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Thanks for adding the metric conversions, really helpful for us Europeans :) Not many people do that properly on YT so cheers for that! For the traction control discussion, I had exactly that experience in a ...car. Had an old e39 BMW some years ago and it's great TCS allowed me going through snow and ice without any problems while other newer cars were totally stuck. It just found traction, sounds like what the 890 is doing.
While I don't have Ian's experience I can agree. My 890 Adventure S is my second ADV bike after owning a BMW 850GSA and several dual sports. I'm just at 1,600 miles and after my mini custom BDR ride the other day I'm just in love with this bike. The ease and confidence that I can tackle some difficult sections is several levels higher than I had on the BMW which at times inspired dread. The lower center of gravity, lower seat height, the excellent power delivered through great electronics are just confidence inspiring. I seriously think it climbs hills better than my 300 cc dual sport. But the real shining star is the transition between the trails and the road. This thing is almost sports bike like when I hit the twisty connecting roads between trail sections. This is what I feel an ADV bike should be, why it should be a better choice for some rides than a dual sport, that ability to play sport bike to the end of the pavement, play dirt bike for awhile then go back to sport bike. This bike does that. so long as she stays reliable she's a keeper.
Agree on all except reliability... This bike UNFORTUNATELY has shown to be most unreliable , which I see and hear from literally hundreds of reviews of owners... It is just tragedy how much potential this bike has and how KTM has dropped the ball with cheap parts and bad customer service and simply bad reliability with too many things from TFT, electronics, lights, brakes and what not...shockingly unreliable...to the point where they say it is normal if your new bike does not ignite at first attempt or if screen does not work , like these are no biggies 😅😅
Hi, Filippo from Italy here and sorry for my English. I have currently a BMW850gsa that I am fully satisfied. Fully. But I am use to use my bike 70% off road and 30% on road and I am really thinking about new 2023 ktm890advR. Can you resume for me what you prefer and not like of each bike? Thank you !
@@Igor12822 could you list a few issues pertaining reliability which you have came across or heard about? Currently i am on a 2014 GSA 1200. I am contemplating on making the switch and getting the 890 adv r. Would like to hear unbias reviews
I love the introduction of the video, 👍 I was talking to the shop manager at my local KTM dealer and we both agree that the main issue is not the bikes or the shop, the main issue is KTM it self and how they respond to the problems that the shop and the owner are facing with the bike .
His claim of producing the most detailed YT reviews is spot on. Can’t think of anyone who does the range of things he does. And he is one of the very few people who know the correct pronunciation of Husqvarna.
You are going way to fast.Adventure is not a race.You are more into performance .Reliability is first in a adventure bike .It isn't in Motocross so much.Back to square one.If it isn't extremely reliable it cannot be trusted on a adventure.
Great review as always. Two points. 1) Its purchase price requires above average moolah. 2) Reliability issues often require available moolah to pay for parts and service. Great bike if you have the discretionary moolah to purchase and maintain it. Not everyone does. Thanks for the great review.
It's not only about money, I seen 890 adventure r break down on trips with several silly problems that you can't fix yourself and that is a problem on long trips.
Yep. If KTM would resolve their reliability / build issues, and bolster their dealer network, there's no reason they wouldn't dominate the entire adv segment really.
I put the 270mm pro suspension on my 890 R. the R suspension is pretty good, but I will say that the difference is staggering. The pro suspension is SO plush. It is the best suspension I have ever ridden. I am short legged though, and the bike is ludicrously tall. I was able to get the suspension NEW shipped from Germany for around $4000. The exchange rate is fantastic right now. Then I also have the R suspension to sell.
@@mfranquemont1884 I left the damping alone and swapped out the springs for my weight. I got the springs from solid performance, and installed them myself.
WHAT a bike! You make me want to trade in my T7. But when I ride that I feel happy anyway. And at least it’s handsome and starts in winter. Or so I tell myself. What a bike…
I just wish KTM's were reliable. SO many stories of electrical issues and issues with parts availability. Just can't do it. Would rather have a bike that is more "boring" but that rarely, if ever, breaks and, when it does, isn't such a pain in the arse.
I’m lucky to own one and agree with everything you said, good and bad. A testament to the honest reporting that you do. This bike is sooo fun to ride… everywhere!
I test rode an 890 adventure R in The Netherlands. I had an immobilizer failure just 500 meters into my test drive. Bike turned off but thankfully I could start it back up again. Needless to say I won't buy one, just because of the reliability issues. Even though this bike is arguably the best adventurebike I've ridden.
Rode ophir, corkscrew, hurricane, hagerman, all the "tough" passes on the CO BDR plus many other harder ones like Mosquito and Georgia on my Norden, never got stuck or didn't make it up any section like the riders in this video. Unless you're at Chris Birch's level one can't maximize the Rally as it's obviously way more bike than Ian and most riders can utilize, a minor upgrade of suspension on the Norden or the 890 R stock is plenty for 99.5% of riders. That said a Norden Rally would be a dream bike.
I believe the inconsistent clutch feel and performance is due to the oiling design, not the cable actuation. Instead of riding in an oil bath, it gets a dribble from a .3mm oil jet. My plates don't get look like they get oiled consistently with each other, and I'm assuming some plates do more work than others due to the spotty lubrication. Crap design that left me stranded when the oil jet plugged. All that said, yes my 790S is the most fun I've ever had riding. Nuts that KTM will not communicate on the clutch and cam issues. Best riding bike I can imagine, but there is always doubt in my mind because KTM is silent on the causes of reported issues.
Ok, a hard to find, limited production KTM that typically have reliability issues will not ever be in my garage. Plus my local KTM dealer sux ass. Your reviews, photography and editing are great 👍🏻
I love my Rally. The Rotwieler intake is worth its weight in gold. If your a serious off roader you'll need to beef up the clutch springs and get the Rotwieler headlight support. The check ball valve in the gas cap needs to be pulled and some heat tape put on the underside of tank. Its a Bad motorcycle! Really enjoy your channel.
Never seen you so praising of a bike. Really looks like you're enjoy it. Will be interesting to see your video of the Desertx when you get a chance. It's not going to touch the 890 Rally, but perhaps closer to the 890 ADV R. I know you touched upon it at the end of this video. Most of the 'reliability' issues aren't really reliability i.e. not going to leave you stranded. The immobiliser issues are the ones to watch for, but tend to crop up earlier rather than later.
i have a 790 rally and it is the baddest adv bike on the planet. no question. of course it rules in the dirt and it's also outstanding on the street. "expensive" is relative. thank you for updating title from 'brutally honest review". we'll assume that all your comments are always honest.
I know only KTM Fanboys will click on this video so...As Good As It Gets until it goes into the shop... Had a 790 and gave 890 a go. Nothing but issues. The tiger 900 rally Pro is the only true 50/50 bike. 16, 000 trouble-free miles and Counting.
:-))) everyone who loves to drive off road and who cares about a good engine and suspension will finish or come back to KTM ;-)) One thing I did with my 890 Rally version is to get rid of the catalytic converter on the stock exhaust (Akrapovic). It sounds quiet when driving slowly, but when driving in "sports" it is really pleasantly loud. Also when changing the gears up with quicshifter, it has a great fart sound ;-)) .... I recommend this upgrade. As for the clutch, I also recommend the "one finger" upgrade. The handle works very lightly then, and the quikshifter allows to limit its use. one tip, The starter in mine works on a pulse, you don't need to hold it all the time to start the engine. Have fun and safe adventure with this badass
Reliability. Well, my take is that do all the requisite mechanical checks before a huge trip, take a SOS beacon, and sat communication, and just go ride the bike you love riding. Something goes wrong? Well, something goes wrong. Don’t stress if it does! (Take out insurance!)
Regarding KTM reliability, it is a relatively small company churning out a wide range of models. I suspect they don't have the resources to properly develop each model before it is put on the market. They do seem to address problems that get aired on-line. My take is to avoid new models and buy one after a few year's production, like my 2020 1290 SAS which has had no problems at all.
Right, like the Midwest Mountain Engineering lever and others, can reduce the pull force required by 40+% on bikes that have the simple one pivot mechanism.
This is the first time I've ever gotten excited watching someone else riding a motorcycle. Lol I've been trying to decide between this bike and the tiger 900 rally pro
Easy choice for me 🙈 The low weight distribution on the ktm is truly revolutionary and I'll keep mine until someone else does that better! It's an amazing machine and by far out preforms everything else if you like taking adv bikes off-road!
Have a 890 rally and its awesome, the only thing better is my 2021 -1290 R with cone valve exp. Pro suspension , I encourage you to ride the the 1290 R as the motor is lite years ahead of the 890….enjoy!
I recently looked at a standard Adventure model and the seat height worked for me and seemed actually lower than the 390 ADVwhich I also like. It's about $5000 more than the 390 adventure but has many more features and power. As a former cruiser bike rider, would the 890 be a good first bike for me? The Tureg is too tall and the 390 is too small. I like to Honda 500X but its road orientated and needs so many things to even match what the 390 ADV has as the 390 is off road orientated. I'm getting confused and a headache from trying to decide which one I want. Please help. I wish I was taller than God made me.
Ian, Absolutely love your channel. I just picked up a 21 890 Rally with only 500 miles. I want to get the rear rack you have/had on your Rally. I thought you said Parin Moto but I could not find that. Can you tell me which rear rack you have on the Rally you had? Thank you, sir.
I think you're enamored with the exclusivity, cones + trax. Great suspension can be bought for any moto and is expensive. Thanks for the video enjoyed watching it.
Smoking hot version of the KTM 890 Adventure R. Awesome video. Love the 4K clarity. By the way, I noticed your GoPro setup on the handlebar with GoPro Media Mod. Do you recored your vlog to the phone or do you have a wireless mic ? Thanks. Kam
Cold starts sound like the 2019 Indian FTR 1200 lol. Hates the cold and runs mega rough till it warms up.. In terms of off-road how does it compare to your AT? I have a 2022 AT that I off-road, single track, and take on motocross tracks with. I really am thinking of the 2023/2024 KTM 890 Adventure R but I am torn..
just judging by reviews, if you were looking for a dual sport bike, and you see this adv getting this good, do you not think the actual upgrade isn't from an 890 adv r, but from a 690 enduro? It just seems to fit that philosophy more, and, for the money, if you were needing to accept a downgrade, it seems to me the adv would leave the consumer more disappointed than the enduro,
man i am soo jealous of you and mr. dunbar from revzilla both for your owning the holey grail of adventure bikes , i debated hard on spending the $$ for that WP-Pro cone valve set up but damn i just couldnt , i did buy Tractive Extreme for both ends and that completely transformed the 901/////////// i agree with you on the clutch so i swapped mine out for the Magura Hydro clutch kit from Rottwieller performance............ i did the whole rotty intake cat & cannister delete and arrow ti silencer with nor a Rapid bike EVO tuner which is pure magic far better in my personal experience than the Power Commander , does away with the cold start issue
Do you know a good place to rent bikes around OC or Riverside and pay a good guide for a day of riding? Thank you, Scott P. I love your videos and would love to speak to you for advice and recommendations.
Is the 890 adventure R Rally diferent to the 890 Adventure R and the standard 890 Andenture? I'm from Australia and having trouble finding anything about the rally. Can someone point me in the right direction please
Very good review. The one thing I don't like about this bike and in general all modern KTM/Husky is the throttle feel. It is so artificial, like you are governing a PlayStation controller.
Congrats on finding one! Until you ride a race bike you don’t fully appreciate how crappy the mass produced bikes are. Its definitely worth it and when manufacturers build these special models where they add race spec parts take advantage and get one. They have done all the work in installation, calibrating and tuning the parts. Beyond the special models are turnkey race bikes. 👍🏼
Nice review. Suspension is the difference. My 890R is the beast & I share your perspectives. One note ... regarding the "reliability issues" ... I maintain that if just take care of the machine & it will take care of you. Period. You can't be careless and expect to ride the world's best Adventure platform without a hiccup here and there. Honda has issues, Yamaha has them as well, and yes - even KTM's aren't perfect. Even though you paid big bucks ... no machine is "perfect". You get it. With the starting ... recall that when cold, the KTM still uses an open loop fuel map. Meaning that with only the temperature sensor & lacking any other sensor feedback (like an O2 sensor or your throttle itself) the engine will only run as programmed. It it cold, so the engine is therefore running lean & yes - it stalls. This should be no surprise. To resolve this, simply twist the throttle 20-30 degrees on the first start while pressing the starter, let the engine accelerate for 1-2 seconds & then let go so the bike returns to idle. My 890 does not stall when I do this ... ever. why isn't the KTM better than this? Please consider that KTM is making a machine that should NOT involve an algorithm determining your engine speed. It's just too dangerous. Who wants a bike "taking off" on its own? I wouldn't enjoy that thrill ride if I'm not in 100% control! The intake plenum openings are governed by your throttle position, so richen up the mixture with quick twist & then let go. It works & I think you will find other points to address moving forward. Best of luck.
Might be true for the 890 but my 790 is a death trap. It's on its 2nd engine in 6000mi and it's tried to kill me in several creative ways (dropped the swingarm when bolts backed out, front brakes failed locked, piston siezed on the highway). None of this is due to a lack of maintenance, all of these failures happened in
Feel this is a good honest review. Not many riders can give the negative reviews that you do, especially of the bikes they own. That's why I like your reviews.
Another positive that's rarely mentioned about the 790/890 adventure models is they generally do not require any additional crash bars that can add weight. Other than beafing up the sump guard and adding bark busters of course. Most other adventure bikes require a series of crash bars for both the lower and often the upper sections of the engine/fuel tank. Some do add lower crash bars to their 790/890 adv bikes but its pretty clear you don't actually need them. And the tank does a pretty good job of protecting the engine. Overall a weight advantage here I'd say.
Thank you Ian. FUN is mostly underrated when it comes to bike reviews. Mostly all we hear about is specifications. Apple computers made an award winning series of ads pointing out what you can DO with their computers rather than any specs they may have. Your excitement while riding your 890 Rally was infectious. Having a motorcycle that doesn't 'call' you to go ride it isn't worth owning. No matter how reliable it may be....
exactly. For dead on reliability I've got a car... When I sit on my motorcycle I want to have fun. If it isnt engaging then whats the point of riding a bike in the first place?
I would trade my 1290 SAR for a 800 when it comes to the offroad riding right away. But I miss the brutal LC8 engine power for the time I'm on the road 😊
My 2020 790 R has given me 3 years and 30,000 km of trouble free riding. I took it to the dealer for the 30,000 km service where they found both camshafts worn beyond limits. Despite the fact my warranty had expired KTM covered the parts and labor. What more can you ask for.
i love this bike. the innovation and attention to the needs of the riders is outstanding in its physical form but i will never own a KTM because of the company itself and its disregard for quality control and post sale warranty. they will do anything to avoid fixing your bike.
Brembo knock off brakes the cheapest Chinese battery you could ever dream of on their flagship model I think that’s a no no Ktm!!!!!! A stock skid plate that is literally glued to the bottom of the motor they couldn’t of more cheaply put this thing together!! Suspension is the only reason this bike is any good!!!
Looks like a ridiculously fun bike. That said, I don't understand how a true adventure bike can require premium gas. My experience that there are at least some (many?) gas stations in rural/remote areas that do not carry premium. Even if I had that kind of money, that one factor along would take it off my list.
I had a 790r and now an 890r. The 890 is a very different feeling bike. It feels much lighter and much lower centre of gravity even though it’s slightly heavier. It’s even easier to manoeuvre around the garage. Most of all the engine isn’t as raw. It feels a lot more composed. I have been riding for 48 years and love this bike to pieces. Watch most of your reviews and enjoy them for their honesty and accuracy.👍
Have the 790 Rally and with the Rottweiler Intake and Power Commander, the engine performs better than the 890 R. Smooth, low end torque and rips up top.
If I were a young fella like you, I’d want one of these. The shape I’m in, the Norden is the perfect bike for me. Thank you for showing it to me. And thanks for this review. It seems like an amazing adventure bike.
The Rally is definitely a awesome bike. I really feel the ktm890 standard is one of the most under rated bike for its price. I know you have had some reliability problems with your ktm I have had no reliability issues with my 890.
The design of KTM motorbikes really "bugs" me. I think the perfect motorbike should create some emotions only by looking at it but this is too much function over form. I like the Husqvarna product line more even if they are not as performance capable and "Ready to race" they look way better.
Great video man! As a new owner of an 890 ADV R, I'm still learning it. I would have bought the Rally in a heartbeat if I could have found one. I wish KTM would bring back the Rally. How much taller is the Rally vs. the 890 R? As far as the cold starts go: Turn the key on and then turn the ignition switch to on position, but don't start it. Leave the on switch "on" for about 30-60 seconds. This will prime the injectors and the bike should start and run like normal. It takes some practice to get the timing just right.
and when you see someone riding it "like you stole it" you can only scratch on the surface how capable this bike is ua-cam.com/video/nilPvlqPk2Y/v-deo.html
@@mabsbry1318 I rode a 2013 Multistrada and liked it so much, I bought a 2015. Big mistake. The'13 had Ohlins, the '15 had Skyhook - wanted to do tank slappies at even moderate speeds. For that, ridiculous throttle maps (any old lady in a Prius could outdrag me at the lights) and other reasons I couldn't trust the bike and overall rate it as a POS. Now have a 1290 SAS which is a keeper.
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I believe that's not a Catalytic Converter but Resonator. I'm not sure but that's the case in Adv 390. :) The Catcons are inbuilt in the header pipes.
dude, that haircut, please do something about it! youre wasing potential
Thanks for adding the metric conversions, really helpful for us Europeans :) Not many people do that properly on YT so cheers for that! For the traction control discussion, I had exactly that experience in a ...car. Had an old e39 BMW some years ago and it's great TCS allowed me going through snow and ice without any problems while other newer cars were totally stuck. It just found traction, sounds like what the 890 is doing.
While I don't have Ian's experience I can agree. My 890 Adventure S is my second ADV bike after owning a BMW 850GSA and several dual sports. I'm just at 1,600 miles and after my mini custom BDR ride the other day I'm just in love with this bike. The ease and confidence that I can tackle some difficult sections is several levels higher than I had on the BMW which at times inspired dread. The lower center of gravity, lower seat height, the excellent power delivered through great electronics are just confidence inspiring. I seriously think it climbs hills better than my 300 cc dual sport. But the real shining star is the transition between the trails and the road. This thing is almost sports bike like when I hit the twisty connecting roads between trail sections. This is what I feel an ADV bike should be, why it should be a better choice for some rides than a dual sport, that ability to play sport bike to the end of the pavement, play dirt bike for awhile then go back to sport bike. This bike does that. so long as she stays reliable she's a keeper.
Well said
Agree on all except reliability... This bike UNFORTUNATELY has shown to be most unreliable , which I see and hear from literally hundreds of reviews of owners... It is just tragedy how much potential this bike has and how KTM has dropped the ball with cheap parts and bad customer service and simply bad reliability with too many things from TFT, electronics, lights, brakes and what not...shockingly unreliable...to the point where they say it is normal if your new bike does not ignite at first attempt or if screen does not work , like these are no biggies 😅😅
Hi, Filippo from Italy here and sorry for my English. I have currently a BMW850gsa that I am fully satisfied. Fully. But I am use to use my bike 70% off road and 30% on road and I am really thinking about new 2023 ktm890advR. Can you resume for me what you prefer and not like of each bike? Thank you !
Get a tenere 700
@@Igor12822 could you list a few issues pertaining reliability which you have came across or heard about? Currently i am on a 2014 GSA 1200. I am contemplating on making the switch and getting the 890 adv r. Would like to hear unbias reviews
I love the introduction of the video, 👍
I was talking to the shop manager at my local KTM dealer and we both agree that the main issue is not the bikes or the shop, the main issue is KTM it self and how they respond to the problems that the shop and the owner are facing with the bike .
True
His claim of producing the most detailed YT reviews is spot on. Can’t think of anyone who does the range of things he does. And he is one of the very few people who know the correct pronunciation of Husqvarna.
Agreed, except it's pronounced husky 😉
Fagetta bout it Adam
You are absolutely correct
@@adamrichards2072 My pronunciation of "Husky" is perfect :D
MAD TV?
You are going way to fast.Adventure is not a race.You are more into performance .Reliability is first in a adventure bike .It isn't in Motocross so much.Back to square one.If it isn't extremely reliable it cannot be trusted on a adventure.
Great review as always. Two points. 1) Its purchase price requires above average moolah. 2) Reliability issues often require available moolah to pay for parts and service. Great bike if you have the discretionary moolah to purchase and maintain it. Not everyone does. Thanks for the great review.
It's not only about money, I seen 890 adventure r break down on trips with several silly problems that you can't fix yourself and that is a problem on long trips.
Yep. If KTM would resolve their reliability / build issues, and bolster their dealer network, there's no reason they wouldn't dominate the entire adv segment really.
Maybe you meant moolah?
@@mediocreman2 Moolah would be a more accurate spelling instead of mulah. Will adjust, thanks to your comment.
@@mr.solitude3352 both the same
I put the 270mm pro suspension on my 890 R. the R suspension is pretty good, but I will say that the difference is staggering. The pro suspension is SO plush. It is the best suspension I have ever ridden. I am short legged though, and the bike is ludicrously tall. I was able to get the suspension NEW shipped from Germany for around $4000. The exchange rate is fantastic right now. Then I also have the R suspension to sell.
Now that's brilliant!
Do you have specifics on the supplier/shop? Did they put in custom (to your weight) springs?
@@mfranquemont1884 I left the damping alone and swapped out the springs for my weight. I got the springs from solid performance, and installed them myself.
I have a T7 but when I sat on this bike it fit like a glove, it didn't feel top heavy it felt natural. You're a lucky dude.
It is so good hearing how you're excited and enjoying yourself. Great review you've made a KTM fan of a Honda fanboy out of me
WHAT a bike! You make me want to trade in my T7. But when I ride that I feel happy anyway. And at least it’s handsome and starts in winter. Or so I tell myself. What a bike…
In life, what we have is often what we need. Cheers.
Awesome intro!!! Rest of review is setting the benchmark for motorcycle review, as always. Well done!
Thanks!
I appreciate this video. I have a 790s and it's all I need. I'm a road bias rider.
I just wish KTM's were reliable. SO many stories of electrical issues and issues with parts availability. Just can't do it. Would rather have a bike that is more "boring" but that rarely, if ever, breaks and, when it does, isn't such a pain in the arse.
I’m lucky to own one and agree with everything you said, good and bad. A testament to the honest reporting that you do. This bike is sooo fun to ride… everywhere!
squirrel at 4:28 :D
I thought I was the only one who noticed 😀
@@virajvrooms me also😁
I'd love to try a 890, I have a 990 and love it to death, the motor is so much fun.
Clearly the best balanced bike that you have showed... by a long margin. Ackowledege your comments are supported by the video. Excellent, Thanks !!!
Amazing bike and terrific review, Ian. Love to have one of these!
The cold start issue is real issue since at least Ktm 1100 adventure r, that's why I sold my one as I could not rely on it on cold mornings.
Hands down the best motorcycle reviews on UA-cam! Thank you!
I test rode an 890 adventure R in The Netherlands. I had an immobilizer failure just 500 meters into my test drive. Bike turned off but thankfully I could start it back up again. Needless to say I won't buy one, just because of the reliability issues. Even though this bike is arguably the best adventurebike I've ridden.
Rode ophir, corkscrew, hurricane, hagerman, all the "tough" passes on the CO BDR plus many other harder ones like Mosquito and Georgia on my Norden, never got stuck or didn't make it up any section like the riders in this video. Unless you're at Chris Birch's level one can't maximize the Rally as it's obviously way more bike than Ian and most riders can utilize, a minor upgrade of suspension on the Norden or the 890 R stock is plenty for 99.5% of riders. That said a Norden Rally would be a dream bike.
I believe the inconsistent clutch feel and performance is due to the oiling design, not the cable actuation. Instead of riding in an oil bath, it gets a dribble from a .3mm oil jet. My plates don't get look like they get oiled consistently with each other, and I'm assuming some plates do more work than others due to the spotty lubrication. Crap design that left me stranded when the oil jet plugged.
All that said, yes my 790S is the most fun I've ever had riding. Nuts that KTM will not communicate on the clutch and cam issues. Best riding bike I can imagine, but there is always doubt in my mind because KTM is silent on the causes of reported issues.
well said and good info
Would love to see you compare this to the Norden 901 Expedition Edition. Seems like they resolved a lot of the issues you mentioned with it.
Ok, a hard to find, limited production KTM that typically have reliability issues will not ever be in my garage. Plus my local KTM dealer sux ass. Your reviews, photography and editing are great 👍🏻
I love my Rally. The Rotwieler intake is worth its weight in gold. If your a serious off roader you'll need to beef up the clutch springs and get the Rotwieler headlight support. The check ball valve in the gas cap needs to be pulled and some heat tape put on the underside of tank. Its a Bad motorcycle! Really enjoy your channel.
Never seen you so praising of a bike. Really looks like you're enjoy it. Will be interesting to see your video of the Desertx when you get a chance. It's not going to touch the 890 Rally, but perhaps closer to the 890 ADV R. I know you touched upon it at the end of this video. Most of the 'reliability' issues aren't really reliability i.e. not going to leave you stranded. The immobiliser issues are the ones to watch for, but tend to crop up earlier rather than later.
Great to hear you enjoying your ride. :)
i have a 790 rally and it is the baddest adv bike on the planet. no question. of course it rules in the dirt and it's also outstanding on the street. "expensive" is relative. thank you for updating title from 'brutally honest review". we'll assume that all your comments are always honest.
Right on!
I know only KTM Fanboys will click on this video so...As Good As It Gets until it goes into the shop... Had a 790 and gave 890 a go. Nothing but issues. The tiger 900 rally Pro is the only true 50/50 bike. 16, 000 trouble-free miles and Counting.
I covered that - because there is truth to your comment
:-))) everyone who loves to drive off road and who cares about a good engine and suspension will finish or come back to KTM ;-))
One thing I did with my 890 Rally version is to get rid of the catalytic converter on the stock exhaust (Akrapovic). It sounds quiet when driving slowly, but when driving in "sports" it is really pleasantly loud. Also when changing the gears up with quicshifter, it has a great fart sound ;-)) .... I recommend this upgrade.
As for the clutch, I also recommend the "one finger" upgrade. The handle works very lightly then, and the quikshifter allows to limit its use.
one tip, The starter in mine works on a pulse, you don't need to hold it all the time to start the engine.
Have fun and safe adventure with this badass
Be sure to install case saver; I learned the hard way with my 790😕
Great video, thank you. In terms of the cold starting issue buy a lithium battery it will make a big difference
Production looks like it improved even further, even though it was already excellent. Keep up the good work sir
Reliability. Well, my take is that do all the requisite mechanical checks before a huge trip, take a SOS beacon, and sat communication, and just go ride the bike you love riding. Something goes wrong? Well, something goes wrong. Don’t stress if it does! (Take out insurance!)
Next time in a up hill lose rocks situation try in the rally mode but throttle off-road, and is a game changer, just it goes smoothly
Like Grandpappy used to say, "Buy a KTM - More torque, less dork!"
just wish they would make this look better, make the tank less round, and make one fairing from the head light to the bottom of the tank,
Awesome review as always, thanks Ian!
Regarding KTM reliability, it is a relatively small company churning out a wide range of models. I suspect they don't have the resources to properly develop each model before it is put on the market. They do seem to address problems that get aired on-line. My take is to avoid new models and buy one after a few year's production, like my 2020 1290 SAS which has had no problems at all.
Have you tried the aftermarket clutch actuator arm. I'm told it vastly improves the clutch feel.
Right, like the Midwest Mountain Engineering lever and others, can reduce the pull force required by 40+% on bikes that have the simple one pivot mechanism.
This is the first time I've ever gotten excited watching someone else riding a motorcycle. Lol
I've been trying to decide between this bike and the tiger 900 rally pro
Easy choice for me 🙈 The low weight distribution on the ktm is truly revolutionary and I'll keep mine until someone else does that better! It's an amazing machine and by far out preforms everything else if you like taking adv bikes off-road!
Have a 890 rally and its awesome, the only thing better is my 2021 -1290 R with cone valve exp. Pro suspension , I encourage you to ride the the 1290 R as the motor is lite years ahead of the 890….enjoy!
I put a Manual Cam Chain Tensioner in my 20' 790R makes the engine quiet!
Great review as always Ian!
I recently looked at a standard Adventure model and the seat height worked for me and seemed actually lower than the 390 ADVwhich I also like. It's about $5000 more than the 390 adventure but has many more features and power. As a former cruiser bike rider, would the 890 be a good first bike for me? The Tureg is too tall and the 390 is too small. I like to Honda 500X but its road orientated and needs so many things to even match what the 390 ADV has as the 390 is off road orientated. I'm getting confused and a headache from trying to decide which one I want. Please help. I wish I was taller than God made me.
Great video and review as always. I have a strong feeling this one is staying in the stable indefinitely! :)
Ian, Absolutely love your channel. I just picked up a 21 890 Rally with only 500 miles. I want to get the rear rack you have/had on your Rally. I thought you said Parin Moto but I could not find that. Can you tell me which rear rack you have on the Rally you had? Thank you, sir.
This is the first time I’ve heard the parallel twin sound good! Kudos to the wings exhaust. Did you also do a cat delete and header?
I think you're enamored with the exclusivity, cones + trax. Great suspension can be bought for any moto and is expensive. Thanks for the video enjoyed watching it.
I'm sure it's nice but I'm sticking to Hondas and Kawis for life
Squirel in the background at 4:27 😂😂
Wings makes amazing products.
I own a 1090r and have had the opportunity to ride the 890r. The LC8 is superior in every way. IMO
Smoking hot version of the KTM 890 Adventure R. Awesome video. Love the 4K clarity.
By the way, I noticed your GoPro setup on the handlebar with GoPro Media Mod. Do you recored your vlog to the phone or do you have a wireless mic ? Thanks. Kam
That was such a good looking bike im surprised you sold it.
Cold starts sound like the 2019 Indian FTR 1200 lol. Hates the cold and runs mega rough till it warms up.. In terms of off-road how does it compare to your AT? I have a 2022 AT that I off-road, single track, and take on motocross tracks with. I really am thinking of the 2023/2024 KTM 890 Adventure R but I am torn..
Absolutely love your content. 👍👍👍👍👍👍
💯 best in class--and I got one!
My understanding was the windscreen on the 890 is the same one as the 790. Doesn't bother you anymore?
A true monster for sure, excellent video and even the squirrel 🐿 enjoyed it 😂
just judging by reviews, if you were looking for a dual sport bike, and you see this adv getting this good, do you not think the actual upgrade isn't from an 890 adv r, but from a 690 enduro? It just seems to fit that philosophy more, and, for the money, if you were needing to accept a downgrade, it seems to me the adv would leave the consumer more disappointed than the enduro,
I really appreciate your videos. Except the fact that I can't actually find one of these. 😂
man i am soo jealous of you and mr. dunbar from revzilla both for your owning the holey grail of adventure bikes , i debated hard on spending the $$ for that WP-Pro cone valve set up but damn i just couldnt , i did buy Tractive Extreme for both ends and that completely transformed the 901/////////// i agree with you on the clutch so i swapped mine out for the Magura Hydro clutch kit from Rottwieller performance............ i did the whole rotty intake cat & cannister delete and arrow ti silencer with nor a Rapid bike EVO tuner which is pure magic far better in my personal experience than the Power Commander , does away with the cold start issue
Do you know a good place to rent bikes around OC or Riverside and pay a good guide for a day of riding? Thank you, Scott P.
I love your videos and would love to speak to you for advice and recommendations.
Is the 890 a better bike over its big brother the 1290R please ? Thanks
Only 800 made and 200 in the states not quite mass produced unfortunately . Why did they only make so few ?
I guess I’ll keep my 950se that I paid $5k for awhile longer.
squirrel!!
on the other hand, great review as always!
Nice bike - nice video!
Is the 890 adventure R Rally diferent to the 890 Adventure R and the standard 890 Andenture?
I'm from Australia and having trouble finding anything about the rally.
Can someone point me in the right direction please
Why don’t they make the Rally anymore and why so limited?
Nice take thanks.Would there be any reason to keep your Honda AT as this bike appears to do it all for you?
He already sold the Africa Twin and bought another GS
Can you test Yamaha TW200?
Wow , seems like a great bike . Does sound good and grunty .
Very good review. The one thing I don't like about this bike and in general all modern KTM/Husky is the throttle feel. It is so artificial, like you are governing a PlayStation controller.
Would you have kept the Norden if it had this suspension?
YES
does Touratech make a Pro suspension for the 890?
Congrats on finding one! Until you ride a race bike you don’t fully appreciate how crappy the mass produced bikes are. Its definitely worth it and when manufacturers build these special models where they add race spec parts take advantage and get one. They have done all the work in installation, calibrating and tuning the parts. Beyond the special models are turnkey race bikes. 👍🏼
Nice review. Suspension is the difference. My 890R is the beast & I share your perspectives. One note ... regarding the "reliability issues" ... I maintain that if just take care of the machine & it will take care of you. Period. You can't be careless and expect to ride the world's best Adventure platform without a hiccup here and there. Honda has issues, Yamaha has them as well, and yes - even KTM's aren't perfect. Even though you paid big bucks ... no machine is "perfect". You get it. With the starting ... recall that when cold, the KTM still uses an open loop fuel map. Meaning that with only the temperature sensor & lacking any other sensor feedback (like an O2 sensor or your throttle itself) the engine will only run as programmed. It it cold, so the engine is therefore running lean & yes - it stalls. This should be no surprise. To resolve this, simply twist the throttle 20-30 degrees on the first start while pressing the starter, let the engine accelerate for 1-2 seconds & then let go so the bike returns to idle. My 890 does not stall when I do this ... ever. why isn't the KTM better than this? Please consider that KTM is making a machine that should NOT involve an algorithm determining your engine speed. It's just too dangerous. Who wants a bike "taking off" on its own? I wouldn't enjoy that thrill ride if I'm not in 100% control! The intake plenum openings are governed by your throttle position, so richen up the mixture with quick twist & then let go. It works & I think you will find other points to address moving forward. Best of luck.
Might be true for the 890 but my 790 is a death trap. It's on its 2nd engine in 6000mi and it's tried to kill me in several creative ways (dropped the swingarm when bolts backed out, front brakes failed locked, piston siezed on the highway). None of this is due to a lack of maintenance, all of these failures happened in
@@theSquashSH Geez, thats rough
Feel this is a good honest review. Not many riders can give the negative reviews that you do, especially of the bikes they own. That's why I like your reviews.
Another positive that's rarely mentioned about the 790/890 adventure models is they generally do not require any additional crash bars that can add weight. Other than beafing up the sump guard and adding bark busters of course. Most other adventure bikes require a series of crash bars for both the lower and often the upper sections of the engine/fuel tank. Some do add lower crash bars to their 790/890 adv bikes but its pretty clear you don't actually need them. And the tank does a pretty good job of protecting the engine. Overall a weight advantage here I'd say.
Yes, I should have put that in the review, very true
ian says it all the time
Thank you Ian. FUN is mostly underrated when it comes to bike reviews. Mostly all we hear about is specifications. Apple computers made an award winning series of ads pointing out what you can DO with their computers rather than any specs they may have. Your excitement while riding your 890 Rally was infectious. Having a motorcycle that doesn't 'call' you to go ride it isn't worth owning. No matter how reliable it may be....
exactly. For dead on reliability I've got a car... When I sit on my motorcycle I want to have fun. If it isnt engaging then whats the point of riding a bike in the first place?
I put my bike to bed for the winter and there is snow on the ground - his ride made me want to pull my 890 back out anyway.
@@endangeredmarmot4518 Get some studded winter tires on it and go for it. Dress warmly!
I would trade my 1290 SAR for a 800 when it comes to the offroad riding right away. But I miss the brutal LC8 engine power for the time I'm on the road 😊
That engine did not sound good at all when it was idoling, the rattle was real.😳
Thanks for the review.👍
My 2020 790 R has given me 3 years and 30,000 km of trouble free riding. I took it to the dealer for the 30,000 km service where they found both camshafts worn beyond limits. Despite the fact my warranty had expired KTM covered the parts and labor. What more can you ask for.
:What more can you ask for : .Camshafts that don't wear so fast?
i love this bike. the innovation and attention to the needs of the riders is outstanding in its physical form but i will never own a KTM because of the company itself and its disregard for quality control and post sale warranty. they will do anything to avoid fixing your bike.
that seems true, unfortunately
No thanks, if you gave me a KTM 890 adventure R rally I’d throw it off a cliff, you’d have to give me $1 million to put that thing in my garage
Love the squirrel @4:31 :)
Awesome review as always.
Brembo knock off brakes the cheapest Chinese battery you could ever dream of on their flagship model I think that’s a no no Ktm!!!!!! A stock skid plate that is literally glued to the bottom of the motor they couldn’t of more cheaply put this thing together!! Suspension is the only reason this bike is any good!!!
Looks like a ridiculously fun bike. That said, I don't understand how a true adventure bike can require premium gas. My experience that there are at least some (many?) gas stations in rural/remote areas that do not carry premium. Even if I had that kind of money, that one factor along would take it off my list.
Is it just me or do new KTM's look like fat MX bikes with graphic overload hit with an ugly stick.
Thanks but you've got to cut out the blasphemy .. 'couldn't care so much about the swearing - but please stop the blasphemy.
cruise control standard...? TPMS standard..?? Quick Shifter standard..?
I had a 790r and now an 890r. The 890 is a very different feeling bike. It feels much lighter and much lower centre of gravity even though it’s slightly heavier. It’s even easier to manoeuvre around the garage. Most of all the engine isn’t as raw. It feels a lot more composed. I have been riding for 48 years and love this bike to pieces. Watch most of your reviews and enjoy them for their honesty and accuracy.👍
Have the 790 Rally and with the Rottweiler Intake and Power Commander, the engine performs better than the 890 R. Smooth, low end torque and rips up top.
If I were a young fella like you, I’d want one of these. The shape I’m in, the Norden is the perfect bike for me. Thank you for showing it to me. And thanks for this review. It seems like an amazing adventure bike.
The Rally is definitely a awesome bike. I really feel the ktm890 standard is one of the most under rated bike for its price. I know you have had some reliability problems with your ktm I have had no reliability issues with my 890.
The design of KTM motorbikes really "bugs" me. I think the perfect motorbike should create some emotions only by looking at it but this is too much function over form. I like the Husqvarna product line more even if they are not as performance capable and "Ready to race" they look way better.
Great video man! As a new owner of an 890 ADV R, I'm still learning it. I would have bought the Rally in a heartbeat if I could have found one. I wish KTM would bring back the Rally. How much taller is the Rally vs. the 890 R?
As far as the cold starts go: Turn the key on and then turn the ignition switch to on position, but don't start it. Leave the on switch "on" for about 30-60 seconds. This will prime the injectors and the bike should start and run like normal. It takes some practice to get the timing just right.
You're getting the feel of truly extraordinary suspension, perfect balance, etc. When it happens, it's truly unreal.
and when you see someone riding it "like you stole it" you can only scratch on the surface how capable this bike is ua-cam.com/video/nilPvlqPk2Y/v-deo.html
Ohlins on a ducati gets to that. Like riding on a sofa, fast or slow…it’s SO nice to experience this feeling.
@@mabsbry1318 I rode a 2013 Multistrada and liked it so much, I bought a 2015. Big mistake. The'13 had Ohlins, the '15 had Skyhook - wanted to do tank slappies at even moderate speeds. For that, ridiculous throttle maps (any old lady in a Prius could outdrag me at the lights) and other reasons I couldn't trust the bike and overall rate it as a POS. Now have a 1290 SAS which is a keeper.