OOOOHHHHH Mr Flyer!!! That moment at 1:02 had me worried for a second! That white car parking on the left shouldn't have been there. Thank goodness the Honda on your right stopped! The GoPro made it look like a moment, but was probably all easy. I've seen so many accidents like this moment you had. These cars just don't realise when they stop at intersections like that what could possibly happen. Good to see you got through that, but boy I almost pooped my self for a quick second! Loving your confidence you have riding now. Your riding just that little bit quicker now, & your going for quick little squirts (blasts) more often. Good onya mate, another nice sit down & entertaining viewing from the top man on the manner! Cheers groover!
I don't know if you recall just after the Hayabusa came out there was much speculation that the EU would enforce a 100 BHP limit on bikes (hence the big 4 Japanese manufacturers "gentlemans agreement" to limit top speeds to 300 KPH or 186 MPH) well it looks like KTM and to a degree Triumph have decided to show just how good a bike not much over 100 BHP can be provided it's light enough and shows that in the real world you really don't need much more.
Great review as always. I picked up my 790 last week and couldn't be happier. It's like the folks at KTM locked the 1290 and the 390 in a shed and nine months later this puppy was born ;) The quickshifter takes a little bit getting used to, so far I've done 400km and had one false neutral. Seat is hard. Other than that I love the bike. Cheers
Ride them both and make your decision after that. There's quite a price difference between the two but in the end most of us follow our hearts when choosing our rides, don't we? The 790 have a decent amount of power but what matters is the connection between your brain and your wrist :)
Love this bike TMF, seriously considering down sizing from the GS when they bring out the adventure version. I really think that motor is all a solo rider would ever need, and very light and agile too.
Thanks MrF. KTM have nailed it with this one. I’m waiting for the Adventure version next year for my ‘other’ bike. These 790’s should make a serious dent to the big nakeds and (next year) big ‘adventure’ bikes because of the weight, price, insurance costs etc. Great review and look forward to the long-term review.
I bought one in November a demo it had the coolant hose clip issue the day i collected it was corrected quick smart, it's back at the dealers it seeps oil from just about every gasket you could name it's really fun to ride as long as i forget it drinks oil and not 12 months old yet! Honestly waiting for it to blow up!
I wouldn't get the Akropovic slip-on as the baffle in it cant be taken out unless you drill it out and it sounds basically the same as stock. I would recommend the Austin Racing slip-ons as they add a bit of beef to the sound and because its only a slip-on it wouldn't be any louder then your Ducati. But any way great video as always, keep up the good content iv been a subscriber since you were at the 15K mark and it keeps getting better.
Waiting for the 790 Adventure to come and your review of the little Duke is quite promising at least related to the engine which I expect to be the same with the Adventure. Well done as always
Thanks for the review! I want KTM to make a GT version with a bit of wind protection and standard panniers, and option for rear box. Seems like that might be a hard bike to beat if you have to choose one motorcycle.
They have a GT already, you mean a 790 GT ? They usually make them so heavy so I dont know how much fun 105 horsepower 790 with panniers would be. But if they could make it around 200 kg like the tracer 900, maybe.
Hi Tourqe house. This review is of the 790, so yes, i meant a GT version of the Duke 790. KTM could give it the same treatment that created the Super Duke 1290 GT. I don't need that much HP for the kind of roads I like best. A 790 GT would result in minimal weight addition I would think - could be lighter than a Tracer if that is the goal. If it had adjustable compression and rebound damping and minimal wind protection and ability to take hard cases I would buy one as a replacement for my '12 1050 Speedie.
Interesting, right side shifter (LOL, just pulling your chain). I find it curious how many "experts" reviewing this bike use the clutch to shift. Nice to see someone using the quick shift/auto blip properly. Looking forward to your long term review and, hearing the Akra.
Top of the mornin TMF. Been waiting for this initial review. Praise indeed when you compare it favourably to the Street Triple! Will be very interesting to hear your long term review and perhaps also compare with the MT09SP? Enjoy your week and stay safe - the car pulling out of the driveway on the right just as you passed a parked vehicle on the left even made me jump!!!
Nothing is going to help that thing look better, OTOH, it'd be a great bike to get and leave dirty. Nice that bike makers are providing good standard bikes these days. In the US, it used to be Harleys or crotch rockets. Useful motorcycles may entice some people to actually go riding.
I love the look, but here in the colonies, seems we get all of ktm's broken models. Two closest dealers to me, only sell their motorcross bikes now because of all the issues on the 390s. Shame. But you camera quality is fantastic..Top Gear episodes :)
Great Review, if Triumph fixed the bug eye headlights Id be looking more closely but luckily the 790 is so good and makes for a good choice, still; the 1290R is whispering to me
Thanks for another awesome review! I've test ridden this bike and I can't seem to get it out of my system. So much so, that I am going to test ride it again this weekend. I may end up trading my R9T for it 😯😯
That looks like a lovely bike, but i love KTMs anyway! Another one added to the list!!!! Looks like you were having fun TMF, be careful...... You even forgot to hit the pixilate button on the speedo! 😂😂😂
Good day missenden flyer, i would love to know the reliability issues on duke 790??? Been hearing lots of duke 390 problem issues! Thanks great content by the way!! we
Me too. After commuting on a Tracer 700 for 3 years, I’m convinced it’s the ‘Goldilocks’ (pinched that one TMF) zone for one bike to do it all. But, a screen for motorways helps a lot. I would be all over a KTM or Triumph in this bracket.
Is it me or do tanks seem to be shrinking more and more lately? At least the Street Triple has a reasonable 17.5 litre tank. But this certainly looks like a lot of bike for the money!
Gunshot Enduro fair comment but I still wouldn’t personally be keen on buying a bike with such a small tank, unless it was a weekend toy. Even if the mpg is good, fuel stops are still going to be too frequent for my liking. I must say though, I think this is a great bike and it’s the first KTM I would consider buying, but only as a second bike.
The adventure coming next year will have a large tank that is like on the 1290 SA T, it comes down to the sides of the engine. It should have a 500km range. So if you really need that, it would be best to wait. The 790 duke is probably around 300km which is not too bad. My Multistrada only managed 240 - 260km from 20l!
Another good review, KTM just keep making great bikes, on a tangent here, what make of camo jeans where you wearing? Can’t find a decent pair anywhere..
Perhaps you're hitting false neutrals because your using the foot lever on the right hand side of the bike rather than the one on the left, or confusing the rear break cylinder with the quick shifter?! ;-)
Great review ! I used to wonder how you remembered all the tech specs on the walk-around. I saw your reflection in the tank, iphone in one hand, sheet of paper in the other. Exposed :)
Funny how the display goes all blury when you give here some beans!!!! Is that blury feature a factory fitted option or after-market equipment LOL!!! BTW love the review, almost thinking of trading my VFR1200f in on one!!!
I don’t know ... I think I’d still get the Z900RS over this. I know that may be a silly comparison but for the power and money...plus I think the Z900RS takes it in the looks department. Great review!
Sam Kent I almost got an outgoing 2016 FZ09 - it was only $6,500 brand new haha. The only reason I didn’t get it was because I had more bills at the time. The bikes I’m currently considering are: 2019 street triple RS 2019 FTR 1200 custom 2018 Z900RS We’ll see, I’ve got 8 months till my car is paid off.
Hello there! Nice review as usual. How do you find the tyres? Some say the Maxxis brand is cheap and needs changing while others say they are surprised on how good they are.
Some of the fast journos were spanking them at launch with no issue and if you really don't like them it's not a huge expense to swap them, maybe even sell them to someone who is happy with them for their 2nd set.
Hi TMF who did you borrow the bike from? I’m well eager to test ride. On paper it ticks all my boxes. Big mag reviews complain about the brakes being a little weak? Your 💭 thoughts ??
I’ve had mine two weeks now and find the suspension to be unforgiving on our potholed/melted roads around South Bucks, I wonder how many miles your loan bike has on it as I’m hoping mine will loosen up over time. The standard exhaust makes a lovely brappy sound when used with exuberance up and down the gears it’s definitely one of those feel like a hero bikes.
Correct me if in wrong because I haven't been on one yet, but it appears that you sit down in the bike rather than that feeling of being perched up top? I'm assuming this because of the tank height relative to the seat. I much prefer motorbikes like that now that I've hit my 40s, makes me feel a bit more secure in the turns. It's not the design that they originally presented, but I could live with the appearance changes because I don't think there's another bike that includes all those extras in that price point.
Nice bike but the only thing that troubles me is all the negative comments about KTM reliability and customer service. I guess if you've had your fingers burned you are going to be pretty anti what ever brand of bike it was. For me you should have had the new Triumph Speed Triple RS on long term review as it was such an improvement on the old. i wonder if KTM will give the 790 Duke the R treatment? Cruise control? Illuminated switch gear? Thanks as always.
Probably after/at the same time the Adventure version is launched which will no doubt have cruise and likely the same style dash as the 390/1290 SA R/S. The 790 Duke R may well keep the more track focused dash like current Duke and SDR have.
Thanks TMF. It's good to hear your observations in case I've overlooked something important. I rode the 790 in May. I was expecting it to be pretty good, but it exceeded my expectations by a fair amount. I particularly liked the power characteristics and the easy handling. It's a good price, but I'd be prepared to pay more for upgraded suspension - I was impressed by the OE setup, but prefer softer, well controlled suspension that comes into its own at high speeds on bumpy minor roads. Good to find KTM havn't lost it! 😊
Where did you find the time to do all these reviews? A firm seat is ok but a hard seat; no thank you on long bike tours. No heated grips in northern Europe is a big No No. We still have vans in other colors than white 😋
I envy you. I won't be able to collect mine here in Burnaby BC until August or September and KTM Canada still won't quote a price. Put a deposit down anyway. The Akrapovich slip-on muffler (which I am opting for) costs an additional 1600 dollars! Getting it mostly for looks and sound as well as the small weight saving. Seems like a delightful machine and I can't wait!
Where's my Furygan gloves Sir Lamb Chop? lol, those hockey mitts are fantastic! I hope they sponsor you because I know of at least 3 guys I ride with that are buying them because of your channel.
Knowing how much you like the Street Triple, that’s high praise you give to the 790; must be a great bike ticking a lot of boxes. Thanks for your review, cheers.
Had mine 2500 miles ride it in sport mode sounds even better in sport crackles more mechanical grip blows me away gravel and pot holed roads this thing laughs at them never had so much fun since rgv250 getting almost 200 to a tank now and not taking it easy cruises at 80 nicely regards Robert
Robert Mersey hi mate. Does the anti wheelie control works is all the riding modes or just in race mode? I mean doesn't it prevents me to flip it on all modes?
Actually the 8 in the engine classification means 8 valves. Therefore the LC8 engines are V twins with 4 valves per head as found in the 1090, 1190 & 1290 models and the LC4 engines are the singles, 390, 450 and 690 models. The LC8c is the parallel twin where the c stands for compact.
Great review thanks TMF, had mine for just over a month and it is an awesome bike, had a Street Triple R 765 as well but didn`t keep it long and in my opinion the 790 beats it all ways. look forward to your living with review.
Hey James, are you still happy with your 790 Duke? Or missing your Streety? Im between those two. Test rode them both this week and i'm not shure which bike i want. They are both equal awesome when riding in their own ways...though the Streety looks much more elegant, the duke has that plastic motocross look...
Nice review! I think its kind of ugly looking, but it is a treat to ride. If the bike weighs 169 dry, It cant really weigh 174 kg with 14 liter of fuel :). I think around 188-190 KG wet is the correct wet weight. I hope KTM makes a more sexy and better spec 790 Duke R.
Nice review TMF . Personally I think this bike is a peach ,yes it's looks divide opinions but each to there own .Your getting a lot for your money here and with a few additional bits of kit it could be that do it all bike just like my fz8 used to be . I think if they bring out an adventure s version and not just the r then ktm will have a really good seller in the mid sector adventure market . Your review certainly stirred up the ktm haters lol 😂. The motor is brilliant and I'm looking forward to your long term review . I could see myself owning one of these .
Doesn't matter how good their bikes are, if they don't get the best dealers selling them in every county in the UK they won't keep people riding KTM for the sole reason their dealers are shocking, and that is from first hand experience as I owned a KTM1190 Adventure and I had dealings with three KTM dealers and they were all terrible!!
I agree wholeheartedly about lack of dealerships for KTM road bikes. Here in N.West England they are thin on the ground since the Blackburn dealership closed. 1 in W. Yorkshire, 1 in N.Yorkshire , 1 in N. Wales. They really do need a Lancashire dealership to generate more sales otherwise BMW will continue to mop up almost all of the big adventure bike sales.
One area where Triumph may be better is reliability, I have spoken to a couple of KTM owners who have had issues with quality control and reliability, but to be fair, that could be a problem with the dealer as they had been purchased /serviced /repaired by the same dealership (but at different locations).
From experience I had a Triumph that let me down 3 times in as many months. My 1190 Adventure in 4 years nothing has gone wrong, apart from a weak battery in winter.
Peter O'Connell Hi there, that's encouraging, I had my Tiger 800 XRx for 3 years with no problems. I suppose all large scale manufacturers are prone to problematic batches and external suppliers.
I've been looking forward to your 'normal blokes review' of the 790.I recently bought one as my first bike and love it! See it as a bike to grow into and learn to ride properly. Had ergo seat fitted from day one and i've ridden for hours in comfort, also have bar end mirrors on order... KTM have really poor supply of power parts. Enjoy your videos thanks dude, good work!
Thanks for the review. I have seen your individual reviews of the KTM, Triple RS and MT09 SP. Please consider combining into a group test with consideration of the naked Suzuki also. Many thanks.
New Street Triple looks better in my eye, it's more desirable and sounds a lot better too. The stock exhaust on the KTM looks like an afterthought and those mirrors...
That’s because it was indeed an afterthought. Check out the concept! If they had kept it like that it would have been the best looking naked ever made imo
I never assumed it would look like the concept, BUT it just doesn't look good at all. The 1290's styling is so much better, and even the smaller Dukes manage to look better. I was really looking forward to it, but I just can't get over the cheap look.
Good initial review of the basic 790 model. Here's hoping they release a few variants with better brakes and suspension, would love to see a RC like model kitted out as a Moto2 contender ;-)
We are most certainly enjoying your very informative videos. Thank you so much for the work you put into them. I would like to ask you in general how do you feel about the fit and finish on the KTM motorcycles as compared to the BMW bikes? More specifically, would you buy your GS again let’s say over a 1290 Super Adventure R? Thank again. Schveddy5- Oklahoma
TMF, yet another shitty front mudguard. I would recon the front engine casing is going to get corroded really quickly as the stones from the road pepper the paint/powder coating. Do you think any manufacturer is going to be brave enough to fit a proper mudguard? All that electronics bollocks and a shitty front mudguard, yet another 'epic fail'. A82 Joe. PS If its getting false neutrals as early as this, thats a worry😱😱😱😱
Question - it looks like you are saying you prefer this to a STR in this and yet I saw your comment on the Motorcycle.com comparison last week which say you'd take the Triple any day?
I bought one a month ago, I'm super satisfied, this bike is addictive, I just had to take the preload of the rear shock and the bike was much more comfortable, it's the most fun bike I've ever driven, perfect for city and back roads, as always 100% according to your reviews ... waiting for the long term review..
some comments about the quick shifter but it works perfectly and very smooth, after you get used to it, it starts to be intuitive through the sound of the engine you have the sensation of the right moments to shift i have no problem with false neutrals or any other issue to me is perfect.
I love these mid range nakeds. Light, flickable, agile, around 100hp - perfect for commuting and a little bit of hooliganism after work. Great review of a great bike 👌 👌
KTM DOES NOT WARRANTY THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THIS IS A DEAL BRAKER, IT WILL COST THE CONSUMER A FORTUNE TO REPLACE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. RECONSIDER BUYING A KTM.
Sorry mate, this one seems 'sped up' too, not sure if you've changed camera or editing or what, but everything is just not right now. You're speaking faster, moving faster, even when you 'indicate' to what you're talking about - ie point at the mirrors - it is faster, kinda like watching a shit Hollywood movie. I can't watch any more, so for now I'm going to unsubscribe, hope you sort it soon as I've always quite enjoyed your vids.
That sheep absolutely loved it... :)
Just bought a 2020 KTM 790 duke, and I'm loving it...A very nice upgrade from a 390.
OOOOHHHHH Mr Flyer!!! That moment at 1:02 had me worried for a second! That white car parking on the left shouldn't have been there. Thank goodness the Honda on your right stopped! The GoPro made it look like a moment, but was probably all easy. I've seen so many accidents like this moment you had. These cars just don't realise when they stop at intersections like that what could possibly happen. Good to see you got through that, but boy I almost pooped my self for a quick second! Loving your confidence you have riding now. Your riding just that little bit quicker now, & your going for quick little squirts (blasts) more often. Good onya mate, another nice sit down & entertaining viewing from the top man on the manner! Cheers groover!
I don't know if you recall just after the Hayabusa came out there was much speculation that the EU would enforce a 100 BHP limit on bikes (hence the big 4 Japanese manufacturers "gentlemans agreement" to limit top speeds to 300 KPH or 186 MPH) well it looks like KTM and to a degree Triumph have decided to show just how good a bike not much over 100 BHP can be provided it's light enough and shows that in the real world you really don't need much more.
Amazing sound from the sheep and the bike as well!
Great review as always. I picked up my 790 last week and couldn't be happier. It's like the folks at KTM locked the 1290 and the 390 in a shed and nine months later this puppy was born ;)
The quickshifter takes a little bit getting used to, so far I've done 400km and had one false neutral. Seat is hard. Other than that I love the bike.
Cheers
I currently ride a small displacement bike do you think I should upgrade for the 390 or for the 790!
Ride them both and make your decision after that. There's quite a price difference between the two but in the end most of us follow our hearts when choosing our rides, don't we? The 790 have a decent amount of power but what matters is the connection between your brain and your wrist :)
Love this bike TMF, seriously considering down sizing from the GS when they bring out the adventure version. I really think that motor is all a solo rider would ever need, and very light and agile too.
Agreed....and great to hear from you again, it's been a while!
Thanks MissendenFlyer, great as always! Been waiting for this one for a while. Looking forward to the longterm review
Stay tuned, it's on the way!
Thanks MrF. KTM have nailed it with this one. I’m waiting for the Adventure version next year for my ‘other’ bike. These 790’s should make a serious dent to the big nakeds and (next year) big ‘adventure’ bikes because of the weight, price, insurance costs etc. Great review and look forward to the long-term review.
Cheers as ever Steve - I've already got my request in to ride the adventure next year!
Seems like such a killer bike for it's segment. It cannot be overlooked for anyone looking for a bike in the midsize market.
Agreed - amazing premium features on a bike of this price....
Nice bike! Here's hoping that other manufacturers start adding "premium" features to their mid-sized bikes too.
Yes it's great KTM have spec'd this so highly...
I bought one in November a demo it had the coolant hose clip issue the day i collected it was corrected quick smart, it's back at the dealers it seeps oil from just about every gasket you could name it's really fun to ride as long as i forget it drinks oil and not 12 months old yet! Honestly waiting for it to blow up!
Oh dear sorry to hear that 🙁
@@TheMissendenFlyer i have put a deposit on the Indian FTR1200 feeling better already! ;)
I love your channel man... so informative.
Thanks for the review 👍
LC8c - the 8 is for the number of valves. The 1290 is also an LC8.
Yep - so I understand - thanks for watching!
I wouldn't get the Akropovic slip-on as the baffle in it cant be taken out unless you drill it out and it sounds basically the same as stock. I would recommend the Austin Racing slip-ons as they add a bit of beef to the sound and because its only a slip-on it wouldn't be any louder then your Ducati. But any way great video as always, keep up the good content iv been a subscriber since you were at the 15K mark and it keeps getting better.
Oh thank you Cruize for watching for such a long time....and good tip re the end can! Cheers.....
Waiting for the 790 Adventure to come and your review of the little Duke is quite promising at least related to the engine which I expect to be the same with the Adventure. Well done as always
Thank you....
Thanks for the review! I want KTM to make a GT version with a bit of wind protection and standard panniers, and option for rear box. Seems like that might be a hard bike to beat if you have to choose one motorcycle.
They have a GT already, you mean a 790 GT ? They usually make them so heavy so I dont know how much fun 105 horsepower 790 with panniers would be. But if they could make it around 200 kg like the tracer 900, maybe.
Hi Tourqe house. This review is of the 790, so yes, i meant a GT version of the Duke 790. KTM could give it the same treatment that created the Super Duke 1290 GT. I don't need that much HP for the kind of roads I like best. A 790 GT would result in minimal weight addition I would think - could be lighter than a Tracer if that is the goal. If it had adjustable compression and rebound damping and minimal wind protection and ability to take hard cases I would buy one as a replacement for my '12 1050 Speedie.
Excellent, fact-packed review as usual. Nice work TMF.
Interesting, right side shifter (LOL, just pulling your chain). I find it curious how many "experts" reviewing this bike use the clutch to shift. Nice to see someone using the quick shift/auto blip properly. Looking forward to your long term review and, hearing the Akra.
Yes sorry about that - realised my mistake as I did the walkaround and couldn't think of a way out of it - was hoping you wouldn't notice!!
Great review but I'll stick with the Yamaha reliability and the MTO7
Top of the mornin TMF. Been waiting for this initial review. Praise indeed when you compare it favourably to the Street Triple! Will be very interesting to hear your long term review and perhaps also compare with the MT09SP? Enjoy your week and stay safe - the car pulling out of the driveway on the right just as you passed a parked vehicle on the left even made me jump!!!
Yeah, you have to keep your eyes open don't you....
Thanks for the review. The KTM looks like it should be a lot cheaper than the Street Triple. A Cargo pants type of bike, not for me.
Fair enough....
Nothing is going to help that thing look better, OTOH, it'd be a great bike to get and leave dirty. Nice that bike makers are providing good standard bikes these days. In the US, it used to be Harleys or crotch rockets. Useful motorcycles may entice some people to actually go riding.
Agreed....
Nike review! Can't wait for the 790 Adventure though ;)
Btw, what brand are those riding pants ? Cheers!
LC8 denotes 8 valves; C is indeed for compact - the RC8 1290 is missing the 'C!'
I love the look, but here in the colonies, seems we get all of ktm's broken models. Two closest dealers to me, only sell their motorcross bikes now because of all the issues on the 390s. Shame. But you camera quality is fantastic..Top Gear episodes :)
Oh dear - and thanks for the kind words....TMF
Just a minor point, why don't all manufacturers use a rubber flap to protect the rear shock? Nice bike, good review, as per usual from tmf.
Great Review, if Triumph fixed the bug eye headlights Id be looking more closely but luckily the 790 is so good and makes for a good choice, still; the 1290R is whispering to me
Single headlight conversion looks great on the street triple.
Thanks for another awesome review!
I've test ridden this bike and I can't seem to get it out of my system. So much so, that I am going to test ride it again this weekend.
I may end up trading my R9T for it 😯😯
Mickey MobiWan I’m also thinking of changing up my R9T for something more fun and agile. Did you go for the KTM and are you happy with it? Cheers!
Brilliant goat sound affects, I still hear it coming through the exhaust
They were sheep. Trust me I'm from New Zealand.
Great vid as always..... going to demo 1290r tommorrow might have to try 790 aswell!!! Then i could be undeicided which one to get!!😀😀😩😩
Enjoy!
I hope so!!.... which one would have???.... im leaning towards 1290 as ive liked them from prototype stage!👍
Im having the same dilemma - yet to try a 790 as I live in Australia
Glad to know what you will discover!
That looks like a lovely bike, but i love KTMs anyway!
Another one added to the list!!!!
Looks like you were having fun TMF, be careful......
You even forgot to hit the pixilate button on the speedo! 😂😂😂
10:51 Noisy devils heh? 😄 you made my day
Good day missenden flyer, i would love to know the reliability issues on duke 790??? Been hearing lots of duke 390 problem issues! Thanks great content by the way!! we
looking forward to KTM releasing the GT Touring version with this engine, hurry up please KTM.
It should be at Intermot in September, I can't wait to see it. :) Might see an 8" LCD on it too. :)
Me too. After commuting on a Tracer 700 for 3 years, I’m convinced it’s the ‘Goldilocks’ (pinched that one TMF) zone for one bike to do it all. But, a screen for motorways helps a lot.
I would be all over a KTM or Triumph in this bracket.
Is it me or do tanks seem to be shrinking more and more lately?
At least the Street Triple has a reasonable 17.5 litre tank.
But this certainly looks like a lot of bike for the money!
I think you're right!
Gunshot Enduro fair comment but I still wouldn’t personally be keen on buying a bike with such a small tank, unless it was a weekend toy. Even if the mpg is good, fuel stops are still going to be too frequent for my liking.
I must say though, I think this is a great bike and it’s the first KTM I would consider buying, but only as a second bike.
The adventure coming next year will have a large tank that is like on the 1290 SA T, it comes down to the sides of the engine. It should have a 500km range. So if you really need that, it would be best to wait.
The 790 duke is probably around 300km which is not too bad. My Multistrada only managed 240 - 260km from 20l!
Another good review, KTM just keep making great bikes, on a tangent here, what make of camo jeans where you wearing? Can’t find a decent pair anywhere..
Those are my old RST camo jeans, I love them but don't think they make-em now...
Which in your opinion is a better bike, the F900R of bmw or the 790 Duke?
Perhaps you're hitting false neutrals because your using the foot lever on the right hand side of the bike rather than the one on the left, or confusing the rear break cylinder with the quick shifter?! ;-)
Yes yes, sorry about that....
blahblah As you are confusing break with brake?
Great review ! I used to wonder how you remembered all the tech specs on the walk-around. I saw your reflection in the tank, iphone in one hand, sheet of paper in the other.
Exposed :)
I never claimed to have a good memory!
Funny how the display goes all blury when you give here some beans!!!! Is that blury feature a factory fitted option or after-market equipment LOL!!! BTW love the review, almost thinking of trading my VFR1200f in on one!!!
I don’t know ... I think I’d still get the Z900RS over this. I know that may be a silly comparison but for the power and money...plus I think the Z900RS takes it in the looks department.
Great review!
Jool kawasaki
carol mc lol yea?
Jool I couldn’t agree more
Z900RS looks great. I’d go for an MT-09 personally though which is in the same price bracket as this bike
Sam Kent I almost got an outgoing 2016 FZ09 - it was only $6,500 brand new haha. The only reason I didn’t get it was because I had more bills at the time.
The bikes I’m currently considering are:
2019 street triple RS
2019 FTR 1200 custom
2018 Z900RS
We’ll see, I’ve got 8 months till my car is paid off.
Hello there! Nice review as usual. How do you find the tyres? Some say the Maxxis brand is cheap and needs changing while others say they are surprised on how good they are.
I didn't notice any issue with them...mind you I didn't get to try them in the wet (darned good weather!!!)
Some of the fast journos were spanking them at launch with no issue and if you really don't like them it's not a huge expense to swap them, maybe even sell them to someone who is happy with them for their 2nd set.
You done it again TMF!
Out n about
Hi TMF who did you borrow the bike from? I’m well eager to test ride. On paper it ticks all my boxes. Big mag reviews complain about the brakes being a little weak? Your 💭 thoughts ??
Didn’t notice any issues with the brakes...I was loaned the bike by KTM UK.
Post long term review, would you be tempted to swap the old triumph with the KTM.
I’ve had mine two weeks now and find the suspension to be unforgiving on our potholed/melted roads around South Bucks, I wonder how many miles your loan bike has on it as I’m hoping mine will loosen up over time.
The standard exhaust makes a lovely brappy sound when used with exuberance up and down the gears it’s definitely one of those feel like a hero bikes.
...yes the exhaust pops and bangs like a good un doesn't it....
Correct me if in wrong because I haven't been on one yet, but it appears that you sit down in the bike rather than that feeling of being perched up top? I'm assuming this because of the tank height relative to the seat. I much prefer motorbikes like that now that I've hit my 40s, makes me feel a bit more secure in the turns. It's not the design that they originally presented, but I could live with the appearance changes because I don't think there's another bike that includes all those extras in that price point.
Nice review, Thanks TMF !
Good old ktm, it’s pretty much a grown up supermoto! Looks good fun though, and is that not what a motorbike is all about
Nice bike but the only thing that troubles me is all the negative comments about KTM reliability and customer service. I guess if you've had your fingers burned you are going to be pretty anti what ever brand of bike it was. For me you should have had the new Triumph Speed Triple RS on long term review as it was such an improvement on the old. i wonder if KTM will give the 790 Duke the R treatment? Cruise control? Illuminated switch gear? Thanks as always.
Probably after/at the same time the Adventure version is launched which will no doubt have cruise and likely the same style dash as the 390/1290 SA R/S.
The 790 Duke R may well keep the more track focused dash like current Duke and SDR have.
What would you chose between a Shiver 900 and this 790 Duke ?
The Duke...
Thanks TMF. It's good to hear your observations in case I've overlooked something important. I rode the 790 in May. I was expecting it to be pretty good, but it exceeded my expectations by a fair amount. I particularly liked the power characteristics and the easy handling. It's a good price, but I'd be prepared to pay more for upgraded suspension - I was impressed by the OE setup, but prefer softer, well controlled suspension that comes into its own at high speeds on bumpy minor roads. Good to find KTM havn't lost it! 😊
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! - TMF
I think the 8 stands for 8 valves, not 8 hundred CCs
Yes a few have said that...
the 8 in lc8 is the valve count
Thanks
Thk you.
The goat nearby you needed some Grass.
So it’s an automatic bike?
Nope.....
Where did you find the time to do all these reviews?
A firm seat is ok but a hard seat; no thank you on long bike tours.
No heated grips in northern Europe is a big No No.
We still have vans in other colors than white 😋
Heated grips and better (taller + shorter too) seats are options.
a possible replacement for the street triple ?
Possible....
That quickshifter thingymebob you showed us - I just call it the back brake. My shifter is on the left.....(-;
You're not the first to spot my deliberate mistake ;0)
Kevin Perree I was just scrolling to see if anyone else noticed. Made me think......for the first time 🤔
😂😂😂
Love the way the sheep were bigging up the spec as your were reading it out........yeah!
Nice review, looking forward to collecting it next week!
You're gonna like this one....
Until breaks down if like the 690
I envy you. I won't be able to collect mine here in Burnaby BC until August or September and KTM Canada still won't quote a price. Put a deposit down anyway. The Akrapovich slip-on muffler (which I am opting for) costs an additional 1600 dollars! Getting it mostly for looks and sound as well as the small weight saving. Seems like a delightful machine and I can't wait!
Where's my Furygan gloves Sir Lamb Chop? lol, those hockey mitts are fantastic! I hope they sponsor you because I know of at least 3 guys I ride with that are buying them because of your channel.
Knowing how much you like the Street Triple, that’s high praise you give to the 790; must be a great bike ticking a lot of boxes. Thanks for your review, cheers.
Thanks for watching Peter....
Had mine 2500 miles ride it in sport mode sounds even better in sport crackles more mechanical grip blows me away gravel and pot holed roads this thing laughs at them never had so much fun since rgv250 getting almost 200 to a tank now and not taking it easy cruises at 80 nicely regards Robert
Robert Mersey hi mate. Does the anti wheelie control works is all the riding modes or just in race mode? I mean doesn't it prevents me to flip it on all modes?
Elie Nehme hi mate yes anti wheelie is off in track but you can create your own favourite setup and use that hope this helps regards Robert
Robert Mersey thanks mate. Enjoy your ride.
Just the review I was waiting for..
Actually the 8 in the engine classification means 8 valves. Therefore the LC8 engines are V twins with 4 valves per head as found in the 1090, 1190 & 1290 models and the LC4 engines are the singles, 390, 450 and 690 models. The LC8c is the parallel twin where the c stands for compact.
Amazing info, thanks for share.
Mike Scherer don’t forget, the LC Stands for liquid cooled!
Great review thanks TMF, had mine for just over a month and it is an awesome bike, had a Street Triple R 765 as well but didn`t keep it long and in my opinion the 790 beats it all ways. look forward to your living with review.
Hey James, are you still happy with your 790 Duke? Or missing your Streety?
Im between those two. Test rode them both this week and i'm not shure which bike i want. They are both equal awesome when riding in their own ways...though the Streety looks much more elegant, the duke has that plastic motocross look...
Hi TMF . I have a MV brutale 800 and a monster 796 . Waiting for KTM to release an R version and that could be the bike to replace my two .
Buy ktm superduke 1290 2.0
Nice review! I think its kind of ugly looking, but it is a treat to ride. If the bike weighs 169 dry, It cant really weigh 174 kg with 14 liter of fuel :). I think around 188-190 KG wet is the correct wet weight. I hope KTM makes a more sexy and better spec 790 Duke R.
14 litres of petrol weighs 10.78 kg
Yeah
Plus a couple of kg for oil and another couple for coolant ...
+ the battery
LC8c liquid cooled 8 valve compact.
Doesn’t half make a funny bleating noise 🐑
@9.57 I think you'll find the quick shifter on t'other side of the bike. That is the rear brake master cylinder!
Whoops - Realised that when I was going round but couldn't think of a way out of it except hope it didn't get noticed!!
Nice review TMF . Personally I think this bike is a peach ,yes it's looks divide opinions but each to there own .Your getting a lot for your money here and with a few additional bits of kit it could be that do it all bike just like my fz8 used to be . I think if they bring out an adventure s version and not just the r then ktm will have a really good seller in the mid sector adventure market . Your review certainly stirred up the ktm haters lol 😂. The motor is brilliant and I'm looking forward to your long term review . I could see myself owning one of these .
The 790 is not KTMs first 2 cylinder engine. I think you meant to say, first *parallel twin* engine @ 7:24.
Doesn't matter how good their bikes are, if they don't get the best dealers selling them in every county in the UK they won't keep people riding KTM for the sole reason their dealers are shocking, and that is from first hand experience as I owned a KTM1190 Adventure and I had dealings with three KTM dealers and they were all terrible!!
KTM Centre in Hemel are a top bunch of blokes....I've no experience of other dealers though...
I agree wholeheartedly about lack of dealerships for KTM road bikes. Here in N.West England they are thin on the ground since the Blackburn dealership closed. 1 in W. Yorkshire, 1 in N.Yorkshire ,
1 in N. Wales. They really do need a Lancashire dealership to generate more sales otherwise BMW will continue to mop up almost all of the big adventure bike sales.
Sounds like an almost perfect commuter bike.
One area where Triumph may be better is reliability, I have spoken to a couple of KTM owners who have had issues with quality control and reliability, but to be fair, that could be a problem with the dealer as they had been purchased /serviced /repaired by the same dealership (but at different locations).
Lord Rupert Yes, very true, I was being diplomatic. 😇
The dealer didnt design and make the bike, but I know a good dealer can be a big help.
Yes, like everything else, some are good and some are bad, the trick is knowing which is which.
From experience I had a Triumph that let me down 3 times in as many months. My 1190 Adventure in 4 years nothing has gone wrong, apart from a weak battery in winter.
Peter O'Connell Hi there, that's encouraging, I had my Tiger 800 XRx for 3 years with no problems. I suppose all large scale manufacturers are prone to problematic batches and external suppliers.
I've been looking forward to your 'normal blokes review' of the 790.I recently bought one as my first bike and love it! See it as a bike to grow into and learn to ride properly. Had ergo seat fitted from day one and i've ridden for hours in comfort, also have bar end mirrors on order... KTM have really poor supply of power parts. Enjoy your videos thanks dude, good work!
Richard Gurney KTM have something called a gel seat I don't know if it is available for the 790 Duke but it is available for the other dukes too
Yes, they have a huge list of PPs for the bike but they are not actually available yet it seems. :(
Thanks for the review. I have seen your individual reviews of the KTM, Triple RS and MT09 SP. Please consider combining into a group test with consideration of the naked Suzuki also. Many thanks.
New Street Triple looks better in my eye, it's more desirable and sounds a lot better too. The stock exhaust on the KTM looks like an afterthought and those mirrors...
That’s because it was indeed an afterthought. Check out the concept! If they had kept it like that it would have been the best looking naked ever made imo
...and dont forget the gearbox.. the seat.. the screen..
I never assumed it would look like the concept, BUT it just doesn't look good at all. The 1290's styling is so much better, and even the smaller Dukes manage to look better. I was really looking forward to it, but I just can't get over the cheap look.
I hope you're not referring to me.
Good initial review of the basic 790 model. Here's hoping they release a few variants with better brakes and suspension, would love to see a RC like model kitted out as a Moto2 contender ;-)
We are most certainly enjoying your very informative videos. Thank you so much for the work you put into them. I would like to ask you in general how do you feel about the fit and finish on the KTM motorcycles as compared to the BMW bikes? More specifically, would you buy your GS again let’s say over a 1290 Super Adventure R?
Thank again.
Schveddy5- Oklahoma
Fit and finish is at least as good as the BMW as far as I can tell!
“I may replace that with the akra” does this mean your buying one?
So waiting for the KTM 790 Adventure next year hoping it happens. Keep up the great work TMS!!!
A great review. We missed a lot of the bullshit thanks to TMF avoiding that cow paddock.
All bikes are nice when new ,it would be good to do a review after 18 months of use to see if there’s any issues
TMF, yet another shitty front mudguard. I would recon the front engine casing is going to get corroded really quickly as the stones from the road pepper the paint/powder coating. Do you think any manufacturer is going to be brave enough to fit a proper mudguard? All that electronics bollocks and a shitty front mudguard, yet another 'epic fail'. A82 Joe. PS If its getting false neutrals as early as this, thats a worry😱😱😱😱
I have 8000 flawless miles on my 1290, love all my ktms and Husquverna
Absolutely hate that headlight what planet is it from. Thank god I can find 690 dukes readily available I just don’t like this bike front to back
So they stuck a Honda gearbox in it? 😦 that’s poor for a new bike
Question - it looks like you are saying you prefer this to a STR in this and yet I saw your comment on the Motorcycle.com comparison last week which say you'd take the Triple any day?
I bought one a month ago, I'm super satisfied, this bike is addictive, I just had to take the preload of the rear shock and the bike was much more comfortable, it's the most fun bike I've ever driven, perfect for city and back roads, as always 100% according to your reviews ... waiting for the long term review..
some comments about the quick shifter but it works perfectly and very smooth, after you get used to it, it starts to be intuitive through the sound of the engine you have the sensation of the right moments to shift i have no problem with false neutrals or any other issue to me is perfect.
Cheers Miguel - stay tuned for lots more on this one!
I love these mid range nakeds. Light, flickable, agile, around 100hp - perfect for commuting and a little bit of hooliganism after work. Great review of a great bike 👌
👌
Agreed 100%
KTM DOES NOT WARRANTY THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THIS IS A DEAL BRAKER, IT WILL COST THE CONSUMER A FORTUNE TO REPLACE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. RECONSIDER BUYING A KTM.
Oh no! Another bike I've got to try👍
You are truly a white van magnet. hahaha.
Sorry mate, this one seems 'sped up' too, not sure if you've changed camera or editing or what, but everything is just not right now.
You're speaking faster, moving faster, even when you 'indicate' to what you're talking about - ie point at the mirrors - it is faster, kinda like watching a shit Hollywood movie.
I can't watch any more, so for now I'm going to unsubscribe, hope you sort it soon as I've always quite enjoyed your vids.
Strange - cheerio Wayne.....