On Track Off Road No. 185

TEST
The frame is redesigned to hold a fairing,
bigger radiator, aluminium bash-plate and
a fuel tank that runs down each side of the
motor to give a generous 20-litre capacity
while remaining slim at its top.
Both Adventures run wire wheels in 21in
front, 18in rear diameters, with suspension
their biggest difference. The standard 790’s
WP units give 200mm travel at each end,
with shock preload the only adjustment; the
R is multi-adjustable and gives 40mm more
travel. Along with a taller seat, the R-model
has a shorter screen, high-level front mudguard
and comes with more off-road oriented
tyres (Metzeler Karoo 3 instead of Avon
Trailrider).
The standard 790, especially, immediately
seems very manageable. Its height-adjustable
seat allows most riders to get both
feet on the ground, and at 189kg dry it feels
notably lighter than large-capacity adventure
bikes, especially as its tank shape keeps the
centre of gravity very low. Its choice of riding
mode (Street, Offroad or softer still Rain) is
displayed on a colourful TFT screen.
Throttle response is sweet, the twin-pot engine
responding cleanly at low revs, picking
up the pace at about 6000rpm, and revving
from there with a superbly loose, freespinning
feel thanks to twin balancer shafts.
Cruising at 80mph-plus is stable and effortless,
helped by the useful if slightly blustery
wind protection from a screen that unbolts to
allow 40mm of adjustment. Flat-out the bike
would be good for about 130mph.
Roadgoing handling is excellent: stable at
speed, enjoyably agile despite the big 21in
front wheel, and impressively precise given
the generous suspension travel, which is
well-controlled – thankfully, given the minimal
adjustability. Comfort on a short ride
seemed pretty good; range should be well
over 200 miles.