Well, I wrote a pretty long reply, but the internet ate it in the process of posting it.
Long story short...
I rode the KTM 1190 Adventure (standard, not R) on Friday. It's a very nice ride. Pretty quick, buzzy at high RPM (illegal speeds), and I've been told the touring cases are NOT water/dust proof.
OTD price is $16,740 in Arlington, TX.
Going to try the Triumph Explorer just as soon as the dealer gets his demo bike back. Seems he lets people take it for a couple of days, rather than a few minutes around the block. He's selling the 2013 non-XC version for $14,100, plus tax, etc. (~$16,000 OTD?) Up until last week, Triumph was throwing in a free set of panniers. The XC version would be great, but it only comes in Army Green
. (This bike might be my fallback position.)
One riding buddy has a new BMW GS. I've rode it and it's pretty nice. But, I wasn't paying close attention as Adventure bikes weren't on my radar at the time. He's going to let me take another spin on it as soon as the weather cooperates, although he's taking it to Big Bend next weekend. I'd strongly consider it, except for the price.
Two friends have the Super Tenere. It's a big, HEAVY bike. not my cup of tea.
BUT ... drumroll please ... I got back on my Connie after the KTM ride. Dang, it is such a nice ride. Super smooth, acceleration is amazing. I guess I could put on a set of knobby tires for the offroad parts.