KTM 1190 Adventure

[Irn-Bru]

Looking into adventure style bikes for next year for a bit touring & blasting about the not so local twisties that can be a bit of a chore on the SM's some times. Looked at GS1200's initially as I think they are decent looking (rare opinion I know) in person but the KTM seems like a more exciting alternative. Being a KTM there is a decent size list of common issues, 90% of which are electrical, but generally they are easy fixes. Other bikes in the category have their problems too, seems to be common on newer bikes these days in general really, the more complicated they get the more there is to go wrong. Would be after no older than a 15 plate 1190 as they fixed a few of the common issues, starter motor & airbox problems mainly. It's a lot of money for something that might let you down though, even if it's a hooligan 150bhp sports adventure tourer.

I'm open to alternatives but I'm not really a fan of I4's or most of the Jap adventure bikes, bit boring for my taste. Should go without saying I never plan on off roading such a heavy beast of a bike, I just am so used to supermoto's after all these years I prefer the riding position. I did briefely own a Hornet 600 FS and hated it to be honest, killed my wrists and the engine was only interesting at high revs. Just a bit meh in general. So must be interesting in some way (150bhp v twin ticks that box) & upright riding position
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KTM 990 SMT & Suzuki DR-Z 400 SM

[rubyhorse2]

well i just bought an 1190 adventure.

coming form a superduke i was a little hohum about it, but its a great motor and you can ride it like a nutter still.

I have 4 mates with the GS but couldnt bring myself to join them...dont do it

only issue i have had is the left dash which is fading, seems to be water intake from what i have read. poor seals on the dash unit. mines under warranty so will keep you posted on this.

not had any other problems really, starts on the button, any weather. comfy enough seat though some complain. The screen is maybe a bit pants for touring but you can fit alternatives.

Get a test ride is my advice and screw the motor, once you get the revs going its a nutter.

its certainly lighter than a GS too and feels pretty small.

[Irn-Bru]

Aye I need a test ride booked in, nearest place is Yorkshire about an hour away from me but it'll have to do. I know for a fact I'll probably love it

Reguarding the dash it's not a common problem I've read about, you're the 2nd person I've heard to have it anyway. My 690 had a dodgy dash also, luckily it was just a case of cleaning it and resealing. No excuse for it really, still.
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KTM 990 SMT & Suzuki DR-Z 400 SM

[Vifferguy]

Katoom's do get good owner write ups even if they do have their niggles.

Maybe a Triumph Tiger xc could be a consideration?

[rubyhorse2]

where you from irn bru?

i'm in lancashire, haslingden area. If your close by and fully insured up i'd be happy for you to have a bash on mine. its the 2013 model. Got the full ktm luggage i can show you too, which, despite some looks issues, is pretty darn good.

[Irn-Bru]

Newcastle area, so a bit far, thanks anyway Plus I'd feel guilty ragging the tits off your bike, different story for the dealership though
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KTM 990 SMT & Suzuki DR-Z 400 SM

[rubyhorse2]

ahh yeh maybe a tad too far. ride it like you stole it i say

[Irn-Bru]

Considering KTM 990 SMT's recently, 990 engine seems to be well proven with lots of high milers for sale. Looks decent and even more road focused than the non-r 1190.
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KTM 990 SMT & Suzuki DR-Z 400 SM