KTM 1190 Adventure R (2013–2016): The Off-Road King of Adventure Touring

Introduction

The KTM 1190 Adventure R, produced from 2013 to 2016, redefined what it means to be a "true" adventure motorcycle. Designed for riders who prioritize off-road capability without sacrificing on-road prowess, this machine combines raw power, cutting-edge electronics, and a chassis built to conquer deserts, mountain passes, and everything in between. With its signature orange-and-black livery, the 1190 Adventure R isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement of intent.

At its core, the 1190 R is a technological marvel. It was the first production motorcycle equipped with Bosch’s Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), featuring lean-sensitive ABS and traction control. But what truly sets it apart is its ability to make 500+ lbs (217 kg dry) feel nimble on technical trails. Let’s dive into what makes this bike a legend among ADV enthusiasts.

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Engine Performance: A V-Twin Beast with Refined Manners

The heart of the 1190 Adventure R is its 1195cc liquid-cooled V-twin, producing 147.5 HP and 124.8 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) of torque. This engine isn’t just powerful—it’s intelligent.

Key Features:

• Ride-by-Wire Throttle: Delivers silky-smooth power delivery across four riding modes: Sport, Street, Rain, and Offroad.
• Twin Spark Ignition: Enhances combustion efficiency for smoother low-RPM performance and reduced emissions.
• Slipper Clutch: Prevents rear-wheel chatter during aggressive downshifts and reduces lever effort by 20%.

On the road, the engine thrives in the mid-range, pulling hard from 3,000 RPM. Switch to Sport mode, and the throttle response becomes razor-sharp, unleashing all 150 crank horsepower. Off-road, Offroad mode limits power to 100 HP but allows up to 100% rear-wheel slip, enabling controlled drifts in loose terrain.

Real-World Impressions:
During a test ride on mixed Utah trails, the 1190 R’s torque made light work of steep climbs, while the engine’s free-revving nature felt more akin to a supermoto than a heavyweight ADV. On highways, cruising at 120 km/h (75 mph) left plenty in reserve for overtakes.

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Chassis and Handling: Born for the Dirt

The 1190 R’s chassis is a masterclass in off-road engineering.

Frame and Suspension:

• Chromoly Steel Trellis Frame: Weighing just 9.8 kg, it’s rigid yet compliant, with a 26° rake and 220 mm (8.7 inches) of suspension travel front/rear.
• WP Suspension: Fully adjustable 48mm USD forks and a PDS rear shock absorb everything from rocky riverbeds to high-speed whoops.

Test Ride Highlight:
On Colorado’s Alpine Loop, the bike floated over baby-head rocks and deep ruts. The 21-inch front wheel (paired with an 18-inch rear) provided unmatched stability in sand, while the tubeless spoked rims survived sharp-edged rocks without a single pinch flat.

Brakes:

• Front: Dual 320mm discs with radial-mount Brembo 4-piston calipers.
• Rear: 267mm disc with a 2-piston caliper.

The lean-sensitive ABS is a game-changer. In Offroad ABS mode, the rear wheel locks freely for slides, while the front maintains controlled stopping power. Panic-braking on gravel felt eerily confidence-inspiring.

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Electronics and Safety: The Bosch MSC Revolution

The 1190 R’s electronics suite was years ahead of its time:

1. Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC): Adjusts power delivery based on lean angle and wheel slip.
2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Critical for long-haul adventures.
3. Offroad Ride Mode: Disables rear ABS and optimizes throttle for loose surfaces.

Notable Moment:
On a rain-soaked mountain pass, Rain mode intervened subtly, preventing rear-wheel spin without neutering acceleration. The system felt intuitive—never intrusive.

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Ergonomics and Comfort: Built to Move

• Seat Height: 890 mm (35 inches)—tall but perfect for standing attacks.
• Adjustability: Handlebar positions (±10 mm) and footpegs (10 mm rearward/higher) accommodate riders of all sizes.
• Wind Protection: The minimalist screen reduces buffeting at speeds up to 130 km/h (80 mph).

Critique:
The seat’s 3D foam is firm for all-day touring. After 400 km (250 miles), a gel pad or aftermarket seat (like KTM’s Comfort Seat) becomes a worthy upgrade.

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Competition: How the 1190 R Stacks Up

BMW R1200GS Adventure (2013–2016):

• Pros: Plush suspension, 30-liter fuel tank, superior comfort.
• Cons: 105 HP, 260 kg wet weight, telelever front end feels vague off-road.

Verdict: The BMW excels on pavement and light gravel, but the KTM dominates technical terrain.

Ducati Multistrada 1200:

• Pros: 160 HP, sky-high tech (cornering lights, semi-active suspension).
• Cons: Limited ground clearance (170 mm), 19-inch front wheel.

Verdict: A sport-touring marvel, but not a true off-roader.

Yamaha Super Ténéré:

• Pros: Bulletproof reliability, lower cost.
• Cons: 110 HP, underwhelming electronics.

Verdict: The KTM outguns it in every performance metric.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your 1190 R Adventure-Ready

Critical Tips from MOTOPARTS.store:

1. Air Filter Upgrades: The stock airbox is prone to dust ingestion. Install KTM’s Dust Protection Kit ($65) and a DNA high-flow filter ($125).
2. Oil Changes: Use JASO T903 MA-rated 10W-50 oil (3.6L with filter).
3. Tires: Swap to Continental TKC80 Rocks (90/90-21 front, 150/70-18 rear) for aggressive off-roading.
4. Valve Adjustments: Check every 15,000 km. Intake: 0.10–0.15 mm (cold). Exhaust: 0.25–0.30 mm.

Recommended Upgrades:

• AltRider Skid Plate: Protects the engine from rock strikes.
• Fasst Company Flexx Handlebars: Reduces vibration on long rides.
• Hepco & Becker Luggage: Durable aluminum panniers for global expeditions.

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Conclusion: The Ultimate ADV Purist’s Machine

The KTM 1190 Adventure R isn’t for everyone—its towering seat and hyper-focused design demand commitment. But for riders who chase horizons where roads dissolve into trails, it remains unmatched. With proper maintenance and a few choice upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store, this bike isn’t just ready for adventure; it’s hungry for it.

Whether you’re crossing continents or carving canyon roads, the 1190 R proves that “adventure” isn’t a compromise—it’s a way of life.

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Specifications sheet

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