The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R/X duo represents a complete reimagining of entry-level adventure motorcycling—offering riders a choice between two philosophies for approximately Rs 2.91 lakh (X) and Rs 3.68 lakh (R) ex-showroom India. KTM’s strategy is refreshingly clear: the X is for road-focused adventurers, while the R caters to serious off-road enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on capability.
Both variants feature an all-new 398.63cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine producing 46 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm—a meaningful power bump from the previous generation. The R distinguishes itself with fully adjustable WP Apex suspension (21-inch front spoked wheels, 200mm travel), while the X opts for non-adjustable suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels. Both get cornering ABS, switchable traction control, three riding modes (Street/Rain/Offroad), a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, bi-directional quick-shifter, and 14.5-litre fuel tanks delivering around 30 kmpl efficiency. With rally-inspired design language, knuckle guards, underbelly exhausts, and pricing that undercuts competitors significantly, the 390 Adventure series redefines what’s possible in the budget adventure segment.
Complete Specifications
| Specification | 390 Adventure R / X Details |
|---|---|
| Price (India) | R: Rs 3,68,000; X: Rs 2,91,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi) |
| Price (USA) | R: $6,999; X: $5,899 (March 2025 launch) |
| Engine Type | 398.63cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve |
| Max Power | 46 PS (45.3 bhp) @ 8,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 89mm x 64mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.71:1 |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual gearbox, bi-directional quick-shifter |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate with assist and slipper function |
| Starting | Electric self-start only |
| Frame | Tubular steel perimeter frame (on both variants) |
| Front Suspension (R) | WP Apex USD forks, fully adjustable (compression/rebound, 30 clicks each), 200mm travel |
| Front Suspension (X) | WP Apex USD forks, non-adjustable, 200mm travel |
| Rear Suspension (R) | WP Apex monoshock, fully adjustable (20 clicks rebound, 10 clicks preload), 205mm travel |
| Rear Suspension (X) | Monoshock, non-adjustable, 200mm travel |
| Front Brakes | 320mm disc with 2-piston caliper, dual-channel ABS |
| Rear Brakes | 240mm disc with 1-piston caliper, dual-channel ABS |
| ABS Modes | Cornering ABS (both variants), Off-road ABS (R only), Supermoto mode |
| Front Tyre (R) | 90/90-21 (tubeless spoke wheel) |
| Front Tyre (X) | 100/80-19 (tubeless alloy wheel) |
| Rear Tyre (R) | 140/80-17 (tubeless spoke wheel) |
| Rear Tyre (X) | 130/80-17 (tubeless alloy wheel) |
| Wheel Size (R) | 21-inch front / 17-inch rear spoked |
| Wheel Size (X) | 19-inch front / 17-inch rear alloy |
| Wheelbase | ~1,430mm (both variants) |
| Ground Clearance | 227mm (R); 180mm (X) |
| Seat Height | R: 885mm; X: 825mm (standard seat) |
| Kerb Weight | R: 183kg; X: 182kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres (both variants) |
| Real-World Range | ~360-400km depending on riding conditions and efficiency |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI claimed) | 27.5 kmpl; Real-world: 24-32 kmpl |
| Riding Modes | Street, Rain, Offroad (all three on both variants) |
| Instrument Cluster | 5-inch full-color TFT display (both variants) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, smartphone app integration, turn-by-turn navigation, music control |
| Special Features | Cruise control (both), knuckle guards, adjustable levers (R), underbelly exhaust, rally tower console |
| Lighting | Twin projector LED headlights with DRL, full-LED tail lights, LED indicators |
| Traction Control | 8-level switchable cornering traction control (both variants) |
| Wheelie Control | Yes (R only, through off-road mode settings) |
| Emission Norms | Euro 5.2 / BS6 2.0 compliant |
| Warranty | KTM standard warranty (varies by market) |
About KTM
Rally Racing DNA
KTM AG, founded in 1934 in Mattighofen, Austria, is one of the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturers with an unmatched heritage in off-road and adventure motorcycling. The company is famous for rally racing pedigree (multi-time Dakar Rally winners), lightweight engineering, and no-compromise performance philosophy.
The 390 Adventure line represents KTM’s democratization of adventure motorcycling—bringing rally-inspired capabilities to affordable price points. With the 2025 R/X split, KTM acknowledges that not all adventurers seek identical capabilities: some prioritize road comfort (X), others crave off-road prowess (R).
This dual-variant strategy proves KTM’s market maturity: rather than offering one-size-fits-all, the brand allows buyers to select equipment matching their actual riding preferences. The result is uncompromised value across both segments—something competitors rarely achieve.
What Experts Are Saying
Key Highlights
- Dual-Variant Strategy: R for off-road capability; X for road comfort—let riders choose their philosophy
- Rally-Inspired Design: Tower-mounted TFT, knuckle guards, underbelly exhaust, aggressive styling
- New Engine Generation: 398cc with 46 bhp, counterbalancer for smoothness, Euro 5.2 compliance
- WP Apex Suspension: Fully adjustable on R (compression/rebound); non-adjustable but refined on X
- Adventure-Ready Features: Three ride modes (Street/Rain/Offroad), cornering ABS, switchable traction control on both
- Spoke Wheels (R) vs Alloy (X): 21-inch front spokes on R provide off-road credibility; 19-inch alloys on X suit road riders
- Smart Connectivity: 5-inch TFT with Bluetooth, smartphone app, navigation integration, music control
- Impressive Value Proposition: R at $6,999 / Rs 3.68L and X at $5,899 / Rs 2.91L are competitive prices for segment capabilities
The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R and Adventure X represent a watershed moment in entry-level adventure motorcycling: proof that manufacturers can deliver genuine capability at accessible prices without forced compromise. KTM’s decision to offer two distinct variants acknowledges a fundamental truth: different riders pursue different adventures.
The R is for those who dream of Dakar Rally heroics on weekend trails—the adjustable suspension, spoked wheels, and aggressive ground clearance deliver genuine off-road credibility. The X caters to riders who prioritize smooth highways and gravel exploration over technical terrain. Both share the DNA that makes KTM special: rally racing heritage, lightweight engineering, and uncompromising handling dynamics.
At Rs 2.91 lakh (X) and Rs 3.68 lakh (R), pricing is refreshingly honest. You’re not paying premium dollars for mediocre capability. The new WP Apex suspension, updated engine, three riding modes, and cornering-sensitive electronics deliver genuine adventure motorcycling technology without artificial marking-up. For first-time adventure buyers, experienced riders seeking a nimble second bike, or anyone refusing to compromise on both capability and value, the 390 Adventure duo is compelling.
