Most custom motorcycles created by Max Hazan are unique and artistic pieces that showcase their intricate mechanics. Hazan often prioritizes art over comfort and practicality, but sometimes he aims to build a bike that simply goes fast. This led him to create a radical KTM 1190 Adventure R supermoto.
The stock KTM 1190 Adventure R is a powerful off-road motorcycle with impressive specifications. It features WP Suspension components, 21F/18R wheels, 147.5 hp, and weighs 478 lbs dry. However, Hazan’s custom KTM 1190 Adventure R supermoto has been reconfigured for street use, making it lighter and more powerful.
Hazan acknowledges that some adventure bike enthusiasts may criticize his decision to convert the Adventure R into a road-only bike. However, he argues that most adventure bikes rarely see dirt and end up using dual sport tires on the road. Hazan wanted to create a machine that performs exceptionally well on pavement while maintaining the comforts of an adventure bike.
The owner of the bike, Mike, had previously purchased a custom KTM ‘950SMR’ from Hazan. After breaking his leg while riding off-road, Mike jokingly mentioned that it would be a great time for Hazan to build him a new custom bike. To fulfill his dream of building a supermoto from a Dakar-style rally bike, Hazan chose the KTM 1190 Adventure R as the base.
To achieve a street-friendly design, Hazan stripped down the 2016-model 1190 Adventure R to its frame. He replaced various OEM parts, including the bodywork, wheels, and swingarm. The bike initially had a long wheelbase, so Hazan replaced the swingarm with a KTM RC8 swingarm he found on eBay. He also added Marchesini M10 forged wheels, a custom rear wheel cush drive, custom carriers for Ducati rotors, and Brembo calipers.
The bodywork of the supermoto was hand-shaped from aluminum and features angular and brutal aesthetics. Hazan ensured that everything was interconnected flawlessly, with the bike’s functionality playing a part in the design. The bike has four fuel tanks, a mesh panel in the seat for air intake, and a lower intake system to flow enough air for the engine.
For the exhaust, Hazan created stainless steel headers and used rare rally-spec titanium Akrapovič mufflers. The twin radiators come from a Ducati Streetfighter and include electric fans to handle the heat in Los Angeles’ traffic.
With some ECU tuning by Rottweiler Performance, the KTM 1190 Adventure R supermoto is now lighter and more powerful, shedding about 90 lbs and gaining 15 hp. Hazan kept some OEM parts like the bars, controls, speedo, and most of the electronics, but removed the intrusive ABS and traction control systems.
According to Hazan, this supermoto is his best-handling bike to date. It is easy to ride at various speeds, comfortable, and can be ridden at highway speeds for extended periods without fatigue. Hazan’s unique approach to creating a rally-inspired supermoto has resulted in a bike that stands out and has become highly desirable.