KTM 1090 Adventure: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The last mid-sized LC8, before the 890 took its place
The direct successor to the 1190, it had a short life: three years of production before KTM revised the range. For accessory buyers, the good news is that it shares almost everything with the 1050 and 1190, so the catalog is broader than it appears.
- In summaryNot widely available, but the accessories are those of the 1050-1190 family.
- Do this right awayAdventure Bars engine guard, tank grip pads, CANsmart control unit.
- Good to knowThe engine guard is the same as on the 1050 and 1190.
- AttentionThe CANsmart control unit is the 790-1090-1190-1290 version, not the newer one.
- BrandsR&G, DENALI, Eazi-Grip, LOBOO.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 1,050 cc LC8 V-twin |
|---|---|
| Power | 125 hp at 9,000 rpm |
| Torque | 109 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain final drive |
| Chassis | Steel trellis frame, adjustable WP suspension |
| Wheels | 19-inch front, 17-inch rear; 21 and 18 on the R version |
| Weight | 229 kg in running order |
| Tank | 23 liters |
| Seat height | 850 mm |
| Production | 2017-2019, replaced by the 890 Adventure |
Pros and cons
Pros
- One hundred twenty-five horsepower with more manageable delivery than the 1190
- Accessories shared with the 1050 and 1190: more choice than expected
- 23-liter tank and touring range
- Full electronics package with cornering ABS
- Low used prices due to limited availability
Cons
- Uncommon model: few accessories developed specifically for it
- Dedicated luggage racks are difficult to find
- Significant weight during stationary maneuvers
- Only three years of production, so replacement parts are less common
- Large-displacement twin-cylinder fuel consumption
What to install, in order of priority
Here, the key is to look at the family codes: many parts from the sister models fit without problems.
- 1
Adventure Bars engine guardAlso listed for the 1090 from 2017, as well as for the 1190 and 1050: it is the most important protection for this motorcycle. - 2
Non-slip tank gripsListed for the 1090 and 1190 from 2013 to 2021: they improve support when riding standing up. - 3
CANsmart accessory control unitFor the 790, 1090, 1190 and 1290: controls spotlights and horn from the original buttons. Do not confuse it with code 890-1290. - 4
Wanderer semi-rigid luggage40+30 or 40+40 liters: with the original frames now rare, semi-rigid cases are the simplest option. - 5
4.5-6.5-liter tank bagWith a mounting ring, expandable: the most versatile size on a travel maxi. - 6
18-liter IPX7 rear bagIt attaches to the seat without frames and adds capacity in one minute. - 7
Folding mirrorsThey fold away before riding off-road and do not break at the stem in a fall. - 8
Waterproof motorcycle coverProtects the seat and instrumentation if the motorcycle is left outside.
Compatibility table
That is the advantage of this motorcycle: almost everything comes from its family siblings.
| Accessory | 1190 Adventure | 1050 Adventure | 1290 Super Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adventure Bars engine guard | yes | yes | no |
| Non-slip tank grips | yes | to be verified | through 2020 |
| CANsmart controller | yes | no | yes, through 2020 |
| DENALI auxiliary light mounts | no, 1190 code | no | no |
| Kickstand base | to be verified | yes | yes |
| Soft and semi-rigid luggage | yes | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
R&G RacingProtectionAdventure Bars engine guard listed for the 1090, 1050, and 1190.
DENALILighting and electricalCANsmart controller shared with the 790, 1190, and 1290, auxiliary lights, and SoundBomb horns.
Eazi-GripTank gripsNon-slip tank grips listed for the 1090 and 1190 from 2013 to 2021.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find accessories for a motorcycle produced for only three years?
Yes, more than you might think: the engine guard, tank grips, and controller are also listed for the 1050 and 1190, which were produced for longer. That is the advantage of the LC8 family.
Which CANsmart controller do I need?
The one that covers the 790, 1090, 1190, and 1290. The 890-1290 code from 2021 onward is a different product and is not compatible.
Do the 1190 auxiliary light mounts fit the 1090?
No: DENALI lists that code for the 2013-2016 1190 models. For the 1090, it is best to contact them and verify the most suitable solution together.
What luggage can I fit?
Semi-rigid cases and soft bags that do not require dedicated frames. The original frames are now difficult to find and cost as much as a complete set of semi-rigid cases.
1090 or 890 Adventure?
The 1090 offers more displacement and costs less used; the 890 is lighter, more modern, and has a much wider range of accessories. If you plan to kit it out extensively, the 890 is the simpler choice.