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Is the KTM 390 Adventure R good for off-road riding?

Yes — it’s quite capable off-road for a light ADV, though it’s not a full dirt bike. Some key off-road strengths and trade-offs:

* The WP APEX suspension gives 230 mm of travel front and rear.

* There are three ride modes: Street, Off-Road, and Rain. In Off-Road mode, throttle response is softened and traction control allows some rear slip — this helps in loose terrain.

* Cornering ABS is switchable / tuned: front ABS remains even in off-road mode, but rear ABS is disabled in Off-Road mode, which improves control while braking on loose surfaces.

* Tires are compromise: the R comes with Mitas Enduro Trail+ E07 (or similar)—good for mixed terrain, not pure motocross. 

* The bike’s frame and plastics are designed to be rugged: flexible body plastics, engine guard, hand-guards, and a good skid-plate contribute to off-road confidence. 

Reviewers say it handles predictably off-road and feels well balanced.

Trade-offs / limitations:

Because it’s not a pure dirt bike, very technical or aggressive off-road riding (single-track, big jumps) will be more challenging.

Power delivery is good but not extremely low-end torque, so maintaining momentum is more important.

The underbelly exhaust is somewhat exposed, so it may take hits in rough terrain.

Bottom line: The 390 Adventure R is very good for light to moderate off-road / trail-adventure use. For hardcore enduro / motocross, there are more specialized bikes, but for mixed terrain it’s one of the best in its displacement class.

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