KTM 890 Adventure R: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The 790 grown up: more torque, revised suspension, same accessories
Ninety extra cubic centimeters, retuned WP XPLOR suspension, and updated electronics. For accessory buyers, the good news is that the crash bars, case racks, and top-case plate are the same as those for the 790: the market has developed shared part numbers.
- In summarySame structure as the 790, with more torque and better suspension.
- Do this immediatelyCHG222 crash bars, case racks, instrument protection.
- AttentionThe CANsmart control unit is the 890-1290 version, not the 790 version.
- Tank stickersDifferent part numbers for 2021-2022 and subsequent model years.
- BrandsLOBOO, DENALI, Eazi-Grip, Endurrad.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 889 cc parallel twin, 285-degree crankshaft |
|---|---|
| Power | 105 hp at 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 100 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain final drive |
| Chassis | Steel trellis frame, fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension |
| Wheels | 21-inch front, 18-inch rear, spoked |
| Weight | 196 kg dry |
| Fuel tank | 20 liters, positioned low on either side of the engine |
| Seat height | 880 mm |
| Production | from 2021, evolution of the 790 Adventure R |
Pros and cons
Pros
- More torque than the 790, useful in slow off-road riding
- WP XPLOR suspension with more refined settings
- Side-mounted tank that keeps the center of gravity low
- Main accessories shared with the 790
- Comprehensive, adjustable electronics
Cons
- 880 mm seat height and a chassis that requires confidence
- Used prices are still high compared with the 790
- Essential wind protection
- Electronic part numbers differ from the 790: pay attention to the control unit
- Suspension maintenance not to be overlooked
What to install, in order of priority
- 1
CHG222 crash bars with skid plateHigh or low version, suitable for the 790 and 890 Adventure and the Norden 901. - 2
Side case racksIncludes hardware, threaded inserts, and tool. Same part number as the 790. - 3
CANsmart control unit for the 890 and 1290 from 2021This is the right part number for this bike: the 790 version is not suitable. - 4
Instrument protection, 2021-2022The TFT dashboard is expensive to replace: the film prevents scratches and stone chips. - 5
Tank stickers, 2021-2022Your knees work a lot against the side tank: the grip changes your control while standing on the footpegs. - 6
Aluminum side panniersTo be paired with the racks: the long-distance touring setup. - 7
Top-case plateOn the original luggage rack: adds capacity without making the bike wider. - 8
Tank stickers, recent model yearsCode for the 790 and 890 Adventure from 2023 onward: check the year before ordering.
Compatibility table
In terms of chassis, the 890 is compatible with the 790; in terms of electronics, with the 1290.
| Accessory | 790 Adventure R | 1290 Super Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| CHG222 crash bars | yes | no |
| Pannier racks and top-case plate | yes | no |
| CANsmart 890-1290 control unit | no | yes, from 2021 onward |
| Instrument protection | no | no |
| Tank stickers | code by year | no |
| Soft luggage and mirrors | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
LOBOOProtection and luggageCHG222 crash bars, pannier racks, side panniers, and top-case plate shared with the 790.
DENALILighting and electricalCANsmart control unit for the 890 and 1290 from 2021 onward, auxiliary lights, and SoundBomb horns.
Eazi-GripGrip and filmsTank stickers and instrument protection, with separate codes by model year.
Frequently asked questions
Do the 790 accessories fit the 890?
Crash bars, pannier racks, panniers, and top-case plate, yes, because the LOBOO codes are specified for both models. The CANsmart control unit, however, is not: for the 890, use code 890-1290 from 2021 onward.
Which tank sticker code should I get?
It depends on the year: there is one code for 2021-2022 and another for model years from 2023 onward, covering both the 790 and 890 Adventure.
Is it worth switching from the 790 to the 890?
If you’re looking for more torque and more refined suspension, yes, but the difference off-road is less pronounced than the specifications suggest. The practical advantage is that almost all the accessories remain the same.
High or low crash bars?
The lower version protects the engine covers and crankcase; the full version adds protection for the fairings and side tank. On a bike used on genuine off-road terrain, the latter is advisable.
Can it handle a trip for two with luggage?
Yes, with dedicated pannier racks and suspension tuned for the load. The limitation is the 880 mm seat height, which makes stationary maneuvers more demanding with a passenger.