2021 KTM 890 Adventure R and Rally unveiled

KTM unveils next year’s 890 Adventure R

We’ve seen and tested KTM’s 790 Adventure and Adventure R and are already pretty delighted with both bikes. Now, KTM has upped it up a notch with their 2021 890 Adventure R and 890 Adventure R Rally.

As the name implies, the upcoming adventure bike is bored up 100cc more, bringing it to 899cc. The upgraded (Euro5-compliant) engine of the new 890 Adventure R/ Rally boasts an increase in power and torque, as well as two new balancer shafts, lighter forged pistons, a Power Assist Clutch (PASC), and many more.

890 Adventure R Rally

This will be a limited-edition offering from KTM. According to KTM, most of the 890 Adventure R Rally’s components and settings were derived from the efforts of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally team.

Highlights include top-shelf WP Xplor Pro suspension systems, Akrapovic exhaust, a 910mm-high rally seat, Quickshifter+, carbon fiber tank protectors, and rally footrests.

Only 700 units are scheduled for production: 200 for the US market and 500 globally.

890 Adventure R

It seems that KTM has completely dropped the “S” variant and decided to go straight with the “R” variant. Like the Rally, the new engine of the R generates 106 Ps of power and 100 Nm of torque, 10 Ps and 12 Nm more than the 790. The crankshaft features 20% more rotating mass and the overall effect of the engineering around the powerplant means a more stable and consistent output, noticeable with low RPM torque. The added mass also means added cornering stability for long-distance riding on the throttle. Fully adjustable WP Xplor suspension, overhauled ABS software, and new traction control algorithms are just three aspects that mold the KTM 890 Adventure R as the company’s refined definition of an exhilarating ‘all-rounder’.

Chris Birch approves

Renowned off-road and adventure bike riding coach, Chris Birch, has shared on his social media page that he was very happy with the new 890 Adventure R.

“I've only had a couple of days on it, some highway riding, a little Auckland city traffic but most importantly a day of back roads and trails before I had to lock it away until the launch. I'm in love already.

The increase in torque is instantly noticeable. The heavier crank weight gives it a smoother and more tractable power delivery that makes it an easier and faster bike off-road. The improvements to the quick shifter+ are very noticeable. Plus, in my opinion, it looks sexy as hell. I can't wait to get it dialed in and head into the hills for some proper adventures, it's going to be a good summer!”

PH availability

At the moment, according to KTM’s Manu Sandejas, Philippine pricing and availability for the new 890 Adventure R/ Rally have yet to be determined.