KTM 390 Adventure: Old vs. New Model

KTM 390 Adventure

The 390 Adventure from KTM has been completely reworked in design. The latest model takes its inspiration from the Dakar rally bikes and bigger KTM adventure motorcycles. While the previous version had a vertically split headlight, the new one has vertically stacked LED headlights for better illumination. The windscreen and the front beak are taller and give it a rugged look.

The new model has a more streamlined appearance with narrower yet bolder bodywork. KTM has also ditched the split-stepped seat for a single piece of scooped-up seat to enhance comfort. The redesigned tail section now comes with a smaller taillight and an overall sharper profile. In addition, KTM has moved the exhaust from its previous side-mounted position to underbelly for an even sleeker look.

Engine Improvements for Better Performance

KTM has given the 2025 390 Adventure a new powertrain. It now comes with the latest ‘LC4c’ 399cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, churning out 44 bhp and 39 Nm of peak torque. The new model gains 1 bhp and 2 Nm of torque over the previous 373cc engine. Despite these upgrades, KTM continues to use the six-speed gearbox from the previous generation.

Key Dimension and Suspension Updates .

The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure gets key updates in terms of dimensions and suspension. KTM has lowered the seat height to 830mm, which is 25mm more accessible than before. At the same time, the ground clearance has increased from 200mm to 227mm.

KTM 390 Adventure

The suspension system has also been upgraded. WP Apex front USD forks have 200mm of travel, an increase of 30mm over the previous model. The rear monoshock has a travel of 205mm, up by 28mm. All these help improve off-road performance and ride comfort.

Wheels, Braking, and Weight Differences

The latest KTM 390 Adventure now comes with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked tubeless wheels. The earlier model had 19-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminum wheels. This gives the motorcycle a better off-road capability.

The braking system has been slightly altered by KTM. The rear disc is now 340mm, which is 10mm more than the previous one. Still, the front brake is the same size 320mm. No change was noticed in the fuel tank capacity at 14.5 liters. And now, this bike boasts 183 kg of weight on it whereas it is 6 kilograms more than its last ancestor. Most of the added weight would be structural reinforcements and new features.

Enhanced Features for a Better Riding Experience

KTM has introduced several new features in the latest 390 Adventure. It becomes the first sub-500cc adventure motorcycle to offer cruise control. The 5-inch TFT instrument cluster now includes additional riding aids. KTM has introduced three ride modes—Street, Rain, and Off-road—along with cornering traction control.

The new model has retained some of the features from the previous model. These include ride-by-wire technology, cornering ABS, and off-road ABS. These features ensure a safer and more enjoyable ride on various terrains.

KTM is gearing up to release the new 390 Adventure in India soon. The company will introduce both the standard version and the road-biased X variant. The outgoing model started at ₹2.84 lakh for the X variant and went up to ₹3.40 lakh for the higher-spec variant.

Considering the extensive updates, the new model will likely come at a noticeable premium over the previous generation. However, KTM has not yet confirmed the official pricing. Enthusiasts can expect an increase due to the added features, improved performance, and design enhancements.

Final Verdict: Is the New Model Worth the Upgrade?

The latest KTM 390 Adventure comes with many upgrades compared to the previous model. With the redesigned styling, increased ground clearance, and upgraded suspension, it has turned out to be a much more capable adventure motorcycle. Introducing cruise control and multiple ride modes makes it much better for touring and off-road purposes.

For more refined adventure bike lovers seeking modern features, the latest model is an acceptable upgrade. However, on a budget, the older version may still be considered, because it remains a magnificent example of an adventure bike at a lower price.

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