Updated KTM 1190 Adventure spied

 

KTM is set to change its 1190 Adventure model to more directly tackle the class-dominating BMW R1200GS, as these new spy shots reveal. The bike is still relatively new, having been launched at the start of 2013, and we would normally expect it to last three years before an update.

But these pictures show a host of mid-life updates aimed at separating the KTM 1190 Adventure from the more dirt-orientated Adventure R and help take on the all-conquering BMW GS range more effectively.

The spy shots were grabbed  last week at the KTM factory in Mattighofen, Austria. A pair of different bikes were spotted, with each showing a completely revised fuel tank, front fairing, side panels, crash bars and what appears to be a wider windscreen.

There is no formal word from KTM about these modifications to the 1190 Adventure model, or whether the changes will be for 2015 or 2016.

KTM’s range currently comprises the standard 1190 Adventure and the more off-road-focused 1190 R, which has a 21in front wheel rather than the standard bike’s 19in front.

The standard bike is very sporty when seen in the context of many rivals in the adventure bike class.

Its combination of a 150bhp V-twin engine and the 19in front wheel allows it to compete for sales with the likes of the Ducati Multistrada 1200 and Aprilia Caponord 1200 rather than directly competing against the more travel-orientated BMW R1200GS.

The changes to this new bike clearly show KTM is at least thinking about realigning the standard bike into more of a touring role to match up to the GS.

The larger fuel tank over the current 23-litre tank will deliver a significant boost to the fuel range, which has been a source of criticism for a bike that's otherwise extremely popular with owners.

The fuel range is less than 200 miles, which is enough for most people, but doesn't sit well when you compare it to the 30-litre fuel tank on the BMW R1200GS Adventure model.

Another possibility is that this bike will be an additional model in the 1190 range. KTM has recent history of adding ‘Touring’ models to existing ranges. The 990 SMT is an example of this, with a bigger fairing and screen added to the same basic bike underneath.