Overview
- On the road, the KTM 790 Adventure R offers a thrilling and engaging ride.
- The Triumph Tiger 800 provides a more relaxed and comfortable experience, with better wind protection and a more spacious seating position.
- The KTM 790 Adventure R and the Triumph Tiger 800 are both exceptional adventure motorcycles, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
In the realm of adventure motorcycles, two titans stand tall: the KTM 790 Adventure R and the Triumph Tiger 800. Both machines boast exceptional performance, versatility, and off-road prowess. If you’re torn between these two formidable options, this comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- 799cc parallel-twin engine
- 95 horsepower at 8,000 rpm
- 73 lb-ft of torque at 6,600 rpm
Triumph Tiger 800:
- 800cc triple-cylinder engine
- 94 horsepower at 9,500 rpm
- 65 lb-ft of torque at 8,050 rpm
The KTM’s parallel-twin engine delivers impressive low-end torque and a smooth power delivery. The Triumph’s triple-cylinder engine offers a thrilling, high-revving experience, but may require more frequent shifting in off-road conditions.
Chassis and Suspension
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- Steel trellis frame
- WP XPLOR suspension with 240mm of travel front and rear
Triumph Tiger 800:
- Steel tubular frame
- Showa suspension with 220mm of travel front and 215mm of travel rear
The KTM’s steel trellis frame and WP XPLOR suspension provide exceptional rigidity and off-road handling. The Triumph’s tubular frame and Showa suspension offer a more comfortable ride on-road, but may lack some off-road finesse.
Electronics and Features
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Bosch Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC)
- Off-road ABS and traction control
Triumph Tiger 800:
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Triumph Traction Control (TTC)
- Switchable ABS
Both bikes offer comprehensive electronics packages, including ride-by-wire throttle for precise control. The KTM’s MSC system provides advanced stability and traction control, while the Triumph’s TTC offers a more basic level of traction control.
Off-Road Capabilities
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel
- Long-travel suspension
- Aggressive off-road ergonomics
Triumph Tiger 800:
- 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel
- Shorter-travel suspension
- More upright riding position
The KTM 790 Adventure R is designed for serious off-road adventures, with its large wheels, long-travel suspension, and aggressive riding position. The Triumph Tiger 800 is more suited for mixed on-road and off-road riding, with smaller wheels, shorter-travel suspension, and a more comfortable riding position.
On-Road Performance
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- Agile and flickable handling
- Comfortable for long distances
- Limited wind protection
Triumph Tiger 800:
- Stable and composed handling
- Excellent wind protection
- More comfortable seating position
On the road, the KTM 790 Adventure R offers a thrilling and engaging ride. The Triumph Tiger 800 provides a more relaxed and comfortable experience, with better wind protection and a more spacious seating position.
Price and Availability
KTM 790 Adventure R:
- MSRP: $13,699
- Widely available
Triumph Tiger 800:
- MSRP: $12,300
- Widely available
The Triumph Tiger 800 is slightly more affordable than the KTM 790 Adventure R, but both bikes are readily available at dealerships.
The Verdict: Which Bike is Right for You?
The KTM 790 Adventure R and the Triumph Tiger 800 are both exceptional adventure motorcycles, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Choose the KTM 790 Adventure R if:
- You prioritize off-road performance
- You value agility and handling
- You’re willing to sacrifice some on-road comfort
Choose the Triumph Tiger 800 if:
- You want a versatile bike for both on-road and off-road riding
- You prioritize comfort and wind protection
- You’re looking for a more affordable option
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual riding style and preferences. Both the KTM 790 Adventure R and the Triumph Tiger 800 are worthy contenders for your next adventure.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which bike has a better suspension for off-road riding?
A: The KTM 790 Adventure R has a longer-travel suspension with more advanced off-road settings.
Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient?
A: The KTM 790 Adventure R typically has better fuel economy than the Triumph Tiger 800.
Q: Which bike is easier to maintain?
A: Both bikes require regular maintenance, but the KTM 790 Adventure R may have lower maintenance costs due to its simpler design.
