The KTM 390 Adventure is a testament to KTM’s relentless pursuit of blending performance with versatility, tailored specifically for the Indian market and adventure riders worldwide. Manufactured in collaboration with Bajaj Auto at their Chakan plant in Pune, this motorcycle embodies KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy while adapting to the diverse riding conditions of India—from bustling city streets to rugged off-road trails. Launched as a part of KTM’s globally acclaimed Adventure lineup, the 390 Adventure bridges the gap between the raw power of the KTM 390 Duke and the hardcore off-road capabilities of its larger siblings like the 790 and 890 Adventure models. Since its debut, it has evolved through multiple iterations, with the 2025 model marking a significant leap in design, technology, and off-road prowess.
Designed to cater to both novice and seasoned riders, the KTM 390 Adventure offers a compelling mix of agility, durability, and advanced features. It’s a motorcycle that doesn’t just promise adventure—it delivers it, whether you’re navigating the chaotic traffic of metro cities or exploring the uncharted terrains of the Himalayas. With its rally-inspired aesthetics, robust engineering, and a price point that undercuts many of its competitors, the 390 Adventure has carved a niche in the Indian two-wheeler market. This detailed exploration will dive into its technical specifications, variants, pricing across major cities, and how it stacks up against its rivals, providing a holistic view of why this bike is a standout choice in the adventure-touring segment.
Technical Specifications
The KTM 390 Adventure is powered by a refined engine and equipped with cutting-edge features that enhance its performance on and off the road. Below is a tabular breakdown of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 398.63 cc |
| Max Power | 45.3 bhp (46 PS) @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with slipper clutch and bi-directional quickshifter |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection with ride-by-wire |
| Mileage | 30-36 kmpl (varies by riding conditions, as per owner reports and expert tests) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 liters |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 2154 mm x 900 mm x 1400 mm (approximate, varies slightly by variant) |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 227 mm |
| Seat Height | 830 mm (standard), adjustable to 855 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 182-183 kg (varies by variant) |
| Frame | Split-trellis tubular steel frame |
| Suspension (Front) | WP Apex USD forks, 200 mm travel, adjustable compression and rebound (30 clicks) |
| Suspension (Rear) | WP Apex monoshock, 205 mm travel, adjustable rebound (20 clicks) and preload (10 clicks) |
| Brakes (Front) | 320 mm disc with radially mounted caliper, dual-channel ABS |
| Brakes (Rear) | 240 mm disc with floating caliper, switchable ABS |
| Tyres (Front) | 100/90-21 (tubeless, spoke wheels) |
| Tyres (Rear) | 140/80-17 (tubeless, spoke wheels) |
| Lighting | Full LED headlamp with DRLs, LED tail lamp |
| Instrument Cluster | 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity |
These specifications reflect the 2025 model, which has seen upgrades over its predecessors, particularly in engine displacement (from 373 cc to 398.63 cc), suspension travel, and electronic aids, making it a more capable adventure tourer.
Variants
The KTM 390 Adventure is available in multiple variants to cater to different rider preferences and budgets. Below is a table summarizing the key variants available in India as of April 2025.
| Variant | Key Features | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|---|
| 390 Adventure X | LCD display, basic ABS, non-adjustable suspension, 19/17-inch alloy wheels | Rs. 2,91,140 |
| 390 Adventure Standard | TFT display, cornering ABS, traction control, adjustable suspension, 21/17-inch spoke wheels | Rs. 3,67,699 |
- 390 Adventure X: The entry-level variant, designed for riders seeking affordability without compromising on core performance. It lacks some of the advanced electronics and adjustable suspension found in the Standard variant but retains the same engine and chassis.
- 390 Adventure Standard: The top-spec model, equipped with premium features like a TFT dashboard, cruise control, and fully adjustable suspension, making it ideal for serious adventure riders.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the KTM 390 Adventure varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices for the Standard variant as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale.
| City | On-Road Price (Standard Variant) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 4,13,750 |
| Mumbai | Rs. 4,28,150 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 4,66,941 |
| Pune | Rs. 4,28,150 |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 4,28,150 |
| Chennai | Rs. 4,13,750 |
| Kolkata | Rs. 4,20,950 |
The 390 Adventure X is approximately Rs. 50,000-60,000 cheaper on-road compared to the Standard variant in these cities, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.
About the Bike
Design and Exteriors
The KTM 390 Adventure has undergone a significant transformation in its 2025 iteration, adopting a rally-inspired design that echoes the aggressive styling of KTM’s Dakar-winning machines. The vertically stacked LED headlight with integrated DRLs, paired with a tall windscreen and a pronounced beak-like fender, gives it a purposeful, off-road-ready stance. The new bodywork, with sharper lines and minimalistic panels, not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also reduces weight, improving agility. Available in two striking color options—Electronic Orange and Ceramic White—the bike stands out in both urban and wilderness settings.
The switch to a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless spoke wheel combination (from the earlier 19/17-inch alloy setup) underscores its off-road focus. These wheels, wrapped in block-pattern tires, provide superior grip and durability on rough terrain. The upswept exhaust and slim fuel tank design further enhance its ground clearance and water-wading capabilities, making it a true adventure machine.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the KTM 390 Adventure lies a 398.63 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, shared with the 390 Duke. This BS6 Phase 2-compliant powerplant delivers 45.3 bhp at 8500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm, offering a noticeable improvement over the previous 373 cc engine’s 43.5 bhp and 37 Nm. The inclusion of ride-by-wire technology ensures precise throttle response, while the bi-directional quickshifter enables seamless gear changes, enhancing both city commuting and highway cruising.
The engine’s linear power delivery is a boon for off-road riding, where predictable performance is crucial. Owners report a mileage of 30-36 kmpl, depending on conditions—impressive for a bike of this caliber. In city traffic, it hovers around 25-27 kmpl, while highway runs can push it closer to 36 kmpl, giving a range of nearly 400 km with its 14.5-liter fuel tank. However, some riders note mild vibrations at higher revs and a lack of low-end torque compared to competitors like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, which can be a drawback in technical off-road scenarios.
Suspension and Handling
The KTM 390 Adventure excels in handling diverse terrains, thanks to its advanced suspension setup. The front features WP Apex USD forks with 200 mm of travel, adjustable for compression and rebound in 30 clicks, allowing riders to fine-tune it for comfort or rigidity. The rear WP Apex monoshock offers 205 mm of travel, with 20-click rebound and 10-click preload adjustability. This setup ensures a plush ride over potholes and excellent control on gravel or dirt trails.
With a ground clearance of 227 mm and a lightweight split-trellis frame, the bike feels nimble yet stable. The adjustable seat height (830 mm to 855 mm) accommodates a range of rider heights, though shorter riders may find it challenging to plant both feet flat. The transition to spoke wheels enhances off-road capability, though it sacrifices some sharpness in on-road cornering compared to alloy-equipped predecessors.
Braking and Safety
Braking duties are handled by a 320 mm front disc with a radially mounted caliper and a 240 mm rear disc with a floating caliper, both supported by dual-channel ABS. The system includes cornering ABS and off-road ABS modes, allowing riders to lock the rear wheel for controlled slides on dirt—a feature appreciated by off-road enthusiasts. The switchable ABS adds versatility, ensuring safety on tarmac and freedom off it.
Advanced Features
The KTM 390 Adventure Standard variant is packed with cutting-edge electronics, setting it apart in its segment. The 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity offers navigation, call alerts, and music controls, making long rides more enjoyable. Cruise control, a rarity in this price range, enhances highway comfort, while switchable cornering traction control and three riding modes (Street, Rain, Off-road) adapt the bike to varying conditions. These features, absent in the X variant, justify the premium pricing and elevate the riding experience.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the KTM 390 Adventure offers a rider-centric cockpit. The wide, upright handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs create a commanding yet comfortable riding posture, ideal for long tours. The single-piece seat is well-padded, though some riders find it firm during extended rides. The slim tank design allows easy gripping with the knees, enhancing control during standing off-road stances.
Riding Experience
The KTM 390 Adventure shines as an all-rounder. In cities, its tractable engine and light clutch make stop-and-go traffic manageable, despite some heat from the engine in prolonged idling. On highways, it cruises effortlessly at triple-digit speeds, with the quickshifter smoothing gear transitions. Off-road, the linear throttle, adjustable suspension, and crawl feature (maintaining high idle rpm to prevent stalling) make it a joy to ride over rocks and trails. However, it lacks the raw excitement of other KTMs, with a front end that feels less communicative and a mid-range torque surge that’s subdued compared to the 390 Duke.
Close Competitors
The KTM 390 Adventure faces stiff competition in the 300-500 cc adventure segment. Here’s how it compares to its key rivals:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Priced at Rs. 3.29-3.43 lakh (ex-showroom), the Himalayan offers a 452 cc engine with 40 bhp and 40 Nm, excelling in low-end torque and off-road ruggedness. It lacks the KTM’s electronic sophistication but is more affordable and better suited for slow, technical trails. Its mileage is slightly lower at 30 kmpl, and its 198 kg weight makes it less agile than the 182 kg KTM.
- BMW G 310 GS: At Rs. 3.71 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW brings German engineering with a 313 cc engine producing 34 bhp and 28 Nm. It’s more road-focused, with superior build quality and refinement, but its lower power, smaller 11-liter tank, and higher price make it less versatile than the KTM for adventure touring.
- Yezdi Adventure: Priced at Rs. 2.10-2.20 lakh (ex-showroom), this budget option features a 334 cc engine with 30 bhp and 29.9 Nm. It’s lighter at 187 kg and offers decent off-road capability, but its basic features and reliability concerns put it behind the KTM in terms of premium appeal.
- Upcoming Hero XPulse 400: Expected at Rs. 2.5-3 lakh, this bike promises a 400 cc engine and off-road focus. While details are scarce, it could challenge the KTM with a lower price and simpler design, though it’s unlikely to match the 390 Adventure’s tech suite.
The KTM 390 Adventure stands out for its balance of power, features, and price, making it a top choice for riders seeking a do-it-all ADV. Its closest rival, the Himalayan 450, trades tech for torque, while the BMW G 310 GS prioritizes refinement over adventure readiness.
Verdict
The KTM 390 Adventure is a compelling package for adventure enthusiasts in India and beyond. Its 2025 iteration, with a more powerful engine, adjustable suspension, and advanced electronics, elevates it from a road-biased tourer to a hardcore adventure machine. Priced competitively, especially in the X variant, it offers unmatched value in its segment. While it may not match the low-end grunt of the Himalayan or the refinement of the BMW, its versatility, lightweight design, and feature-rich Standard variant make it a standout.
For riders dreaming of conquering both urban jungles and mountain trails, the KTM 390 Adventure delivers a thrilling, reliable, and practical solution. Whether you’re a beginner dipping into adventure riding or a seasoned explorer seeking a capable companion, this bike promises to take you further—both literally and figuratively—than you ever imagined.
