KTM’s 390 Enduro R is a new machine intended more for play than adventure, but that won’t keep some adventurers from slapping on saddlebags and going camping with it. Others may want to tote the 350-pound bike on their overlanding rig to explore the territory around their bivouac.
In any case, the 390 Enduro R is a more serious dirt bike than the Adventure R shown at EICMA late last year. So serious, the 390 R is the sole machine in KTM’s new Dual Sport motorcycle category. The company says the bike, “delivers a fun, yet approachable riding experience with real-world usability.” Sounds good to us.
Power and Delivery
Sourced from the 2025 Duke model, the new 399cc LC4c engine is a compact, liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-stroke single fueled by Bosch EFI. It runs six gears via a power assist slipper clutch operated mechanically. Those cogs and the shift drum have been re-designed for easier, quicker shifting. KTM’s Quickshifter+ is an option for those wanting the fastest gear changes. Power output matches the latest Duke, with 28.8 pound-feet of torque at 7,000 rpm and 44 horsepower when the tach hits 8,500 rpm. For comparison, KTM posted 43.5 horsepower for their 373cc 2024 Adventure model, which weighs within a pound or two of the Enduro R.
The 390 R’s ride-by-wire throttle control allows selectable ride modes that tweak cornering traction control and throttle response. Choose Offroad for rear wheel slipping and sliding, or max out the moto madness by disabling traction control. Street mode keeps the bike under control on the pavement.
390 Enduro R Suspension
The LC4c powerplant rides in an all-steel frame comprising a trellis main member and a bolt-on subframe that supports a single-piece seat. The gravity die-cast swingarm is a one-off design for the Enduro R. Front suspension that comes in the form of a 43mm WP Apex open cartridge fork with compression and rebound adjustments made easy with 30 clicks from the top-mounter adjusters. An offset, direct action, preload-adjustable WP Apex shock with 20 clicks of adjustment for rebound damping manages the rear. The setup provides 9 inches of travel at both ends. KTM is looking for some long legs to straddle the saddle, pinning the seat height at 35 inches. Adjustable levers ensure that everyone can get a good purchase on the clutch and brake.
Rollers and Stoppers
The Enduro R rolls on 18- and 21-inch spoked wheels that carry a set of Metzeler Karoo 4 adventure tires, a 90/90R21 up front and 140/80R18 at the rear. The ABS brakes are from Bybre, made with assistance from Brembo. Both have a single rotor, the front stopper has two calipers grabbing a 285 mm disc, while the rear has one to seize a 230 rotor.
Exhaust Innovation
KTM removed the classic muffler canister from the Enduro R and replaced it with a new active design wrought in stainless steel. Their new system uses a double catalyzer to meet the latest emissions standards. Contributing to that is the ECU, which ensures a spot-on fuel mixture to minimize pollution. It will also detect misfires, assist in measuring catalyst health, and store data for onboard diagnostics. KTM claims they saved 4.4 pounds on the 390 with the new system.
Tech
What’s a new bike without new a display? KTM made sure the Enduro R has one, a 4.2-inch TFT dashboard with a USB C port. KTM claims the polarized bonded glass unit cuts glare to keep the rider in the know in bright light. The switchgear is new as well, with a four-way joystick and illuminated switches for night riding. Riders needing to call home can do so via Bluetooth. That connection also allows music control and turn-by-turn navigation from the dashboard.
Wrapping Up
KTM’s 390 Enduro R has everything required for recreational riding—plenty of power, good suspension, serious ADV tires, and plenty of ground clearance. Unfortunately for anyone hoping to do long days on this machine, the fuel cell holds a mere 2.4 gallons. Those who want to go long could install a rack to carry fuel in a RotoPax or Giant Loop Armadillo Bag.
It will be interesting to see how the KTM shapes up against Suzuki’s new DR-Z4S when the inevitable head-to-head tests hit the moto mags. However, neither company has provided pricing as yet. KTM is aiming to put the new Enduro R into dealerships early this year.
Read more: Honda CRF300LS, Affordable ADV Motorcycles
Images: Rudi Schedl
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