EICMA 2010: KTM 990 Adventure Dakar

What better way for a bike maker renowed for the way it builds its endurance machines than to honor the riders (and drivers) which take part in what once was the world's most challenging rally? Enter the 990 Adventure Dakar, a slightly re-engineered bike made up from the Adventure and Adventure R versions.

“The Dakar will always remain the Dakar - even if it takes place in South America,” says KTM. Truth be told, the bike manufacturer has won its share of titles. Most of them thanks to the riders and the engine used on the Dakar KTM entries.

The unit fitted onto the 990 Adventure Dakar is a 999cc V-75 Twin engine, which develops 115 bhp (if you're wondering, that's the same engine as the one used on the Adventure R). The powerplant is linked to a 6 speed transmission controlled with the help of a hydraulically operated, wet multi-disc clutch.

The brakes of the bike are being controlled with the help of a Bosch ABS, while Adventure-based suspensions with 210 mm of travel insure a smooth ride (read as smooth as possible, given the fact that the bike has been built as a Dakar rally tribute).

The KTM booth at the EICMA show does not only include this special edition of the Adventure. Their display is being populated by the likes of 1190 RC8 R, complete with its Track version, and the new Duke, the company's first road-legal 125. The 125 Duke will be sold pretty much all over the world by the Austrian bike maker.