The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure was re-designed and redrafted in Mattighofen, Austria but the production run will be carried out by KTM’s close and potent partner, CFMOTO, with their first-class facilities in China and to the highest standard. The process will be supervised by KTM staff on the ground. The transcontinental cooperation is not the first for KTM and will ensure the adventure spirit can feed directly into the furthest corners of the globe.
The initial KTM 790 Adventure twin-cylinder LC8c motor was memorable for the torque and responsiveness as well as the remarkable feeling of inertia it provided. For the bike’s comeback, KTM wanted even more ‘rideability’ from the LC8c that still pumps out 95 hp at 8,000 rpm and 88 Nm at 6,500 rpm but also tweaks that would meet the criteria for Euro 5 emissions targets.
The 2023 KTM 790 Adventure is now more stable at a constant speed and has gained more cornering poise thanks to a 20% increase of rotating mass; an alteration that hasn’t compromised the highly-rated agility of the motorcycle. Reworked throttle bodies bring a cleaner and more efficient connection due to the enhanced combustion, and the ‘knock control’ sensor affords a higher state of ignition and better capacity for low octane fuel; a reassuring characteristic for the different qualities of gasoline found while traveling. A reconfigured optional Quickshifter+ enables faster shifting; all of which can be heard through the very latest exhaust system with a 2023 catalytic converter and pre-muffler. This is one of the largest modifications to ensure this vibrant generation of the KTM 790 Adventure will be an impeccable choice for moving in, around, and then outside of the city limits. The 15,000 km service intervals remain in concrete.
The dependability of the KTM 790 Adventure is hiked with the reworked Power Assist Slipper Clutch with new friction plates and the engine breathes freer with a new airbox. The bike also benefits from the latest 6D sensor, otherwise known as the Inertia Management Unit, that can be found on larger KTM siblings like the KTM 890 Adventure and KTM 1290 SUPER Adventure models. This sophisticated device informs the Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control and other aspects such as ABS, Motor Slip Regulation, and the administration of Ride Modes. In terms of features, the KTM 790 Adventure holds very similar billing to its larger sibling: the KTM 890 Adventure. ABS programs now automatically switch between the Ride Modes, removing the need for more configuration. KTM has installed an innovative ‘Demo’ function on the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure; owners can trial the full slew of optional riding extras for the first 1,500 km before deciding which settings they’d like to purchase and keep.
The refined feeling comes from the ‘23 spec 43 mm WP APEX Suspension fork at 200 mm travel with the same allotment for the shock, which has preload adjustability. The construction of the CroMo frame, in which the engine is used as a stressed member, guarantees a robust and stiff constitution for pillion and load-carrying as well as clever positioning of the rear shock for a low seat height (840 mm).
A 20-liter tank and potential 450 km fuel economy broadens the horizons of even the hardest adventure rider. For all the time spent in the comfy 2-piece saddle (which can be swapped and augmented through KTM’s PowerParts assortment for single or heated units) the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure provides even more concessions to the eager traveler.
The tank follows the flow and lines of the bike where a new front mask gives way to an integrated fairing. The section still permits prime contact and the sensation of centralization that the rider can enjoy but is tougher and bolstered for the addition of mounts and other GPS devices if necessary. A new larger, higher screen provides more wind protection. The lights are full LED sets and the dashboard view is brighter and better with the 5” TFT reacting to ambient lighting and utilizing a redesigned menu system of new infographics for faster and easier customization. Syncing the KTMConnect App will now lead to even more beneficial navigational and travel options, such as profiling the ‘top ten’ calls and contacts and adjusting the parameters of turn-by-turn guidance on the go.
As with the forerunner to the 2023 edition, the KTM PowerParts range is plush with KTM 790 Adventure components for protection or aesthetic add-ons. Owners won’t have to consider extra defense against hits and dents to the front of the bike however thanks to the light aluminum engine protector, fitted as standard. The plastics (injected molded with graphics for more resistance) have also been reshaped to guard the tank and seat against unwanted knocks.
2023 KTM 790 Adventure Key Features
- Superb performance and technical specifications in relation to price and segment competition
- Austrian-created and designed, Chinese-built to the highest production standards
- Bodywork and ergonomic refinements for the same unbeatable handling and light sensation
- EURO 5 emissions-ready LC8c engine with more rideable power and behavior
- New screen, front mask, 5” TFT display with the redesigned menu system
- New Pirelli Scorpion STR tires with large tread blocks for more offroad focus
