KTM has officially listed the 390 Adventure R on its India website, hinting at its imminent launch in the country. Positioned neatly between the 390 Adventure X and the 390 Adventure S, the new 390 Adventure R is aimed at riders who want a tougher, more off-road-focused ADV without going all the way to a full rally machine, expanding KTM’s 390 Adventure lineup for Indian conditions. Here is everything you need to know about the KTM 390 Adventure R. Bookings are now open for this model at ₹1999 (which is a refundable amount if you change your mind).
More ground clearance, longer travel suspension and larger rear wheel
The KTM Adventure 390 R gets WP Apex open cartridge suspension at the front with 230mm of travel and WP Apex split piston Monoshock suspension at the rear with 230mm of travel, both are fully adjustable units. It also gets an 18-inch rear wheel which is larger as compared to the 390 Adventure S and 390 Adventure X. The KTM Adventure R also gets 272mm of ground clearance which is 35mm more than the 390 Adventure S and 44mm more than the 390 Adventure X. The 390 Adventure R also gets a higher seat height of 870mm which is 50mm more than the Adventure S and 55mm more than the Adventure X. However it gets tubed spoked wheels as compared to tubeless spoke wheels of its sibling, the Adventure 390 S which has resulted in the near ₹18,000 lesser price tag of the Adventure 390 R.
Same engine, electronics and proven reliability
The KTM 390 Adventure R is powered by the same 399cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which produces 45bhp at 8500 rpm and 39Nm at 6500 rpm of torque which is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with slip and assist clutch and bi-directional quickshifter. The bike is also underpinned by the same 2-piece frame as its other ADV siblings. On the braking front, it gets a 320mm disc up front, and a 270mm disc at the rear, supported by switchable dual-channel ABS.
In terms of features and rider aids, the KTM 390 Adventure R mirrors its siblings, the Adventure X and Adventure S, ensuring there’s no compromise on tech. It comes equipped with three riding modes, cornering ABS along with a dedicated off-road ABS setting, and a crisp 5-inch TFT display. The ADV R also gets all-LED lighting, including sharp LED projector headlamps, Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, and cruise control, making it better suited for long-distance touring as well as off-road adventures.
Verdict
The KTM 390 Adventure R is aimed squarely at riders who want a proper off-road-oriented adventure motorcycle without stepping into hardcore enduro territory. It strikes a smart balance by offering enhanced off-road capability while still retaining modern features and rider aids, making it an ideal choice for those who want to tackle trails and rough terrain without missing out on comfort, technology, or everyday usability.
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