KTM have lifted the covers off their most hardcore Adventure bike for 2020, in limited form, the new 2020 KTM 790 Adventure R Rally packs a whole lot more punch than the standard model that wowed the public last year.

Retaining the same steel trellis chassis, and the very potent and compact 95hp LC8c parallel twin engine, the major points of difference include new WP suspension with more travel, translating to a taller seat height. Up front, the WP XPLOR PRO 7548 forks use cone valve technology to allow almost limitless damping performance, combining comfort with bottom-out resistance. The cone valving allows for setting levels that can normally only be achieved by changing the shim stack, but are now adjustable via the easy-to-use adjusters.

The rear of the bike features a new WP XPLOR PRO 6746 shock absorber, developed from KTM’s amassed experience in rally competition. Modern, low-friction components allow for a significant increase in damping performance, reducing the riders physical strain. The rear shock employs a Progressive Damping System (PDS) and has “completely – and easily – adjustable damping behaviour.”

Along with the new suspension parts, the KTM 790 Adventure R Rally emphasises the brand’s ‘Ready To Race’ moniker with a weight-saving Akrapovič exhaust system, carbon fiber tank protectors, and a Quickshifter+ as standard. A unique colour graphic makes the new model easily recognisable, the ‘Rally’ is also fitted with narrower D.I.D DirtStar spoked wheels that have been wrapped in tubed Metzeler Karoo 3 tyres for hard offroad conditions.

The special edition model also features a high, straight racing style seat to improve racing ergonomics, as well as Rally footrests for comfort and grip when standing for long days. A clear windscreen and extra winglets finish off the package. Seat height is a very tall 910mm, courtesy of the Pro suspension that features an extra 30mm of travel front and rear to help riders clear even the most awkward of obstacles.

KTM have indicated that only 500 bikes will be made worldwide, and Hubert Trunkenpolz (CMO KTM AG) says “Quite simply, we’ve built the KTM 790 ADVENTURE R RALLY because we can! At KTM we continually try to push ourselves and the development of our products – this is the READY TO RACE way. We have the equipment at our disposal and we know how to make a truly special bike for our hardcore customers. With its Pro Components range, WP offers suspension close to the same level used by the Dakar-winning Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally team on the KTM 450 RALLY. The new KTM 790 ADVENTURE R RALLY is exactly as it says: A rally bike ready for any adventure.”

Further details on pricing, availability, and the ordering process for purchasing one of the very limited number KTM 790 Adventure R Rally machines will be announced in the coming months.

Photos: KTM Press Service

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