Positioning:
The 2013 KTM 1190 Adventure represents KTM's entry into the large-displacement adventure touring segment, aiming to blend off-road prowess with on-road comfort and performance. It positioned itself as a premium, technically advanced competitor against established brands.
Competitors:
BMW R1200GS, Yamaha Super Ténéré, Honda Africa Twin (though the Africa Twin came later, the R1200GS and Super Ténéré were primary rivals at launch).
Features:
Powerful V-twin engine, advanced electronics suite (MTC, ABS), long-travel suspension, robust chassis, premium components (Brembo brakes, WP suspension).
Powertrain:
LC8 V-twin engine, 6-speed gearbox
Electronics:
Engine Management System (EMS), ABS, Traction Control (MTC), rider modes, lighting, dashboard
Chassis:
Frame, swingarm, wheels, tires, steering head bearings
Suspension:
WP Suspension front forks and rear shock absorber, adjustability
Brakes:
Front dual disc brakes with Brembo calipers, rear single disc brake, Bosch ABS system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank
Cooling System:
Radiators, cooling fan, coolant types and capacities
Exhaust:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, lambda sensors
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement
Engine Rebuild:
Piston and ring replacement, valve clearance adjustment, cylinder head service, crankshaft inspection
Transmission Repair:
Clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly and assembly
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting common electrical faults
Suspension Tuning:
Adjustment procedures for rebound, compression, and preload
Brake Servicing:
Brake pad replacement, caliper maintenance, bleeding procedures, ABS system diagnostics
Fuel System Cleaning:
Injector cleaning and testing, fuel pump diagnostics
Wheel Bearing Replacement:
Proper bearing installation and sealing
Tire Mounting Balancing:
Correct procedures for tubeless tire installation
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics.
Type:
V-twin, four-stroke, 75-degree V-angle, DOHC, 8 valves
Displacement:
1195 cc (72.9 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
105 mm x 69 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.5:1
Horsepower:
148 hp (110.3 kW) @ 9,000 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
96 lb-ft (130 Nm) @ 6,500 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) with Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-50 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
3.9 liters (4.1 US qt)
Ignition System:
Contactless ignition with electronic ignition timing control
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
ABS System:
Bosch 9M+ dual-channel ABS (disengageable front and rear)
Traction Control:
KTM MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) - multi-stage
Rider Modes:
Multiple engine maps and traction control settings available
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, LED turn signals
Frame Construction:
Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame
Crash Protection:
Factory-fitted engine crash bars, optional handguards
Dashboard:
Multi-function LCD display with a separate digital tachometer and gear indicator. Provides extensive information on trip data, fuel consumption, rider modes, and system status.
ABS Features:
Switchable ABS with 'Street' and 'Offroad' modes, offering different levels of intervention.
Traction Control Features:
Multi-stage Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) system linked to the rider modes and lean angle sensor.
Connectivity Options:
No advanced smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth integration in this model year. Primarily focused on core motorcycle electronics.
Ems:
Advanced Engine Management System (EMS) controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, and rider aids.
First Service:
1,000 km (600 miles) - Check manual for specifics
Major Service Interval:
15,000 km (9,300 miles) or Annually - Check manual for specifics
Valve Clearance Check:
Refer to manual, typically around 15,000 km intervals, but varies with use.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 km or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50% mixture with distilled water (e.g., Motorex Coolant M3.0)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to WP Suspension specifications in manual (e.g., WP Suspension Fluid 45 or similar).
Common Complaints:
Some owners reported occasional electronic glitches, clutch slave cylinder leaks (though often resolved under warranty), and occasional overheating in extreme conditions. Refer to manual for specific troubleshooting.
Common Maintenance Items:
Regular chain maintenance, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement at recommended intervals.
Heritage:
KTM, an Austrian manufacturer, has a strong heritage in off-road racing, particularly in motocross and Dakar Rally. This DNA is evident in their adventure bike designs.
Predecessors:
The 1190 Adventure was a significant step for KTM, building on the legacy of the smaller 950/990 Adventure models but introducing a larger engine and advanced electronics.
Successor Models:
The 1190 Adventure was later succeeded by the 1290 Super Adventure models, which further refined the concept with larger engines and more technology.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
Production Years:
2013-2016 (1190 Adventure and Adventure R)
Common Reviews:
Generally well-received by the motorcycle press for its performance, handling, and technological features. Praised for its KTM 'Ready to Race' DNA adapted for adventure touring.
Sport Touring Capabilities:
High ratings for its performance on twisty roads and long-distance touring comfort.
Off Road Capabilities:
Considered one of the more capable off-road adventure bikes in its class due to its suspension travel and chassis design.
