KTM 790 Adventure R Review | Still Chasing Unicorns
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.ย. 2024
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If you want a bike that can go off road and on road, and do well at both, your options are getting better every year. However, so many big adventure bikes are far too heavy and complicated to take deeply off-road. And, small machines like the 690 struggle on the highway.
Enter the 790 Adventure. Designed to be that perfect in between bike. Is this the Unicorn we could not find within the 690? Watch to find out.
Let me know below in the comments if you'd buy this or a Tenere 700.
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Good review. I own a 790 R going on a month now. I'm experienced on asphalt but new to dirt so I picked my bike carefully. The difference for a guy like me, new to ADV riding, is the electronics in the KTM. It's helping me quickly build confidence in mixed terrain and hill climbs. It also saved my tail a few times with help from traction control and throttle response settings. I am now easily going through obstacles that I would not have dared attempt several weeks ago. It's a very forgiving bike for an off-road newbie like me. My skill will never outgrow this bike as well so I hope to own it for a long time.
Agreed. th-cam.com/video/Jv9nyPo85GQ/w-d-xo.html
Bro you go through more bikes than i go through low self esteemed attractive women
LOL but I borrowed this bike for the review
@@BigRockMoto So did he...
He might be borrowing but I was getting the same idea too. He isn’t happy with any bike he gets. Lol
Great video. Agree the T7 enters the scene as a competitor too (just from my abundant youtube education). They aren't direct competitors but maybe complimentary competitors. Different enough in most aspects to make one, or the other, a clear winner to perspective buyers. They'll be cross shopped for sure. well done, look forward to the T7 review.
Actually just sold my 790 AdvR for a 701 husky. But I live in Europe not USA... in Europe I can say I’m already enjoying the 701 more than I did the 790 AdvR. But long distance dirt roads etc, 790 is great. The Yamaha T7 is an amazing bike however, for the price, upgrade the suspension to 790 AdvR level and away you go... looking forward to you giving the T7 a go
Nice review Ian. I’m definitely keen to test ride it. I’ve got the BMWF850GS and it’s a great parallel twin, but definitely heavier both on the scales and how it feels. KTM have done a great job by keeping the weight down low.
Cable clutch and in house brakes are cost saving measures. I think KTM cheaped out personally. The jerky throttle and lack of power below around 4000rpm is a deal breaker for me. I bought a Tenere 700 and have no regrets. As for the T7 suspension, I’m light at 150lbs and it’s sprung perfect but if you are heavy it will need heavier springs. The wind protection is great too.
Are you sure you know what you're talking about? I don't mean to be rude but I don't think you've ever ridden a 790r. I'm in southern California there is a lot of mountains I can tractor up steep, sandy, rocky climbs without stalling. It has instant response when I roll the throttle. I am very sure I'd smoke a T7 before I hit third gear. Wouldn't even be a contest. As far as build quality KTM has brembo brakes, braided steel lines, subframe and superior suspension. I say the build quality is pretty good. Is it worth the extra $3500? I think it depends on what you want the bike for and to up grade the T7 to match the 790 you will spend a lot of money. Which I don't think you will get the electronic aids and engine power.
I agree with you. What put KTM on the map was race bikes built by racers. KTM may be entering the race bikes built by MBAs phase.
Jason just watch two days of T7 videos in action. After I re-read my comments. I'm man enough to admit I was a hypocrite. First thing I haven't ridden a T7 so who am I to comment the way I did. I don't have a lot of money I purchased the KTM 790 r which by the way is expensive. I was only defending and justifying my purchase just like you were. I own a couple of Yamahas they are awesome machines my Raptor 700 has torque for days and I love it. This was my first ever purchase of a KTM I don't know the long term reliability. I do know however my Raptor is still running strong after 9 years of ownership. I can also honestly say I have put 5k miles on my KTM trouble free it seems like it's reliable but time will tell. So I will end this comment the way I should have approached this in the first place. Congratulations on your purchase ride safe and have fun.
The jerky throttle is only in rally mode. I forgot to mention that, my mistake.
T7 is a great bike. I rented one while in Montana. Off-road it went through gravel, mud, and snow with ease. Onroad I was getting blown around a ton and it felt a little underpowered. Overall bang for the buck I think the T7 is unbeatable. I am planning on purchasing a 890R though for my upcoming continental divide trip. The T7 was so good through if I were on a tighter budget I’d have a hard time justifying the 40% price increase for the KTM.
I bought one a few weeks ago. Have about 1200 miles on it now. Great bike. I really like it a lot. That being said, I also have a WC1200 GSA with a little over 20K. I personally have no intention of selling my GSA or the 790R. Both are great bikes. You can feel why the GS cost more, it's better built no doubt. Off road is what its built for, I've taken my GSA in stuff I can't wait to do in the 790R. It just works very well.
I picked up mine about a month ago looking for a middleweight ADV bike, and I have to say I'm thoroughly impressed with this 790 Adventure R. I have owned several GS's (GS and GSA), I own an RT1200 now, as well as a new CRF450L. To your point, you can flip this bike around so easily because of the low slung fuel tanks. I just completed the initial break-in with just over 600 miles on it, but truly look forward to every time I take it out for a ride. My only gripes are 1) the seat height is still a little too tall for me (29" inseam) even with the KTM "Low" seat installed and 2) The wind buffeting of the factory fairing/windshield was quite bad on the highway. I solved that issue with a drop in Puig windscreen that's quite a bit taller and on my last 300-mile trip worked very well to cut down on the wind buffeting. Love the punchy parallel-twin motor. Got tons of power 4K and up.
Thanks Ian, I still love my 790 R. I did a 2000 km Trip to Scotland and it was fantastic on the highway, on the back roads, and on No Road. I’ve had vstroms. Tenere and Africa twin, and a 990 adventure, but a 790 R Is in a class of its own for all the things that you mentioned. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it
Good review...keep up the good work. Somebody, get this man a Yamaha T7...
My friend Jesse is getting his next week - I will be sure to "break" it in for him...
I sorted the wind problem with a Puig touring screen and the seat with a seat concept seat. I swap the screen depending on the destination. Take 5 mins
awesome
I would choose the KTM 790 R over all other ADV middleweights, though the toughest choice for me would be this bike vs the KTM 500 EXC-F. I ride more dirt than street.
I have both, that is the solution. :)
@@BigRockMoto nice solution!
I just got one last week. Very similar thoughts and feelings. Quick shift is awesome, I skipped cruise control since I am not into cruising, my background is dirt bike. The only thing I would add to this bike is a 1. Windscreen that doesn’t have this nasty buffeting 2. More aggressive tires, Karoos are not grippy in mud/soft, I’ll be swapping to Mitas knobby tires.
Right on!
I've never thrown a leg over a dirt or adventure bike. But being an avid XC mountain biker and a HD bagger bike enthusiast, I'm narrowing an Adventure Bike purchase between the 790R and the Tenere 700.
Awesome review! Thanx for sharing!
Get ready for the HD to collect dust.
@@loomspace Lol. I'm actually thinking of selling it. I'm just plain bored with the asphalt riding.
Good news! Just released a comparison video! th-cam.com/video/Jv9nyPo85GQ/w-d-xo.html
Nice review Ian, really great intro! We haven't ridden a 790 yet, but we were able to do a short test on the T700. The passenger accommodations were really cramped, the seat to peg relationship was very cramped even for someone that is only 5' tall. Hope you get to test one soon. Marnie & Rich
Yes I feel like the larger bikes are better for passengers - africa twins, GS, etc. Hope you guys are well! love your travels!~
Every Time I Ride Mine ...I Get Blown Away....Fantastic Review
Loved the comparisson charts!
I love the thoughtful comments. By that I mean that you think about who the bike is for rather than just say "this is the best, the others are rubbish".
Yeah I don't believe in saying one bike is better than another. That is never true. Everyone has different preferences.
@@BigRockMoto I think that there are some sectors where there is a clear winner, but when the sector has as many variables as this has, there are as many shades as riders.
The ones I really can't understand are the ones who go for a bike with off-road capability, but don't so much as go up a farm track.
I live out in the wilds in North Eastern Spain and have road bikes and an enduro. I'm lucky enough to not need a dual purpose bike (the enduro I use entirely off road and those sections where I have to cross roads). But if I had to travel distances to go off road, my attitude would be to have a bike that could manage the road work but still be the best off road. My KTM GS610 is a historic bike (Nani Roma won his first Baja Aragón on it), so I won't be selling it, just restore it. That means that my next bike will almost certainly be an EXC500. My road bikes will also have to be addressed 'cos they're getting old...
Hitting all the nails right on the head brother. You're really helping me make a good decision for my riding applications.
T700, Africa Twin etc. Looking at them all.
I own a R1200GS, but its in San Diego. I needed a bike here at home in Texas. I purchased an XSR900. While that is a fun bike, its not an adventure bike and I was missing rides because all my buddies ride ADV bikes. I purchased a 790R on May 20, and the following weekend rode it to CO with a group of guys completely stock. I have done a 600 mile day on it, but it wasn’t that fun. I didn’t look at the T700 because I wanted a bike NOW, not in 8 months. Plus I do like the rider electronics. KTM got those very right.
I just put the cruise on it. I’m loving it so far. I’m not the most technical rider, so having this bike makes the harder stuff just a little easier for me. I’m planning another CO trip in the next week and will be riding it on many of the passes there.
I definitely agree that the R version is the only version to get. The nicer suspension is something that you cannot add after the fact. The fork tubes are different diameter. And it comes with the Rally mode, which costs extra for the “S” model. All that for only $800 more? It’s a deal. Plus the R model has much greater resale. Or at least much faster. I looked for a used bike, but never found one near me.
Watched loads of your videos and ivsettled on a 2020 790r thats my budget found a nice clean one hopefully she will be ok
thanks for review. you can ride single track. you should always wear ear plugs. two-piece seat modded by seat concepts or sargent work great. i have a 690 enduro, 790 rally and gs. 690's my dirt bike. 690 can ride single track with dirt bikes. gs is very capable in the dirt too. t7 isn't that much lighter and t7 has a smaller fuel tank, which makes it lighter. get s model and upgrade suspension to xplor pro. t7 and 790 adv are for different rider styles. person who loves a 790 adv r isn't going to buy a t7, unless she can't afford the ktm.
Mostly a very good review, but I have one thing to note. The throttle is only jerky in the rally throttle-respons setting, set it to street or offroad and its really smooth! My only real gripe with this bike is the wind noice, it's actually better with the windscreen competely removed but I'm going to try one of those little screen extensions and see if that makes it better. I'm also replacing the "skidplate" which is way too thin and putting on som propper hand-guards. Still, there is no doubt this is the best offroad-biast adventure bike out there, feels like a big dirtbike!
Thanks and you are right about the throttle thing. I only noticed it being jerky in rally mode. I will also try the windshield clip on extender thing - thanks
I’ve test road all the KTM Adv bikes at rallies and such. I own the new 690R Enduro. It’s definitely the unicorn MO. With the new Tusk luggage pannier set up and tail rack. I throw on an extra 1.5 gallon tank. The bike will easily cruise on the highway 75+ all day long. Plenty of grunt for what ever you take it into off road. I dropped 3 teeth on the rear sprocket and added a Rekluse clutch. I’ll take this bike wherever I take a 450 that I own also. The 690 compared to the 790,, the weight advantage the 690 has puts it way over the 790. The new T7 Yamaha comes in at 450lbs? I’ll take a bike that has the same hp and weighs 130lbs less lol!!
690/701 is definitely appealing due to light weight..but man KTM are a bunch of assholes with warranties which makes it skeeeetchy.
Your intro really does capture the essence of adventure riding
thanks
Wow. You should have bought a wr250r. A g2 throttle 13/48 sprocket, open air box and exhaust! Awesome bike!
Ah, but if one has the skill level, gnarly single track is very doable on this bike. Some guys on youtube have ridden it like an enduro in very tough conditions that defied all reason. These are also running right near the top in rallies and other races against pure enduro race bikes. Not bad for an ADV eh? I love my 790 R for all the reasons you mention.
near the top? did we watch the same vids lol, they were getting passed all race. keep in mind to do singletrack with the 790s you gotta gear them wayyyyy higher which makes the highway cruising shit.
I traded in my 2020 Tiger 900 RP for the 21 890r. Happy as hell...the Tiger is an awesome road bike...but the 890 is far superior in the dirt.
Ty for the vid and info. Couldn’t agree more
awesome
BTW - if you get the Yamaha to compare remember to compare fuel range. I've gotten 275 miles out of a tank on my 790R on a ride up and over the Sierras last year and had with some fuel left.
Awesome range. The Yamaha won't be able to match that. Maybe 220 miles at most
Solid review and good insight on where this bike works vs the traditional adv bikes.
thanks
Great review! Love your presentation style and how you present the information. This may be the second bike for me--am 59, very fit and wanting to get back to riding a bike (grew riding bikes in the Midwest). This may be bit much for a beginner, so I likely will get a Honda CB500x for a year or two to develop and hone my skills--the 500x certainly won't have the offload chops this has, of course, but 2019 and newer models have a 19-inch wheel now so you can do some off road riding with it. This bike sure looks nice--thanks for the review, and I have a feeling your GS may have a "for sale" sign on it soon!
The CB is a great bike too! I almost bought one before.
Great introduction, this just explained to my wife why I really want one.
excellent review, your videos keep getting better and better, keep on the good work !!
Thanks, will do!
i disagree with you on the clutch. i prefer a cable. just personal preferences. i wonder if they could be swapped out either way? good vid
I would like to keep my R1200GSA and add an 690 Enduro R, that would be the unicorn for me.
Excellent review, thanks for providing the comparisons to other bikes as well . Appreciate your insight
My pleasure!
Seems to be the best performing mid weight adv bike. But for my skill level and the fact I’m a tight wad, I think I’d go for the T7 in terms of bang for the buck.
Also, that ktm fairing looks like an afterthought that came from a preying mantis themed transformer.
Also, If like to point out that I like your reviews. No nonsense. Good history of bike ownership to compare models. Good footage.
You won't regret that move. Rode the KTM before I owned the Tenere, now for nearly a year. KTM to me more like a road bike on stilts. Standing position so wrong. Engine too aggressive. No wonder it needs all the electronic help it can get.
Tenere is just a lovely bike. And that engine!!! A few cheap components, suspension is not one of them, but every time I get back home I step back and smile at it. Unless you are an aspiring Dakar racer she'll do the job.
Mupp Dog thanks for the input. I really like the T7. And I’m not typically a fan of adv style bikes type person (more of a smaller displacement dual sport fan generally).
I think a bike like this would be a great bike for the TAT.
Expecting mine to arrive very soon and it will complement my 350 EXC-F competition bike. Same suspension but I always have it tuned anyway. Suspension makes the difference between in control and out of control. Great review!
I've got a 1250GS, the 790R and a 501 - keep the GS and the 500 and grab a 790R = perfect combo IMO.
You, sir, have figured it out! That is awesome. Dream garage.
@@BigRockMoto Thanks - enjoying your channel and similar ADV history here - GS1200-> KTM990 -> KTM1290R-> 790R + GS1250 currently. The 790 feels much lighter than my 990 although I do miss the 990 exhaust sound. Also have my 501 for desert, 250 for single track, DR650 and a 1200RT for highway. I think eventually we all come to same conclusions - a bike for each riding type.
Let us know if you get a decent windscreen for the 790. It really beats me up on the highway compared to the GS.
Keep the good content coming!!
I had a KTM 1290SA-S and loved it. The only issue was it had way too much power (160 HP, it was a monster!) and it was a bit too heavy. This new 790-R looks to be the best of both worlds. I can't wait to buy one. It's a shame BMW is putting out fat pigs. I had two F800GS's and they were pretty good all around bikes and I wish BMW would have made the new one lighter, a bit more powerful and more nimble (oh and yes, I would take the 790 over the T7 any day)
I agree - too bad BMW's keep heading in the touring direction, not the offroad direction
Why did they change the engine size to 890 instead of staying with the lighter and capable 790??
Your open dry desert roads are waaaaay different than east of the mississipi!
Great review and I agree with the overview. I bought mine from AEO Murrieta in May and have loved every minute of it! Enjoy
Good review. I think I am slowly getting sold on this vs 1290
Hi, thanks for all your good videos. I’m really enjoying them!! Just like you I’m chasing unicorns myself and I’m very intressed in the KTM 790. Although I have been falling in love with the new Husqvarna 710 LR. Today I drive a modified Urban 1200gs, but planning to go more offroad. The new Husky have a lot better fuel capacity and I have touring bike for long distance riding with passenger. Have you tried the new Husky 701 LR?
/Nicklas
I think that new Husky looks great... I will be following the review on that bike
So this could be a unicorn with a decent fairing and decent seat?
Unfortunately my overall impression about all KTM bikes is of weekend-bikes... have some fun, then park it and get back to your car.
Yes better wind management would bring it to near unicorn status!
Nice review. Looking forward to the upcoming 490 Adventure.
Me too
now that would be the perfect bike if it had good stock suspension. i hope ktm doesn't fuck it up.
i think they nailed it putting the fuel tank that low and apparently its pretty tuff
Yep
All those years of following Ian, it was nice to see your viewpoint. Nice ride review and honest reporting that almost makes me want to replace my 2001 KLR650.
I’ll make you an offer on your KLR
Ed, as a KLR replacement in the modern era, either the T7 or the 790 make great choices. You would not regret it. I kind of see you more on the T7 though.
You should check out Ryan F9’s recent review of the T7, he was pretty glowing about it.
Ryan lost me when he said the 790 was “turd”
He is entertaining and has great knowledge but his ego sometimes gets in his way.
@@saladdays180s9 if you read about the 790 clutch problems, long 1st gear, host of electrical problems all that the warranty won't honour cause they claim its "user error" so they can pin the $$$ repair bill on the owner... i would consider it a turd too. it's a pretty bike but man does that customer service leave a bad taste in your mouth. people are having clutches blow cause of too much factory locktight plugging oil passages.. and they get told its user error. thanks but no thanks, 15 grand is a lot of money to spend on a company that treats customers like that. speak with your money, etc.
I agree with everything you said, but will say the seat gets better with time. I solved the windshield problem by adding a Puig windshield deflector.
I was excited for the T7, but was not willing to wait and needed cruise control. I think all the additions of the 790R over the T7 are worth the money. I've got 9600 miles on mine and plan to make that 96,000 over the next several years. Cheers
Good to know about the wind deflector! And I just posted a comparison to the T7 th-cam.com/video/Jv9nyPo85GQ/w-d-xo.html
Still have the bike? If so I need an update! Lol
@@k24a4accord Over 26k now and so far so good. Still loving this bike.
I am planning to get one.
Do you still like this bike?
@@user-xh4pn5ep5p Yes. I have over 28000 miles on it now and am even more impressed by it. As my skill level grows, it becomes even more capable.
I bought a 2020 790R a few months ago. The bike is absolutely amazing! I thought about the Yamaha 700 Tenere but it doesn't have the electronics that the 790R has, which work fantastic. All so the deal breaker for me was the Yamaha has no subframe. That could turn out to be very costly. So when are you buying the 790? Lol
Interesting that the T7 doesn’t have a subframe, need to check that out, that might decision between the 2 bikes.... thanks for mentioning that...
@@gordonsmithsa115 it does have a subframe, it's just not removable. from the looks of it its a pretty beefy one too so I don't think cracking is going to be an issue like Enduro bikes. tenere is designed to carry baggage so I wouldn't worry too much
Finally manufacturers are getting that we want cruise-control. And now C-C trickling down to smaller capacity bikes. Licence savers !! :). Great review , BTW. :)
Thanks
If you could only choose one KTM 790 adventure, teneree t7, aprilia tuareg, bmwf900gs, or triumph tiger 900 what would you choose and why?
Great video and information...
Thank you
Decisions decisions..
The rally throttle is really off and on. I run Rally mode and use street throttle. I changed the seat also to SC standard.
Agreed, throttle in rally mode is best adjusted to street setting. rally is too fast
Also, I'll be selling my 690 soon and getting a 2021 890.... I hope!
The problem with this bike is that its so damn ugly. At least they got it right with the Norden
Yeah the husky looks SO much nicer. But the KTM can be improved with a wrap or changing plastics
@@BigRockMoto Agreed!
Great talk you know your subject thanks for the review was useful. Bike no good for UK we don't have dirt roads
Nice review Ian, do you think you could do a review on the 990 one day. I'm really drawn to those?
Absolutely
Is there a mirror option ?
I think I need this bike. Expensive review. Damn you
expensive for a lot of us... :)
@@BigRockMoto Did you end up buying it?
T7 all day. Especially if you do high miles. Especially if you want to go RTW. Weekend toy? Sure the KTM.
For RTW I would probably build up a DR650 :)
@@BigRockMoto concur. Because it has a carb.
I'm looking at trading in my HD Road King (I know, I know, but it is a great touring bike) AND my Honda 250 Rally for one do it all ADV bike. I need to roll on the interstate comfortably at 75mph for hours at a time and hit jeep roads in the National Forest with camping gear. This might be the right bike - I'll need to see if I can test ride one.
Only.minornissue might be some wind blast at 75, otherwise it is awesone
i would buy the t-7 i like it simple
I was all set to buy a 790R until I test rode one a few weeks back. Just a short ride around town, no dirt roads. I didn't notice any issues with lowend coming away from a stoplight. The motor spun up very quickly to 4K. I didn't notice any throttle jerkiness. I would have to reserve judgement though until i got to ride it off-road. It does feel light, and small. To me, it felt like a sport bike. or a Duke. Bars were very low. I'm 6'1. I did not like the clutch at all. I'm told that Camel ADV has a fix for that. The brakes are somewhat soft, they don't have a strong initial bite, which is neither good on bad, just depends on what you like. I also rode a used 1090. The 1090 had way more motor, which I like. I live in IL, dual sport hell, so a more street biased bike makes more sense. The salesman ask me which one I wanted. I told him if I had to write a check and take one home, it would be the 1090, The 790 just did not wow me. I didn't get off of it wanting to buy it. Which surprised me since I've watched all the videos and read all the reviews and it's sounds great. Maybe a longer test ride is needed, but that's not really an option where I live. I also talked to a guy who has a 990 and 790. We talked for about 45 minutes. Not one time did he tell me to buy a 790. Now I'm not passing any judgements on any of these bikes or what anyone buys, just sharing my experience and opinions.
Great observations.
I have been on enduro rides now with 4 different KTM riders. Three out of the 4 riders had serious issues with their bikes during the rides. I would love to try KTM ownership but am not about to risk being stranded offroad due to poor reliability and bike failures. Two bikes had serious overheating issues even with speeds not being so slow and temps being mild (530 dualsport and 430 enduro model) and one 790 Adventure R could not be started after being dropped and has had rear shock issues. I'll stick to my XR650L and CRF230F street legal bikes. Other friends with DRZs also have no issues.
That 530 should be rock solid. That's one of KTMs better bikes IMO. No EFI, no fuel pumps. kickstart if needed. It shouldn't be overheating.
Two of my mates bought the KTM in favour of the Tenere. Both had the fancy dash replaced , one twicw, because it steams up in the rain and can't be repaired. As all the gimmicks are controlled from that dash that is worrying. One leaked oil from the case, one had bolts fall off as standard. One now owns a Tenere and had no trouble since. It seems the Adventure in the KTM refers to the uncertainty if you get there or not. Not all got trouble, though. Just too many. Which one will you get?
thanks for sharing
He says the days of manufacturers throwing on plastic hand guards is over except the 790 Adventure R comes with plastic hand guards!
I think he is referring to the previous models not having full wrap arounds like the 790 has.
790 suspension alone makes the T7 not quite directly comparable....I've ridden both and you'd need to spend a fortune on the T7 to even get close (and only close, because no matter what you do to the internals on the T7 forks - they are still 5mm smaller and the travel is less). Also - 24hp less for the T7 - it's just quite boring...I wanted to like it, I really did. Some people will like the fact that you can wring the T7's neck and actually can go faster on a less powerful bike, so it will in fact suit lots of people, but the 790 puts a smile on your face that's just hard to match.
KTM apparently now planning to release a 890 Adv and 490 Adv in 2022
You talked a little about the on/off-road capability of the 790R vs the 690, but can you give a point reference for comparison. Is the 790R 90% of the 690 off-road, and is the 690 90% of the 790R on-road? Something like that.. These are the two I'm looking for an all arounder.
790 is 70% of the 690 off road, but the 690 is only 30% of the 790 on road. Just my opinion - I think the 690 is a bike too much in the middle and too many compromises
790r is 450 lbs so its gonna be a handful. add baggage ontop of that and you have a 520lb machine to pickup if you fuck up vs a 400lb 690 with baggage. you've gotta ride a lighter and a heavier machine and you'll immediately feel the difference.
I test rode a 790R and as another commenter said, the exact for me it had no wow factor to make me want it. The ergos didnt feel like an adventure bike, felt like a scooter. Made me think you might as well stick with a 690R as it has similar ergos but more offroad performance plus the aftermarket can let you transform it into any type bike you want really. The clutch/power engagement wasnt a smooth experience at all. Bike had no initial pull when letting the clutch out. I'm still scratching my noggin on why that put a cable clutch on it (lame). I know I heard every other reviewer say it's about reliability for backcountry but if that was the case then why do all there dirtbikes have hydraulic clutches. Just my opinion but ktm needs to take the 790R back to the drawing board, speaking from 1190R experience in heavy offroad use. I like the thought of a lighter flickable adventure bike offroad for less anxiety into the unknown trail and solo rider but the 790R had no adventure feel, just an intown scooter haha. Nice video though!
Side note: I also rode the 790S and enjoyed it alot more for what it was, actually had some scooter fun factor to it, weird observation I know.
Does the 790 adventure r have the same suspension that the 890 adventure r has?
I’m new to off road.
When I look at the T7 and it’s cost. I’m wondering why it doesn’t have tubeless tires and a slipper clutch. Should I even care about that shit for off road? So far my eye is on a 690. The 790 seems pretty amazing though.
690 is very dirt focused. Sucks on road. Here is my new video comparing the T7 and 790: th-cam.com/video/Jv9nyPo85GQ/w-d-xo.html
The problem with the T7 is that it has been made down to a price, the 790 up to a spec.
I think my answer to your question would be "How old are you?" If you're young and want to learn from first principles (and that means, unfortunately, rather a lot of pain from "offs"), then there is no better teacher than your own mistakes. I had so many fails before I reached a more, shall we say, mature age. But those fails taught me a hell of a lot. I learnt that it really does take a works level rider to be able to use a works level machine on inch-thick dust, I learnt how much it hurts to face plant thorn bushes, and that's just to start with. Yet even that pain was, err, enjoyable because after every lesson, my riding improved. And there's no substitute for experience. So a T7 is a great bike for learning. It'll feel heavy, cumbersome, sometimes slower than you'd believe and at others you'll find yourself in trouble faster than you would believe. But it'll teach you your limits.
A proper off roader like the 790 or 690 will allow you to have lots of fun without having to learn all that much. That may be great for keeping up with your mates, but I'm not completely convinced that it is the best way fore a newbie to go.
I think you may do much better by getting something more like a DRZ400 or a reasonably old EXC 400 or even a 250/300 2 stroke just so that you learn on something that behaves like a proper off roader. Then, when you get a proper dual purpose bike, you'll appreciate it properly.
you don't want tubeless tires offroad mate.. you ding a rim on a rock and all your air pressure is gone just like that. there's a reason we use tubed offroad. slipper clutches are a great idea but not 100% necessary. sure they might help from time to time but you can do the slipping manually by feathering the clutch like we always do anyway. the only spec 790s are made up to is the spec to rob you of your $$$. read up on the common problems with the 790s and how bogus the warranty process is. if you have the cash to spend on repairs since warranty will fuck ya, go for it. i personally don't.
@David how many clicks on your 790 out of curiosity?
T7 all day due to reliability alone.
Agreed. Throw in looks and it's a no brainer.
Hi Ian. Great content! Are you considering trading in your R1200GS for the KTM 790 Adventure R? Just curious.
Haha. Stay tuned!! The GS is a much nicer touring bike... but the KTM is superior off road and more fun to ride. I'd love to have both!
Its a lot faster then Bmw 850 Gs✊🔥
Good video, but miss the older ones without the inane music.
Great job.... How the heck can you afford to by so many dang bikes?.... You must not have a wife! Lol 😂
Still on the fence, 2nd gen Super Tenere or BMW GS/ GSA. The KTM 790 is that unicorn that might be the perfect bike but not sure with all that tech, especially the 1st gen bike.
I have one. It is the one. Like in Neo.
I keep hearing and reading about the electronics failing on these ktm's........but I want one so much. What to do?? It's different than buying a Japanese bike, which you know 98% will be bulletproof.
I've sat on a T7 and the 790R and 790S in the same store, the same day. The T7, surprisingly, is a very tall, top heavy bike. It's a large bike. I have a 30" inseam and I couldn't come close to getting one toe down. One of the reasons I read that people like the T7 is because of it's simplicity. That's fine but it's not reflected in the price. The 790 is by FAR the better bike every way except reliability. They're also much more approachable, especially the S model. I came very close to buying the 790R but it just doesn't do it all for me (ie: it's not the unicorn). Instead I picked up a CRF450L and am looking at also getting the 1250GS or the Africa Twin AS DCT. Most likely the latter. Reading the different forums, there's just too many bad experiences/unhappy customers with BMW and KTM. I ride to have fun and shit breaking really pisses me off. I'm sure they're a nice place to visit but I wouldn't want to live there.
Very astute comments and I'd go the Africa Twin - as someone who owned a 2017 AT and now a GS. The new AT has great upgrades. An AT and the 450L - dream garage!
Is true that KTM 790 has some issues? Like steering and some electronics. Also, it needs aftermarket foot pigs for off-road use.
It comes with good footpegs. Never heard of the issues you mention. The common issues are the rear shock failure, moisture in the display, etc
Big Rock Moto th-cam.com/video/xvf-l8abkhA/w-d-xo.html
The T7 is actually only 4,5Ibs (2 kg) lighter dry. 187 kg vs 189 kg.
Wet weight delta i 9Ibs (4 kg). Mainly because of larger tank. 20 l vs 16 l.
The T7 feels very top-heavy.
Seems like that bike and the T7 are very comparable. Surprised that Brett Tkacs chose the 790, so that speaks tons for it. I think I'd choose the AT as I do more street than dirt, but I'm really interested to see what Honda's response will be to these two bikes you're discussing here. If they come out with a mix of the NC750 and AT that would excellent. AT750, or NT750x rally... something along those lines would be exactly what I'm looking for.
Bret had similar past bikes to me... I can see why he went 790. Offroad, it is another league. Yes, where is our 750 africa twin! Come on Honda!
Hi lad listen I have a question about all this bikes you had wich you would recommend it for a short rider like Me I’m 5.6 ft thanks. All the best from Ireland 🇮🇪
Try the GS 750. Got one for my daughter. But I think I ride it more! She is shorter than you.
Nawir Ibrahim ok thanks Man 👍
Well made presented video,. all initial findings are correct - 790r is a superb bike...BUT....has fundamental oil lubrication issues that KTM know about and will not recall bikes to repair.
Clutches go bang/pop on and off rd, KTM UK & Austria don't want to know about it...shame on THEM.
Potential buyers... Please research my comments before Purchasing...From a previous KTM 'Die Hard"...it saddens me to say this...
recall means they have to pay for it. blame it on the owners and the owners have to pay... i've been warning anyone I can about these failures(cause I almost bought one myself and know how much that kind of investment matters). most current 790 owners don't ride enough a year to notice but next year or the year after you'll see forums exploding with destroyed clutches at low miles.
790 vs T7... 790
What road is that?!
I filmed the review around Murrieta, CA.
I think if i where heading up to Alaska, or something long and remote, Yamaha all the way
Every car under 30 years old is buried in electronics but we don't even think about it, but for some reason it is a problem on motorcycles? Enjoy taking the wheel off every time you get a flat instead of just putting in a plug and holding that throttle all the way to Alaska. I'll take my cruise control, better suspension, better motor and tubeless rims anyday. I own Yamaha motorcycles (and love them), but would not hesitate to take my KTM to Alaska and back (from California). Cheers
@@FanOWater how often do you get flats? The only times i worry about flats is when I ding my rim at which point a tubeless tire has no chance of sealing against a bent rim.. 25,000kms here, not one flat tire in 2 years. while you're at it take your 'better clutch' and do some research lol.
A trillion ads.... Wow.... -_-'
I didn't see a single ad.
@@johndavis1217 2 before the video even starts and then 5 during the video
No one understands how youtube ads work. Not even me. BTW, I make pennies from these videos.
it's too bad the 790 is so incredibly ugly
790 is still to heavy for any real offroad riding.
Well it's not a dirtbike you know..
@@CptAngelKGamingthey promote them as if they are. People take them out and can not turn them around or pick them up on anything that isn't flat and wide. I have seen it a 100 times and helped so many who have got into trouble taking them where they shouldn't be.
Luckily KTM makes a gazillion other sizes
What is "real" off road riding? That could mean very different things to different people. It is all relative
@mld lol Wildman. I am just saying if you get a heavier bike like these as apposed to a 250 300 450 or a 500 you will not punish it the same way. Its a fact.
12:50 . This feels so much lighter. " If you've comparing it to a GS or Super Tenere or even an Africa Twin". Come on. An apple doesn't taste like an orange and an orange doesn't taste like an apple. My Honda Cub feels SOOOOOOO much lighter than my 1200GS. You call yourself a journalist. Oh I forget. Journalist's publish whatever pad's their wallet.