KTM 390 Adventure — RevSync Review
The Adventure 390 is the robust mid-weight in KTM’s adventure line — stronger engine, improved travel and full electronics making it capable for both long touring and serious off-road work.
Jump to Full Specifications ↓First Impressions & Ride Summary
The Adventure feels planted and confidence-inspiring with its refined power delivery and more generous suspension travel. It invites both fast road miles and technical trail work without feeling overwhelmed.
For riders wanting a mid-weight adventure bike with usable electronics and genuine off-road capability, this is a strong contender.
Design & Ergonomics
Rugged styling, reinforced subframe mounts and an adjustable windscreen are practical upgrades for touring and off-road use. The rider triangle is tuned to favour standing and aggressive trail work while remaining comfortable for longer highway stints.
Engine & Performance
The 398.63 cc, 4-stroke single with DOHC delivers 46 PS at 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Bosch EFI with ride-by-wire, multiple riding modes and lean-sensitive traction control help manage power cleanly across varied terrain.
Transmission includes a 6-speed gearbox with assist & slipper clutch and quickshifter+; starting is electric-only. The compression ratio of 12.71:1 balances responsiveness and tractability for touring duties.
Handling & Chassis
Steel trellis frame with a bolt-on subframe keeps mass centralised while WP Apex suspension — 43 mm USD fork with ~200 mm travel and monoshock with 205 mm travel — offers a wide tuning window for luggage or aggressive trail riding.
The bike remains nimble for its class and offers predictable chassis feedback on varied surfaces.
Braking
Stopping hardware comprises a 320 mm front disc with ByBre 2-piston caliper and a 240 mm rear disc with single-piston unit. Cornering ABS with off-road switchable rear ABS gives riders confidence and the option to perform controlled slides off-road.
Touring & Comfort
Comfortable seat, adjustable windscreen and a 5-inch TFT with Bluetooth make long-distance riding easy. USB charging, service indicators and practical mounting points for luggage round out the touring package.
Owner Experience & Community Opinion
Owners like the refined midrange and the electronics package; common upgrades include luggage racks, skid plates and more off-road-oriented tyres. Share your setup in the comments to help others.
Pros & Cons
- Refined engine with stronger midrange and higher peak power
- Generous suspension travel and improved ground clearance
- Full electronics: cornering ABS, traction control, cruise
- Higher price compared with more basic variants
- Slightly heavier than some rivals due to electronics and hardware
- Some riders will prefer spoked wheels for hardcore off-road
Full Specifications
Engine & Transmission
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 398.63 cc |
| Max Power | 46 PS @ 8,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.71:1 |
| Fuel System | Bosch EFI, ride-by-wire |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with assist & slipper clutch, quickshifter+ |
| Starting | Electric start only |
Assist & slipper clutch and quickshifter+ make the 390 feel composed during both aggressive shifts and city riding.
Chassis, Suspension & Dimensions
| Frame | Steel trellis frame, powder-coated, with bolt-on subframe |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | WP Apex 43 mm USD fork, 200 mm travel (some variants adjustable) |
| Rear Suspension | WP Apex monoshock, 205 mm travel, preload adjustable |
| Wheelbase | 1,470–1,481 mm |
| Seat Height | 830 mm (standard) – up to 870 mm (R variant) |
| Ground Clearance | 227 mm (standard) – up to 272 mm (R variant) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres |
| Kerb Weight | 182–183 kg |
Increased ground clearance and longer travel keep the 390 capable off-road without sacrificing on-road composure.
Brakes & Wheels
| Front Brake | 320 mm disc, ByBre 2-piston caliper |
|---|---|
| Rear Brake | 240 mm disc, ByBre single-piston caliper |
| ABS | Cornering ABS, Off-road ABS, switchable (rear ABS can be disabled) |
| Wheels | Alloy or spoke, depending on variant; Front 19-inch or 21-inch, Rear 17-inch or 18-inch |
| Tyres | Tubeless, dual-purpose |
Brake hardware paired with refined ABS mapping offers controlled, confidence-inspiring stopping both on tarmac and dirt.
Features & Electronics
| Instrument | 5-inch full-colour TFT instrument console |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth connectivity for navigation, call/SMS alerts, music control |
| Rider Aids | Traction control (lean-sensitive), Cruise control, Multiple riding modes: Street, Rain, Off-road |
| Other | Hazard warning lights, Adjustable windshield, LED lighting, USB charging port, Service due indicator |
Performance & Mileage
| Top Speed | Around 155 km/h |
|---|---|
| Mileage (claimed) | Around 27–30 km/l |
Expect strong real-world touring mileage in mixed conditions; aggressive off-road use will drop average figures.
