India’s adventure bike scene is about to get a major upgrade. For years, the KTM 390 Adventure has been a favourite among riders who want the right balance of power and practicality. But now, KTM is getting ready to give off-road fans exactly what they’ve been asking for — the rally-inspired KTM 390 Adventure R.
Expected to launch in December 2025, this new variant is built on KTM’s latest 399 cc platform and designed for riders who crave real off-road performance straight from the showroom floor.
1. Rally DNA: What Makes the “R” So Special
The letter “R” in KTM’s world has always stood for race-ready performance — and the 390 Adventure R carries that spirit proudly. Inspired by KTM’s Dakar Rally machines, this version comes with hardware meant for proper trails and tough terrains.
| Component | 390 Adventure R Specification | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 21-inch front / 18-inch rear (wire-spoke) | Better stability over rocks and ruts. |
| Suspension Travel | 230 mm (front & rear) | Absorbs big bumps and jumps easily. |
| Forks | Fully adjustable WP APEX | Lets riders fine-tune the setup for any terrain. |
| Ground Clearance | 272 mm | One of the best in class — ideal for rocky trails. |
| Seat Height | 870 mm | Tall, adventure-ready stance with good standing control. |
With this setup, the 390 Adventure R feels far more capable off-road than the standard version. It’s built for riders who truly want to leave the tarmac behind.
2. Power and Performance: Built for Real Adventures
Under the tank sits KTM’s newest 399 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, the same platform used in the latest Duke 390.
Power Output: 45.3 bhp
Torque: 39 Nm
Gearbox: 6-speed with a bi-directional quickshifter
Unlike the regular 390 Adventure, the R is expected to get revised gearing and ECU tuning. This makes the engine more responsive at lower RPMs — perfect for slow, technical off-road riding where throttle control is key.
In simple words, this isn’t just a more powerful ADV; it’s a more capable and controlled machine — whether you’re tackling forest trails or steep mountain passes.
3. Advanced Electronics: Tech That Adapts to Any Terrain
KTM has always blended raw performance with smart electronics, and the 390 Adventure R continues that trend.
- TFT Display: A crisp 5-inch full-colour screen with KTM MyRide app connectivity for navigation, calls, and music.
- Ride Modes: Street, Rain, and Off-Road — letting riders tune performance to suit road conditions.
- Cornering ABS: Works through a 3D IMU for precise braking even while leaning.
- Off-Road ABS Mode: Disables ABS on the rear wheel for controlled slides on dirt.
- Traction Control: Can be turned off for experts who prefer full manual control.
These features make the 390 Adventure R equally comfortable for long highway rides and serious trail exploration.
4. Price and Rivals: The Premium Off-Road Warrior
The 390 Adventure R won’t be cheap — and it’s not meant to be. It’s made for riders who want top-shelf performance and true rally capability.
Expected Price: ₹ 3.8 – ₹ 4.0 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
Main Rival: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
While the Himalayan focuses on simplicity and torque, the KTM delivers lighter weight, more power, better suspension, and advanced electronics. It’s ideal for those who prefer a rally-grade experience rather than just an adventure tourer.
Conclusion: A New Benchmark for Indian Adventure Bikes
The upcoming KTM 390 Adventure R isn’t just another variant — it’s a serious off-road tool made for riders who live for dirt trails, long rides, and pure performance.
With its 21/18-inch wheel setup, fully adjustable suspension, and refined 399 cc engine, it’s ready to take on every adventure bike in India, including the Himalayan 450.
If you’re waiting for a motorcycle that can handle both tarmac and trails with ease, the KTM 390 Adventure R could set a new benchmark when it arrives in December 2025.
What do you think — will it be the most capable mid-segment adventure bike in India? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned to GadiGarage for more updates, reviews, and auto insights.
