adventure motorcycles

2024 KTM 790 Adventure Specs and Performance Review

2024 KTM 790 Adventure Specs and Performance Review

Looking for a thrilling ride experience on a route that is not only limited to the paved road but also takes you to a dirt trail as well? The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is the perfect adventure bike to take you there. This middleweight, versatile machine is not just a smooth ride on the highway; it turns into a dirt-loving beast when the roads end.


Though the KTM 790 Adventure isn’t a fresh face in the arena, it has been around for a while. It's an evolved version of a platform that has earned a lot of loyal customers for its thrilling riding experience and go-anywhere spirit.


The 790 Adventure was introduced in 2019 and it immediately found a market segment for riders looking for a motorcycle that was capable of handling both paved and unpaved roads equally well. Long acclaimed for its sporty handling, comfy ergonomics, and strong engine, it provided a great option for those riders who were looking for something more easily moveable and lightweight than the larger, bulkier adventure bikes.


Most reviewers found a gap in the adventure category as they wanted a smoother power delivery and better fuel adaptability for remote expeditions. With the 2024 revision, KTM has taken the time to listen to the feedback and has promised to fix the issues while keeping the core strengths that made the 790 Adventure a success.

1. 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Specs

2024 KTM 790 Adventure Specs
General Info
Maker KTM
Model 790 Adventure
Motorcycle Type Adventure Bike
Introduced in 2019
Warranty Two Years Factory Limited Warranty
Base MSRP $10,990
Engine
Engine Parallel-Twin; Four-Stroke Engine
Displacement 799 cc
Cooling System Liquid-Cooled
Engine Management System Bosch EMS with Ride-By-Wire
Stroke 65.7 mm
Bore 88 mm
Compression Ratio 12.5
Valve Configuration DOHC; Four Valves per Cylinder
Fuel-Mixture Generation DKK Dellorto (Throttle Body 46 mm)
Fuel Delivery System Electronic Fuel Injection
Exhaust
Silencers Stainless Steel Primary and Secondary Silencer
Starter Electric
Lubrication Forced Oil Lubrication with Two Oil Pumps
Emission Details Euro 5
Performance
Claimed Engine Torque 88.1 Nm / 65 lb-ft
Claimed Horsepower 93.87 hp / 70 kW
Fuel Mileage 56.14 mpg
Drive Train
Gear Box Six-Speed
Final Drive 520 X-Ring Chain Drive
Clutch PASC™ Anti-Hopping Clutch, Mechanically Operated
Chassis
Frame Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel Frame Using the Engine as Stressed Element, Powder Coated
Rear Sub-frame Design Chrome-Molybdenum Steel Tubular Space Frame, Powder-Coated
Suspension
Front 43 mm WP APEX Open Cartridge Upside-Down Fork
Adjustability Preload Adjustable
Wheel Travel (Front) 7.9 in / 200 mm
Rear WP APEX - Monoshock
Adjustability Preload Adjustable
Wheel Travel (Rear) 7.9 in / 200 mm
Brakes
Front 320 mm Dual Discs with Dual Four-Piston Calipers
Rear 260 mm Single Disc with Twin-Piston Caliper
ABS Bosch 9.3 MP (including Cornering-ABS and Off-Road Mode)
Wheels
Wheels Type Spoked Wheels with Aluminum Rims
Front 21 in
Rear 18 in
Tires
Tires Type Maxxis Supermaxx ST tires
Front 90/90-21
Rear 150/70-18
Dimensions
Seat Height 33.8 in
Dry Weight 203 kg
Wet Weight 438 lbs
Ground Clearance 233 mm / 9.2 in
Wheelbase 1,509 mm / 59.4 in
Length 2,128 mm / 83.8 in
Steering Head Angle 64.1°
Rake 25.9°
Fuel Tank Capacity 5.3 gal
Standard Features
Saddlebags No
Windscreen Yes
Hand Guards Yes
Luggage Rack with Grab Rails Yes
Engine Cover Yes
Ride Information Display 5-inch TFT Screen
Ride Safety Features
ABS Bosch 9.3 MP (including Cornering-ABS and Off-Road Mode)
IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) Standard
Ride Modes Standard Modes: Street, Offroad, and Rain
Optional Mode: Rally
Traction Control Standard
Cruise Control Optional
Quickshifter Optional

2. Design and Aesthetics: 2024 KTM 790 Adventure

The KTM 790 Adventure is back for 2024, and as one of the most powerful middleweight adventure bikes, it still holds the title of a great contender in the ADV bike category. This bike’s design is not only about the looks but also the experience that makes the ride more adventurous for the rider who likes to feel the thrill.

2.1 Aggressive Yet Refined

KTM is an iconic brand in terms of its unconventional design and 790 Adventure is a good example of it as it follows the brand’s heritage. The sharp lines and angular fairings ensure a cleaner overall look. The front of this motorcycle includes new LED headlights with DRLs (daytime running lights) that not only give it a sleek and modern look but also enhance the overall aggressiveness. The windscreen is redesigned in such a way to offer good wind protection and at the same time, ensure the rider has a clear view of the road.

2.2 Ready for All Challenges

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure has a beak-shaped front-end look to shield against flying debris and increases the bike's overall aggressive look. Handguards are the standard item installed on this bike, which ensures that your hands are safe from scratches while maneuvering in tight off-road trails. A skid plate is welded at the bottom of the engine to provide strength and protection from the harsh beating.

2.3 More Vibrant

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is available in two different color schemes, including black and white to suit your taste. The orange color graphic and accents are still there providing a vibrant look. In addition to that, high-grade materials and finishes are used to give this bike a feeling of a premium level.

3. 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Upgrades

2024 KTM 790 Adventure Upgrades

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is introduced with multiple new features and updates for riders who love to go offroad. The 2024 model has gone beyond the cosmetic changes, there is also an emphasis on performance and rider experience, which will bring you to the next level of off-road adventures.

4. Engine and Performance: 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Review

The power mill of the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is the LC8c parallel-twin engine, the familiar sound of which has been a constant feature across multiple KTM models. This tested and approved engine platform is slightly revised to provide a better ride, higher efficiency, and better off-road performance. The 790 Adventure engine is not only about the sheer power; it is also about the refinement and the capability.

4.1 Refined Power Delivery

The 20% increase in crankshaft weight is considered the most significant change in the 2024 model. Though it sounds like a minor alteration, it ensures a tremendous improvement in the ride performance. The heavy crank helps to reduce vibrations, offering the user a smoother and more linear power delivery. This means more predictability, particularly in the lower rpm range, which is crucial for tackling technical terrain with delicacy.

4.2 More Usable Power

Though the peak horsepower figure of 93.87 hp is retained, the engine is now expected to be more responsive with a potential improvement in torque delivery through the rev range. This means the higher torque in the mid-range, which is the most popular zone to be used for off-road excursions. Anticipate a more engaging experience when cornering and overcoming inclined surfaces with a peak torque figure of 88.1 Nm, thus, making the 790 Adventure a more capable machine to ride in difficult conditions.

4.3 Geared for Adventure

The 2024 790 Adventure incorporates a newly designed power slip and assist clutch, allowing for smoother and more accurate gear changes. This is a benefit, especially for off-road riding where the rider has to change gears frequently, and the clutch that is hard to press can be a real nuisance and can easily disrupt the riding flow and control.

4.4 Fueling the Adventure

The quality of fuel becomes a big issue for riders who are looking to conquer off-road challenges. The knocking control system, equipped in the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure, is a solution to this problem. This is an innovative feature making the engine adjust ignition timing to compensate for the lower quality fuels thus preventing engine knocking and in turn protecting the engine from any possible damage. It also ensures a sense of calmness on long journeys where it can be difficult to find a high-grade fuel supply.

4.5 On-Road Performance

Do not think that the 2024 790 Adventure is only good on off-road terrain; it is also an excellent motorcycle to ride on paved roads. The seamless power delivery with abundant torque is perfect for smooth highway cruising. The engine is also very responsive and feels lively as you open the throttle.

5. Comfort and Ergonomics: 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Review

Before you get into the comfort and ergonomics of the 2024 KTM 970 Adventure, you need to understand what type of motorcycle it is. The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is a perfect adventure bike and is not only about cruising relaxedly on highways, going into the mountains, or overcoming dirt trails. It's about being able to have the best of both worlds. This bike is perfect for conquering any terrain you can think of, and its ergonomics is all about having the best time on adventures. Although this bike’s ergonomics are more inclined towards off-road riding, it certainly doesn’t disappoint you even after a long ride on the highway.

5.1 Upright Rider Triangle

The 790 Adventure is a motorcycle that offers an upright riding position. Such a posture ensures a straighter back and your shoulders and wrists will not be under as much strain. You will see the road ahead of you in a more commanding position. Such a riding style is perfect for long hours in the saddle, and you can enjoy the view without getting hunched over.

5.2 Mid-Mounted Foot Controls

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure has mid-mounted foot controls as found in almost every adventure bike. However, the legroom doesn’t feel too compact for most riders to stay relaxed on adventures.

5.2 Mid-Mounted Foot Controls

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure has mid-mounted foot controls as found in almost every adventure bike. However, the legroom doesn’t feel too compact for most riders to stay relaxed on adventures.

5.3 Seating

The 790 Adventure bike is fitted with a flat seat, ensuring good comfort on long rides. The seat is wide enough to give good support and the shape is designed to distribute pressure evenly, consequently minimizing fatigue. Also, like the dirt bike, the long seat allows you to cling to the bike if things get tough.

5.4 Adjustable Seat Height

The 790 Adventure has a seat that can be adjusted, ranging from 33 inches (the lowest setting) to 33.8 inches (the highest setting). This flexibility makes the motorcycle suitable for a range of riders, leading to better handling of the bike.

5.5 Handlebars Position

The 790 Adventure’s wide, near-straight handlebars are designed to give you the leverage and control you need when undertaking off-road maneuverings. The handlebar position is also designed to ensure that the rider is in a perfect pose when standing on the pegs.

5.6 Windscreen

The windscreen attached to the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is a great stylish element and has a reasonable height, ensuring a decent blockage of incoming wind. However, for more effective wind protection, the windscreen could have been made a few inches taller.

6. Handling and Cornering: 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Review

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is not just any adventure motorcycle; it's a corner-hugging thrill machine that loves to play in the dirt as well. Here's why it dominates both on and off the asphalt:

6.1 Cornering Confidence on Twists and Turns

Riding the 790 Adventure is such a natural phenomenon that you forget about the bike itself when you twist and turn the curves. This bike has a low center of gravity achieved as a result of a lightweight frame and fuel tank that were placed strategically. This is the main reason for the bike's agility, making it so easy to swing it through the corners and hold your line accurately.

6.2 On-Road Prowess

The 790 Adventure is not just a good off-road bike but equally performs well on the pavement. The WP Apex forks help you keep the bike balanced, and the advanced tech package that includes cornering ABS and traction control keeps you safe while dealing with challenging situations.

6.3 Off-Road Maneuvering Made Easy

The pure fun of riding an ADV bike must not be limited to the pavement. The 790 Adventure is so light that it feels like a breeze to float on a dirt trail. The long-travel suspension can absorb bumps and jumps quite effectively.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7.1 Does the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure have Cruise Control?

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure does not come with cruise control as a standard feature, but it is available as an optional feature if you prefer to go on long-haul on-road tours.

7.2 Is KTM Coming Out with a 490 Adventure?

Unfortunately, KTM did not continue to work on the 490 Adventure project and it was not brought to the market. The company declared this in the first quarter of 2023. There was a lot of buzz around that bike, but KTM decided it would be too difficult to pursue this project and it is better to pay more attention to the already established models.

7.3 Where Is the KTM 790 Adventure Made?

Unlike the earlier models that were assembled in Austria, the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is the outcome of a global joint venture. KTM produced the 790 Adventure in Mattighofen, Austria, but it is currently made in China by the company's partner, CFMoto. This strategic partnership is based on the KTM design competence and CFMoto’s well-established production facilities. With this joint venture between the two companies, the 790 Adventure can maintain its high quality and price competitiveness by reaching a wider audience.

8. 2024 KTM 790 Adventure Color Options

2024 KTM 790 Adventure Color Options
Color Option Model
White with Orange Graphics White with Orange Graphics
Black with Orange Graphics Black with Orange Graphics

9. The Bottom Line

The 2024 KTM 790 Adventure is a very attractive choice for those who wish for a highly capable motorbike to conquer both on- and off-road terrains. It retains the lightweight handling and comfortable riding position that impressed prior owners. The re-engineering 2024 KTM 790 Adventure has improved power delivery, handling, and control, thanks to a reworked clutch and a heavier crankshaft.


The 2024 upgrades to the 790 Adventure further include fuel adaptability for remote excursions, thus making it a more versatile ride partner for any trail. Whatever type of riding you are into, be it the precision of carving corners or the thrill of tackling dirt trails, the 790 Adventure is a motorcycle that can successfully meet all your needs. This makes it a perfect machine to beat in the middleweight adventure bike category.


Though the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure can highly impress you with its on-road performance, you will still need a few luggage options to take it long miles. Viking Bags can help you with this by offering comprehensive storage solutions with its esteemed luggage bag products, including touring luggage systems, tank bags, duffel bags, tool bags, and backpacks.

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