KTM 990 Adventure Spotted Testing; Gets 1390 Adventure-Like TFT Console

Quick Highlights:

• Gets twin fuel tanks and a new 8-inch TFT console

• Expected to use the 947cc engine from the 990 Duke

• Could make its global debut at EICMA 2026

KTM appears to be working on yet another addition to its adventure motorcycle portfolio, and this time around, it looks like the 990 Adventure. A new test mule has been spotted abroad, and unlike the KTM adventure bike we saw testing a few months ago, this one appears to be a completely different motorcycle.

The earlier test bike was believed to be the updated KTM 790 Adventure, but the latest prototype gives us several clues that point towards it being the upcoming 990 Adventure.

Two Fuel Tanks Give It Away

One of the biggest clues is the presence of two fuel tanks, positioned on either side of the motorcycle. This setup is already familiar from the KTM 890 Adventure and is expected to continue on the new 990 Adventure.

Interestingly, the KTM 790 Adventure uses a single fuel tank, making the twin-tank arrangement one of the easiest ways to distinguish the new 990 Adventure from the 790 Adventure test mule spotted previously.

The new motorcycle also gets a considerably more modern cockpit, with a large TFT instrument console. From its size and design, it appears to be closely related to the 8-inch TFT unit seen on the larger KTM 1390 Adventure. This would be a significant upgrade over the smaller displays seen on KTM's existing middleweight adventure motorcycles.

A More Conventional Adventure Design

KTM seems to have taken a different approach with the styling of the new 990 Adventure. Instead of the familiar split-headlight arrangement seen on several KTM bikes, the test mule features a single LED projector headlight with DRLs on either side.

The fairing is also more substantial and gives the motorcycle a more traditional ADV silhouette. A massive adjustable windscreen sits above it, while the chunky upswept exhaust adds to its rugged appearance.

The riding position looks suitably adventure-focused, with a wide, high-mounted handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs.

21-Inch Front Wheel Expected

Underneath the new bodywork, the test bike is seen running on spoke wheels. KTM is likely to retain the familiar 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combination, similar to the 890 Adventure.

The wheels are expected to be tubeless, which would make them more convenient for riders who intend to use the motorcycle for long-distance touring. The setup should also give the 990 Adventure enough off-road ability without compromising its road-going manners.

990 Duke Engine Underneath

As its name suggests, the 990 Adventure is expected to be powered by KTM's 947cc parallel-twin engine, which is also used in the 990 Duke and RC 990.

In the 990 Duke, this motor produces 123 PS and 103 Nm. However, KTM could alter the engine's tune for the Adventure, with a stronger emphasis on low- and mid-range torque and smoother power delivery rather than outright performance.

When Will KTM Launch It?

The latest test mule looks fairly close to its production form, suggesting that KTM could unveil the motorcycle soon. The 2026 EICMA show appears to be a likely venue for its global debut, although KTM has not officially confirmed the launch timeline.

An India launch is also yet to be confirmed. KTM currently sells the 890 Adventure R in India, so the arrival of the 990 Adventure could eventually give the brand a newer middleweight ADV offering in our market.

If KTM does bring it here, the 990 Adventure could eventually take the place of the 890 Adventure R, although we will have to wait for an official announcement to know more.

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