Riding the 2023 KTM 890 Adventure: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
The speaker introduces the KTM Adventure 2023 and mentions being the first person to ride it.
First Impressions
- The speaker feels taller on the bike and mentions potential wind issues at high speeds.
- Different riding modes are available, including off-road, rain, street, and rally mode.
- There is a demo mode that comes with the bike initially, but certain features need to be purchased after 1500 kilometers.
- Seat position can be adjusted for more legroom.
- The bike feels smooth and powerful at low speeds.
Riding Experience
The speaker shares their experience while riding the KTM Adventure 2023.
Sound and Features
- The bike's sound in Street mode is compared to a sewing machine.
- The clutch is smooth and light.
- Quick shifter and cruise control are already activated in the demo mode.
Fuel Gauge and Wind Protection
- The fuel gauge starts from half a tank due to split saddle fuel tanks.
- There is minimal wind protection, with wind hitting directly on the face.
Acceleration Test
The speaker tests the acceleration of the KTM Adventure 2023.
- The acceleration is described as aggressive and powerful.
- Even in Street mode, there is plenty of power available.
Handling and Comfort
The speaker discusses handling, comfort, and customization options of the KTM Adventure 2023.
Handling
- Due to weight distribution, the bike feels different with most of its weight low down. It may take some time getting used to it.
Comfort
- Some riders have complained about the firmness of the seat, but the speaker doesn't find it uncomfortable.
- Different seat options are available, including comfort versions and rally seats.
Customization
- The KTM Adventure 2023 offers various customization options, such as decal kits and additional accessories.
Riding Experience Continued
The speaker continues to share their riding experience on the KTM Adventure 2023.
- The bike is described as exciting and fun to ride.
- Another motorcycle follows along during the test ride.
- The quick shifter is not the smoothest, with a slight clunk between gears.
Conclusion
The KTM Adventure 2023 offers a powerful and exciting riding experience. It has different riding modes, customizable features, and potential wind protection issues. Riders may need time to adjust to its unique handling characteristics.
Protection for the Petrol Tanks
The bike uses hardened plastic around the petrol tanks as crash protection. Crash bars are recommended for additional protection.
Petrol tank protection
- The bike uses hardened plastic around the petrol tanks for crash protection.
- It is recommended to fit crash bars for extra protection, even if it's just to save levers in case of a drop.
Riding Experience and Rider Mode
The riding experience is described, including throttle response and rider mode adjustments.
Riding experience
- The bike feels eager to get on the back wheel when the throttle is opened.
- In rally mode, caution is needed as it affects slip, traction control, and rear wheel performance.
- The riding position is upright with no noticeable vibrations.
- The screen provides minimal wind protection but may be insufficient at higher speeds or in bad weather conditions.
Rider mode adjustment
- Changing to rain mode reduces throttle response significantly.
- Rally mode makes the throttle more cautious and affects slip and traction control settings.
Adjusting Screen and Rider Modes
Discussion about adjusting the screen and exploring different rider modes.
Screen adjustment
- Changing the screen while riding seems challenging.
- Putting the bike in rally mode shows a notification indicating that rear ABS is off.
Rider mode exploration
- Rally mode allows adjustment of throttle response.
- Slip adjuster setting determines how much traction control allows the rear wheel to spin.
- ABS mode and traction control can be changed on-the-go.
Sliding Rear Wheel Fun with ABS Off
ABS is turned off, allowing for sliding of the rear wheel.
ABS off
- ABS is turned off, enabling the rear wheel to slide.
- Sliding the rear wheel feels like being a kid on a push bike.
Initial Impressions and Modifications
Initial impressions of the bike and potential modifications discussed.
Initial impressions
- The speaker enjoys riding the bike and finds it likable.
- Personal modifications may include changing the screen and lowering foot pegs.
Bike customization
- Customizing bikes is common as everyone has different preferences.
- Not having auto-canceling indicators is noted but not a major issue.
Switch Gear Quality and Engine Performance
Discussion about switch gear quality and engine performance.
Switch gear quality
- Some components, such as switch gear, feel cheap or plasticky compared to other brands.
- Functionality and longevity are more important than high-end aesthetics.
Engine performance
- The engine feels strong and powerful.
Seat Adjustment Challenges
Difficulties encountered while adjusting the seat and observations about phone case storage.
Seat adjustment challenges
- Adjusting the seat takes time due to difficulties in proper placement.
- Unclear if it's due to lack of knowledge or poor design.
Phone case storage
- A phone case compartment is present under the seat but seems impractical for most phones.
New Section
In this section, the speaker discusses their experience with riding the KTM 890 Adventure and shares their thoughts on its performance, comfort, and refinement.
Riding Experience
- The speaker finds it comfortable to ride the KTM 890 Adventure by putting one foot down on the left and holding the rear brake. They mention that it provides more legroom and a less acute angle, making it more comfortable for them. However, they note that while gaining in performance and urgency, there is a trade-off in terms of refinement and comfort.
Bike Overview
- The KTM 890 Adventure is shown with Scorpion Rally Str tires, which are well-known and commonly used on adventure bikes.
- The bike features a two-part seat design, hand guards for protection, low-slung fuel tanks with protectors for off-roading, WP Apex forks (adjustable clickers), new bodywork with improved headlight integration, spoked wheels, and an exhaust that the speaker finds unattractive.
- The speaker mentions a potential issue with the seat design as there seems to be a gap underneath it. They also notice some marks and scratches on certain fittings of the bike, raising concerns about build quality.
Performance Impressions
- The bike's rear suspension is manually adjustable. The speaker comments on their previous experience with fully electronic suspension and rarely using it, suggesting that manual adjustment is not an issue for them.
- The KTM 890 Adventure has impressive power delivery and acceleration. It is described as ready to race at all times.
- While riding on a dual carriageway, the speaker mentions testing the wind deflection at speed and trying out the cruise control. They find cruise control useful for long tours, especially in areas with average speed cameras.
Thoughts on Adventure Tour Bikes
- The speaker expresses frustration with adventure tour bikes in general, mentioning that each bike seems to have its own drawbacks. They wish it were possible to combine the best features from different manufacturers to create an ideal bike.
- Reliability and after-sales service are highlighted as important factors when considering a bike purchase. The speaker emphasizes the significance of dealership reviews and how problems are dealt with by the manufacturer or dealer.
Final Remarks
- The speaker concludes by stating that they have no major dislikes about the KTM 890 Adventure and believe it would be a fun bike to own, provided reliability is ensured. They recommend researching individual dealerships' reviews before making a purchase decision.