There are no safety recalls for the 2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R, but owners have filed 22 complaints with NHTSA.
2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 11 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | |
| Service Brakes | 5 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 4 | |
| Unknown or Other | 3 | |
| Electrical System | 2 | |
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
Most reported parts
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Service Brakes · reported May 11, 2026
I recently discovered that the brake light does not activate when applying the front brake lever. I became aware of the issue only after noticing that the motorcycleâs cruise control system would no longer engage. Upon researching the cruise control malfunction, I found numerous reports from owners indicating that failed front or rear brake pressure switches were the root cause. In almost all cases, the faulty brake pressure switch prevented the brake light from functioning properly. Online searches reveal widespread owner reports across multiple model years describing identical failures…
Engine · reported Aug 6, 2025
The valve train of my bike failed and left me stranded in the woods. There were no signs or warnings beforehand. After further research online, I found that this issue has been happening quite a bit. Luckily it happened to me while my bike was parked. The issue is the valve train is wearing out prematurely and causing the bikes to run poorly or not run at all. My bike has 13,000 miles on it and other bikes have had more or less miles when this issue occurred. I've worked on several motorcycles with three times the miles and never had an issue with the valve trains being chewed up like this…
Service Brakes · reported Jun 19, 2025
I have had three separate incidences of the either the front or rear brake sensor switch failing which requires replacement. It causes the brake light to not function. I do have one of the three switches for inspection. It has been confirmed by a mechanic. As it is out of warrantee there has been no manufacturer inspection. There is no indication that it is not working other than cruise control will not turn on.
Exterior Lighting · reported Sep 9, 2024
Good day to whoever is reading! I've recently discovered that my brake light does not turn on on my bike no matter what brake i use front or rear. Only way it works if i push brake really hard, like way beyond regular or emergency braking. I've found similar issues online and people pointing on faulty brake sensors. They are located under the gas tank. It requires good amount of skill and time to replace them. But i did and my brake lights returned, but during a test ride i'm loosing my rear brake COMPLETELY. I take everything apart again and find out that rear brake sensor is leaking. Turned…
Service Brakes · reported Sep 5, 2024
Brake light no longer activates upon applying normal pressure to front brake lever. Brake light activation requires greater than normal front brake lever pressure/input in order to activate the light. This issue causes a safety concern with traffic when the motorcycle brake light does not activate appropriately when stopping. This issue is consistent/repetitive and is believed to be caused by a faulty brake light switch on the front brake circuit. KTM appears to have updated/superseded part numbers relating to the faulty part in question.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Ktm 790 Adventure R?
Owners report engine problems most often (11 reports), followed by fuel/propulsion system (8).
Are Ktm recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Ktm dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.