The KTM 390 Adventure R has made its debut in India, adding a more hardcore, off-road-focused model to the popular KTM 390 Adventure family. Surprisingly, the R variant is priced lower than the standard KTM 390 Adventure (also known globally as the 390 Adventure S), sparking lively discussions among adventure enthusiasts. Despite offering superior off-road gear, the R costs nearly Rs 19,000 less than the standard model. So, what’s the catch? Which KTM 390 Adventure is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Launch Details of the KTM 390 Adventure R
- Year of Launch: 2025
- Positioning: Adventure motorcycle tailored for off-road enthusiasts
- Price Difference: Roughly Rs 19,000 less than the standard 390 Adventure
KTM 390 Adventure R vs. KTM 390 Adventure: What Sets Them Apart?
Suspension and Wheel Travel
One of the biggest highlights of the 390 Adventure R is its upgraded suspension:
- Front Suspension: Both bikes feature a 43mm fully adjustable fork with 30 clicks, but the R offers 230mm of travel, compared to the standard’s 200mm.
- Rear Suspension: Adjustable preload and rebound; 230mm travel on the R vs. 205mm on the standard model.
Real-World Impact: The R’s increased suspension travel makes it far superior for aggressive
Tires and Wheels
The wheel and tire setup is another key differentiator:
- KTM 390 Adventure R:
- 21-inch front spoked wheel
- 18-inch rear spoked wheel
- Off-road friendly tubed tires
- KTM 390 Adventure:
- 21-inch front spoked wheel
- 17-inch rear spoked wheel
- Tubeless tires
Advantage: The R’s 18-inch rear wheel provides better traction and obstacle clearance off-road. Tubed tires are also a major reason for the R’s lower price
Seat Height and Ground Clearance
- Ground Clearance:
- R: 272 mm
- Standard: 237 mm
- Seat Height:
- R: 870 mm
- Standard: 830 mm
The 390 Adventure R is among the tallest bikes in its class, which may be intimidating in urban settings for shorter riders, but off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the additional clearance.
Electronics and Features
Both motorcycles come with an impressive suite of electronics, but there are some key differences:
What the R Misses:
- Cruise control
- Optional turn-by-turn navigation
What the R Gains:
- Dedicated Off-Road Mode
- Off-road ABS with rear wheel deactivation
- Enhanced rear wheel slip control
Both retain traction control, ride modes, TFT display, and switchable ABS.
Engine and Performance
Mechanically, both bikes are identical:
- Engine: 373cc single-cylinder
- Power: Same output for both
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
- Performance: Identical top speed and acceleration
Your choice will depend more on your riding style than outright performance numbers.
Weight Comparison
Despite the upgraded suspension and larger rear wheel, the R’s weight is almost the same:
- 390 Adventure R: 183 kg (kerb)
- 390 Adventure: 182 kg (kerb)
Which KTM 390 Adventure Should You Buy?
KTM 390 Adventure R: Made for the Dirt
Choose the R if you:
- Frequently ride on dirt trails
- Explore remote or rough terrain
- Need a lightweight ADV that prioritizes off-road capability
- Want the most trail-ready 390 Adventure KTM offers
KTM 390 Adventure: The All-Rounder
Choose the standard model if you:
- Spend most of your time on highways and paved roads
- Value comfort for long-distance touring
- Occasionally tackle bad roads but want the convenience of tubeless tires
The 390 Adventure X sits below both as a more road-focused, budget-friendly option.
Why Is the KTM 390 Adventure R Cheaper?
Despite having better suspension and off-road components, the R’s lower price is due to:
- More affordable spoked wheels
- Omission of cruise control and navigation features
- Focus on performance and ruggedness over comfort and convenience
KTM has clearly prioritized function over luxury with the R.
Expert Opinion
KTM’s decision to offer a more capable off-road bike at a lower price is bold and welcome. For hardcore off-road riders, the KTM 390 Adventure R stands out as the best option in its class. For those prioritizing comfort, versatility, and everyday usability, the standard 390 Adventure remains unmatched.
Final Thoughts
Both the KTM 390 Adventure R and the regular 390 Adventure share the same engine and design philosophy but cater to distinctly different riders. KTM’s move to create a hardcore off-road ADV at a lower price is a bold step that benefits enthusiasts. For Indian riders seeking true off-road capability, the 390 Adventure R is among the best small-capacity ADVs available. For everyone else, the standard 390 Adventure continues to be an outstanding all-rounder.
FAQs
The 390 Adventure R was launched in 2025.
While capable of touring, the standard 390 Adventure is more comfortable for long highway rides due to its lower seat and tubeless tires.
Tubed spoked wheels are more durable off-road and help lower overall costs.
The standard 390 Adventure is easier to handle with a lower seat and a touring-friendly setup.
No, the R variant does not offer cruise control.