[ridermagazine.com] - 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R | First Look Review

[Ninjette Newsbot]

The 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R was launched at KTM’s 2022 Adventure Rider Rally in Idaho this month, a fitting event for a bike whose upgrades are rally-inspired in both looks and capabilities. Two years after the 890 Adventure R’s debut, the 2023 model still has a liquid-cooled 889cc transverse parallel-Twin, but the bike has […]

The post 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.

KTM announces 2023 890 Adventure R with rally-inspired upgrades.
The 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R was launched at KTM’s 2022 Adventure Rider Rally in Idaho this month, a fitting event for a bike whose upgrades are rally-inspired in both looks and capabilities. Two years after the 890 Adventure R’s debut, the 2023 model still has a liquid-cooled 889cc transverse parallel-Twin, but the bike has been improved to enhance off-road performance and versatility. Boasting several new features and rider aids, the 2023 model allows riders the ability to fine-tune the bike to meet the exact needs of the rider. Price has not yet been announced.

Related Story: 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R | (Off) Road Test Review


What’s New on the 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R?

The 890 Adventure R takes inspiration from the Dakar-winning KTM 450 Rally for upgrades that enhance this bike’s off-road capabilities and performance, as well as giving the bike a rally aesthetic. The redesigned bodywork, new fairing, lower windscreen, and cowling improve aerodynamics and ergonomics while protecting the rider and the bike from the elements.

The 2023 model features new off-road capabilities.
On top of the bodywork, the 890 Adventure R also takes after the KTM 450 Rally through a retuned WP suspension package with a fully-adjustable WP XPLOR 48mm fork and a WP XPLOR rear shock with new settings. The rear shock uses KTM’s progressive damping system, which KTM says reduces fatigue on rough trails.

Related Story: 2023 KTM 450 SMR | First Look Review


The 2023 model also comes with upgraded ABS control that takes readings from the 6D sensor, which informs CMU on the angle, pitch, and speed of the motorcycle to apply the right amount of braking force based on the situation. When in the Offroad mode or the optional Rally mode, the Offroad ABS is automatically applied.

The LED headlight, brake light, and turn indicators increase visibility.
Speaking of riding modes, the 2023 890 Adventure R also comes with a new Demo mode. While using the Demo mode, riders get to experience all the specs and options of different ride modes and rider aids for the first approximately 932 miles (1,500 km) before deciding which features fit the rider’s needs and riding style. Ride modes for the 2023 890 Adventure R include Street, Offroad, Rain, and Rally (optional). Rider aids include Motorcycle Traction Control, Motor Slip Regulation, and the quickshifter (optional). Heated grips, a heated seat, and cruise control are also optional.

With a variety of ride modes and rider aids, the 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R allows riders to choose their own riding style.
The new 5” TFT display includes USB connectors and features a new appearance with colored pictograms and graphics. New features in the display include a turn-by-turn navigation system and a phone call-out function that allows riders to set 10 favorite numbers.

If you’re looking for a versatile, off-road-ready adventure bike, the 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R might be just your thing. A variety of ride modes and rider aids allow you to fine-tune the bike to your own riding style so that when you go on your next big adventure, you know the adventure will truly be your own.


For more information, visit KTM’s website.

2023 KTM 890 Adventure R Specifications

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel-Twin, 4-Stroke, DOHC

Displacement: 889 cc

Bore/Stroke: 90.7 / 68.8mm

Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated PASC assist-and-slipper clutch

Fuel System: DKK Dell’Orto, 46mm throttle body

Ignition: Bosch EMS with throttle-by-wire

Frame: Chromoly Tubular Steel, Engine as Stressed Member

Subframe: Chromoly Steel Trellis

Suspension, Front: 48mm WP XPLOR USD fork, full adj. w/ 9.4 in. travel

Rear: WP XPLOR Single shock w/ progressive damping, fully adj. w/ 9.4 in. travel

Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 320 / 260 mm

Front/Rear Wheels: 2.50 x 21 in., 4.50 x 18 in.

Front/Rear Tires: 90/90-21; 150/70-18 Continental TKC 80

Wheelbase: 60.2 in.

Ground Clearance: 10.4 in

Seat Height: 34.6 in

Tank Capacity: 5.3 gals

Dry Weight: Approx 432 lbs


The post 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.