2025 KOVE 800X Rally

Mar 28

Middle Weight Disruptor

If you’re like most seasoned adventure riders, you’ve long awaited the one machine that is powerful enough to go as far and as fast as the highways will take you, and is light and agile enough to fly through the jeep trails and scary hyper-technical trails with ease.

okay maybe not everyone has that dream, but I have certainly been on the lookout for a machine that blends power, agility, and innovation in a way that challenges the limits of my riding skills and my courage. The KOVE 800X Rally, with its recent unveiling and impending launch in America, has caught a lot of riders attention for this very reason, and I'm eager to share why I believe it just might be a pivotal addition to the adventure riding scene.

Power and Performance

The KOVE 800X Rally is powered by a 799cc parallel-twin engine, which in it’s initial iterations produced 94 horsepower and 59 ft-lbs of torque. However, preliminary launch information indicates that production models of the 800x will be delivered with approximately 100 horsepower and 68 ft-lbs of torque. Those are the kind of numbers that place it ahead of it’s 800cc brethren. Also the kind of numbers that hint at KOVE's noticable asperation to be a high performance motorcycle manufacturer.

Weight and Handling

Weighing just 383 fully fueled, the 800X/Rally is poised to take the top spot in the power-to-weight battle for middle weight adventure bikes. Still unanswered will these numbers translate into agility and control unmatched by its peers? The bike's suspension system, featuring beefy 49mm forks with 10.6 inches of travel and a linkage suspension at the rear with 9.8 inches of travel, on paper these spec are in line with a high performance off-road focused adventure bike.

Design and Equipment

The KOVE 800X Rally doesn't just excel in performance; its design and equipment set high standards for adventure motorcycles. With 21/18” tube type spoked wheels, a narrow rear wheel to accommodate a 140mm width tire, and a race ECU, the bike is built for durability and ruggedness. The minimalistic approach to electronics, including a TFT display with Eco and Sport modes without overwhelming the rider with unnecessary features, aligns perfectly with the needs of experienced adventurers who prefer a more tactile connection with their ride.

Comparative Advantage

In the realm of midweight adventure motorcycles, the KOVE 800X/Rally stands out for its unparalleled power-to-weight ratio. It's lighter than the Yamaha Tenere 700, Transalp750, Tourag660 and KTM’s 790/890 Adventure models, offering a compelling choice for riders who are looking to maximize off-road performance.

Styling

The KOVE 800X/Rally is a good looking bike with aesthetics inspired by KOVE's Dakar rally bike. Its design look current for a performance oriented adventure bike with the latest technology.

800X Rally Project Bike

I look forward to extensively testing the KOVE 800X Rally later this season. For those intrigued by this blend of size, weight, and feature set, I encourage you to stay tuned for further updates from my website and YouTube channel.

Conclusion

The KOVE 800X Rally might just be the perfect mix of size, weight, and features for seasoned off-road focused adventure riders seeking a bike that doesn't compromise on power or agility. Its introduction into the American market may mark a pivotal moment for adventure motorcycling, promising a blend of performance and innovation that could redefine expectations within the segment. The holy grail? …maybe not. After all the dealer network is just getting started. But will it be enough to light a fire under the competitions…I won’t know for sure until I swing a leg over one, but I’m starting to think…maybe so?

Specifications

Engine 4 - Stroke, Twin-Cylinder, DOHC

Cooling Liquid

Displacement 799cc

Bore x Stroke 88mm x 65.7mm

Starter Electric

Clutch Cable-Actuated

Gearbox 6-Speed

Fuels System EFI

Handlebar 1 1/8” Tapered Aluminum

Frame Steel

Front Fork Inverted Fork, Adj Comp & Reb. 10.6” Travel