2025 KTM 390 Adventure Review: A Big Step Forward

Five years after launching the original 390 Adventure, KTM has introduced an all-new version, and this time, they've nailed it. The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure fixes the adventure-related shortcomings of its predecessor, thanks to the new platform derived from the Gen 3 Duke. Key updates include a side-mounted monoshock and a repositioned airbox, which together help lower the seat height from 855mm to a more manageable 830mm. This makes the bike more accessible to a wider range of riders.

What’s New in the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure?

The lower seat height is just one of many improvements. The bike now has increased suspension travel, up from 170/177mm to 200/205mm, and significantly more ground clearance, growing from 200mm to 237mm. The redesigned 399cc engine also helps with ground clearance due to a higher crankshaft placement compared to the older 373cc motor. This makes the new-generation 390 A`dventure stand out, particularly among its Enduro and SMC siblings.

Power remains at 46hp and 39Nm, the same as the 390 Duke, but KTM has added a larger 46-tooth rear sprocket to compensate for the extra weight and bigger wheels. The engine offers a great balance between power and ease of use, making it the only bike in its segment capable of a sub-6 second 0-100kph time. Yet, it remains smooth and manageable at lower speeds, making it an excellent everyday ride. The refined throttle response ensures an engaging ride experience whether you’re commuting or hitting the trails.

Riders get three riding modes – Rain, Street, and Off-Road – which adjust throttle response, ABS, and traction control settings. While Off-Road mode is the most responsive, it still works well for city rides, ensuring versatility in various conditions. KTM has also worked on reducing engine heat, making it more comfortable to ride in stop-and-go traffic.

Ride Quality and Comfort

Single-cylinder engines often struggle with vibrations, and while KTM has managed to control the buzz in the handlebars, the footpegs still feel some of it, especially at lower speeds. On highways, however, the bike maintains impressive stability and can cruise at 120kph or more with ease, something many rivals can't match. The long-distance touring capability of the 390 Adventure has improved significantly, making it a viable option for adventure enthusiasts.

The bi-directional quick shifter adds to the fun but occasionally feels clunky. The underbelly exhaust delivers KTM’s signature aggressive sound at high revs, while at lower speeds, it has a more subdued tone. While an upswept exhaust would have looked better, KTM assures that the current design can handle water crossings up to 400mm deep, making it a practical choice for adventure riders.

Ergonomics and Handling

The 830mm seat height is still on the taller side, especially for riders around 5’6”, but the bike’s lighter weight and better weight distribution make it easier to handle. KTM has also improved the footpeg positioning, making it more comfortable, especially when standing for off-road riding. A slightly taller handlebar would have been a nice addition for off-road use, but overall, the ergonomics are well-balanced.

The non-adjustable tall windscreen performs well at high speeds but may feel restrictive in city traffic, especially during hot weather. However, for long rides, the windscreen helps reduce fatigue, making high-speed cruising more enjoyable.

When it comes to handling, the 390 Adventure feels light and agile, especially compared to the heavier Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. The bike is easy to maneuver in city traffic, thanks to its light clutch and controlled engine heat dissipation. The suspension is well-tuned for absorbing bumps, and while not as plush as some competitors, it offers a great balance of comfort and control.

The seat is firm, and longer rides may cause discomfort after about an hour. A plusher accessory seat would be a welcome addition, but for now, KTM only offers three accessories – a front mudguard, a center stand, and a headlamp guard.

Off-Road Performance

This is where the 390 Adventure truly shines. With its light frame, balanced handling, and increased suspension travel, it tackles off-road conditions with confidence. The 21-inch front wheel and sturdy chassis make rocky and loose terrains easier to handle. The added ground clearance and an aluminum bash plate allow riders to confidently navigate obstacles.

However, when pushed hard, especially on big jumps, the suspension struggles and bottoms out. Fortunately, the front fork offers compression and rebound adjustability, while the rear suspension has preload and rebound settings. Adjusting the fork’s compression damping improves off-road performance, but serious off-road riders may need aftermarket suspension upgrades.

Despite these limitations, the 390 Adventure maintains a fine balance between being lightweight and capable, making it one of the best adventure motorcycles available in India. The versatility of this bike makes it appealing to both experienced and new riders looking to explore off-road terrain.

On-Road Performance

The same qualities that make the 390 Adventure great off-road also enhance its on-road handling. The bike feels light and nimble, making cornering easy and confidence-inspiring. Direction changes are effortless, and it leans well into turns without the footpegs scraping.

While the suspension is comfortable and absorbs rough roads well, it isn’t as plush as the Himalayan 450. The Apollo Tramplr tires offer good grip on both roads and light off-road trails, but they become noisy at higher speeds.

Braking performance is solid, even though KTM switched to an axial front brake caliper. The initial bite is soft, which helps off-road, but braking force increases smoothly with more pressure on the lever. The ABS system is well-calibrated and enhances safety in all conditions.

Features and Design

The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure is packed with features. The 5-inch TFT display has sharp graphics and is easy to navigate using the switchgear. The rear ABS and traction control can be switched off easily, and the bike remembers your settings even after turning it off. Other key features include a quick shifter and a segment-first cruise control system that works smoothly.

A major highlight is the new spoked wheels, which are tubeless-ready thanks to a unique rubber seal design. While KTM hasn't disclosed the lifespan of this component, it’s a noteworthy addition for adventure riders.

The bike’s new Dakar-inspired design adds to its appeal. While not conventionally stylish, it looks more purposeful and rugged. KTM has also upgraded the bodywork materials, making them more durable and resistant to scratches. The plastic panels are now color-pigmented rather than stickered, so even if they get scratched, they won’t lose their color.

Also Read: Hot Wheels Rolling into Modern Classic Rally 2025

Pricing and Verdict

The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure offers a solid mix of performance, capability, and modern features. However, it comes at a price – Rs 3.67 lakh (ex-showroom). For those who find this expensive, the lower-spec 390 Adventure X provides a more budget-friendly option.

Overall, the new 390 Adventure is a significant improvement over the previous model, delivering everything we wished for in the original version. Whether on highways, city streets, or off-road trails, this bike proves to be a well-rounded and exciting adventure machine.

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