For the longest time I used to think that, if you wanted a hardcore adventure bike for serious off-roading, KTM’s R versions were the only way to go. They offer the hard-charging, expert rider an elevated level of off-road performance, though a few compromises are made for street riding, like a tall seat, firm suspension, and a premium price. After riding the new 890 Adventure — without the R — I realized that it compromises almost nothing for the majority of off-road riding that most riders will experience, while offering an equally uncompromising street ride.
More Adventure, Less Naked
KTM redesigned the 890 Adventure for 2023, and it has an all-new look, inspired by the company’s rally race bikes. The biggest change is the addition of a new fairing with side panels that now connect the headlight housing to the rest of the machine — it now looks more adventure bike than naked bike.
Beneath the fairing are stiffer, forged-aluminum brackets, which provide better support when adding accessories up top. The fairing also has a taller windscreen that combines with the side panels to add a measure of wind protection for the torso and legs.
