Favorite Rides Fall 2018 | Page 133

TOURING TIPS Turning a Dual-Sport into an Adventure Tourer
PAGE 133
FALL 2018 ISSUE 02 / VOL . 03
TOURING TIPS Turning a Dual-Sport into an Adventure Tourer
brakes , lightweight Excel rims and Pirelli RallyCross tires . Off-road , the 340-pound KTM absolutely rips , delivering performance and precision the DR / KLR / XR trio can only dream of , and it ’ s remarkably forgiving of ham-fisted mistakes ( ahem ). On-road , however , even though the 690 Enduro R is fast and stable , its engine transmits a lot of vibration to the grips , its seat is rock-hard and its small gas tank keeps it on a short leash .
As is popular among ADV enthusiasts , bolting on a bunch of farkles is an easy — and expensive — way to make a heavy bike even heavier . For this project , we selected accessories that are — first and foremost — functional , and we tried to keep expenditures and weight within reason . Our first objective was to reduce the buzz felt through the grips during long on-road stints . The Progressive Handlebar Damping System ($ 199.99 ) from KTM ’ s
Above : KTM ’ s Touring Windshield improves wind protection , and Doubletake Mirrors are tough and infinitely adjustable . Below : KTM ’ s Progressive Handlebar Damping System reduces vibration felt through the tubular handlebar .