Evotech Performance Short Brake And Clutch Lever Set for KTM 890 Adventure R (2021 Onwards)
🛠️ What These Levers Are & Why They Matter
The Evotech Evo Short Brake and Clutch Lever Set is a high-quality aftermarket upgrade crafted specifically for the KTM 890 Adventure R (2021+). Developed in the UK and engineered in-house by Drury Precision Engineering, this set combines precision CNC-machined billet aluminum with ergonomic, utility-focused design
Key design aspects include:
-
Shortened lever blades (~55 mm usable width), optimized for two-finger operation—ideal for adventure riding and offering better control .
-
Ergonomic edges: deeply radiused for comfort, reducing hand fatigue during long rides
-
Six-position, 17 mm span adjuster, allowing fine-tuning to suit various hand sizes
-
Snap-point ball ends, meeting statutory safety requirements and offering a point of breakage in impact scenarios
-
All components—from lever blades and bracket mounts to pivot pins—are CNC-machined and finished in durable black anodizing (adjusters available in various colors)
✅ Primary Benefits
1. Improved Crash Resistance & Compactness
The shorter blades reduce the likelihood of lever damage during tip-overs. If impact occurs, the snap-point is designed to yield under force, protecting more critical parts
2. Ergonomic Comfort
Optimized for two-finger braking/clutching, these levers offer a more natural grip, minimizing strain and enhancing control—especially useful during long-distance or off-road rides
3. Customizable Reach
The six-click adjuster lets riders fine-tune the lever reach (±17 mm), accommodating both small and large hands with precision .
4. Top-Grade Construction
Fully CNC-machined billet aluminum, stainless steel fasteners, and scalloped weight-saving design provide durability without sacrificing performance
🧩 Fitment & Installation
Designed specifically for KTM 890 Adventure R (2021+), these levers are a direct, bolt-on replacement. Installation is straightforward and achievable with a basic toolkit. Evotech provides both detailed pictorial guides and instructional videos
Typical installation steps:
-
Remove OEM levers.
-
Bolt in Evotech lever brackets and blades.
-
Adjust span to desired setting.
-
Torque bolts as per spec.
-
Ensure clean movement—no binding.
-
Confirm lever clearance (especially brake lever) does not rub against triple clamp or housing (this has occasionally been a point of consideration)
Riders have noted sometimes a “small vertical play” at the pivot—common with quality aftermarket levers—as long as it isn’t excessive, it’s generally accepted and can be managed by proper torque or shims if needed
🌍 Real-World Feedback
Although reviews specific to the 890 R are scarce, broader feedback from riders across different bikes—Ducati, Yamaha, Triumph—provides valuable insight.
From Reddit (Ducati SS 950s riders):
“I’ve always liked their stuff. Good quality, good fitment.”
“Never had any issues with Evotech… fairly priced and great quality.”
From MT-09 users:
“I have a set on my Gen 3 (short, not folding) and they are absolutely lovely leavers… more feedback… paid same as a single ASV.”
Also, technical caution:
“Brake lever hitting my triple clamp… couldn’t pull all the way… raise brake clamp to solve.”
Overall, riders appreciate the build quality, feel, and value—though careful setup is essential.
🔪 Comparison: Evotech vs Alternatives
Feature | Evotech Short Set | ASV / CRG / Pazzo | OEM KTM Levers |
---|---|---|---|
Build Quality | CNC billet, anodized, stainless hardware | Premium CNC, high-end finishes | Cast, standard OEM |
Lever Length | Short, 55 mm usable width | Available in both short and full size | Full OEM length |
Adjustment | 6‑click, 17 mm span | Similar or more adjustability | Minimal or none |
Crash Resistance | Snap-point, short reduces leverage | Folding options for both levers | Break easily on drop |
Price (EUR) | ~€180 inclusive VAT | €250–400+ per lever set | ~€60 each |
Color Options | Base black, adjustable colored dials | Wide color options, premium finishes | OEM standard |
Summary: Evotech offers a high-value middle ground—great quality and design at a fair price point. Comparable to premium brands in function, but significantly less costly.
💰 Cost & Availability
-
UK price: £150 (~€180 incl. VAT) EU/Netherlands: ~€181.50 delivered
-
Rest of world/India: Often available from local dealers or imported—expect ~₹15–18k depending on shipping.
Delivery times vary:
-
UK: 2–3 days via Royal Mail/UPS.
-
EU: ~4–5 working days.
-
Worldwide: 8–15 days depending on service tier.
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
-
Enhanced feel: radiused edges and two-finger design cut fatigue.
-
Reach flexibility: six-click adjustment covers varied hand sizes.
-
Reduced lever breakage potential thanks to short design and snap points.
-
Nickel-level durability with full billet construction.
-
Slim profile—less likely to catch on gear or obstacles.
-
Excellent value compared to premium lever brands.
⚠️ Cons
-
May require fine-tuning pivot torque or minor shims.
-
Occasional clearance issues—especially around brake lever, may need brake clamp repositioning
-
Slight vertical play noted by some—acceptable within spec, but may not suit all riders .
-
Premium-priced vs cheap clones; but those may compromise on material or pivot reliability.
🏍️ Who They’re For
Ideal for:
-
Riders wanting added comfort, control, and ergonomics during touring or off-road.
-
Those seeking to minimize crank and contact damage from lever tipovers.
-
Riders with smaller or average-sized hands who find OEM reach unwieldy.
-
People who appreciate quality build but don’t want to pay ASV/CRG-level prices.
Maybe less suited if:
-
You require folding brake levers (Evotech short set is fixed).
-
Clearance issues are a major concern—especially with specific clamp setups.
-
You want lever setup with zero perceived play (some aftermarket tolerance exists).
🔧 Installation & Setup Tips
-
Follow Evotech’s video guide strictly
-
Ensure brake lever doesn’t catch on triples or switch housings—reposition clamp if needed Torque pivot fasteners correctly—snug enough to avoid play but free to move.
-
Regular checks: pivot tightness, lever integrity, repeat adjuster function.
-
Clean & lubricate pivot occasionally, especially after rides in dusty or wet conditions.
🧠 Final Verdict
The Evotech Performance Short Brake and Clutch Lever Set stands out as a sensible, quality-driven upgrade for the KTM 890 Adventure R. Here’s the verdict:
-
Ergonomics & feel: noticeable improvement with optimized two-finger reach and contoured design.
-
Durability: CNC billet blades and snap-point ends mean less risk of damage during minor crashes.
-
Adjustability: six-click system offers personalized comfort.
-
Value: excellent mid-tier pricing for comparable technical quality.
The only minor downsides are some pivot play (normal) and potential clearance tweaks required—both manageable during install.
🚀 Summary in Short
If you’re looking to elevate your 890 R’s control, comfort, and durability—without breaking the bank—the Evotech short lever set is a smart pick. It strikes a balance between functionality, style, and price, ideal for adventure riders who value quality and customization.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.