KTM 390 Adventure X: Zabardast Value or Stripped-Down Disappointment?
The KTM 390 Adventure X has been making waves in the adventure touring segment since its launch. But is it truly the ultimate budget-friendly ADV, or just a watered-down version of its more expensive sibling? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this Austrian machine tick and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash in 2025.
Design and Styling
The 390 Adventure X boasts KTM’s signature sharp and aggressive styling. Its angular bodywork and tall stance give it a purposeful look that screams “adventure.” The bike features a large fuel tank, a tall windscreen, and LED lighting all around.
Key design elements include:
- Split LED headlight
- Adjustable windscreen
- Upswept exhaust
- Rugged bash plate
- 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels
While the overall design remains similar to the standard 390 Adventure, the X variant comes in two unique color schemes: Galactic Blue and Dark Galvano Black. These new colors, combined with the black trellis frame, give the bike a distinct visual identity.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the KTM 390 Adventure X lies the same 373.27cc single-cylinder engine found in its more expensive sibling. This liquid-cooled powerplant delivers impressive performance for its size:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373.27cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 43.5 PS @ 9,000 rpm |
| Torque | 37 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
The engine provides ample power for both highway cruising and off-road adventures. With a 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds, it’s no slouch on the tarmac. The power delivery is smooth and linear, making it easy to manage for riders of varying skill levels.
Fuel efficiency is respectable, with riders reporting an average of 30 kmpl in mixed riding conditions. This, combined with the 14.5-liter fuel tank, gives the 390 Adventure X a theoretical range of over 400 km – perfect for those long-distance tours.
Chassis and Suspension
The 390 Adventure X is built around a lightweight trellis frame, which provides excellent rigidity and handling characteristics. Suspension duties are handled by WP components, with 43mm upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear.
Key chassis and suspension features:
- 170mm front suspension travel
- 177mm rear suspension travel
- Adjustable rear monoshock (preload and rebound)
- 200mm ground clearance
While the suspension setup is generally well-tuned for a mix of on and off-road riding, some hardcore off-road enthusiasts might find it lacking in extreme terrain. However, for the majority of riders, it strikes a good balance between comfort and capability.
Technology and Features
This is where the 390 Adventure X differs significantly from its more expensive counterpart. KTM has stripped away some of the advanced features to bring down the cost, but the bike still retains essential elements for a comfortable and safe ride.
Features included in the 390 Adventure X:
- Dual-channel ABS with off-road mode
- LCD instrument cluster
- LED lighting
- 12V charging socket
Features omitted compared to the standard 390 Adventure:
- Traction control
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Cornering ABS
- Quickshifter
- TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity
While the absence of these advanced features might disappoint some riders, it’s important to remember that the 390 Adventure X is positioned as a more affordable option. The retained features still provide a good balance of functionality and value.
On-Road Performance
Despite its adventure-touring credentials, the KTM 390 Adventure X shines on the tarmac. Its relatively light weight (177 kg kerb) and responsive engine make it a joy to ride on twisty roads. The wide handlebars provide excellent leverage, allowing for quick direction changes.
The bike’s highway manners are equally impressive. The adjustable windscreen offers good wind protection, and the comfortable ergonomics make long-distance riding a breeze. Riders report being able to maintain highway speeds comfortably, with enough power in reserve for overtaking.
However, some taller riders might find the stock seat height of 855mm a bit challenging, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Unfortunately, KTM doesn’t offer a lower seat option for the X variant, which could be a drawback for shorter riders.
Off-Road Capability
When the pavement ends, the 390 Adventure X proves its versatility. While it may not be a hardcore off-road machine, it’s more than capable of handling gravel roads, forest trails, and moderate off-road terrain.
The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination provides a good balance between on-road stability and off-road capability. The off-road ABS mode allows riders to lock the rear wheel when needed, enhancing control on loose surfaces.
One notable change from the standard 390 Adventure is the use of MRF Mogrip Meteor tires instead of the more premium Metzeler Tourance rubber. While these tires are still capable, some riders might notice a slight decrease in grip, especially in challenging off-road conditions.
Value for Money
With a price tag of Rs. 2,83,796 (ex-showroom) in 2025, the KTM 390 Adventure X offers significant savings compared to the standard model. This competitive pricing puts it in direct competition with bikes like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the BMW G 310 GS.
When you consider the level of performance, build quality, and essential features that the 390 Adventure X offers, the value proposition becomes clear. It’s an excellent option for riders who want KTM’s renowned performance and handling characteristics without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. How does the KTM 390 Adventure X compare to the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450?
The KTM 390 Adventure X offers more power (43.5 PS vs 40.02 PS) compared to the Himalayan 450. However, the Himalayan has better low-end torque and might have an edge in hardcore off-road scenarios. The KTM excels in on-road performance and touring comfort, while the Himalayan offers a more relaxed, old-school riding experience.
Q2. Is the KTM 390 Adventure X suitable for beginners?
Yes, the 390 Adventure X can be a good choice for beginners, especially those interested in adventure touring. Its manageable power delivery, dual-channel ABS, and comfortable ergonomics make it accessible to newer riders. However, its tall seat height might be challenging for shorter riders.
Q3. What is the real-world fuel efficiency of the KTM 390 Adventure X?
Riders report an average fuel efficiency of 25-30 kmpl in mixed riding conditions. This can vary based on riding style, terrain, and load. With its 14.5-liter fuel tank, you can expect a range of 350-400 km on a full tank under normal riding conditions.
Wrapping Up
The KTM 390 Adventure X offers a compelling package for riders seeking a versatile, budget-friendly adventure tourer. While it may lack some of the advanced features of its more expensive sibling, it retains the core strengths that make KTM bikes so popular. Whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your riding preferences, budget, and willingness to forgo some high-end features in exchange for significant cost savings.
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