Review: KTM 390 Adventure review, road test

So far, our time with the KTM 390 Adventure had been limited to about an hour on a hardcore off-road trail, and another hour on the roads near Lonavala. That, however, just wasn’t enough time to give you a proper verdict, especially for a bike as potent as this. And that is why, at the first opportunity we got, we put the KTM 390 Adventure through a comprehensive road test.

The suspension isn’t as plush feeling as a BMW G 310 GS or a Royal Enfield Himalayan, but with its dynamic setup and grippy Metzeler Tourance tyres, the 390 will run rings around either on a winding road. Get on long highway stretches, and the long wheelbase and 19-inch front wheel provide all the stability you need. It’s also 22kg lighter than the Himalayan, but it feels just as planted on the highway, if not more.

At 855mm, there’s no denying that the seat on the 390 Adventure is quite tall, but it is quite comfortable for long durations. The pillion seat is also comfy, accommodating, and practical. The problem begins when you need to stand and ride the 390 Adventure. The handlebar just isn’t tall enough to allow for a comfortable stance – which means you will find yourself leaning forward awkwardly. We won’t be surprised to see many customer bikes with aftermarket handlebar risers.

Lastly, the large 320mm disc brake setup at the front also inspires confidence. The rear, meanwhile, is adequate, and off-road enthusiasts can deactivate the rear ABS if they like.

After our first experience with the 390 Adventure, we said we would hold off on giving our final verdict until we get to spend hundreds of kilometres with it on the open road. Well, we finally did, and the bike definitely impresses. It’s more than what you would ever need on our highways, it’s practical enough to commute on, and is off-road-ready enough to take on most of the trails you would throw at it. And then there’s the fact that it’s got the tech you wouldn’t find on most motorcycles three times its price. That being said, we miss having the international-spec adjustable fork, and the ergonomics and quickshifter could be reworked as well. However, none of these factors are even remotely close to being deal breakers when you look at the mouth-watering Rs 2.99 lakh price tag (ex-showroom Delhi).