I put 11K on my 22' 890 Adventure in 10 months. I'd heard all the horror stories, the electronics (which I had some in the TFT when I first purchased the bike) the cam issue and the shocks. I took my bike in for the 11K service and had them check the cams when they did the valves, and go through the bike thoroughly. I did that to sell it. The cams and the rest of the bike were in spec so I sold it. Bought a T7. Love the T7 and yeah my bike had an issue with the clutch and Yamaha is replacing it right now. One of the big issues with KTM that I had was the attitude of the dealership that I bought the bike from, which isn't the dealership that I had the 11K work done. When the 890 was new and having TFT issues the guy that sold it to me asked me if I had purchased the extended warranty. I told him that he wasn't giving me confidence in KTM's bikes. KTM's attitude is like they are doing us a favor for buying their bike. There are other fish in the ocean KTM.
My experience is... Not unique, unfortunately. Obviously thousands of folks have no issues. But Google shows many with bikes as unreliable as mine. - Frank
Hello Tim, bike is running well... For the time being. If i am waiting for the new 390 Adventure to replace my existing 390. I may trade the 799 in. 🤣 Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Wow, Frank. I feel for you. I bought a 390 very much on the experience of people like you and Matt. I was already thinking ahead about the 790 or 890 once I felt I'd used up the 390. Now, I realize I'm a lucky guy to have the 390, and will absolutely not try its bigger brothers. Anyway, the 390 really is everything anyone needs, and fun!
You sir, are a fortunate man! It's an exciting bike to ride, everything good said about these are true, unfortunately, the rice you pay in worry, concern and maintenance, IMHO is not worth it. I have had a dozen people min tell me "did it's just your bike." and half of them have since gotten back to me months after the video saying "you are not going to believe this" and the like! - Frank
I've doom scrolling all the content regarding KTM 790 & the Honda Transalp as I've got the money to buy one but can't decide which one. I really WANT the 790 but knowing myself, I'll lose my stuff with reliability issues. I'm currently on an Africa Twin for basic ADV rides and a KTM 500EXC for real off-road. Both my 500 and AT have been bulletproof. As much as I want the 790 over the Transalp, it's hard to argue with Honda. Also, being really old and riding mostly alone, my 500 is being converted to more dual sport and unless I'm with a group, the bigger bike will be relegated to nothing harder than gravel roads/mild 2 track. Thanks for sharing your experiences though I feel for you....
That sucks. Figures it happens so close to when you planned to leave for your trip. What’s up next to get you to SD? The teachers always told me to hold my questions until the end, it might get answered! 390 to the rescue!
Had a 390 and now the new 790 I’m willing to take my chances because it’s hands down the best riding middleweight Adv out there We”ll see how the CF Moto version holds up, likely better I think
@@SBMotoZ I have a 2024 KTM 790 Adventure also. I bought it despite all the things I read on the internet. I’m confident that CFMoto built a good bike, and at 4600 miles have had no issues of concern.
It's exciting to ride. The R suspension is amazing offroad and on, the power is just right to feel like a hooligan of you want, but be 100% controllable. I would bet the CFMoto bikes are more reliable. Mine is the end of the Austrian made days. I wonder of the guys making it knew KTM was moving their jobs to China the next year and slacked off! 🤔🤣 - Frank
@@OneOldManRiding it's not a bad hypothesis! There is a general manufacturing/human cycle aspect to these things e.g. when a factory is brand spanking new (CF moto have a shiny setup) and everyones fresh you'll likely get good products...at least for a while!
I tested the Transalp, the Tenere, and the 790 (the new CF Moto one), and without a doubt, the 790 was the best. Later, I tried the 390 Adventure, which made me realize that the other bikes were too heavy for off-road use, while the 390 had enough power. Now, I'm waiting for the 2025 model, and the reliability of the 390 is the cherry on top.
Hello Sr.D, I have ridden, multiple offroad rides, with Tenre and Tuareg riders, and sure, I agree they are "better" at what we were doing, road and off-road, I still prefer the 390. It's just such a sweet spot of weight and capability. I hit a rut, left the bike and came back to lift it two weeks ago, ADV Matt said over coms "Wait, let me help you," and I replied, "Thanks, I am OK, its a 390!" So much easier to lift than my 790! Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
@@CptSlow89 Hello, I had the opportunity to ride the CFMoto months ago, prior to release. Very impressive with two issues for ME. The weight is high, its only 24# less than a Tuareg, and due to the high fuel tank, it feels just as heavy. The other issue is really a me issue... no easy cruise control. I am kind of addicted to CC now. Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
As a fellow biker whom has had breakdowns and other issues with bikes over the years I feel your pain. With that said there's a damn fine slightly more expensive Honda that is known for quality and almost endless miles of travel in them with your name on it. I know a GREAT Honda dealer in Scottsdale AZ and can prolly even get you a discount on a new/used Honda there. In 33k+ miles only issue with my Honda ATAS was the TFT display which Honda warrantied till 2033 and was replaced with zero hassles. Ride Red or you will be following the leader. 🏍🎥
I own a 2024 790 Adventure with about 2,700 miles on it. I would have more miles on it, but it had issues on two different long ride weekends. - The thermostat housing is on backorder until 12/20/2024 and is one of the things that they are replacing for the coolant leak. When I took the bike into the dealership, they also found an oil leak! They say its the seal for the countershaft. I am looking into lemon laws in my state. I am not confident in this bike anymore!
Hello Aimee, backordered parts can ruin a riding season for sure. No confidence appears to be a growing concern... Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
I bought a Ktm 390. It was a lemon as well. Thank God I got a buyback. You were an inspired me to get the 390 and it has worked well for you but did not for me.
What a beautiful day for a ride, I'm truly sorry the 790 has had so many issues, your rant was funny but not funny at the same time due to the heartbreak of it all. Hopefully a good shock rebuild will end the madness. Every time you describe the 390 KTM it sounds so much like a DR650, just get on, smile and go.
That sucks on the shock. It wasn’t your luggage, likely the abuse that shock took from the previous owner and you! Hard riding makes that shock a wear item. Maybe you might consider getting another street bike like an MT-09 for your faster adventure needs. 🤣 The internet provides a wealth of resources that can be good, AND is also a negativity concentrator. I’ve looked at many of the things that you mentioned and remain skeptical. I have no doubt that people have had issues. I’m not sure they are as widespread as what is being perpetuated. If the problems were that numerous it would be easy to compile the data to actual find the cause of the issue(s). KTM just doubled the warranty (with reasonable requirements) for their bikes in the Travel category. For example, a new 790 Adventure or 1290 S goes from 2 years to 4 years. Warranties are expensive. They wouldn’t do that if they did not have confidence in the quality of those bikes.
Wow. Too bad about the 790. You will need to sell it to somebody that doesn't use UA-cam or Facebook. Suzuki time? Have fun In South Dakota with that great gorup.
Imo the absolute bare minimum of an adventure bike is rock solid reliability. You cannot have people spend hundreds of hours of their lives paying for these bikes on top of other responsibilities and have them not work.
👍. At least u found the leak now not in 300 km into your ride. Isn’t 15k miles is pretty good for a shock seal? Hope u still have the 390. Lol. Still can’t beat the drz 400e for reliability. It’s just a shame they are a premium price now.
Remember, you could always use it for trade in value… that way your conscience could stay safe, and give you the opportunity for acquiring a more reliable ride.
You sir have the best idea. A dealer will know about the many potential issues. At this point, I am trying to decide to keep it and fix it, and fix it, and fix it... Or be done with it. A dealer would keep my contact conciance clear. - Frank
Sorry to hear about your 790 😔. I’ve been hearing a lot about cam failures along with some other quality issues. Hopefully KTM will step it up in the future. Anyway you could do a video on the Yamaha that’s also in your garage? Thanks for sharing your experience. -Dave
Hey Frank, you know what feels good? When you stop banging your head against the wall! Face it, the bike hates you. My 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 hated me, I have no idea why. Trade it in to a dealer so you don't have to look at the new buyer. Life is too short my friend.
Hello Mike, you sir are correct. This bike and I are not mean to be happy together! Problem is, I would feel guilty selling it... May just have to trade it in! - Frank
The problem with Hondas are that buying new is stupid, since buying old is the same. Also driving honda is so boring. I went for 390 adv instead. Hopefully in 4 to 5 years they will sort out the problems of the bigger brother and then I will buy it.
Hello, not been serviced. The bike has been used for touring, the shock has one BDRX on it. Heck my 390 Adventure has 19K on the shock and has been on mostly dirt! The shock failure is not isolated. This bike has had a number of issues. Including ten weeks in the shop with KTM support saying to replace the entire wiring harness... Fortunately the tech found it was a $150 part causing the electrical issue. - Frank
Hello Nick, I put the Lemon away, put the 390 on my Campervan and drive to North Dakota. It was time to put some distance between me and the 790. 😁 Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
You've had it four years,.....waaaaay past the normal shock service interval. Am I missing something? It appears to me you deserve that shock leak for not servicing it according to the manual
Hello, fair enough. Though a shock failing under 15K miles when 13.5 of those were highway miles (Trip to Canada, the out west.) is not common. If you venture to the 790/890 R FB group you will see folks with failed shocks on their 2022 890s. Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
I had a 1290 SA and the rear shock dumped it’s oil at around 17,000 miles. I’m not sure what a shock service would entail? A full rebuild? I don’t know. Anyway, this is only the second time I’ve had a shock failure in 30 odd years of riding and have never had a shock serviced before. Wouldn’t go near a KTM again.
That’s unfortunate that you have so many problems. Not to poop on your video, but your 790 and my 890 are not the same bike. The FB group does have 1000’s of members, but the massive majority have not had issues. They’re just watching the drama unfold. That’s not to say the KTM is “Honda reliable”, but you’re creating more drama so owners worry more than ride. And you’re contributing to the promotion of low resale value for nothing.
Hello Motojon, fair points. My 790 engine is Austrian, your 890 is probably from China. The FB group has 890 cams bad already. Though if I were to bet, I would place money on the CFMoto made engine being more reliable. All I can do is explain my issues. In no way may I claim anyone else will have them. The fact that the issues my bike has, is shared by others is anecdotal to be sure. I do appreciate your taking the time to comment! - Frank
You have that backwards. The 790 is a Chinese CF Moto. My 890 is Austrian. I like your videos, but listen to it. You’re not only lumping the 790/890 together (as many do), but condemning them both because YOU have some issues. 🤷🏻♂️
I put 11K on my 22' 890 Adventure in 10 months. I'd heard all the horror stories, the electronics (which I had some in the TFT when I first purchased the bike) the cam issue and the shocks. I took my bike in for the 11K service and had them check the cams when they did the valves, and go through the bike thoroughly.
I did that to sell it. The cams and the rest of the bike were in spec so I sold it. Bought a T7. Love the T7 and yeah my bike had an issue with the clutch and Yamaha is replacing it right now.
One of the big issues with KTM that I had was the attitude of the dealership that I bought the bike from, which isn't the dealership that I had the 11K work done. When the 890 was new and having TFT issues the guy that sold it to me asked me if I had purchased the extended warranty. I told him that he wasn't giving me confidence in KTM's bikes. KTM's attitude is like they are doing us a favor for buying their bike. There are other fish in the ocean KTM.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
That's brutal. Those bikes seem to be nothing but problems, after the warranty runs out.
My experience is... Not unique, unfortunately. Obviously thousands of folks have no issues. But Google shows many with bikes as unreliable as mine. - Frank
Nothing ruins motorcycling like an unreliable bike. Sorry man, hopefully you get it sorted or get it trader out👍👍
Hello Tim, bike is running well... For the time being. If i am waiting for the new 390 Adventure to replace my existing 390. I may trade the 799 in. 🤣 Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Wow, Frank. I feel for you. I bought a 390 very much on the experience of people like you and Matt. I was already thinking ahead about the 790 or 890 once I felt I'd used up the 390. Now, I realize I'm a lucky guy to have the 390, and will absolutely not try its bigger brothers. Anyway, the 390 really is everything anyone needs, and fun!
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
I almost bought one of these. I am so glad that I did not.
You sir, are a fortunate man! It's an exciting bike to ride, everything good said about these are true, unfortunately, the rice you pay in worry, concern and maintenance, IMHO is not worth it.
I have had a dozen people min tell me "did it's just your bike." and half of them have since gotten back to me months after the video saying "you are not going to believe this" and the like! - Frank
I've doom scrolling all the content regarding KTM 790 & the Honda Transalp as I've got the money to buy one but can't decide which one. I really WANT the 790 but knowing myself, I'll lose my stuff with reliability issues. I'm currently on an Africa Twin for basic ADV rides and a KTM 500EXC for real off-road. Both my 500 and AT have been bulletproof. As much as I want the 790 over the Transalp, it's hard to argue with Honda. Also, being really old and riding mostly alone, my 500 is being converted to more dual sport and unless I'm with a group, the bigger bike will be relegated to nothing harder than gravel roads/mild 2 track. Thanks for sharing your experiences though I feel for you....
That sucks. Figures it happens so close to when you planned to leave for your trip. What’s up next to get you to SD? The teachers always told me to hold my questions until the end, it might get answered! 390 to the rescue!
Had a 390 and now the new 790
I’m willing to take my chances because it’s hands down the best riding middleweight Adv out there
We”ll see how the CF Moto version holds up, likely better I think
@@SBMotoZ I have a 2024 KTM 790 Adventure also. I bought it despite all the things I read on the internet. I’m confident that CFMoto built a good bike, and at 4600 miles have had no issues of concern.
It's exciting to ride. The R suspension is amazing offroad and on, the power is just right to feel like a hooligan of you want, but be 100% controllable.
I would bet the CFMoto bikes are more reliable. Mine is the end of the Austrian made days. I wonder of the guys making it knew KTM was moving their jobs to China the next year and slacked off! 🤔🤣 - Frank
@@OneOldManRiding it's not a bad hypothesis! There is a general manufacturing/human cycle aspect to these things e.g. when a factory is brand spanking new (CF moto have a shiny setup) and everyones fresh you'll likely get good products...at least for a while!
I tested the Transalp, the Tenere, and the 790 (the new CF Moto one), and without a doubt, the 790 was the best. Later, I tried the 390 Adventure, which made me realize that the other bikes were too heavy for off-road use, while the 390 had enough power. Now, I'm waiting for the 2025 model, and the reliability of the 390 is the cherry on top.
Hello Sr.D, I have ridden, multiple offroad rides, with Tenre and Tuareg riders, and sure, I agree they are "better" at what we were doing, road and off-road, I still prefer the 390. It's just such a sweet spot of weight and capability.
I hit a rut, left the bike and came back to lift it two weeks ago, ADV Matt said over coms "Wait, let me help you," and I replied, "Thanks, I am OK, its a 390!" So much easier to lift than my 790! Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
If you can try CF MOTO 450MT.
@@CptSlow89 Hello, I had the opportunity to ride the CFMoto months ago, prior to release. Very impressive with two issues for ME. The weight is high, its only 24# less than a Tuareg, and due to the high fuel tank, it feels just as heavy. The other issue is really a me issue... no easy cruise control. I am kind of addicted to CC now. Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
As a fellow biker whom has had breakdowns and other issues with bikes over the years I feel your pain. With that said there's a damn fine slightly more expensive Honda that is known for quality and almost endless miles of travel in them with your name on it. I know a GREAT Honda dealer in Scottsdale AZ and can prolly even get you a discount on a new/used Honda there. In 33k+ miles only issue with my Honda ATAS was the TFT display which Honda warrantied till 2033 and was replaced with zero hassles. Ride Red or you will be following the leader. 🏍🎥
I own a 2024 790 Adventure with about 2,700 miles on it. I would have more miles on it, but it had issues on two different long ride weekends. - The thermostat housing is on backorder until 12/20/2024 and is one of the things that they are replacing for the coolant leak. When I took the bike into the dealership, they also found an oil leak! They say its the seal for the countershaft. I am looking into lemon laws in my state. I am not confident in this bike anymore!
Hello Aimee, backordered parts can ruin a riding season for sure. No confidence appears to be a growing concern... Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
I bought a Ktm 390. It was a lemon as well. Thank God I got a buyback. You were an inspired me to get the 390 and it has worked well for you but did not for me.
Hello Twisty road, very sorry to hear that! What are you riding now? - Frank
What a beautiful day for a ride, I'm truly sorry the 790 has had so many issues, your rant was funny but not funny at the same time due to the heartbreak of it all. Hopefully a good shock rebuild will end the madness. Every time you describe the 390 KTM it sounds so much like a DR650, just get on, smile and go.
Yes.
That sucks on the shock.
It wasn’t your luggage, likely the abuse that shock took from the previous owner and you! Hard riding makes that shock a wear item. Maybe you might consider getting another street bike like an MT-09 for your faster adventure needs. 🤣
The internet provides a wealth of resources that can be good, AND is also a negativity concentrator. I’ve looked at many of the things that you mentioned and remain skeptical. I have no doubt that people have had issues. I’m not sure they are as widespread as what is being perpetuated. If the problems were that numerous it would be easy to compile the data to actual find the cause of the issue(s).
KTM just doubled the warranty (with reasonable requirements) for their bikes in the Travel category. For example, a new 790 Adventure or 1290 S goes from 2 years to 4 years. Warranties are expensive. They wouldn’t do that if they did not have confidence in the quality of those bikes.
The bike has been mostly on the road. I only abuse the 390, as Bajaj makes a more dependable product! - Frank
The added weight of the HF rear box was just too much for the 790!🤣
I just knew going to the middle sized box was a mistake! But it was only $5 more! 😭 - Frank
Wow. Too bad about the 790. You will need to sell it to somebody that doesn't use UA-cam or Facebook. Suzuki time? Have fun In South Dakota with that great gorup.
Yes, 800DE time. It's a very nice package and reliable.
@@jonwoodworkerI agree with you on the Zuk. Austin Tyler's video at Carnegie showing what the 800DE is capable of is well worth watching.
I'm glad to hear you're not just going to pass it along to another rider, good for you.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
I Was actualy thinking about getting a 790... Thank you for that.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Ktm has a real quality control issue. Given their current financial condition, they are going to avoid any recall or warranty claims
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Imo the absolute bare minimum of an adventure bike is rock solid reliability. You cannot have people spend hundreds of hours of their lives paying for these bikes on top of other responsibilities and have them not work.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
👍. At least u found the leak now not in 300 km into your ride. Isn’t 15k miles is pretty good for a shock seal? Hope u still have the 390. Lol. Still can’t beat the drz 400e for reliability. It’s just a shame they are a premium price now.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Remember, you could always use it for trade in value… that way your conscience could stay safe, and give you the opportunity for acquiring a more reliable ride.
You sir have the best idea. A dealer will know about the many potential issues. At this point, I am trying to decide to keep it and fix it, and fix it, and fix it... Or be done with it. A dealer would keep my contact conciance clear. - Frank
Tons of posts on the 790/890 melting Cam Shaft issues lately. Cool bikes on the surface, but I don't see myself ever owning one...
Hello 333, I am sure MOST of the bikes are OK. But OOF, the number that are not..
I would not recomend one! - Frank
Sorry to hear about your 790 😔. I’ve been hearing a lot about cam failures along with some other quality issues. Hopefully KTM will step it up in the future. Anyway you could do a video on the Yamaha that’s also in your garage? Thanks for sharing your experience. -Dave
I would but thats my son in laws and getting on it is painful! So leaned over! - Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Hey Frank, you know what feels good?
When you stop banging your head against the wall! Face it, the bike hates you. My 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 hated me, I have no idea why. Trade it in to a dealer so you don't have to look at the new buyer. Life is too short my friend.
Hello Mike, you sir are correct. This bike and I are not mean to be happy together! Problem is, I would feel guilty selling it... May just have to trade it in! - Frank
It is inminente that it will fail.
I am happy you were not in the middle of your trip.
May God Bless You.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Oranges are now Lemons. Funny.
It's Orange, but it's a Lemon... Like a new, terrible fusion! 😁 - Frank
The problem with Hondas are that buying new is stupid, since buying old is the same. Also driving honda is so boring. I went for 390 adv instead. Hopefully in 4 to 5 years they will sort out the problems of the bigger brother and then I will buy it.
when was the last time you had the shock serviced? i mean, these are parts that need servicing
Hello, not been serviced. The bike has been used for touring, the shock has one BDRX on it. Heck my 390 Adventure has 19K on the shock and has been on mostly dirt!
The shock failure is not isolated. This bike has had a number of issues. Including ten weeks in the shop with KTM support saying to replace the entire wiring harness... Fortunately the tech found it was a $150 part causing the electrical issue. - Frank
Hope it doesn't f'up your trip too bad.
Hello Nick, I put the Lemon away, put the 390 on my Campervan and drive to North Dakota. It was time to put some distance between me and the 790. 😁 Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
Buy Japanese and take the stress away.
......and be eternally bored with mundane-ism!
@@rideoregonfirstyes on that front you may be right, but at least you are moving instead of looking at a piece of useless metal.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
I'd replace the fork seals while you're at it before you make another video crying about routine maintenance.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Yes, normal required servicing would have avoided this shock issue. it's part of the high performance deal.
You've had it four years,.....waaaaay past the normal shock service interval. Am I missing something? It appears to me you deserve that shock leak for not servicing it according to the manual
Hello, fair enough. Though a shock failing under 15K miles when 13.5 of those were highway miles (Trip to Canada, the out west.) is not common. If you venture to the 790/890 R FB group you will see folks with failed shocks on their 2022 890s. Thank you for stopping by and commenting. - Frank
I had a 1290 SA and the rear shock dumped it’s oil at around 17,000 miles. I’m not sure what a shock service would entail? A full rebuild? I don’t know. Anyway, this is only the second time I’ve had a shock failure in 30 odd years of riding and have never had a shock serviced before. Wouldn’t go near a KTM again.
That’s unfortunate that you have so many problems. Not to poop on your video, but your 790 and my 890 are not the same bike.
The FB group does have 1000’s of members, but the massive majority have not had issues. They’re just watching the drama unfold.
That’s not to say the KTM is “Honda reliable”, but you’re creating more drama so owners worry more than ride. And you’re contributing to the promotion of low resale value for nothing.
Hello Motojon, fair points. My 790 engine is Austrian, your 890 is probably from China. The FB group has 890 cams bad already. Though if I were to bet, I would place money on the CFMoto made engine being more reliable.
All I can do is explain my issues. In no way may I claim anyone else will have them. The fact that the issues my bike has, is shared by others is anecdotal to be sure.
I do appreciate your taking the time to comment! - Frank
You have that backwards. The 790 is a Chinese CF Moto. My 890 is Austrian.
I like your videos, but listen to it. You’re not only lumping the 790/890 together (as many do), but condemning them both because YOU have some issues. 🤷🏻♂️
More like lemon-cheese spread .. KTM has lied to all their loyal customers about any & all warranty complaints
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Yup, buy a KTM, end up on a Honda.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
KTM
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank
Stop making videos like this you're ruining my resale value LOL.But i do love my 890 adv r.
Sorry! Hey my lemon is Austrian, I would bet money that the CFMoto engine is more reliable! Thank you for stopping by and commenting! - Frank