2019 bikesales Bike of the Year winner: KTM 790 Adventure R

The KTM 790 Adventure R has today been crowned the 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year.

The $20,995 (plus ORC) twin-cylinder adventure tourer topped a field of 11 contenders chosen from 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year category winners.

The 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year was chosen following a comprehensive five-day road test through north-east Victoria. Nine bikesales judges whittled down the contenders (listed below) to determine this year’s winner.

On sale in Australia since June 2019, the KTM 790 Adventure R sits on top of the adventure motorcycle category. Much like SUVs in the auto sphere, adventure bikes are Aussie favourites.

The KTM impressed thanks to an abundance of useable power without the bulk of larger-capacity adventure bikes plus top-notch handling and build quality.

"The newest addition to KTM’s already impressive adventure family, the 790 Adventure R has claimed top honours as the 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year,” said bikesales Editor, Mark Fattore.

"KTM has always been lauded for its motocross and enduro bikes, and its adventure arsenal is also superb. The 790 Adventure R takes all that DNA but goes a step further by producing a machine that is a brilliant ally for newer riders, as well as the more experienced practitioners.

"With stand-out features such as a sensational parallel-twin engine, a well-balanced chassis and incredible suspension, the 790 Adventure R is not just a one-trick pony and is just as adept and satisfying to ride on bitumen as it is off-road."

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The 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year contenders were scored across key criteria including engine and drivetrain, handling and brakes, build quality, value for money and the degree to which each is fit for purpose. Prices ranged from $13,495 (ride away) to $44,180 (ride away) with engine capacities from 350cc to 1650cc, and power from 34hp to 207hp.

There were many sub-factors for the judges to consider including electronic features such as quickshifters (the ability to change gears with a clutch), ultra-sophisticated traction control systems and the ability to fine-tune engine performance.

The 790 Adventure R's victory as this year's Bike of the Year reflects its superb multi-talented credentials.

"We're thrilled to win the 2019 bikesales Bike of the Year award," said KTM Australia and New Zealand Marketing Manager, Alana Baratto.

"2019 has been a huge year for KTM with the release of the much-anticipated KTM 790 Adventure R and to win this coveted award really is yet another highlight.

"At the beginning of the design project, KTM spoke to Australian adventure riders to understand what they needed and desired from the ultimate Adventure bike, and that wish list is now visible on this capable machine – giving credence to the phrase 'You spoke, we listened'," Baratto continued.

To be eligible for this year's award, bikes must have been on sale prior to September 1, 2019.

The 790 Adventure R received the highest score from the judging panel, finishing ahead of the BMW S 1000 RR M Sport (winner of the award's Supersport category) and the BMW K 1600 Grand America (Touring).