For adventure riders seeking the perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, the middleweight category offers some of the most versatile machines on the market. Two standout contenders, the KTM 790 Adventure and the Yamaha Ténéré 700, have captured the hearts of many riders. But which one is the ideal companion for your British adventures? Let’s look into what sets these bikes apart and which is best for you.
Engine and Performance
KTM 790 Adventure
- 799cc parallel-twin engine
- 94 bhp and 88 Nm of torque
- Sophisticated engine management
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- 689cc parallel-twin engine
- 72 bhp and 68 Nm of torque
- Simpler engine design
The KTM’s additional power isn’t just about bragging rights. That extra grunt translates to effortless motorway cruising, easier two-up riding, and more confidence when fully loaded with luggage. Imagine tackling a steep, gravelly mountain pass in the Peak District – the KTM’s additional low-end torque means you’ll clear obstacles with less drama, while Ténéré riders might need to work the gearbox more.
Electronics and Rider Aids
KTM 790 Adventure
- Cornering ABS
- Lean-sensitive traction control
- Multiple riding modes
- Optional quickshifter and cruise control
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- Basic ABS (switchable)
- No traction control
- No riding modes
KTM’s sophisticated electronics package offers a vital safety net for less experienced riders and can boost confidence in challenging conditions. Picture yourself caught in an unexpected downpour on a winding Welsh country road. The KTM’s cornering ABS and traction control could be the difference between staying upright and taking a spill.
Suspension and Off-Road Capability
KTM 790 Adventure
- WP APEX suspension
- 200mm front / 200mm rear travel
- 20-litre fuel tank
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- KYB suspension
- 210mm front / 200mm rear travel
- 16-litre fuel tank
Both bikes offer impressive suspension travel, but the KTM’s components feel more sophisticated and offer better adjustability. When you’re pushing hard on a twisty gravel road in the Brecon Beacons, the KTM’s more refined suspension will feel more composed and confidence-inspiring. The larger fuel tank on the KTM also extends its range significantly, opening up more remote routes across the British countryside.
Comfort and Touring
KTM 790 Adventure
- More substantial windscreen
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Heated grips available as an option
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- Smaller windscreen
- Basic seat
- Fewer creature comforts
If you’re planning multi-day tours or regularly cover long distances, the KTM’s better wind protection and more accommodating ergonomics can make a significant difference in rider fatigue. After a 300-mile day exploring the Scottish Highlands, KTM riders are likely to feel fresher and ready for more.
UK Road Handling: Mastering British Tarmac
KTM 790 Adventure
- Precise, responsive steering
- Advanced cornering ABS
- Superb stability at all speeds
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- More basic steering geometry
- Standard ABS only
- Less composed at higher speeds
Imagine carving through the undulating roads of the North York Moors. The KTM’s sharper steering and responsive throttle allow you to confidently attack each bend, while its advanced cornering ABS provides a reassuring safety net on unpredictable surfaces. When you encounter a sudden patch of gravel – all too common on UK back roads – the 790 Adventure’s sophisticated traction control keeps you firmly planted.
On longer motorway stretches, such as a trip from London to the Lake District, the KTM truly shines. Its superior stability at speed makes for a more relaxed, less fatiguing journey. The optional quickshifter and cruise control – features absent on the Ténéré – further enhance the long-distance touring experience.
Off-Road Prowess
KTM 790 Adventure
- Sophisticated off-road traction control
- Multiple off-road riding modes
- Better ground clearance
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- Basic off-road capability
- No dedicated off-road modes
- Less ground clearance
Picture yourself tackling a muddy trail in the Scottish Highlands after days of typical British rain. The KTM’s advanced off-road traction control allows you to maintain smooth progress where the Yamaha might struggle for grip. When you encounter a particularly gnarly section, the 790 Adventure’s off-road ABS mode lets you brake hard with confidence, even on loose surfaces.
The KTM’s multiple off-road riding modes are a game-changer for less experienced dirt riders. “Off-Road” mode provides a gentler power delivery and increased traction control intervention – perfect for building confidence on slippery green lanes. As your skills progress, “Rally” mode offers a more aggressive setup for tackling tougher terrain.
Price and Value
KTM 790 Adventure
- Higher initial cost
- More features as standard
- Better long-term value
Yamaha Ténéré 700
- More affordable purchase price
- Lower spec as standard
- Potential need for upgrades
While the KTM comes with a higher price tag, its comprehensive feature set offers better value in the long run. The sophisticated electronics, superior suspension, and higher-spec components mean you’re less likely to need expensive upgrades down the line. For serious adventure riders, the KTM’s capabilities justify the investment.
Conclusion: The Clear Choice for British Adventure
Both the KTM 790 Adventure and Yamaha Ténéré 700 are capable machines, but for riders seeking the ultimate middleweight adventure bike for British conditions, the KTM stands head and shoulders above its rival. Its combination of power, sophisticated electronics, and versatile performance make it equally at home on a gnarly Welsh mountain trail or a fast A-road through the Pennines.
The KTM 790 Adventure offers:
- Superior performance and handling in varied UK conditions
- Advanced safety features for unpredictable British weather
- Better equipped for both on-road touring and serious off-road exploration
- Higher-spec components that offer better long-term value
For riders who want to truly embrace the “adventure” in adventure biking, the KTM offers a higher ceiling of capability. It’s a bike that will grow with you as your skills improve, equally suited to novice green-laners and experienced off-road enthusiasts.
Ready to experience the KTM difference for yourself? DMC Motorcycles is currently offering an unbeatable finance deal on the 790 Adventure, making it more accessible than ever. Pop in for a test ride or use the form below and discover how this remarkable machine can transform your riding, both on and off the beaten path.