KTM has finally revealed the much-awaited 390 Adventure at the 2019 EICMA show. The new entry-level segment motorcycle shared the stage with the new 890 Duke R and the 1290 Super Duke R at the motoring event.

The 390 Adventure has been spotted on several occasions in the past, and we already know most of the styling details on the vehicle. The KTM Adventure range inspired styling cues add split-style full-LED headlight, a windscreen and knuckle guards to the motorcycle. KTM has used the attributes and DNA from the 790 Adventure, along with its experience in Dakar Rally to develop the new 390 Adventure. Regular readers would already know that KTM has used 390 Duke as a base for the 390 Adventure.


The motorcycle was unveiled with an alloy wheel setup. Wire-spoke wheels and a tall-set front fender would have lent the 390 Adventure a proper off-road-ready look, but owners may have to look into the (official and unofficial) aftermarket bin to give their 390 Adventure a more rugged look. The wind protection setup, apart from the windscreen, include panels that sit on either side of the headlamp, behind the front blinkers. The panels aim to push the air away from the rider and deliver a comfortable ride experience. Do note that the windscreen is adjustable, and it can be used in a lower or higher position. The KTM PowerParts catalogue offers two windshields of different lengths.

Behind the windscreen is the colour-TFT display with KTM MY RIDE Bluetooth connectivity that offers access to functions like phone calls and music – features that we have already seen on the 390 Duke. The optional turn-to-turn navigating app that will add more functionality to the vehicle. The same feature should be available for the 390 Duke as well, although there is no official confirmation yet. The functions on the TFT display are accessible through the switchgear on the motorcycle.


KTM has opted for as minimal as bodywork as possible, so you don’t have to worry about many parts in case of a crash. The tank spoilers and the rear side panels are wider than the seat. The design aims to offer good control and reduce wear and tear on the seat. The narrow tank (14.5-litre capacity) should offer sufficient space to move around on the bike. The fuel tank is followed by a split-style and a pillion grab rail. The rear section features a LED taillight along with a short fender to hold the number plate. The short fender design aims to avoid contact with the rear wheel. The 390 Adventure will be available in two colour options – White and Orange.

The new KTM 390 Adventure, as mentioned before, is based on the 390 Duke. Thus, the 390 Adventure draws power from a 373.2, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke, 4-valve, DOHC engine that pumps out 43 hp of peak power and 37 Nm of maximum torque. A balancer shaft aims to deliver a smooth ride experience.


The new bike uses two catalytic converters and the fuel tank ventilation system (EVAP system) to improve emission values and prevent fuel vapours. An AKRAPOVIČ "SLIP-ON LINE" will be available as an optional extra, although it may not come to the Indian market. The engine is paired to a six-speed gearbox that also features a slipper clutch. Similar to the 390 Duke, the KTM 390 Adventure uses a ride-by-wire throttle, although there are no selectable riding modes available.

The 390 Adventure is built around a steel trellis frame and a bolted sub-frame. A die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is also part of the package. The shock absorption duties are handled by adjustable WP APEX 43 mm upside-down fork with separate function – compression damping on the left side, rebound on the right. The setup can be adjusted with dials on the top of the forks. The rear uses WP APEX shock absorber with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping. The front and rear feature 170 mm and 177 mm travel respectively.


Braking hardware includes a 320 mm single disc with four-piston radial fixed calliper at the front and a 230 mm rotor with a single-piston floating calliper at the back. The safety net comprises Bosch 9M+ dual-channel ABS with an offroad mode to switch off the rear ABS. The rider can completely disengage the system too. The safety tech also includes a traction control system. The 19-inch front wheel aims to strike a balance between on- and off-road riding.

The tall-set handlebar ensures comfortable, upright ergonomics on the motorcycle. The tall position of the handlebar also means that they are easy to reach while standing on the footpegs. The seat height, however, can be a major concern for most of the riders. The new 390 Adventure boasts a tall seat height of 858 mm. The adventure-spec footrests come with removable rubber inserts.