Adventure touring showdown
Sub 1000cc touring bikes are becoming more dominant, with many new riders eschewing big-bore machines for lighter, more agile machines that can serve the dual purpose of daily commuting and weekend adventuring. Suzuki offers the V Strom range, the DL800 with its 21" front wheel and KTM the 890 SMT touring supermoto.
Related: How does the Triumph Tiger 900 compare to the KTM 890 Adventure R?
The Suzuki is more geared toward off-road and gravel adventuring, while the KTM is geared toward road adventurers. Both bikes have plenty to offer at different price points, but let's see just how different they are.
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Specifications
| Suzuki V-Strom DL800 DE | KTM 890 SMT | |
| Engine | 776cc 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC | 889cc 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin |
| Transmission | 6 Speed constant mesh, quickshifter | 6 Speed |
| Power figures | 62kW / 72Nm | 77kW / 100Nm |
| Top speed | 200km/h | 206km/h |
| Frame | Tubular steel, single cradle | Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder-coated |
| Suspension Front | Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil-damped, 21" front wheel | WP APEX 43, 180mm travel, 17" front wheel |
| Suspension Rear | Link type, coil spring, oil damped, 17" rear wheel | WP APEX - Monoshock, 180mm travel, 17" rear wheel |
| Brakes Front | 310mm twin disc, four piston calliper | 320mm dual radially mounted, 4-piston callipers |
| Brakes Rear | 260mm single disc, single piston calliper | 260mm 2 piston calliper, brake disc |
| Fuel Tank (litres) | 20l | 15.8l |
| Tech & Features | Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS), 5.0-inch colour TFT display, traction control with gravel mode and switchable ABS, | 5.0-inch TFT display with KTM Connect app integration for navigation, music, and calls, along with Supermoto ABS for controlled rear wheel slides |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.3 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Weight | 230kg | 230kg |
| Seat Height | 855mm | 860mm |
| Price | R 199 500 | R 265 999 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 Years |
Verdict
The KTM 890 SMT is a fantastic ride and offers plenty for those seeking performance and agility while tackling winding roads, but if it's value for money and a bike that offers an engaging ride that will see you taking on many adventures, then you can't go wrong with the Suzuki.
