A comfortable, versatile take on KTM's 890 platform, softer suspension than the R models makes it more relaxed but a touch less capable when things get rough. Rider ability, terrain, weather and tyre choice still move the real answer more than the bike alone does.
Four separate scores, not one blended number, so you can see what's actually driving it.
Beginner friendliness
3/5
Road usability
4/5
Technical off-road capability
3/5
Green-lane suitability
3/5
Full specs
Price (new, OTR)£12,599
Engine889cc
Power105hp
Torque100Nm
Weight (wet)220kg
Seat height854mm
Fuel tank19L
Real-world range~250 mi
Economy~60 mpg
Wheels (f/r)21" / 18"
Ground clearance252mm
Suspension travel (f/r)220mm / 215mm
ABSYes
Traction controlYes
Ride modesYes
Service interval9,300 miles
Licence requiredA
What we actually found
Owners report that the Norden 901 provides a refined, all-day comfortable take on the 890 platform. Riders praise the wide seat, aerodynamic fairing, and low-slung 19-litre tank for making long road links between trail networks effortless. On trails, its 21"/18" tubeless wheels offer great versatility, though owners note the standard suspension is tuned softer than KTM's R models, wallowing on big hits.
Pros for green laning
Full 21"/18" tubeless spoked wheels: allows fitment of aggressive knobby rubber while providing the convenience of instant roadside tubeless puncture plugs.
Low-slung 19-litre fuel tank: wraps down around the engine to keep the centre of gravity low, providing composed low-speed balance on loose tracks.
Smooth 105hp parallel twin: produces 100Nm of torque with responsive low-end pull, backed by an Offroad ride mode for controlled rear-wheel slip.
Superior long-distance comfort: a wider seat, effective wind protection, and cruise control make long motorway links between lane clusters effortless.
Cons and limitations
Substantial 220kg wet weight: demands serious physical effort to haul upright or paddle through deep ruts and boggy clay.
Soft base suspension setup: the standard suspension is tuned for touring comfort and can wallow or bottom out over sharp, fast trail hits.
Wide front fairing bodywork: broad body panels are vulnerable to scratches from low-hanging branches and cracking in rocky drops.
Complex electronics menu: altering rider modes and traction settings requires navigating dense digital menus with muddy gloves.
Based on manufacturer specifications and independent motorcycle press reviews.
Remember: a rank here assumes reasonable stock tyres and a competent rider in decent conditions. The right tyres, or the wrong weather, can move a lane from easy to genuinely hard regardless of what bike you're on. Check a lane's own difficulty and hazards on the map before you go, don't rely on a bike score alone.
Find where to actually ride it
Browse legal green lanes and byways across England and Wales, filtered by difficulty, on Holloway's map.