2016 KTM Adventure: Performance and Safety with New Bosch Systems – Road Test

The family of road enduros from the Austrian manufacturer uses the most advanced Bosch technology: more and more fun with less and less risk.

La KTM Adventure Family 2016 able to meet the needs of a wide range of motorcyclists.

It consists of an entry-level, 1050, two "intermediate links", 1190 and 1190 Rand a maxi with which you can travel the world without setting too many restrictions, 1290.

All (some more, some less) are equipped with the latest revision advanced Bosch technology who raise the bar safety without prejudice to driving pleasure.

We tested them, compared them and found out in detail how the electronics on board each motorcycle work.

KTM grows with an ambitious goal

2015 ended with a turnover of over one billion euros and with the aim of achieving Drive 250.000 sold in 2020 (today there are about 180.000 of them), KTM 2016 starts with strong shoulders and an ambitious goal to win.

Also taking into account the fact that in the first three months of the year there was 21% more sales than predicted, it seems that there are conditions for continued growth.

First of all, because it is based on a product that has always been synonymous productivity and quality, and today unites one technology which represents a great added value.

Bosch technology at the service of KTM

Besides the classic ABS и Traction control (standard for 1050), on new KTM Adventure 1190, 1190 R e 1290 we findMSC (Motorcycle Stability Control).

It is a sophisticated stability control system capable of prevent loss of traction or straightening of the motorcycle in the event of braking (even hard) when cornering.

How it works? Simply put, the system Advanced ABS – taking into account roll and tilt – in combination with the system combined braking (the front lever activates both brakes), it compares in real time all the data in the control unit and calculates the correct braking force applied to the respective wheels to avoid dangerous blockages.

Which in even simpler words means: you can brake when cornering without risking a fall or hearing the motorcycle lift, which will inevitably widen the trajectory.

Also on 1190, 1190 R and 1290 Bosch predicted off-road mode standard in both the ABS (which is essentially disabled at the rear wheel) and the engine layout; which reduces the power to 100 hp. and controls the traction control in a different way, allowing small drifts.

The largest member of the family 1290finally we find a real gem:Hill hold control... Help the motorcycle when stopping uphill. How?

It works through ABS and remembers the tilt of the bike, holding it in braking for a few seconds, preventing unpleasant kickbacks that, especially when fully loaded, can cause many problems.

Complete the technology picture Bosch systems adjusting the torque when downshifting. 

How the adventure is progressing

Le KTM Adventures they differ from each other, but they have in common not only colors, but also a significant part of the substance.

1050

The smallest of the family (also intended for beginner drivers) is the 1050. This is the simplest and probably the most balanced.

Coast 13.280 euro and delivers strength 95 CVwhich are probably good for some fun, stroll and some food.

It is installed on the soft side of the suspension and relaxes all riders, from the most experienced to the novice.

1190 and 1190 R

La 1190 this is a more demanding bike. Double cylinder produces 150 hp. and the suspension is more complicated. The electronics, which are equipped withMSC, ABS with combined brake and traction control tilt sensor. Costs € 15.940.

La version R instead voted foroff road21 '' and 18 '' tubeless spoke tires, a longer travel fork (220 instead of 200) and a wider handlebar give it character. He looks a bit like a motard and is probably the funniest of the whole family. It costs 16.040 euro.

1290

This is the older sister, the most advanced, the one with whom you can travel the world relying on maximum performance and technology. The engine delivers 160 CV, the electronics includes all the systems listed above to which they are added cruise control and semi-active suspension.

This is a bike for connoisseurs, but despite being heavy (suitcases highly recommended), it has a balance that makes it easy to operate even at low speeds.

Its price starts from 18.640 euro... Yes, there are quite a few of them, but we are still talking about the top of a very high level range.

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