Don't be deceived by the specification; the 1050 Adventure is much more than simply a reborn 990. The 1050 is actually a slimmed down 1190 Adventure and as such comes with a smaller capacity version of the LC8 engine, as well as ride-by-wire and a new chassis aimed at making the bike lighter and easier going than the 1190. But does KTM really need a 1050 Adventure as well as the
1190 Adventure
, 1190 Adventure R and 1290 Super Adventure? According to KTM, the 1050 is there to provide an easier access point to the adventure bike market as it is designed to be more relaxed and accessible than the larger capacity machines. Fair enough, but the real proof will be in the riding.
Don't go thinking it's just a 990...
The proof is in the pudding
Initial impressions of the 1050 are that it feels a lot like the old 990 SMT. The SMT is great at low speeds and the 1050 has that same lovely smooth compliance you get from a well-balanced machine. The throttle response is relaxed, the clutch light in its action and overall it was very comforting to ride. I'm over six feet tall, so seat height is never an issue, but despite it being a tall 850mm, the narrowness of the seat thanks to the V-twin engine makes it feel considerably less. Shorter riders have little to fear from this bike.
Once up to speed the 1050 really comes into its own too. At normal road speeds the KTM is incredibly relaxed and fun to ride. If you aren't wanting to go bananas the 1050 is the bike for you. The riding position is wonderfully relaxed (and also adjustable) and the engine thumps along merrily with an equally laid-back impression. When you give it full gas out of roundabouts the traction control button flashes, but it doesn't feel intrusive when it cuts in and is actually very smooth in its operation. Like the 1290 Super Duke R you need to be stationary to turn it off, but this isn't an issue as the need to switch it off never arose. With the 1050 it is all about relaxed riding; just don't be lulled into a false sense of security...
Relaxed handling suits the 1050 well
The 1050 may only make 94hp, but it is still a remarkably rapid bike when it comes to getting from A to B. It's one of those machines that's so relaxed to ride you end up stroking along rather faster than you should be. Everywhere. The chassis is agile enough to handle bends at pace and a high speed becomes maintained without really noticing. While the suspension is certainly set on the soft side, this suits the 1050's character as a day-to-day bike like the 1050.
A refreshing change
Though it may resemble a redone 990, the 1050 Adventure isn't anything of the sort. The 1050 is a brilliant day-to-day bike that is relaxing and genuinely great fun to ride. Unlike the very fast 1190 and 1290 Adventure models, there is no edge to the 1050 and it is a bike that helps you stay within reach of sensible road pace. The 1050 is probably preferable to the larger capacity bikes as it is so much easier-going, less likely to lose you your licence while still coming with ABS and traction control. Does it miss semi-active suspension? Not really.
The main gripe with the 1050 is its £10,999 RRP, which is a bit steep. KTM is currently running a promotion that sees its price drop £1,000 to £9,999 when you trade in a bike, which feels like correct price level. Why this promotion? You have to assume it is because the 1050 isn't selling, which is a real shame as it is a very enjoyable and fun adventure bike.
KTM 1050 ADVENTURE
Engine: 1,050cc V-twin, 8v
Power (hp): 94@N/A rpm
Torque (lb ft): 79@N/A rpm
Top speed: 120mph (est)
Weight: 212kg (wet)
MPG: 50
Price: £9,999 (RRP £10,999)