KTM 390 Adventure – Ultimate Review, Price, Mileage & Specs

Introduction

When you think of motorcycles that combine affordability, adventure, and modern technology, one name almost always pops up — the KTM 390 Adventure. Positioned in the entry-level ADV (Adventure) segment, this bike has carved a unique space for itself by appealing to both new riders and experienced motorcyclists who want a capable yet practical touring machine. Unlike typical commuter bikes, the model is designed with a “go-anywhere” mindset, making it equally at home on highways, city streets, and rugged trails. In short, it brings world-class adventure biking to an affordable segment.

Adventure biking has become more than just a trend — it’s a lifestyle. Riders across the globe are looking for machines that can handle long-distance touring, unpredictable weather, and off-road detours without breaking a sweat. KTM, a brand known for its aggressive styling and performance-driven engineering, brought this philosophy into the small-capacity segment with the 390 Adventure platform. Based on the popular Duke 390, this ADV version packs upgraded suspension, improved ergonomics, and a host of electronic features usually found only in bigger, more expensive motorcycles.

What makes this machine stand out is its versatility. It offers a tall stance, commanding riding position, and enough comfort for long hours in the saddle. Riders who previously hesitated to step into the adventure category because of high price tags now have an accessible entry point. At the same time, KTM didn’t cut corners — the bike is loaded with features such as a TFT display, traction control, ride modes, and dual-channel ABS, making it one of the most tech-forward motorcycles in its class.

As we dive deeper, we’ll explore price, mileage, features, performance, comfort, and comparisons with rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan and BMW G 310 GS. Whether you’re a college student looking for your first adventure bike, a commuter who dreams of weekend escapes, or a seasoned rider searching for a lightweight touring partner, this one demands attention.

In short, the KTM 390 Adventure is not just a motorcycle — it’s a passport to exploring places you might otherwise leave undiscovered.

Price & Value Proposition

One of the strongest selling points here is how much value you get for the segment. In the world of adventure bikes — where large-capacity machines often carry eye-watering price tags — KTM 390 Adventure has carved out a sweet spot. The 390 ADV sits comfortably in the entry-level adventure-touring category, making it one of the most affordable yet feature-rich options in the market.

In India, pricing starts around ₹3.4 lakh (ex-showroom), though the on-road price can climb to about ₹3.8–4 lakh depending on the city, insurance, and registration charges. This puts it squarely against the Royal Enfield Himalayan and BMW G 310 GS. While the Himalayan is slightly cheaper, the KTM justifies its premium with stronger performance, modern electronics, and aggressive design DNA.

For affordability, KTM also offers flexible EMI and finance schemes, making ownership easier for young professionals and first-time ADV riders. Monthly installments can be relatively accessible, and the long-term touring potential often outweighs the financial stretch.

The value becomes obvious when you break down what’s included: ride-by-wire throttle, cornering ABS, traction control, and a full-color TFT with smartphone connectivity — features you’d usually expect on bikes nearly twice the price.

From a resale perspective, the KTM 390 Adventure also holds decent value. KTM’s popularity among younger riders and strong urban presence make it relatively easier to sell or trade in later. The used market is active enough that owners can expect a fair return when it’s time to upgrade.

Overall, as a long-term investment for touring and daily riding, this motorcycle offers one of the best price-to-feature ratios in its class — a balance of practicality and premium touches that appeals to both budget-conscious buyers and enthusiasts who refuse to compromise.

Design, Build & Comfort

At first glance, the KTM 390 Adventure commands attention. True to KTM’s design language, it looks like a scaled-down version of its bigger siblings, the 790 and 1290 Adventure. Sharp lines, angular LED headlamps, and a tall windscreen give it a purposeful stance that immediately communicates adventure DNA.

The seat height of around 855 mm may seem tall on paper, but the narrow seat and balanced chassis make it easier to manage than the number suggests. Taller riders will love the upright posture, wide handlebars, and ample legroom — all perfect for long-distance touring.

Weighing roughly 177 kg (dry), it feels lighter than it looks. The balance of weight and ergonomics makes it versatile enough to tackle city traffic during the week and dirt trails on the weekend. Many riders praise how it feels nimble in urban settings yet planted on highways — a duality not every adventure bike achieves.

Comfort is clearly part of the brief. The seat is firm yet supportive over distance. The windscreen offers decent protection against windblast at cruising speeds, which helps reduce fatigue. For luggage, the rear subframe is strong enough to handle panniers or a top box without compromising stability.

Suspension deserves a special mention. With long travel at both ends, it easily absorbs potholes, rough patches, and light off-road trails. Ground clearance of about 200 mm helps you confidently tackle broken roads and uneven terrain.

Styling-wise, KTM’s orange-and-black scheme remains instantly recognizable, with impressive fit and finish for the price. LED DRLs, sleek indicators, and a muscular tank complete the rugged-yet-modern look. It’s a bike that performs — and turns heads.

Engine, Performance & Riding Experience

Power comes from a 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor derived from the Duke 390, delivering a healthy 43 hp at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm at 7,000 rpm. On paper those numbers seem modest next to big ADVs, but in the real world this platform is a riot.

Twist the throttle and the ride-by-wire responsiveness is immediate. Power delivery is smooth yet spirited, making it as happy in city commutes as it is on open highways. Expect 0–100 km/h in around 6.5 seconds and a top speed near 155–160 km/h — more than enough for relaxed cruising.

Mileage and Efficiency

Performance doesn’t come at the expense of economy. Owners typically see 27–32 km/l depending on riding style and conditions. With a 14.5-liter tank, you’re looking at roughly 350–400 km per fill — ideal for touring.

Off-Road Capability

Long-travel suspension and switchable ABS keep things composed on gravel, dirt, and broken surfaces. The standing posture feels natural and confidence-inspiring. It’s not a hardcore dirt bike, but it handles the off-tarmac detours adventure riding often brings.

Electronics and Riding Aids

Cornering ABS, traction control, and an off-road ABS mode elevate safety and control. Newer variants also offer an optional quickshifter paired with a slipper clutch, making gear changes effortless.

Real-World Feel

On the road, the chassis feels stable at speed and agile in traffic. Highways highlight its planted nature; tight city streets reveal surprising flickability. When the highway ends and a trail begins, the 390 ADV is game.

Features & Technology

A big reason this package feels premium is the feature set.

TFT Display & Connectivity

A crisp 5-inch full-color TFT shows speed, gear, fuel range, trips, and riding modes. With KTM My Ride, you get Bluetooth pairing for turn-by-turn prompts, call management, and music controls from the switchgear — a genuine touring convenience.

Rider Aids: ABS & Traction Control

Cornering ABS stabilizes braking mid-lean; Motorcycle Traction Control helps on slippery surfaces. Off-Road ABS disengages the rear while keeping the front active, improving control on loose terrain.

Suspension & Handling Enhancements

The WP Apex setup (with adjustability for preload/rebound on certain trims) lets you tune for city, highway, or trail. Lightweight alloys and dual-purpose tires add to all-round confidence.

Touring-Friendly Extras

A sturdy rear rack, robust subframe, and provision for panniers make luggage easy. Full LED lighting enhances visibility and aesthetics.

Optional Accessories

Crash protection, auxiliary lights, upgraded seats, and branded luggage options are readily available, alongside a thriving aftermarket.

Comfort, Handling & Touring Capability

Ergonomics for the Long Haul

Upright posture, wide bars, and neutral peg placement reduce fatigue. The seat distributes weight evenly over distance. Combined with a tall windscreen, highway stints feel easier than on most street bikes in this class.

Suspension That Works Everywhere

From potholes to expansion joints and ruts, the WP setup soaks it up. You won’t need to slow down for every surface change, which is great if your rides blend tarmac and trail.

Highway Stability & Touring Setup

Triple-digit stability is solid. With ~27–32 km/l and a 14.5-liter tank, 350–400 km per stint is realistic. The subframe is luggage-ready, so adding panniers, a top box, or a tank bag is straightforward.

Day-to-Day Handling

Despite the tall stance, weight feels manageable. It slices through traffic and leans confidently on twisties. Standing off-road feels natural and controlled.

Mileage, Maintenance & Ownership Experience

Real-World Economy

Owners commonly report 27–32 km/l: closer to 27 in city stop-and-go, and ~32 on steady highway runs around 90–100 km/h. With the tank size, that’s real-world range riders appreciate.

Service & Costs

Maintenance costs are a touch higher than budget brands, reflecting advanced electronics and components. Routine services often fall in the ₹3,000–₹5,000 range depending on location and parts. Major services (valve checks, fluids) are spaced reasonably. KTM’s service network has expanded well, and parts availability is solid.

Reliability & Resale

With scheduled care, the platform proves durable. Owners with high mileages report no major issues. The used market is strong, helping resale values.

Tips to Keep Costs Low

• Smooth throttle = better mileage and less wear

• Clean/lube chain every 500–700 km

• Maintain tire pressures

• Use quality fuel and oil

• Stick to service intervals

In short, you get a premium riding experience with manageable running costs — not the cheapest to maintain, but excellent value for the joy delivered.

KTM 390 Adventure vs Competitors

The entry-level ADV field is crowded. Here’s how things stack up.

Quick Comparison Table

Narrative Breakdown

• Against Himalayan: Rugged, comfy, and approachable, the Enfield scores on price and off-road comfort. The KTM wins on power, speed, and electronics — ideal for long highway days and riders who want performance with tech.

• Against G 310 GS: The BMW feels premium and light but trails in outright performance and features. Cornering ABS, traction control, and TFT give the orange bike a tech edge; the roundel’s badge appeal is the GS’s trump card.

• Against V-Strom SX: Suzuki’s option is light, efficient, and well styled, but its smaller engine and simpler feature list leave performance-hungry riders leaning orange.

Verdict: For those who want performance + features + touring comfort in one package, the KTM 390 Adventure is the balanced pick.

Who Should Buy KTM 390 Adventure?

1. First-Time ADV Riders / Young Professionals
   Manageable size, forgiving electronics, and a premium feel without big-bike intimidation.

2. Highway Tourers
   Ergonomics, range, and safety tech make it a trustworthy long-distance companion.

3. Daily Commuters Who Want More
   Agile in traffic, tough over potholes, and always ready for a weekend trail.

4. Aspiring Off-Roaders
   Long-travel suspension, switchable ABS, and ground clearance encourage off-tarmac exploration.

5. Tech-Value Seekers
   TFT, traction control, ride-by-wire, and quality suspension — features often found on pricier machines.

Who Might Look Elsewhere?
Strict budget shoppers (Himalayan/V-Strom SX), or purists who prefer simpler, retro vibes over aggressive, tech-heavy character.

Used Market & Resale Value

A lively second-hand scene makes entry even easier.

Resale Value
Strong brand appeal helps it hold value. With proper service records, owners often recover ~65–70% in the first three years.

Where Demand Is Strongest
Urban hubs and tier-2 cities, where riders want an affordable entry to ADV life without sacrificing features.

Checklist for Pre-Owned Buyers

• Service records from authorized centers

• Electronics/sensor health (ABS/TC)

• Suspension leaks or wheel damage (especially if off-roaded)

• Chain/sprocket condition

• Tires and brake pads

• Signs of crash damage (bars, levers, pegs)

New vs. Used
Buy new for warranty and peace of mind; buy used for savings — just inspect thoroughly.

FAQs

1. What is the mileage of the KTM 390 Adventure?

The bike delivers around 27–32 km/l, depending on riding conditions and style.

2. What is the top speed of the KTM 390 Adventure?

Riders can expect a top speed of 155–160 km/h, making it suitable for highway cruising.

3. Is the KTM 390 Adventure good for long-distance touring?

Yes, with upright ergonomics, a 400 km range per tank, and luggage-friendly design, it’s an excellent choice for touring.

4. What is the seat height of the KTM 390 Adventure?

The bike has a seat height of 855 mm, which may feel tall but is manageable thanks to its narrow seat and balance.

5. How does the KTM 390 Adventure compare to the Royal Enfield Himalayan?

The Himalayan is more affordable and comfortable off-road, but the KTM offers better performance, modern electronics, and advanced features, making it the more premium option.

6. Should I buy a new or used KTM 390 Adventure?

If budget allows, buying new gives you warranty and peace of mind. However, the used KTM 390 Adventure market is strong, and well-maintained bikes hold great value.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

The KTM 390 Adventure proves that you don’t need a heavyweight wallet or a heavyweight machine to live the ADV life. By blending power, premium features, and real-world usability, it appeals to first-time explorers and seasoned tourers alike.

Its greatest strengths are versatility and technology. Cornering ABS, traction control, TFT instrumentation, and long-travel suspension give it big-bike manners in a compact package. Add the lively 373cc engine and respectable economy, and you’ve got a machine at home on highways, city streets, and dusty trails.

Sure, the tall seat may deter some, and maintenance isn’t rock-bottom cheap — but the value is undeniable. In a world where the journey matters as much as the destination, this motorcycle lets you go farther and explore deeper without stretching your budget to breaking point.

If this orange ADV excites you, check out our related adventure-travel guides to plan your next epic ride.