A test mule of the upcoming KTM 390 Adventure popped up last month in India (Pune). However, unlike the test mules spotted in Europe, the Indian motorcycle was equipped with alloy wheels instead of wire-spokes. Thus, similar to its bigger adventure tourer models, KTM is expected to introduce the 390 Adventure in two varieties – on- and off-road spec.
Also read: New 500cc twin-cylinder KTM motorcycle to be manufactured by Bajaj
Thus, we used the expertise of Shoeb to create the production-spec model digitally. You can check out the road-biased 390 Adventure in one of our previous posts. Similar to its bigger adventure motorcycles, KTM is expected to call the off-road model 390 Adventure R.
The rugged wire-spoke wheels would come at the cost of tubeless tyres. Both variants would most likely come equipped with a 19-inch front wheel to offer a perfect balance between on- and off-road riding. The 390 Adventure R would use a proper bash plate instead of a fibre cowl. The bash plate would offer better protection from various elements that could damage the engine on the beaten path. A pair of knuckle-guards would come as standard fitment on the motorcycle.
Apart from what is mentioned above, both motorcycles would feature an identical styling, features and hardware. A full LED headlight with a split style design, previously seen on the 390 Duke, would illuminate the trail. LED blinkers and LED tail light complete the lighting department. The motorcycle will come with a compact windscreen as standard while KTM may offer a larger unit as part of optional accessories. The fairing would be accompanied by comfort-enhancing extensions on the sides of the headlight.
The European test mule did not feature a tall-set front fender – a typical off-road motorcycle trait. Thus, the production-spec 390 Adventure R is expected to carry a conventionally placed unit. The cockpit would include a TFT display derived from the 390 Duke's unit. KTM is expected to add turn-by-turn navigation on display. Optional accessories may also include a mount for an aftermarket navigation system. The TFT screen would also feature smartphone integration via Bluetooth. The 390 Duke style switchgear can be used to toggle between music tracks or control the incoming calls without letting go of the handlebar.
Revised ergonomics would be targeted to offer an upright riding stance. Thus, a taller handlebar will perform the steering tasks on the 390 Adventure duo. The taller unit would also deliver better accessibility to the rider while standing on the footrests. Another adventure style rider footrest with a removable rubber will be shared by both 390 Adventure variants
Body panels, fuel tank and saddle will be shared to keep the costs low and final prices competitive. The swingarm, too, will be identical to what is seen on the RC and Duke range. The 390 Adventure duo would use an identical trellis frame with bolted sub-frame. Upside-down telescopic forks and a monoshock perform shock absorption tasks. The spy images from India revealed segment-first adjustable front forks. Dust caps ensure protection to the fork oil seals.
The technical specification sheet would not differ greatly. The 373.2cc, single-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve, liquid-cooled engine on the 390 Duke delivers 43.5 hp of power at 9,500 RPM and 35 Nm of peak torque at 7,250 rpm. The 390 Adventure may feature revised gearing with a different sprocket combination. The engine will be paired to a six-speed gearbox and feature a slip/assist clutch. Electronic aids would most likely include switchable dual-channel ABS and ride-by-wire system.
Also read: 4 upcoming KTM bikes for India - 790 Duke, 390 Adventure, RC390
The 390 Adventure R will carry a marginal premium over the standard. KTM India should target the sub-INR 3 lakh (on-road) price zone with the 390 Adventure and 390 Adventure R that would cause severe pressure to its direct rival, the BMW G310 GS and other sub-500cc adventure tourers such as the Kawasaki Versys-X 300. The aggressive pricing would also bother the Royal Enfield 650 Twins although they belong in a different segment.
