competition.
Whilst the Tuareg is a great machine, the dealership network isn't as strong as Yamaha. I wouldn't say no to owning the Aprilia though.
@Jonathan-L I was actually going to buy a T7, but after every dealer wanted to mark it up to Tuareg pricing, I went with the Tuareg. I was also swayed by a shop manager telling me that they had an owner's T7 sitting all last summer waiting on warranty parts. Dealer network doesn't carry the same weight it used to.
Fyi, there are no Aprilia dealers here in Wyoming. Time will tell if that matters. I'll post updates on our channel.
thats the issue with reviews by journos. They have bikes for few hours, maybe one day and ride them at 100% like its race, this have almost nothing to do with real world usage of adv bikes. Its the long term stuff that matters - quality, practicality, wind protection, how comfortable suspension and seat is, smoothness and reliability of engine etc etc... everything else including electornic aids other than abs is gadgetry
100% agree. I’d love to know which of these bikes will roast my nuts in traffic.
Nice comparison, so it looks like the Kove owners won't be out as much money, when the cams eat the whole engine.
You left out the best..cfmoto ibex 800t...ktm motor,Bosch fuel injection,kyb adjustable shocks,heated seat,handlebars,luggage included, adjustable windshield, tubeless wheels, engine guard, fog lights, all included !
Pretty sure he inadvertantly referred to the Kove as CF Moto early in the video.
@@jamiehalifax4954 all that and 40kgs more, no thanks
And more weight and a ridiculously high COG. It's nice to have choices, though, and I think pressure from CF Moto will be good for consumers.
Out of these 3, the yamaha has to be the one for people who are looking for a dependable TRUE adventure bike. It has ample power without question, and it's a very proven platform with lots of dealer and aftermarked backup. The Kove will definitely be worth a punt for someone who's not going quite as far a field, and it seems to be offering great value. I think at this point you'd be mad to trust the KTM for anything more than weekend gallivanting. Wish the aprilia was here though, as I have a feeling that would have wiped the floor.
All the negatives of the Kove that Guy and this test has spoken, after 4 days of all roads and off on one, i have to completely disagree. No vibes, no throttle problems , the gearbox okay its not a slide in smooth gear change buts its not notchy either . Great bikes
Is the KTM cam issue something that needs addressed? Yes. Is the 790 still the best value bike in its class? Yes….euro tech at a Chinese price. Also there haven’t been reports of failures yet on 23-24 790s built by CF Moto. All other 790/890/901 engines except 23-24 790 engines are made in Austria…the failures aren’t a CF moto problem, their a KTM problem. The most reliable KTM is probably this “CF Moto KTM”
is it 'euro tech at a chinese price' though??? .... it's almost £3K more expensive than the Kove 800X which is the 790's chinese counterpart 🤷♂
@@MotoGoato yes, the Fueling is better, the dealer network is better, the balance is better, handling is better…etc.
@@donnyjackson1908 it is still not "at a chinese price" though ... the price for it's Chinese counterpart is £3K less .... the KTM is euro tech at a euro price, hence it coming out more expensive than the Japanese and Chinese bikes ...
@@MotoGoato sure it is. I’m thinking in terms of value for money, you’re thinking in terms of as cheap as possible. Nothing else in the class has the same performance and features for $10k
Why do you NEED to buy the software pack? I didn't. I don't need it or want it, but it's there for those who do. You don't even need to buy the whole pack.
Damn you KTM! I like this bike so much but ain't buying it due to the issues.. my favorite by far.
I’ve had 2 KTM’s love them, they are my favourite brand of bike, my favourite team in MotoGP and motor cross, but I currently ride a T7 world raid, and I wouldn’t over my dead body swap it for a 790 or that other thing, I dont care what electronics it has, the T7 is a an absolutely amazing platform, and it also hasn’t got chocolate cam shafts and it’s never had a single issue, my KTM’s on the other hand are a different story, lots of bugs, but great bikes, but I wouldn’t touch the 790 or 890 engines
Say it honestly Kove is the best of the 3. It wins where it suppose to win - off road.
I have the suzuki 800de cause i need to go with the girl. It's heavy, not gone like. But when i was alone i ramped up full speed over a sandy and rocky hill like it was nothing... It's so much more comfortable than the tenere. If I was going thru a long trip the confort could be a game changer and I'm not skillful enough to use the tenere to the fullest, so I'm happy with Suzy.
Love to see a 600cc Yamaha single with that magic 890 tank.
On my third KTM (950 Adv S, 450 exc and now 990 Adv). Never again. Always always issues. Absolute shite, always will be. Tenere World Raid next.
So if KTM are do shite, how come you are on your third bike? I might be being unfair, but there seems to be an orchestrated campaign going on?
What does the middle weight mean if it's going above 700cc
means theyr the lightest multicylinder adv bikes you can get
Id like to see a proper off-road test of adventure bikes rather than a street biased test.
When doing a street biased test, of course the bike closest to a goldwing is going to win. But the closer they are to Gold wings the worst they are off-road. I think if you did more off-road heavy test, where people really dream about taking adventure bikes, you would show the winning in the exact opposite order. kove first, T7 second and KTM last. Ktm bulk and weight very daunting to handle Offroad and throws you around.
Manufactures are finally starting to get some more off-road capable adventure bikes, and not glorified street sport touring with a dirt "look"to them.
I like to see your tests start to gravitate towards highlighting their real off-road capabilities rather than the street comforts of wind and cruise control.
I am 5’9” and sitting on any of these bikes puts me well up on my tippy toes. I would like to throw a leg over the Kove
Would be nice to get them tested by someone who's got some off-road skills. I was really looking forward to this test. Off-road isn't covered in here.
I don't think the T7 is missing out on anything, it's intentionally built that way. Why do review channels always suggest these bikes need to have this and that, they'd all be the same bike at the end then. If anything leave the gadgets and extra power and add properly sprung suspension and a better rear brake.
Why do you say the Kove has 81 bhp? On the website I read 71KW/9000rpm (96 Hp).
They tested it on the dyno as he said, that is what is showed.
Rear wheel numbers I suppose. Where official numbers are from camshaft.
@@tmpfi999Camshaft?
Every time MCN (or any reviewer) evaluates a KTM there are many commenting about the poorly made cams (and ...?). Has MCN made video about this? Or how about even a long-term review. It seems that build quality is an issue that needs addressing.
As for Kove and CF ... there reasons why they cost 25% less than others - low wages. I fear we're concerned with saving $$ while the middle class goes down the drain. It's a race to the bottom.
Is Kove known as cfmoto in other countries?
No, separate companies.
No transalp?
Did you watch the video?
Where is the translap
why Ktm headlights are all same??
KTM is cramped for taller folks. The Aprilia Tuareg is comfortable and fits me better than the VStrom 800DE. T7 just doesn't have the power. I ended up with the VStrom because the KOVE hasn't made it over to the United States yet.
its not a middle weight, try to pick up any of these bikes and your back will call out to you , so its false advertising
6:03 if that was the price of the T7 here in Costa Rica, I'd probably own one, but it's more like 23.000 USD and our economy is poorer, so we make less money and things cost more, living here is cheaper but buying vehicles and technology is more difficult.
they are not middle weight , they are still heavyweight , just try lifting it ,with all your advertising its still heavy.
You are right , but these reviews avoid reality .
Yes if you are a gym weightlifter , you might have enough flex left in your back to try and lift this by yourself
But for the average older rider , lifting the bike up after dumping it in a creek or mud /sand or a steep rocky incline/decline is nigh impossible .
But the trend here in Oz , and it appears in UK also is to ride in groups, so everyone gathers around a dropped bike and do the heave ho.
The solo riders , need to ride a bike no heavier than 160kg wet , and even then it’s not a doodle in off road conditions to lift upright .
middleweight is a reference point for a sector, largely based on engine capacity rather than actual kerbweight. Its just a pidgeonhole to be able to group them to
@@orionswitnessI'm a strong middle aged bloke, and a bit of a gym rat, doing deadlifts most sessions. 160kg in a tricky lift alone is enough to have me breathing out of my arse! I've done it on a 160 kg dual sport and it is knackering if your bike falls against the camber of a rough single track trail with a steep incline or decline. For fire trails these bikes are sound for ordinary riders. Make it snotty single track and unless you're bloody brilliant, these bikes are just too big.
annual service cost of the T7 is the highest of the 3?!?! lol. that dont math.
Why no subtitles in any videos 😢
Why no Tuareg?
KTM's lack of reliability is unfortunately well known...That also happens with Aprilia. Kobe..., well, it's still unkown, but I wouldn't dare to try until a couple of years. Yamaha is reliable and durable for sure and well balanced. I'd go for the Japanese without hesitating a single second.
The aftermarket for T7 is like Harley Davidsons
You can build a monster or wathever you want it / you to be!
If you dont have the money go for aprilia 😄
I have 5k euro on my t7 and i would not trade it for any bike 😉
YAMAHA 👑👑👑
Aprillia Tuareg all day long. I’m sorry but I wouldn’t trust the KTM. The Kove is definitely interesting but still a few questions about long term ownership. You can’t go wrong with the Yamaha having ridden one quite a lot on and off road.
That ktm is the perfect bike .... sadly all the issues.
The Taureg 660 is the best in this price range. Don't know why you left it out.
Listen 🙄
I think My Himalayan 450 would fit perfectly on the Best middle weight adventure category 😂
Do Not forget reliability ,Resale Value, And parts availability. That will dictate to me which one I would Buy. Especially AFTER OWNING AN 890 ADVENTURE R. 😓
thats the issue with "proffesional" reviews, they dont mention the most important aspects, just pure performance test and thats just not reality of ownership of any bike
If my job was bikes, id feel embarrassed to have to look down at a phone for its basic info.
how tall r u??
Right up to the new MCN spec. A comparison of 3 bikes, 2 of which no one in their right minds would throw money at. The KTM engine gaffe is a total scandal and, sadly, it's not been reflected in your mags coverage. I unsubscribed from your output some time ago. I watched this because YT doesn't respect my choices.
How on earth do you know what we're covering if you've unsubscribed?!
Where’s the Aprilia Tuareg?