KTM 1190 Adventure: specs, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The large adventure bike that brought modern electronics to KTM touring motorcycles
One hundred and fifty horsepower, cornering ABS, and traction control when almost nobody else had them: the 1190 was the motorcycle that paved the way for the 1290. Today it is an appealing used bike, and its accessories are shared with the 1050 and 1090.
- In summarySolid used bike, with accessories common to the entire mid-size LC8 family.
- Do this immediatelyAdventure Bars engine guard, kickstand foot, auxiliary light mounts.
- SharedThe engine guard fits the 1050, 1090, and 1190.
- WarningThe kickstand foot is for motorcycles without a center stand.
- BrandsR&G, DENALI, Eazi-Grip.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 1,195 cc LC8 V-twin |
|---|---|
| Power | 150 hp at 9,500 rpm |
| Torque | 125 Nm at 7,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain final drive |
| Chassis | Steel trellis frame, WP suspension, semi-active on the R version |
| Wheels | 19-inch front, 17-inch rear; 21 and 18 on the R version |
| Weight | 230 kg ready to ride |
| Tank | 23 liters |
| Seat height | 860 mm |
| Production | 2013-2016, replaced by the 1090 Adventure |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Comprehensive electronics already in 2013, with cornering ABS
- Used prices fell after the 1090 and 1290 arrived
- Accessories shared with the 1050 and 1090: more choice and better prices
- 23-liter tank and touring range
- Proven LC8 engine and widely available parts
Cons
- Aftermarket catalog now smaller than for the 1290
- Weight that is noticeable during stationary maneuvers
- High fuel consumption when using the power
- On heavily used examples, the suspension and clutch should be checked
- Dated electronics compared with recent generations
What to install, in order of priority
- 1
Adventure Bars skid plateDesigned for the 1190 from 2013, the 1050 from 2015, and the 1090 from 2017: the most important protection on a large touring bike. - 2
2013-2016 auxiliary light mountsThey use the bike's mounting points: on mountain roads, the stock headlight leaves the side exposed. - 3
Center-stand foot plateFor the 1190 from 2014 without a center stand, the 1290 Super Adventure, the 790, and the 1050: widens the footprint on soft ground. - 4
Tank non-slip decalsFits the 1090 and 1190 from 2013 to 2021 and the 1290 up to 2020: the grip helps when riding standing up. - 5
CANsmart accessory control unitFor the 1290, 1190, 1090, and 790: controls auxiliary lights and horn from the original buttons without cutting the wiring. - 6
Wanderer semi-rigid panniers40+30 or 40+40 liters, waterproof: the luggage solution when dedicated frames are no longer available. - 7
4.5-6.5-liter tank bagWith a mounting ring, expandable: the right size for a large touring bike. - 8
Folding mirrorsThey fold away before riding off-road and do not break at the stem in a fall.
Compatibility table
The mid-size LC8 family shares many part numbers: that is the advantage of buying used in this range.
| Accessory | 1050 Adventure | 1090 Adventure | 1290 Super Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adventure Bars skid plate | yes | yes | no |
| Center-stand foot plate | yes | to be checked | yes |
| Tank non-slip decals | to be checked | yes | through 2020 |
| CANsmart control unit | no | yes | yes, through 2020 |
| DENALI auxiliary-light mounts | no | no | no |
| Soft and semi-rigid luggage | yes | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
R&G RacingProtectionAdventure Bars skid plate shared with the 1050 and 1090, center-stand foot plate for motorcycles without a center stand.
DENALILighting and electricalSpecific auxiliary-light mounts for 2013-2016 and a CANsmart control unit shared with the 790, 1090, and 1290.
Eazi-GripTank gripNon-slip decals specified for the 1090 and 1190 from 2013 to 2021 and for the 1290 through 2020.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 1190 skid plate fit the 1090?
Yes. The R&G part number is specified for the 1190 from 2013, the 1050 from 2015, and the 1090 from 2017: it is the same part for all three.
Does the center-stand foot plate fit all 1190 models?
No: it is specified for motorcycles from 2014 without a center stand. If yours has the factory center stand, that part number is not for you.
Which CANsmart control unit is required?
The one covering the 790, 1090, 1190, and 1290. The latest part number, for the 890 and 1290 from 2021 onward, is not compatible with this motorcycle.
Are the dedicated pannier frames still available?
They are increasingly rare because the model has been out of production for years. Semi-rigid panniers with strap fastening are the most practical alternative and cost less.
Is it worth buying used today?
It is one of the most affordable large adventure bikes in terms of performance and electronics. Check the suspension, clutch, and timing chain condition on examples with high mileage.