KTM recently unveiled their most hardcore adventure bike – the 790 Adventure R ‘Rally’ – an exclusive model aimed at riders looking for the ultimate off-road performance. And if the new Rally machine can make us mere mortals rip just a fraction of the way Chris Birch does in this video, put us down on the waiting list!

The new Rally version is based on the 790 Adventure R, the same model Chris Birch secured a 4th place overall finish on at the 2019 Hellas Rally. With its premium upgrades, the Rally is not just ‘Ready to Race’ but offers factory race performance on a production bike.

The upgrades over the ‘R’ start with a WP XPLOR PRO fork and shock absorber that increases suspension travel by 1.2″ (30 mm) for a full 10.6″ (270 mm) of travel front and rear. A cone valve fork and PDS shock offer improved bump absorption, while narrower tube-style rims provide increased durability in rough terrain.

Additional off-road upgrades include a flat one-piece racing seat for greater body movement off-road, plus a clear windscreen with side winglets was also added for improved visibility and wind protection over the R’s tinted screen. The Rally model also receives larger Rally Footpegs for better comfort and grip when standing, along with stronger carbon fiber tank protectors, and a longer side stand to compensate for the taller suspension. The Rally model also gets a Quickshifter+ and cruise control as standard equipment and receives unique colors and graphics to finish off the package.

KTM built the 790 Adventure R Rally to demonstrate what an adventure bike is capable of off-road, and it seems they wanted to leave no doubt who makes the best off-road adventure bike in the market. They claim this motorcycle will easily cross continents in order to take to the start line of a rally – a bike for those riders who demand the most extreme performance and the very best suspension equipment available. Yet, any adventure bike with a seat height of 35.8″ (910mm) is going to have a narrow market of buyers, so why would they build it? They say… “Because we can!”. We’re just happy they built this insane machine and hope we get a chance to test one soon!

Production will be limited to 500 units. Further details on pricing, availability and the ordering process will be announced in the months to come.