KTM is preparing a big year for Indian adventure motorcycling in 2026. The brand has confirmed a two-part strategy aimed squarely at hardcore ADV riders — the launch of the most off-road-focused 390 Adventure ever, and the first-ever KTM Adventure Rally to be held in India.
Together, these moves signal KTM’s intent to tighten its grip on the premium adventure motorcycle space.
Table of Contents
1. KTM 390 Adventure R: Hardcore Off-Road Version Coming to India
The highlight of KTM’s 2026 plan is the KTM 390 Adventure R, scheduled to make its official India debut in January 2026 at India Bike Week.
Unlike the standard 390 Adventure, the R variant is built for serious trail riding, borrowing heavily from KTM’s global rally and enduro experience.
What Makes the 390 Adventure R Different
| Feature | 390 Adventure R | Standard 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Setup | 21-inch front / 18-inch rear | 21-inch front / 17-inch rear |
| Suspension Travel | 230 mm (Fully Adjustable WP Apex) | 200 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 272 mm | 232 mm |
| Seat Height | 870 mm | 830 mm |
| Engine | 399cc LC4c (45.2 hp / 39 Nm) | Same |
Hardware Highlights
- 43 mm WP Apex open-cartridge USD forks
- Compression and rebound adjustable suspension
- WP Apex split-piston rear shock
- Rally-style ergonomics for aggressive standing riding
Despite its off-road focus, the engine remains unchanged, delivering strong mid-range performance suited for trail and highway use alike.
Expected Price
The 390 Adventure R is expected to be priced around ₹4 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it firmly in the premium ADV category.
2. KTM Adventure Rally: First-Ever Indian Edition Confirmed
Soon after the bike’s launch, KTM will host the first KTM Adventure Rally in India, bringing a globally recognised endurance riding event to local riders.
Rally Details
- Dates: February 27 – March 3, 2026
- Location: Goa and surrounding West Coast terrain
- Duration: 5 days
- Participants: Limited to 120+ riders
What Riders Can Expect
- Professionally curated off-road routes
- Long-distance navigation challenges
- Technical trail riding sessions
- Community-based adventure riding experience
This is not a casual ride — it’s designed to test skill, endurance, and machine capability.
Special Guest: Chris Birch Leads the Rally
The Indian rally will be led by Chris Birch, one of KTM’s most respected global ambassadors.
Why This Matters
- 8-time New Zealand Enduro Champion
- Dakar Rally finisher
- Involved in development of KTM’s flagship adventure motorcycles
Birch will ride alongside participants, offering hands-on coaching, trail tips, and real-world insights into advanced off-road riding techniques.
KTM’s Smart Line-Up Strategy for India
By 2026, KTM’s 390 Adventure family will be clearly segmented:
- 390 Adventure X – Budget-friendly touring ADV
- 390 Adventure (Standard) – Balanced touring and mild off-road use
- 390 Adventure R – Hardcore off-road and rally-focused riders
This three-tier approach allows KTM to cater to every level of adventure rider, while also preparing to counter upcoming rivals like the BMW F 450 GS.
Big Picture: KTM Tightens Its ADV Grip
With a purpose-built off-road machine and a global-level rally experience, KTM isn’t just selling motorcycles — it’s building an adventure ecosystem in India.
The 390 Adventure R and the KTM Adventure Rally together reinforce KTM’s position as the most serious adventure brand in the country.
So, what do you think — is the 390 Adventure R the off-road KTM Indian riders have been waiting for, or would you still prefer a lighter ADV? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
