Ktm Adventure 390 2025 Review

KTM Adventure 390 : The first adventure of 2025

 I recently had the opportunity to take the new KTM 390 Adventure for a spin, and I’m here to share my firsthand impressions. As an owner of the 2020 KTM 390 Duke, my expectations were high, and I was eager to see how the Adventure model compares—especially with the updates KTM has introduced.

**First Impressions & Ergonomics**

The moment you approach the 390 Adventure, it’s clear this bike means business. The upright stance, purposeful beak, and tall windscreen exude a sense of readiness for both tarmac and trail. Swinging a leg over, the bike feels tall, but not intimidating for my 5’9” frame. The wide handlebar and upright seating offer a commanding view of the road, instantly making me feel at home. The seat is noticeably more cushioned than the Duke’s, promising comfort for long stints. The footpegs are slightly rear-set, but the posture remains relaxed—ideal for touring.

**Engine & Performance**

Powering the 390 Adventure is the familiar 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, delivering 43.5 PS and 37 Nm. However, the Adventure’s tuning feels more refined compared to my Duke. The throttle response is smoother, and the power delivery is linear, making it easier to modulate at low speeds—an essential quality for off-road scenarios. The engine retains its signature punch above 5,000 rpm, ensuring spirited performance when you open the throttle.

I noticed a significant reduction in vibrations, particularly through the handlebars and footpegs. This is a welcome improvement, especially for those planning long highway rides. The 6-speed gearbox feels slick, and the inclusion of a slipper clutch and quickshifter (now standard) elevates the experience.

**Suspension & Ride Quality**

KTM has finally addressed the earlier complaints about suspension stiffness. The new WP Apex adjustable suspension (43mm USD forks up front, monoshock at the rear) transforms the ride. The setup soaks up potholes and undulations with remarkable composure, inspiring confidence both on rough city roads and broken country trails. The 200mm ground clearance means you won’t be scraping over speed breakers, and the longer travel suspension is a boon when the going gets tough.

**Handling & Braking**

With a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheel setup, the 390 Adventure strikes a balance between road agility and off-road capability. The bike feels stable at highway speeds and nimble enough for twisty sections. The dual-purpose Metzeler Tourance tyres provide decent grip on both tarmac and gravel, though hardcore off-road enthusiasts might crave proper knobbies.

Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, paired with dual-channel ABS. The brakes are sharp and progressive, with the option to switch to off-road ABS (which disables rear ABS) for trail riding. This feature lets you lock the rear for slides without compromising front-end safety.

**Features & Technology**

KTM continues to pack the 390 Adventure with premium features. The full-color TFT display is crisp, easy to read, and now supports Bluetooth connectivity for navigation and calls. Ride-by-wire throttle, cornering ABS, traction control, and the aforementioned quickshifter all come as standard. These are features rarely seen in this segment, giving the KTM a technological edge.

The LED headlamp offers excellent illumination, while the adjustable windscreen—though small—reduces windblast at highway speeds. The addition of a standard USB charging port is a thoughtful touch for touring.

**Practicality & Touring Capability**

With a 14.5-liter fuel tank, the 390 Adventure promises a practical range for touring. The luggage rack is sturdy, and there are provisions for mounting panniers. The bike is also relatively light for an ADV, tipping the scales at around 177 kg (dry), making it manageable on tricky trails and city traffic alike.

**What Could Be Better?**

While KTM has addressed many earlier complaints, a few niggles remain. The stock seat, while better padded, could use even more cushioning for marathon rides. The windshield, though adjustable, may be a tad small for taller riders seeking better wind protection. And though the suspension is now adjustable, it still leans towards the firmer side compared to dedicated off-roaders.

**Verdict**

The new KTM 390 Adventure is a compelling package for riders seeking versatility. It blends daily usability, long-distance comfort, and enough off-road prowess to tackle the occasional trail. With improved suspension, refined engine characteristics, and a feature-rich equipment list, KTM has addressed most of the shortcomings of the earlier model.

If you’re in the market for an entry-level adventure bike that doesn’t compromise on performance or tech, the 390 Adventure deserves a serious look. It’s not just an adventure bike—it’s an all-rounder that’s ready for anything you throw at it, from city streets to Himalayan passes.

Video for rev 👇👇