KTM’s 390 Adventure R and X models come hot on the heels of the company’s 2025 390 Enduro R release and share a lot of that bike’s technology and construction. Even so, the Adventure models differ enough to stand on their own.
Adventure Times Two
Why have two 390 Adventure models? Price plays a large part. MSRP for the R is $6999, while you can nab an X for just $5899. Or as KTM puts it, the X “provides a great alternative for riders looking for an affordable entry into the KTM Adventure realm.” We’d include those riders who are less aggressive on their off-pavement sojourns and enjoy carving corners on paved roads.
KTM 390 Adventure X
Much the Same
The Adventure R and X machines have a lot in common with each other, as well as the 2025 Enduro R. The list includes the 399cc LC4-c fuel-injected, single-cylinder powerplant, mechanical slipper/assist clutches, and muffler-free stainless-steel exhaust from the Enduro R. Ditto the updated 6-speed gearboxes and power assist slipper clutches.
KTM 390 Adventure R
KTM spec’d the same ByBre brake package for both machines. The front boasts a new two-piston caliper said to remove heat better, resist fade, and be kinder to the pads. It grabs a 320 mm floating disc. The rear brake gets a new single piston that caliper clamps a 240 mm disc. The Adventures each weigh 356 pounds (claimed, dry) and boast 3.7-gallon fuel tanks for decent, but not exceptional, range. Two-position footpegs adjust for sitting or standing, paving the way for enhanced comfort for the long haul.
Purpose Built
A glance at wheels and tires tells you a lot about what KTM has in mind for these machines. The Adventure R runs the classic off-pavement 21/18-inch front/rear spoked wheels, with the X getting a more street-friendly 19/17-inch cast aluminum wheelset. Not exactly a rock-banging setup. Stock tires are also different, the R digging dirt with aggressive Enduro Trail E07+ skins from Mitas while the X has a pavement oriented (unspecified) tread.
390 Adventure Suspension Contention
Like the wheels and tires, the R has more capable suspension by way of a WP APEX 43 mm open cartridge fork. Compression and rebound damping are click-adjustable to get the most from its 9.1 inches of travel. At the rear, an offset WP Apex separate piston, rebound adjustable shock travels the same distance.
The X runs a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge fork as well, a setup that offers only preload adjustment and 7.9 inches of travel. Preload changes for both shocks require a tool. Both Adventure models use the same die-cast aluminum swingarm from the Enduro R.
The Adventure Nerve Center
Five-inch displays fill the dashboards on both Adventure models, but the less expensive X gets an LCD unit while the R has a full-color TFT. Both are polarized for glare reduction. Switchgear is new as well, featuring illuminated switches and “optimized ergonomics.”
The pair also have OffRoad mode, along with Street and Rain settings, plus the ability to defeat traction control. OffRoad mode allows more wheel slip for negotiating sloppy and sandy sections while also enabling OffRoad ABS. Cornering traction control is exclusive to the R model.
Which One?
The Adventure X, with its capable if not fancy appointments, is appealing by virtue of its lower price. The R model has the wheels, tires, and suspension for harder use and costs $1,100 more. Both have rally styling, but either could handle a BDR if ridden appropriately. Anyone jonesing for the R can rationalize that while $1,100 isn’t chump change, the 2025 Adventure R is $600 less than the 2024 390 Adventure. And $500 less than the 2023–go figure. KTM.com
Images: KTM
Read More: 2023 KTM 390 Adventure
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