The KTM 390 Adventure has been one of the most anticipated motorcycles for 2019. KTM announced the launch of the ADV last year after the BMW G 310 GS was unveiled in India. However, the launch is not expected to happen in 2019 as Bajaj Auto has initially claimed. Here’s some more news coming this way:
The 390 Adventure that was seen at 2019 EICMA featured adjustable WP Apex suspension at both ends. However, the bike that will go on sale in India will not get the same feature. It does get WP Apex Big Piston forks with the same amount of travel (170mm) though. The mono shock too gets the same travel (177mm) sans the adjustability. But KTM could be offering adjustable suspension in the near future, depending on the demand. This has been done to keep the sticker low and enticing for new buyers.
The most important question! The launch is slated to happen by early January, 2020. We are expecting to ride the 390 Adventure in the first week January and the launch is likely to happen right after the first ride.
The rider’s triangle is extremely comfortable and just about perfect for people who are 5ft 8in and above. The handlebar could’ve been taller and the pegs could have been slightly rearset but were nitpicking to be honest. But then, the riding position isn’t as good as the Royal Enfield Himalayan for sure and taller riders would need to source risers if they’re planning to hit the trails. Even the seat height at 855mm is quite tall for typical Indian riders despite KTM softening the suspension setup fo our conditions. The sag is more than the European-spec bike but the seat height will put away some buyers at first. KTM is expected to offer a lowered seat in the near future though.
The spec sheet remains identical to the 390 Duke with the 373cc motor not being tinkered with at all. The sprocket size is same too says KTM so expect the power delivery to be similar to the 2017 390 Duke. The dry weight is quite similar to the 390 Duke as well for the Indian spec bike at 162kg.
The 390 Adventure is quite large in size and doesn’t look out of place even when standing next to the much larger 790 Adventure. It does have a lot of road presence and will attract a lot of buyers on the basis of looks, especially in the black and orange shade
The pricing will be unveiled at the launch next month and expect it to be priced at around Rs 3 lakh to begin with. The sales are expected to go live in January itself and the deliveries will begin in January itself. For those asking about the 250 Adventure, the launch is not on the cards as of yet. But KTM has suggested that the 790 Adventure could be launched by as early as 2020.