Good for adventures and city commutes

The thing that first blows my mind when the KTM 890 Adventure is switched "on" is the 5-inch digital display screen.

- Zaihan Mohamed Yusof

It shows an image of the 890, highlighting the unusually large fuel tank in green. If the tank is red, it means the motorcycle is close to running on empty.

Such technology and electronic wizardry, like Bluetooth connectivity, have been the hallmarks of modern dual-purpose motorcycles like the KTM 890, which is considered a mid-tier motorcycle.

The KTM 890 Adventure utilizes Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration, enabling features such as turn-by-turn navigation, music playback and call management through the bike's TFT display and handlebar controls. This is facilitated by the Connectivity Unit, which pairs with KTM's app.

Gone are the days when you strap bags onto the rear seat of a large engine dirt bike for long-distance adventures.

In the last decade, dual-purpose motorcycles like the parallel-twin 889cc KTM, as well as others from Yamaha and BMW, have come with plenty of features that boost safety and convenience, along with specially designed panniers for luggage.

Like the 790 Adventure it replaces, the 890's 20-litre fuel tank hugs the frame and extends from the top to almost the height of your ankles.

This arrangement keeps the motorcycle's centre of gravity low. It also makes the bike more agile when making directional changes off-road, while protecting the rider's shins from stray branches and gravel. It is a feature that is easy to get used to.

On the expressway, the lower portion of the fuel tank even helps to shield rainwater from entering one's boots.