The long wait for a new middle-weight KTM Adventure Bike may soon be coming to an end. Rumors of an 800cc KTM adventure model have been circulating for years, and plans were officially confirmed by KTM head Stephan Pierer in a recent MCN interview. Now these MCN spy photos are the first to surface that reveal what the new KTM 800 Adventure model may look like.

After strong sales of the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, KTM is eager to get in the game with a lighter, more off-road capable and less-expensive alternative to their big-bore line of adventure bikes (1050cc, 1190cc and 1290cc). This new middle-weight KTM would also go head-to-head with the aging BMW F800GS and Triumph Tiger 800 lines.

The bike will share the same engine with Duke 800, to be released next year, but with a completely different chassis. The engine will be a compact parallel-twin of roughly 800cc and is expected to come with a 270° crank for a more lively feel — following the same design brief as Honda’s Africa Twin. And like its other models, we can expect KTM will be focused on building the most off-road capable bike in its class with advanced technology and excellent pavement touring comfort.

Pierer previously stated that KTM and Husqvarna will share common engine platforms, with Husqvarna offering an alternately styled version and a different chassis setup. So we may also see a similar 800cc Husqvarna adventure model. We’ll get a hint of what type of performance to expect when KTM releases the Duke 800 in 2017. The KTM 800 Adventure will follow at the end of 2017 as a 2018 model. Pricing is expected to be in the £9,000 ($12,000) range.

For more information on the spy photos, visit MCN’s Website.

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Mexico, Africa, Europe, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.