KTM already set standards in the travel segment with the new 1190 Adventure in its first model year. In MY 2015 both 1190 Adventure color variations get a new and fresh graphic design which makes their appearance even more attractive, supporting their sporty domination of travel enduros on street. Already in 2014, the 1190 Adventure, together with its "R" sister model, has been turned into what is currently the world's safest motorcycle - yet still with undiluted riding pleasure. I was the first motorcycle, offering Bosch's new MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control). MSC enhances the existing package consisting of lean-sensitive traction control and ABS featuring a combined braking function with a world first: the first ever lean-sensitive cornering ABS. As ever, it sets standards in the travel segment: 150 hp with a weight of only 230 kg fully tanked combine to produce a power-to-weight ratio previously unheard of in this class and therefore delivering unrivalled ride dynamics. At the same time, the powerful, economical and cultivated engine enables either particularly relaxed and comfortable riding or, if required, super-sporty propulsion – with every conceivable level in between. The chassis combines lightness with outstanding geometry and fantastic suspension, which, together with completely new tires for the travel enduro class, allow undreamed of riding pleasure in all conditions and whatever speed you desire, from very relaxed to very, very fast. |
BEST POSSIBLE OVERVIEW: VDO DISPLAY |
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COCKPIT
State-of-the-art instrument cluster from automotive supplier VDO: central permanent LCD for displaying all riding conditions (plus speedo and rev counter with adjustable gearshift light), another LCD on the left for displaying the adjustable features: |
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CHASSIS |
Wire-spoked wheels for tubeless tires featuring airtight rim beds patented by KTM. The rims on the 1190 Adventure combine all the benefits of a tubeless tire (easy fitting and dynamic advantages due to no inner tube) with the stability and robustness of a wire-spoked wheel. This set-up makes the Adventure's rims substantially more resilient than all the competition's cast and spoked wheels – an added bonus, especially in hard offroad riding. |
With so much propulsive power, the front wheel can become very light, which can quickly lead to unpleasant kick-back on uneven roads or following a slight stimulus at the handlebar. The Adventure prevents this safely with a reliable and sensitive WP steering damper. |
APPERANCE For Model Year 2015 both 1190 Adventure models get a new and fresh graphic design which makes their appearance even more attractive. |
With its ultra-lightweight yet extremely stable tubular space frame, the high strength, die-cast, open-lattice swingarm and high quality suspension components from WP Suspension, the KTM 1190 Adventure meets all requirements for stability and controllability. Spoked wheels - tubeless, 19-inch up front; 17-inch at the rear - fat tyres and employment of appropriate suspension travel optimise its talents on the asphalt. Unrivalled braking from world market leader Brembo and assistance systems (MSC with MTC and lean-sensitive C-ABS), developed in close collaboration with Bosch, round off the package and help the 1190 Adventure into a clear lead straight from the start in terms of ride dynamics and safety. Top-quality components from high-class suppliers are assembled to create the 1190 Adventure's chassis. They combine the pure riding pleasure typical for KTM with the best possible feedback and maximum safety. |
New standards demand new tools: The 1190 Adventure is the first ever travel enduro to roll on state-of-the-art, extremely grippy and durable tyres sized at 120/70 ZR 19 and 170/60 ZR 17. |
The outstanding combination of lightweight engineering in the chassis and likewise very light and extremely powerful engines make the KTM 1190 Adventure top of its class in terms of power-to-weight ratio and ride dynamics. Its weight of only 230 kg, fully tanked with a substantial 23 litres of fuel, makes the 1190 Adventure – in typical KTM manner – one of the lightest motorcycles in its segment. Further reasons for the fantastic ride dynamics are the outstanding geometry, the very well-balanced stiffness distribution and the high quality of suspension components used. These ingredients not only result in nimble handling, but also in a boost to safety, since it is far easier to guide a lightweight motorcycle around a source of danger than a heavy one. |
Chrome-molybdenum steel tubular space frame made from chrome-molybdenum stainless steel. The frame contributes to an excellent chassis geometry, it's extremely stable and weighs only 9.8 kg. Consistent lightweight construction that contributes to the low overall weight of just 212 kg (ready to ride, without fuel) and 230 kg fully tanked. |
EDS (Eletronic Damping System) Fine tuning of the suspension can be achieved with the factory fit EDS (electronically adjustable suspension) package. By using the handlebar mounted controls, the rider can adjust the spring preload of the front and rear suspension to four pre-defined settings (solo, solo with luggage, two-up and two-up with luggage) – providing the perfect geometry in all situations. In addition, the rider can also choose between three comfort settings of the suspension damping (comfort, street and sport) – according to their preferred riding style. |
SWINGARM The die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is not only particularly light and stable, it's also very precisely manufactured, with a design optimized in terms of flexural behavior and stiffness. |
Thanks to multiple setting options, the stable upside-down telescopic fork with 48mm internal tube diameter and the shock absorber from WP Suspension allow optimum adjustment of the chassis to suit the individual operational use of the versatile 1190 Adventure. |
Precise application, powerful and free from fading: More than adequate deceleration is ensured on the 1190 Adventure by Brembo brakes with the very finest components, such as 320 mm brake discs, radially mounted, four-piston fixed callipers and a radial hand pump. At the rear, the braking energy flows into a generously dimensioned 268 mm disc. And not to forget: everything supported by Bosch 9ME C-ABS. |
SAFETY THANKS TO STATE-OF-THE-ART SENSORS |
![]() The ultimate in safe deceleration: One component of the comprehensive Bosch MSC assistance package is the world's first lean-sensitive cornering ABS. Based on the high-quality 9ME modulator, it unites the talents of combined braking and lightning-quick, efficient pressure modulation with the high quality Brembo hardware to make the most advanced braking system on the market - no-one brakes more progressively or safely. Benefits and properties of MSC-ABS: » Safest and most effective deceleration on the market - even at extreme angles (optional) » Extremely short braking distances » When the front brake lever is actuated, the rear brake is always applied purposefully in parallel in order to optimise ride stability when braking » If required, not only can it be switched off, but also placed in offroad mode » Complex computation algorithms contribute to the prevention of endos Offroad mode: Offroad mode allows the rider to block the rear wheel as and when required - a prerequisite for committed offroad riding and deliberately executed slides. The ABS function remains active on the front wheel, even in offroad mode. |
As an integral part of the MSC package, MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) also regulates subject to the angle of lean. It guarantees sporty yet completely controllable propulsion on all surfaces. Its intervention is indicated with a flashing LED in the VDO multi-function display. Depending on the engine mode selected by the rider, MTC permits differing levels of rear-wheel slip. Overall, MTC therefore offers four different characters (plus OFF), selected using the multifunctional switch on the left handlebar grip. Developed in close collaboration with Bosch, it reacts in a matter of milliseconds if the rear wheel begins to rotate too rapidly for the riding conditions. It also makes use of the quick intervention time of the ride-by-wire system to reduce propulsion to a safe level, subject to the angle of lean. Depending on the MTC mode, the EMS (Engine Management System) also makes available a suitable level of power – for example, "only" 100 instead of 150 hp in rain mode. |
As its name implies, the optional TPMS monitors tire pressure (visible in the display) and warns the rider in the event of pressure loss, for example due to tire damage. |
TOP PRICE/PERFORMANCE |
OUTSTANDING PACKAGE PRICE Work it out for yourself: The KTM 1190 Adventure is not only the lightest, most powerful and versatile travel enduro, but also the one with the best equipment package. As a result, you get - at an already very affordable entry-level price - so much more for your money than from any of its esteemed competitors. |
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PRICE/PERFORMANCE
The KTM 1190 Adventure is light, powerful and extremely controllable.. Thanks to low fuel consumption, a 23-litre fuel tank and long service intervals of 15,000 km, it hardly ever needs to take a break. |
Although substantially more powerful and equipped more comprehensively, the 1190 Adventure consumes about 20 per cent less fuel than its equally heavy predecessor (230 kg fully tanked, despite a smaller fuel tank). Together with an impressive 23-litre tank capacity, the range is suitable for desert use. |
A unique mix of the highest quality components combined with a fully developed and reliable engine allows extremely long service intervals of 15,000 km. |
TORQUE, POWER AND SMOOTHNESS |
The guarantee for smooth throttle response, not just no throttle control cable: The 1190 Adventure's ride-by-wire system ensures perfect application of the readily available and plentiful torque. It also electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into throttle valve positions perfectly suited to the riding conditions. The DBW system is fully compliant with the strict DIN 26262 safety standard from the automobile sector. |
The advanced V2 engine with 1195 cc displacement supplies everything that a top-class travel enduro could ever need: powerful acceleration for offroad use, a powerful punch for tours fully loaded and 150 hp peak power when the chips are down. Fully developed after five years in a superbike, not only does the extremely light, high-performance, four-valve engine consume considerably less fuel than its predecessor, it also extends the service intervals of the 1190 Adventure to a wallet-friendly 15,000 km. |
Not only does the slipper clutch open when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it also assists when you open up the throttle. The former prevents annoying rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating; the latter reduces the hand force required for changing gear, hence allowing the clutch to be controlled with the little finger - which saves energy when riding. |
The twin plug ignition system controls the two differently sized spark plugs in each cylinder head independently of each other in such a way that more efficient combustion and a smoother, optimally controlled combustion sequence are achieved at all times. The result: even more and even better controlled power, lower fuel consumption, and less emissions. |
The main reasons for the outstanding performance of the V-twin with its 75° cylinder angle are the state-of-the-art four-valve cylinder heads with twin plug ignition, flow-optimized ducts and cam follower drive via DLC-coated cam followers, each with two overhead camshafts. |
CRANKSHAFT The smooth shape of the crank webs results in low-loss running of the crank drive; the modified weight distribution of the crankshaft and alternator rotor improve the ride quality. Together they optimise the load change behavior of the engine. |
The forged piston structure borrowed from Formula 1 results in a high loading capacity, despite an extremely short and lightweight design. In this way, the reciprocating weight can be minimised and the responsiveness and free-revving nature of the engine maximised. The top piston ring grooves have a state-of-the-art, hard-anodized finish. Not only is this particularly hard-wearing, it also minimises friction and guarantees optimal sealing for the whole engine life. |
DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) stands for an extremely hard, durable and tribologically (i.e. in terms of sliding behavior) particularly well-suited coating, that KTM uses in many engine parts (cam followers, piston pins, etc.). |
A unique mix of the highest quality components combined with a fully developed and reliable engine allows extremely long service intervals of 15,000 km. |
VERSATILE AND ERGONOMIC |
The field of use of the 1190 Adventure extends smoothly from pleasurable touring comfort to uncompromising acceleration. This extremely wide application range is made possible not least by the first ever deployment of a ground-breaking electronics package. What's particularly impressive is that the bike's different characters lead to virtually no perceptible compromises. So those who use the Adventure for relaxed locomotion don't feel any of the sportiness at their disposal (for example, due to sharp responsiveness or a taut chassis set-up). Those who ride more sportily don't have to put up with a rocking horse. The many riding modes naturally support the user's tastes as well. Whether it be alpine pass or coastal road, motorway or bone-shaking track, winding curves or urban jungle, the 1190 Adventure is the ultimate travel enduro for adventures on all the world's roads. |
VERSATILE AND ERGONOMIC The KTM 1190 Adventure sets standards for the whole travel segment: 150 hp with a weight of only 230 kg fully tanked combine to produce a power-to-weight ratio previously unheard of in this class and therefore delivering unrivalled ride dynamics. At the same time, the powerful, economical and cultivated engine enables either particularly relaxed and comfortable riding or, if required, super-sporty propulsion – with every conceivable level in between. The chassis combines lightness with outstanding geometry and fantastic suspension, which, together with perfectly adapted travel enduro tyres, allow undreamed of riding pleasure in all conditions and whatever speed you desire, from very relaxed to very, very fast. For MY 2015, the exhaust gets a newly designed shield for better heat protection of the rider´s and passenger´s feet. |
Not only are the top-notch ergonomics of the new 1190 Adventure suitable for all riding situations from comfortable outings - alone or two-up - to lively acceleration on asphalt and furious offroad shredding - whatever the surface or location; The ergonomics can also be adjusted in many ways to suit individualists and riders of any stature: |
The height of the rider part of the two-piece seat can be adjusted by 15 mm. Thanks to its state-of-the-art 3D foam padding, it also provides more comfort over longer periods and a better feeling for what's happening at the wheels - an orthopaedic benefit from tourers for tourers, from sportsmen for sportsmen. From MY 2015 on, KTM uses new foam that feels softer but offers much more consistency. So, no matter if the ride was short or very long, the rider and passenger reach destination in comfort. Due to new luggage case mounting from the side, the passenger handles are placed lower and provide more generous space and comfort. |
The height of the windshield can be varied individually as desired or to suit the rider's stature in next to no time with the easily operated champing mechanism (+25 mm). |