Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM has quietly introduced the off-road-oriented 390 Adventure R to the Indian market. The bike has been listed on KTM India’s official website with an attractive price tag of ₹3.78 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it an intriguing proposition for adventure touring enthusiasts.
Surprising Price Advantage Over Standard Model
In an unexpected pricing strategy, the hardcore 390 Adventure R is positioned ₹19,000 cheaper than the standard 390 Adventure equipped with spoked wheels, which retails at ₹3.97 lakh. This competitive pricing makes the more capable off-road variant accessible to a broader range of riders.
Booking Details:
- Token amount: ₹1,999 (fully refundable)
- Bookings now open via KTM India website
Enhanced Off-Road Hardware
Suspension Upgrades Borrowed from Enduro R
The 390 Adventure R distinguishes itself through significant mechanical enhancements that prioritize off-road performance:
Suspension Travel:
- Front: 230mm travel
- Rear: 230mm travel
- Standard 390 Adventure: 200mm (front) / 205mm (rear)
This substantial increase in suspension travel enables the R variant to handle rougher terrain and absorb larger impacts with greater composure.
Wheel and Tyre Configuration
The 390 Adventure R adopts a dedicated off-road wheel setup:
Adventure R Specifications:
- Wheel sizes: 21-inch front / 18-inch rear
- Tyres: Mitas Enduro Trail (tubed)
- Off-road bias for improved traction on loose surfaces
Standard Adventure Specifications:
- Wheel sizes: 21-inch front / 17-inch rear
- Tyres: Apollo Tramplr (tubeless)
- Balanced on-road and off-road performance
The tubed tyre setup on the R variant, while requiring more maintenance, offers better resilience against punctures on challenging terrain—a crucial advantage for serious off-roading.
Impressive Ground Clearance and Ergonomics
Built for Extreme Terrain
The enhanced suspension and wheel combination results in exceptional off-road geometry:
- Ground Clearance: 272mm (class-leading)
- Seat Height: 870mm (considerably tall)
- Kerb Weight: 176kg (UK-spec, with full 14-litre fuel tank)
For comparison, the India-spec standard 390 Adventure weighs 182kg, making the R variant approximately 6kg lighter—a meaningful difference for off-road maneuverability.
Note: Final Indian weight specifications may vary due to mandatory components like the front number plate holder and protective guards required by regulations.
Unchanged Performance Credentials
Proven Powertrain Retained
The 390 Adventure R maintains the same reliable engine configuration as its sibling:
Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 399cc single-cylinder
- Power Output: 46 horsepower
- Torque: 39 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
- Quickshifter: Bidirectional (clutchless up and down shifts)
This proven powerplant delivers adequate performance for both highway cruising and technical off-road sections, with the quickshifter adding convenience during spirited riding.
Design and Electronics Package
Familiar Styling with Distinctive Colorway
The 390 Adventure R shares its fundamental architecture with the current-generation 390 Adventure:
- Same chassis and frame structure
- Comparable bodywork design
- Single color option: White and orange combination
- KTM’s signature aggressive adventure bike styling
Electronics and Features
The R variant comes equipped with electronics similar to the standard model, ensuring riders benefit from:
- Modern TFT display with connectivity options
- Multiple riding modes for varying conditions
- ABS with off-road mode capabilities
- Traction control systems
These features ensure that while the bike excels off-road, it remains user-friendly and safe for varying skill levels.
Price Analysis: Why Is It Cheaper?
Understanding the Value Proposition
Despite its enhanced off-road capabilities, the 390 Adventure R’s lower price point can be attributed to:
- Tubed Tyre Setup: Less expensive than tubeless-compatible spoked wheels
- Simplified Wheel Construction: Standard spoked wheels without tubeless technology
- Single Color Option: Reduced manufacturing complexity
- Focused Specification: Purpose-built for off-road rather than all-around versatility
This pricing strategy positions the R variant as exceptional value for riders prioritizing dirt capability over street convenience.
Who Should Consider the 390 Adventure R?
Ideal Rider Profile
The KTM 390 Adventure R is perfect for:
- Serious Off-Road Enthusiasts: Riders who frequently tackle challenging terrain
- Adventure Tourers: Those planning routes through remote, unpaved regions
- Experienced Riders: The 870mm seat height requires confidence and skill
- Weekend Warriors: Enthusiasts seeking a capable machine for off-road adventures
Considerations Before Buying
Prospective buyers should note:
- Tall Seat Height: May challenge shorter riders (870mm)
- Tubed Tyres: Require more maintenance and roadside repair preparation
- Off-Road Focus: Less refined for pure street riding compared to standard variant
- Limited Color Options: Only available in white/orange scheme
Market Positioning and Competition
At ₹3.78 lakh, the 390 Adventure R competes in a niche segment where true off-road-focused adventure bikes are rare in India. Its combination of:
- Legitimate off-road hardware
- Modern electronics
- Proven reliability
- Accessible pricing
makes it a compelling option for riders seeking genuine adventure touring capability without stepping up to significantly more expensive alternatives.
Availability and Purchase
The KTM 390 Adventure R is now available for booking through KTM India’s authorized dealerships and official website. With the modest ₹1,999 fully refundable token amount, interested buyers can secure their allocation of this exciting new variant.
For adventure riders who’ve been waiting for a properly equipped, affordable off-road motorcycle from a premium manufacturer, the KTM 390 Adventure R represents an excellent opportunity to explore India’s diverse terrain with confidence.
Official Price: ₹3.78 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) On-Road Price: Approximately ₹4.20 lakh (varies by location)
