KTM 1190 Adventure
Why the Austrian firm’s gamechanging adventure bike remains a brilliant used buy today
Buy an Austrian game-changer
FOLLOWING ON FROM its impact-making 1290 Super Duke R, KTM’S all-new 1190 Adventure was another major step up in 2013; not just for the Austrian firm’s already impressive adventure bike reputation, but for the whole class.
With a whopping 150bhp (up from the 106 of the preceding 990) and classleading electronics including modes, traction and cornering ABS, the stocker was a sporting match for Ducati’s 1200 Multistrada. While the ‘R’, with a 21in front wheel, longer suspension and more, offered enhanced dirt ability.
Unfortunately however, the 1190’s thunder was overshadowed by BMW’S equally all-new liquid-cooled R1200GS also introduced that year, while its high price, some niggles and a somewhat less-comprehensive dealer network also ultimately hit sales.
Subtle improvements came in 2015, as did the big-tanked 1290 Super
Adventure and softer, more basic 95bhp 1050 Adventure. Then, in 2017, the range was shaken up again with the 1190s replaced by the bigger 160bhp 1290 Super Adventure S and R.
Today however, the 1190s retain a devoted following and a strong on-line community fuelled further by tempting used prices that are typically £2K less than a comparable GS.
ENGINE
LC8 is well-proven and the Adventure has proved reliable, provided service history is kept up. Check for the service record and clutch wear on bikes that have been used off-road and you’ll be fine. Early bikes kick out a lot of heat from rear cylinder
TYRES
Smaller-wheeled stocker has a wider tyre choice and Michelin Pilot Road Trail 5s are recommended — especially in the wet — along with Metzeler Tourances. The R version came with Continental Contitrailattack2s as OE, which are good but Heidenau K60 Scouts and Metzeler Karoo3s were also rated highly. If changing, it’s important not to damage the inner spoke seals
CHASSIS
Tubular chassis is strong but keep an eye out for leaks from both the forks and the shock and look out for out-of-true rims. There was a recall for the ABS for all models in 2016. Also check for dragging front Brembo discs on winter-ridden bikes
COMFORT
Long-distance comfort is one of the few weak points of the 1190, both in terms of protection from the screen, heat from the engine and the comfort of the seat itself. Views on replacement screens or spoilers vary, with Puig and MSV recommended and KTM’S own Power Parts ‘ergo’ seat a popular upgrade, too
UPDATES
The 1190 Adventure was updated for 2015 with an improved airbox to stop dust getting past the filter, particularly off-road; the weak starter motor was upgraded to that from the 1290; the shock mount reinforced; pillion grab handles mounted slightly lower; and there was improved shielding on the rear cylinder header to combat excessive heat
R VERSION
Off-road-orientated R version of the 1190 Adventure differed by having 21/18in wheels in place of the standard 19/17in set-up; retuned, 30mm longer-travel suspension front and rear; wider handlebars and a dirt-style one-piece saddle; a smaller/ lower windscreen; crash bars and KTM’S tyre-pressure monitoring system and main-stand as standard
ACCESSORIES
Like most adventure bikes, the KTM 1190 is an ‘accessory magnet’ and any extras should be assessed thoroughly when viewing any used buy. Headlight protectors are recommended (as replacements are expensive), ditto a rad guard, plus crash protection is a good idea. Then there’s improved comfort options and, of course, luggage. It’s also worth checking that the starter has been upgraded along with any heat shielding
MAINTENANCE
9000-mile service intervals are good but it’s important they’ve been done. KTM dealers are a bit spread out compared to some but if out of warranty, home servicing is relatively straightforward. If ridden off-road, check for damage beyond the usual scuffs and scrapes — such as bent wheels — and question if the air filter upgrade has been done. Finish and fastener quality is generally good, as long as it’s been looked after