Adventure, Adventure, Motorcycle, News, Uncategorized

KTM 390 Adventure :: 2023 Updates

/ February 6th, 2023

As the smallest adventure bike in KTM’s lineup you might think the 390 Adventure would get overlooked for updates. No worries–the Austrian company is not one to let a design, or a look, get stale.

Unlike with the 890 Adventure, KTM hasn’t pulled out the stops for upgrades, but have paid enough attention to the 390 to differentiate it from previous models than just bold new graphics.

The New 390 Look

The new graphics are there alright, as a “sharp, fresh look,” but they’re only the skin atop bodywork that’s designed to protect the bike and locate the rider in a position of control. KTM touts the 390 as a multi-purpose bike, a versatile mount ready for afternoon or weekend rides, commuting, and adventure. They back that up by fitting premium Continental TKC 70 tires, providing excellent street manners and substantial back roads ability. Those Contis ride on new, lighter, spoked wheels at both ends, still a 19- 17-inch front/rear setup.

Small Bike, Big Tech

KTM didn’t overlook their smallest Adventure when it comes to high-tech rider aids. The 390 packs ride-by-wire, traction control, and cornering ABS, plus two ways to trim the bike for dirt riding. Offroad mode allows more wheel slip at the rear (for more fun!). Its partner, linked Offroad ABS, disengages the ABS on the rear while reducing it on the front–so go ahead, back it into that corner. Electronic wizardry controlling the ABS, 46mm throttle body, and a slipper clutch make it all possible. Modes are selected by handlebar switches and displayed in color on the 390’s 5-inch TFT panel.

Power to Play With

KTM’s 373cc, four valve, double overhead cam four-stroke single still purrs inside the Adventure’s classic trellis frame as well. A balancer shaft keeps the vibes under control when the revs climb. And a mechanical PASC slipper clutch and dialed-in electronic fuel injection make it easier to ride like a pro.The engine puts out a claimed 44 horsepower, which will haul its 397 pounds (wet) and a rider anywhere on or off the map. Try that hill climb, blast through that sand pile, or pack up and head for the back-of-beyond. With a full 3.8-gallon tank of fuel providing a claimed 250-mile range, you’ve got the means to explore. And you’ll be riding clean with the 390’s twin catalytic converters and special fuel tank vapor handling.

Suspenders Matter

Power doesn’t count for much if you can’t get it to the ground, something KTM specializes in. The 390 Adventure features APEX components from WP Suspension, just like its larger stablemates. Tailor the ride to your load, your ability, and the ground you’re riding on with the fully adjustable suspension at both ends.Brembo’s BYBRE brakes handle the stopping chores, using a 320mm rotor and 4-piston caliper up front and a single-piston caliper grabbing the 230mm rear rotor. ABS is standard.

Small(er) but Mighty

Though smaller, lighter, and less powerful that it’s larger Adventure cousins, this bike is equipped and suitable for almost any kind of riding. When KTM calls the 2023’s 390 Adventure, “one of the most versatile in the KTM range,” it almost seems like an understatement. Suggested retail price is $7399, plus $555 freight.

 

Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Arden’s first motorcycle was a Yamaha Enduro, obtained while in high school. It set the stage for decades of off-pavement exploration on dual-sports and adventure bikes. Camping in the middle of nowhere became his favorite pursuit. As a former whitewater river guide and National Park Service seasonal employee, Arden believes in wilderness, wildlife, and being kind to the earth. A self-taught writer who barely passed English classes, he has contributed adventure stories and tested motorcycles and accessories for Rider Magazine and other outlets for nearly 30 years. In that time, he’s worn out two KLR 650s and is currently following the road to the middle of nowhere on his Ténéré 700 and an aging but reliable DR-Z 400S.