Like its name suggests, the KTM 1050 Adventure is ultimate adventurer on two wheels. It tough to the core, efficient, reliable and agile even on the most difficult tracks, so it won’t disappoint you as far as ride and handling are concerned.

It is also A2 license compatible and is powered by a 2 cylinder, 4 stroke, spark-ignition engine, 75° V arrangement, liquid cooled engine with a displacement of 1,050 Cm³. The engine is brought to life by an electric starter and is mated on a 6-speed, claw shifted transmission.

The motorcycle’s backbone is represented by a powder coated, tubular space frame made from chrome molybdenum steel.

Other features that are worthy of being mentioned include ABS, Traction Control, handguards, a Multi-function cockpit, Daytime running lights, Adjustable ergonomics, a Luggage rack and case brackets.

Hit the jump for more information on the KTM 1050 Adventure.

Overview

KTM 1050 ADVENTURE 2015: Authentic and Agile Entry Into the KTM-World of Travel Enduros

The KTM 1050 Adventure is made for the same adventure as its bigger brothers; the KTM 1190 Adventure, KTM Adventure R 1190 and KTM 1290 Super Adventure. A little smaller, lighter and with lower fuel consumption, the 1050 Adventure stands proudly alongside its larger siblings. It is a supremely competent and well equipped motorcycle at an attractive price. Traction control with different modes and ABS come as standard. The engine is built with the same state-of-the art technology as the 1190 engine and even though the engine is a little smaller, it delivers nearly the same power and torque up to 95 hp (70 kW). In addition – it is A2 license compatible. It represents the easy entry into the world of KTM travel enduros. The chassis combines lightness with outstanding geometry and well-balanced suspension, which, together with the prize-winning Tourance Next tyres from Metzeler, allows undreamed of riding enjoyment in all conditions and at whatever speed you desire, from very relaxed to very, very fast.

2015 KTM 1050 Adventure Features and Benefits:

Chassis:

Cast Wheels

The tubeless enduro tyres are fitted on extremely lightweight, light-alloy wheels manufactured in a low-pressure die casting process. Not only do the lightweight wheels make the bike lighter overall, they also minimise the unsprung masses and moment of inertia, with a positive impact on the handling and ride dynamics of the 1050 Adventure.

Tyres

The 1050 Adventure rolls on state-of-the-art, extremely grippy and durable Metzeler Tourance Next tyres with a 110/70 ZR 19 for the front and 150/70 ZR 17 at the rear. They perfectly match the easy and agile handling of the bike.

Brakes

Precise application, powerful and fade-free - stunning braking power is guaranteed by Brembo. The 1050 Adventure boasts twin 320 mm discs up front, radially mounted, four-piston fixed callipers and a radial master cylinder. At the rear, braking is taken care of by a generously dimensioned 268 mm disc. Braking system management is taken care of by the two-channel 9M+ABS from Bosch.

Suspension Components

With finely tuned factory settings, the robust upside-down telescopic fork with 43mm internal tube diameter and the rear shock absorber from WP Suspension need no extensive adjustments to get the most from the versatile 1050 Adventure.

» The rear shock is, however, fully adjustable for preload and rebound to accommodate different loads.

» Suspension travel: 185/190 mm

Frame

The steel tubular space frame is constructed from chrome-molybdenum stainless steel. The frame makes a major contribution to excellent chassis geometry, it is extremely rugged and weighs only 9.8 kg. Consistent lightweight construction throughout contributes to the 1050 Adventure’s low overall weight of just 212 kg (ready to ride, without fuel) and 230 kg fully tanked.

Features:

» The highest welding standards

» Precisely manufactured tubes (laser-cut for perfect clearances, robot-welded, minimal welding stresses, etc.)

» High quality surface finish

Chassis

With its ultra-lightweight yet extremely stable tubular space frame, the high strength, die-cast, open-lattice swingarm and high quality suspension components from WP Suspension, the KTM 1050 Adventure meets every demand when it comes to stability and controllability. Cast wheels, 19-inch up front; 17-inch at the rear – prize-winning tyres and appropriate suspension travel optimise its talents on the asphalt. Unrivalled braking from world-renowned, market leader Brembo, coupled with assistance systems (Traction control and ABS), developed in close collaboration with Bosch, round off the package and help balance the 1050 Adventure in terms of ride dynamics and safety. Top-quality components from world-class suppliers come together to create the 1050 Adventure's chassis. They combine the pure riding pleasure that is the KTM trademark with the best possible feedback and maximum safety.

Power-to-Weight Ratio

The outstanding combination of lightweight engineering in the chassis and likewise a very light and powerful engine make the KTM 1050 Adventure top of its class in terms of power-to-weight ratio and ride dynamics. Its weight of only 230 kg, fully tanked with a substantial 23 litres of fuel, makes the 1050 Adventure – in typical KTM style – one of the lightest motorcycles in its segment. Further reasons for the fantastic ride dynamics are the outstanding geometry, the well-balanced stiffness distribution and the high quality of suspension components used. These ingredients not only result in nimble handling, they are also a boost to safety, since it is far easier to pilot a lightweight, agile motorcycle around a source of danger than a heavy one.

Swingarm

The die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is not only particularly light and stable, it's also precisely manufactured, its design optimised for stiffness while still offering essential flex characteristics.

Best Possible Overview: VDO Display

Mode Switch

Different modes for the various assistance systems can be selected using a mode switch on the left side of the handlebar. It's very simple and intuitive: "up" and "down" through the menu selection, select the desired menu item with the left button, confirm it with the right, job done!

Cockpit

State-of-the-art instrument cluster from automotive supplier VDO: central permanent LCD for displaying all riding conditions (plus speedo and rev counter with adjustable gearshift light), a further LCD on the left displays the adjustable features:

» Favourites page

» Ride modes

» Riding conditions page for additional info, e.g. outside/oil temperature, onboard voltage, various trips, average speed, average and current fuel consumption, range, distance to next service

Torque, Power and Smoothness:

Pistons

The forged piston design of the 1050 Adventure, borrowed from Formula 1 technology, results in a high loading capacity, despite the extremely short and lightweight format. They are two millimetres smaller in diameter compared with those of the 1190 Adventure and the pistons on the 1050 Adventure are a whole 50 grams lighter. This minimises reciprocating weight and helps maximise the responsiveness and free-revving nature of the engine. The piston skirts have an additional state-of-the-art, grafal finish. Not only does this minimise friction, it is also particularly hard-wearing which makes a positive contribution to durability.

Cylinder Heads

An absolutely key element in the smooth power delivery of the 75° V-twin is each cylinder’s state-of-the-art four-valve cylinder head. These combine twin plug ignition, flow-optimised ports and a slick low-friction valve drive train with cams from each cylinder’s twin overhead camshafts driving DLC-coated cam followers.

Slipper Clutch

Not only does the slipper clutch open when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it also assists when you open up the throttle. The former prevents destabilising rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating; the latter reduces the lever force required for changing gear, allowing the clutch to be controlled with the little finger - saving you energy when riding.

DLC Coating

DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) is an extremely hard, durable and tribologically (i.e. in terms of sliding behaviour) particularly well-suited coating, that KTM uses in many engine parts (cam followers, piston pins, etc.).

Twin Ignition

The twin plug ignition system controls the two differently sized spark plugs in each cylinder head independently of each other in such a way that more efficient combustion and a smoother, optimally controlled combustion sequence are achieved at all times. The result: even more and even better controlled power, lower fuel consumption, and lower emissions.

Crankshaft

The smooth shape of the crank webs results in low-loss running of the crank drive; the increased flywheel mass of the crankshaft and alternator rotor improve the ride quality. Together they optimise the load change behaviour and running smoothness of the engine.

Engine

The advanced V2 engine with 1050 cc displacement is a power package that supplies everything that a travel enduro could ever need: powerful acceleration for offroad use, real punch for fully loaded touring and 95 hp (70 kW) peak power for when the chips are down. For newcomers with an A2 license, the 1050 engine is the perfect power unit with an optional 35 kW power reduction to ease them into their first motorcycle adventures before they tap in the 1050’s full power. Low fuel consumption and long service intervals of 15,000 km mean the bike is easy on the wallet too.

Advanced technology makes the 1050 twin a perfect engine to use in an adventure bike:

» Twin spark ignition lowers fuel consumption and emissions and ensures smooth running and superior power from minimum revs.

» Ride-by-wire ensures perfect application of the plentiful and readily available torque.

» TC (Traction Control) assures sporty yet completely controllable drive on every surface.

» The slipper clutch prevents rear wheel chatter and reduces required hand force at the lever when gear changing.

Ride-By-Wire

It’s the guarantee of a smooth throttle response, more than simply the absence of a throttle cable: The 1050 Adventure's ride-by-wire system ensures perfect application of the readily available and plentiful torque. It also electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into throttle valve positions perfectly suited to the riding conditions. The DBW system is fully compliant with the strict DIN 26262 safety standard from the automobile sector.

Versatile and Ergonomic:

Adjustable Windshield

Windshield height can be varied as desired in next to no time to suit the rider's stature thanks to the easily operated champing mechanism (+25 mm).

At Home On Any Road

The 1050 Adventure is equally at home offering relaxed touring comfort or delivering uncompromising acceleration. Particularly impressive too is that the 1050 Adventure’s different guises result in virtually no perceptible compromises. So while riding the bike in a relaxed way, your ride won’t be jarred by any of the sportiness at your disposal (no overly sharp responsiveness or a taut chassis set-up). And when you do want to turn up the wick, you won’t find yourself riding a rocking horse. The many riding modes seamlessly fit to wherever you might find yourself. Whether that’s a an alpine pass or coastal road, motorway or bone-shaking track, winding curves or simply the urban jungle, the 1050 Adventure is the ultimate travel enduro for adventures on all the world's roads.

Ergonomics

Not only are the top-notch ergonomics of the 1050 Adventure suitable for all riding situations ranging from relaxed outings - alone or two-up - to lively acceleration on asphalt and furious offroad shredding, whatever the surface or location; the ergonomics can also be adjusted in many ways to suit individualists and riders of any stature:

» Two handlebar clamping positions: horizontal +/- 10 mm

» Two footrest positions: diagonal 10 mm high and back

» Plus hand levers with 5 reach settings

Seat

The single-piece seat is perfectly suited to the need for freedom of movement and contact with the bike for agile riding. Thanks to its state-of-the-art 3D foam padding, it also provides more comfort over longer periods and a better feedback from what's happening at the wheels – tuned ergonomics to benefit every rider: from tourers to sports fiends. From MY 2015 onward, KTM is using a new foam that feels softer but offers much more consistency. So, no matter if your ride is to the shops or over the Alps, both rider and passenger will reach their destination in complete comfort.

Safety Thanks To State-of-the-Art Sensors:

TC (Traction Control)

As an integral part of the 1050 Adventure´s safety package, TC (Traction Control) makes use of the rapid intervention time of the ride-by-wire system to reduce power delivery to safe level. It guarantees sporty yet completely controllable drive on all surfaces. Its intervention is indicated by a flashing LED in the VDO multi-function display. Depending on the engine mode selected by the rider, TC permits differing levels of rear wheel slip. TC offers three different ride modes (plus OFF, Offroad mode optional), selected using the multi-functional switch on the left handlebar grip. Developed in close collaboration with Bosch, it reacts in a matter of milliseconds if the rear wheel begins to rotate too rapidly for the riding conditions.

TC modes are activated by changing the engine modes:

» Sport: Something for the courageous to try: Allows a respectable and perceptible amount of slippage - drift-feeling all-inclusive!

» Street: Smooth control for comfortable, unruffled riding with full engine power.

» Rain: Early intervention and minimum slippage in the wet.

» Offroad (optional): Up to 100 per cent slippage - i.e. double the wheel speed - for ambitious offroad use. Have a go at controlled offroad drifts!

» Off: Those who know better than the TC can enjoy maximum propulsion at all times, exactly how they like it, without electronic assistance.

ABS

The Bosch 9M+ two-channel, anti-lock braking system on the 1050 Adventure means extremely short braking distances with optimum vehicle control. The system modulates brake pressure in such a way that wheel lock-up is prevented perfectly and the “endo” tendency is minimised when braking hard on surfaces with good grip. ABS can be deactivated at both the front and rear wheel. In optional "Offroad" mode, only the rear wheel is freed from ABS intervention, giving the rider perfect control on differing unmade surfaces.

Top Price/Performance:

Long Service Intervals

A unique mix of the highest quality components combined with a fully developed and reliable engine allows extremely long service intervals of 15,000 km.

Increased Fuel Economy

Although still powerful and well equipped, the 1050 Adventure consumes considerably less fuel than the 1190, subject to riding style and terrain. The impressive 23-litre tank capacity, gives a comfortable range for long distance travelling.

Price/Performance

The KTM 1050 Adventure is light, powerful and extremely controllable. Thanks to low fuel consumption, a 23-litre fuel tank and long service intervals of 15,000 km, it hardly ever needs to take a break.

Outstanding Package Price

Work it out for yourself: The KTM 1050 Adventure is not only the lightest, most powerful and versatile travel enduro, but also the one with the best equipment package. As a result, you get - at an already very affordable entry-level price - so much more for your money than from any other bike in its class.

Extensive standard equipment:

» ABS

» TC (Traction Control)

» Multi-function cockpit

» Daytime running light

» Adjustable ergonomics

» Adjustable windshield height

» Immobiliser

» Aluminium handlebar, ball-burnished and tapered

» Luggage rack and case brackets

» Servo fan

» Handguards

Specifications

Quotes:

“The 1050 is a new arrival to the Adventure range, which already includes the 1190, 1190 R and the bigger 1290. At its core is a 1050cc V-twin making 95 horsepower, which might seem a bit underpowered when compared to the 160 hp of a full-spec Adventure.”“However, the 1050 is intended to be used by A2 license holders, an optional restrictor kit making it suitable for novice riders. On that same page, standard equipment includes ABS, ride-by-wire throttle and traction control, so the 212 kilogram Adventure bike should prove easy to take down the trail, it's biggest forte being maneuverability, according to the officials we spoke to.” -- Autoevolution“KTM touts the agility, simplicity of function, and a very predictable handling motorcycle as the virtues of the 1050. With 95HP on tap the bike should be very compliant, easy to ride, and have enough grunt off road to tackle any obstacle. For reference, the larger 1200CC Tenere gets the same HP on a much heavier motorcycle.” -- RideApart