KTM 390 Adventure R 2025 Review

The lightweight adventure bike segment has exploded in recent years, and KTM’s new 390 Adventure R is the latest contender to throw its hat in the ring. This isn’t just a mild update – it’s a ground-up rethink of what a small-capacity adventure bike can be. KTM has taken the bones of its popular 390 Adventure, beefed up the suspension, sharpened the tech, and given it a proper off-road focus. The result? A bike that’s gunning for the top spot against rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and CFMOTO 450MT.

But does the 390 Adventure R live up to the hype? Is it worth the extra spend over its competitors? And is it really the most important model in KTM’s recent history? We spent a few days thrashing it through classic Aussie conditions – everything from rocky trails to open tarmac – to find out.

Let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way: the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R will set you back $11,295 ride-away. That a good price, but it's a bit more than the Himalayan 450 and CFMOTO 450MT, both of which have been big sellers in the segment. The KTM is built in India by Bajaj Auto, and while it’s not the cheapest option, it’s packing a lot of kit for the money.

For your dollars, you get fully adjustable WP Apex suspension, cornering ABS and traction control, a slick TFT dash, and a suite of rider modes. There’s also a tall rally-style screen, handguards, bash plate, and LED lighting as standard. Optional extras include cruise control and a quickshifter, plus a heap of accessories that carry over from the original 390 Adventure.

So, while the price tag is a touch higher, the spec sheet reads like something from a much bigger (and more expensive) bike.

Serious off-road chops

The biggest leap forward is the suspension. The fully adjustable WP Apex units offer 230mm of travel at both ends, and they’re a massive improvement over the old 390 Adventure. Whether you’re smashing through rocky creek beds, floating over sand, or just dodging potholes on a country backroad, the 390 Adventure R feels planted, predictable, and up for anything. It’s light enough (176kg wet) to muscle through tight trails, but still stable at speed.

Tech that’s actually useful

KTM hasn’t just thrown a bunch of electronics at the bike for the sake of it. The 390 Adventure R’s tech package is genuinely class-leading. The TFT display is crisp and easy to read, and the three rider modes (including a dedicated off-road mode) are simple to use. Cornering ABS and traction control are standard, and, crucially, your settings don’t reset every time you turn the bike off. That’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference when you’re out in the bush.

Ergonomics and comfort

The rally-style tower, tall screen, and upright stance make for a comfortable ride, whether you’re sitting or standing. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, shod with proper off-road tyres, give you confidence on loose surfaces. The seat height is a tall 870mm, but the bike’s slim waist makes it manageable for most riders.

Everyday practicality

With a 14-litre tank, you’ll get at least 250km between fills. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy access to the air filter and other service points. And if you want to personalise your ride, there’s a growing catalogue of KTM PowerParts and aftermarket options.

A few rough edges

After three days of hard riding, there were a few cosmetic rattles and shakes. It’s nothing major, but it’s the sort of thing you’d hope KTM will tidy up before bikes hit showroom floors. The rest of the bike feels solid, but it’s a reminder that this is still built to an affordable price point.

Power delivery won’t wow everyone

The 399cc single-cylinder engine (45hp/39Nm) is lively enough for most situations, but experienced riders might find it a bit flat. Keep it in the mid-range and it’s punchy, but don’t expect it to rip your arms out of their sockets. For learners and newer riders, though, it’s spot on – tractable, predictable, and easy to manage.

Price premium

There’s no getting around it: the KTM costs more than its main rivals. The Himalayan 450 and 450MT both undercut it on price, and while they can’t match the KTM’s tech or suspension, they’re still very capable bikes. Whether the extra spend is worth it will depend on how much you value off-road performance and electronic aids.

If you’re looking for a lightweight adventure bike that’s genuinely capable off-road, the KTM 390 Adventure R should be at the top of your list. It’s more trail-focused than its rivals, but still comfortable enough for multi-day touring. The tech package is best-in-class, the suspension is a revelation, and the overall package feels well thought out.

For newer riders, it’s approachable and confidence-inspiring. For more experienced adventurers, it’s a nimble, no-nonsense machine that won’t leave you stranded when the going gets tough. Yes, it’s a bit pricier than the competition, but you’re getting a lot of bike for your money.

The lightweight adventure segment is more competitive than ever, and the 390 Adventure R has come out swinging. If you want a bike that’s ready for anything Australia can throw at it, without breaking the bank or your back, this KTM is well worth a look.

ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder
Capacity: 398.7cc
Bore x stroke: 89mm x 64mm
Engine management: Bosch EFI with 46mm throttle body

PERFORMANCE
Claimed maximum power: 45hp at 8500rpm
Claimed maximum torque: 39Nm at 7000rpm

TRANSMISSION
Type: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: PASC slipper

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame: Steel trellis frame, bolt-on casted aluminium subframe
Front suspension: WP APEX 43mm, 230mm travel, open cartridge, compression and rebound clickers
Rear suspension: WP APEX, separate piston monoshock, 230mm travel, rebound adjustment
Front brakes: 285mm discs with ByBe four-piston radial caliper, ABS
Rear brake: 230mm disc with ByBre twin-piston floating caliper, ABS
Tyres: Metzler Karoo 4 (standard), Mitas XT Plus Trail (as tested)
Wheels: 21-inch (front), 18-inch (rear)

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed wet weight: 176kg
Seat height: 870mm
Wheelbase: 1475mm
Fuel capacity: 14 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $11,295 ride away
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres