In 2021, KTM made waves with the debut of the 890 Adventure and 890 Adventure R, effectively rendering the existing 790 Adventure lineup obsolete.
- KTM and CFMoto teamed up to bring the up-spec KTM 790 Adventure R.
- The KTM 790 Adventure R to feature new chassis and styling.
However, the Austrian OEM has since revived the base model 790 Adventure in 2023 as a budget-conscious alternative to its big-bore cousin. Now, KTM and CFMoto are partnering on a project to bring back the up-spec 790 Adventure R.
According to type-approval documents filed in China, the KTM and CFMoto partnership plans to revive the 790 Adventure R with new chassis and styling accommodations. The prototype image included in the documents confirms that the off-road-biased variant will sport robust 48mm WP XPLOR suspension, a high-mounted front fender, and aggressive semi-knobby tires.
While the filings don’t indicate the model’s performance figures, we anticipate the R trim to retain the standard model’s 94 horsepower and 87Nm of torque. However, without its windshield and a KTMR2R sticker plastered to its front panel, the project looks very much in progress.
As such, KTM and CFMoto could still make changes before the 790 Adventure R returns to the market.
The 790 Adventure R is expected to set itself apart from the base model 790 Adventure and the 890 Adventure R with its off-road-biased features. Given previous iterations of the 790 Adventure R and the existing 890 Adventure R, adventure riders can expect a capable and rugged machine.
KTM’s decision to partner with CFMoto for production could also make the resurrected ADV more affordable for adventure riders. The Chinese manufacturer’s experience in production and cost-effective processes could help keep the price competitive.
Overall, the 790 Adventure R’s return is exciting news for adventure riders looking for a more budget-friendly, off-road-capable bike. While we await an official unveiling from KTM, the type-approval documents provide a tantalizing glimpse into what riders can expect from the revived model.
