KTM has unveiled the 2023 iteration of its 790 and 890 Adventure motorcycles, featuring revised styling and updated electronics. The 790 Adventure has the same peak output figures of 95hp and 87 Nm as the EU-spec 2023 KTM 790 Duke.
- Both the 790 and 890 Adventure feature revised bodywork
- Updated electronics package links ABS sensitivity to riding mode
- 790-platform bikes now manufactured in China by CFMoto
2023 KTM 790, 890 Adventure: Updated styling and electronics
Both the KTM 790 and 890 adventure feature the same updates to the bodywork, which include a larger front fairing that now joins the side panels. This year’s models also have a larger front windscreen (said to be inspired by the Austrian marque’s 450 Rally racer) and both have two new colourways on offer. The 2023 models are now equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres as opposed to the Continental tyres on the previous models. The 890 Adventure now gets fully adjustable WP suspension at both ends while the 790 Adventure only has a preload-adjustable monoshock.
What’s also new for this year is the DEMO mode which gives the end-use access to the entire suit of electronics for the first 1,500 km, after which the optional Rally Mode and bi-directional quickshifter (on the 790 only) need to be purchased separately. For 2023, KTM has revised the ABS calibration to be more in tune with the selected riding mode as well. For instance, switching to Off-road or Rally modes now automatically disables the rear ABS. Both middleweight adventure bikes have a 5-inch TFT dash controlling all electronic rider aids, which can also be paired to your smartphone for navigation and other notification alerts.
KTM has also shifted the production of its 790 Adventure to China, where CFMoto (its strategic partner) will manufacture it, supervised by KTM personnel.
As KTM has been missing from the premium bike segment in India for over two years now, there are very slim chances of either of these middleweight adventure bikes making it to India.
Which one of these two middleweight KTM adventure bikes would be your pick? Let us know in the comments section below.
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
