KTM 790 Duke 2018 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2019

The KTM 790 Duke 2018 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the KTM 790 Duke 2018, it boasts a lively and high-revving engine that delivers powerful acceleration. The engine type is an in-line, with a bore of 88 mm and a stroke of 65.7 mm. It has a total engine power of 105 HP and is equipped with a fuel injection system. The bike features an electric starter and a chain transmission. The 2-cylinder engine is liquid-cooled and has a displacement of 799 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension by WP, with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 140 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock absorber by WP, offering a travel of 150 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and is made of aluminum. The frame of the bike is chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. It has a rake of 66 degrees, providing stability during rides.

The KTM 790 Duke 2018 features double disk brakes on the front, with a diameter of 300 mm and four pistons. The brakes utilize radial technology for enhanced performance. The bike also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control.

KTM 790 Duke 2018

In terms of dimensions and weights, the front tire width is 120 mm with a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire width is 180 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1475 mm and the seat height is 825 mm. The dry weight of the bike, with ABS, is 169 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 14 liters.

Moving on to the KTM 790 Adventure 2019, it shares many similarities with the KTM 790 Duke 2018 in terms of technical specifications. It also has an in-line engine with the same bore and stroke dimensions, engine power of 95 HP, fuel injection system, electric starter, chain transmission, 2-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, and a displacement of 799 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension by WP, with a diameter of 43 mm and an increased travel of 200 mm compared to the Duke model. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock absorber by WP, offering the same travel of 150 mm as the Duke model. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and is made of aluminum. The frame of the bike is chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design, but it is load-bearing, which means it supports the engine. It has a rake of 64.1 degrees.

The KTM 790 Adventure 2019 also features double disk brakes on the front, with a larger diameter of 320 mm and four pistons. The brakes utilize radial technology for enhanced performance. In addition to ABS, riding modes, and traction control, the Adventure model also comes with ride by wire technology, which further enhances the riding experience.

KTM 790 Adventure 2019

In terms of dimensions and weights, the front tire width is narrower at 90 mm, but with a larger diameter of 21 inches compared to the Duke model. The rear tire width is 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer at 1509 mm and the seat height is slightly higher at 830 mm. The dry weight of the bike, with ABS, is 189 kg, which is slightly heavier than the Duke model. The fuel tank capacity is larger at 20 liters, allowing for longer rides without refueling.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 is praised for its lively engine, sporty chassis, great sound, and comfortable seating position. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 is praised for its engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption.

However, both models have their weaknesses as well. The KTM 790 Duke 2018 is criticized for its rough handling at low revs, difficulty in city traffic, and fiddly-looking switches on the handlebars. It is also known to have oil leaks at the engine block in many units. The KTM 790 Adventure 2019 is criticized for its unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat not being optimally shaped.

In conclusion, the KTM 790 Duke 2018 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2019 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Duke model is more focused on sporty riding and urban commuting, while the Adventure model is designed for off-road adventures and long-distance touring.