2024 KTM 390 Adventure Review: Balancing Off-Road & On-Road Performance
The 2024 KTM 390 Adventure offers a compelling blend of off-road capability and on-road manners, making it a versatile option for riders seeking adventure on and off the beaten path, this motorcycle receives a well-rounded review based on its performance, features, and overall value.
The 2024 KTM 390 Adventure has generated significant buzz in the adventure motorcycling community, and for good reason. Finding a bike that’s genuinely capable both on pavement and tackling challenging off-road terrain can be a difficult mission, but the KTM 390 Adventure attempts to accomplish exactly that.
KTM 390 Adventure: A Brief Overview
The KTM 390 Adventure is designed to be a do-it-all motorcycle. It takes the proven platform of the KTM 390 Duke and adapts it for adventure riding. This means a longer travel suspension, more robust wheels, and rider-focused technology aimed at taming rough terrain.
But does it achieve that versatility? In this review, we will explore the 2024 KTM 390 Adventure to its limits. We’ll assess its performance on paved roads, evaluating its comfort levels, manageability, and all-around practicality. We’ll scrutinize its off-road capabilities, delving into its suspension, chassis, and rider aids.
What’s New in 2024?
KTM has made many small changes to the 390 Adventure over previous generations, refining the motorcycle by adding a better electronics package and making the bike more robust.
- Improved Traction Control: Traction control has been made more refined, and allows the rider to have more confident handling in any condition.
- Updated Electronics: The 2024 edition includes an updated LCD display with smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation.
- Stronger Wheels: The spoke wheels on the 2024 edition are stronger than previous years. Ensuring that you spend more time riding and less time fixing damaged wheels.
Overall, these changes create a more confident and capable machine than in years past. Whether on a long highway journey or through off-road adventures, the 2024 KTM 390 Adventure is ready to handle the task.
On-Road Performance and Handling
Let’s start with the KTM 390 Adventure’s on-road performance. Most riders will use this bike for commuting or weekend trips, so it’s crucial that it performs well in these situations. How comfortable is the bike to ride on paved roads? How does it handle in traffic?
For a single cylinder adventure motorcycle, the bike is smooth and enjoyable on the open road. The engine has enough power for comfortable cruising and passing maneuvers, and the bike feels stable and planted at freeway speeds.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Ergonomics are a crucial aspect of any adventure bike. The KTM 390 Adventure has a neutral riding position that is comfortable for long rides. The seat is well-padded, and the handlebars are positioned within easy reach. However, taller riders may find the legroom a bit limited, so it’s important to ride this bike before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Seat Height: The seat height is 33.7 inches (835mm), which may be very high for some riders.
- Riding Position: An upright, comfortable riding position will ensure a more enjoyable trip.
- Wind Protection: The small windscreen provides some protection from wind at freeway speeds, although there is still some wind noise at higher speeds.
The ergonomics on the KTM 390 Adventure are acceptable for a wide range of riders. Providing comfort for commuting and adventure riding.
Off-Road Capability and Features
The KTM 390 Adventure is designed as a fantastic off-road vehicle. Let’s investigate how the bike performs on difficult terrains and what aspects set it apart in off-road scenarios.
The tires offer good grip on a variety of surfaces, from dirt roads to mud and loose gravel to bigger rocks. The long travel suspension is adequate at absorbing bumps and ruts, while the bike’s light weight makes it easy to maneuver in tight quarters.
- Suspension: The bike features adjustable long-travel suspension, WP APEX 43mm upside-down front forks with 170mm of travel & a WP APEX rear shock absorber with 177mm of travel.
- Ground Clearance: Ground clearance of 7.8 inches(200mm), allowing it to clear most obstacles.
- Weight: The motorcycle weighs 381 lbs (173 kg), which makes it very easy to handle and manuever.
The KTM 390 Adventure is a capable off-road machine. It is equipped to tackle a wide range of off-road conditions if you are willing to spend the time learning to ride in the dirt. However, it is important to keep the bike’s limitations in mind. It’s not a replacement for a dedicated dirt bike, and it’s not designed for serious off-road riding.
Engine and Performance Specs
The engine of the KTM 390 Adventure is a reliable and peppy single-cylinder. The motorcycle’s engine is the same on the Duke. The engine specifications of the motorcycle are as follows.
The 373cc mill provides acceptable horsepower and torque across the power spectrum. Its peak performance is sufficient enough to ensure a fun riding experience whether on the highway or on the trails.
Engine Stats
- Engine Type: Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Liquid Cooled
- Displacement: 373.2 cc
- Max Power: 42.9 hp (32 kW) at 9,000 rpm
- Max Torque: 27.3 lb-ft (37 Nm) at 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed
Fuel efficiency is also great, allowing an adventurous rider to travel further for longer. With an estimated fuel economy of 60-70 mpg, it gives a wide range from a good-sized fuel tank.
Technology and Features
The KTM 390 Adventure is equipped with a range of modern technologies and features designed to enhance the riding experience. ABS, traction control, and riding modes are valuable features for both on-road and off-road riding.
- Traction Control: Lean-angle sensitive traction control.
- ABS: Cornering ABS and off-road ABS mode.
- Riding Modes: Street and off-road riding modes.
The technology and features found on the KTM 390 Adventure are on par with more expensive motorcycles. The technology found on this bike makes it a great motorcycle for beginner riders.
Informative Display
The 2024 KTM 390 Adventure is also equipped with a modern TFT display that provides the rider with all the necessary information. The display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and it’s also easy to navigate.
Pros and Cons
Like any motorcycle, the KTM 390 Adventure has its pros and cons. It’s important to consider these factors before making a purchase.
The KTM 390 Adventure has a lot going for it, but it’s not the perfect bike for everyone. Before buying this bike, it is important to take time to consider what you value in a motorcyle.
Pros
- Nimble handling both on and off-road
- Responsive and economical engine
- Impressive technology package for its class
Cons
The KTM 390 Adventure is an extremely versatile bike for someone who wants an affordable, light-weight adventurer. However, if you are a taller rider, or want to spend most of your time on only one terrain, this might not be the bike for you. A test ride is extremely valuable when trying to determine if the bike is right for you!
| Key Point | Brief Description |
|---|---|
| 🏞️ Versatility | Balances on and off-road capabilities effectively. |
| ⚙️ Engine | 373cc single-cylinder offering 42.9 hp and good fuel economy. |
| 🛡️ Technology | Equipped with traction control, ABS, and riding modes. |
| ⚖️ Weight | Lightweight at 381 lbs, enhancing maneuverability. |
FAQ
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Yes, the KTM 390 Adventure is often recommended for beginners due to its manageable power, lightweight design and electronic rider aids such as ABS and traction control. These features make it an accessible motorcycle for new riders.
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The 2024 KTM 390 Adventure typically achieves a fuel efficiency of around 60-70 mpg. However, real world conditions can affect the fuel milage slightly, depending on your riding style, the terrain, and the load you carry.
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While not specifically designed for long-distance touring, the KTM 390 Adventure can handle longer rides with some modifications. Factors such as comfort and the addition of aftermarket accessories makes it a capable and versatile small adventure bike.
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The 2024 model sees refinements to its electronic aids, offering more precise control and responsiveness. The new TFT display with smartphone connectivity integrates key features such as navigation, while the frame enhancements increase the bike’s longevity.
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The KTM 390 Adventure is a versatile bike that excels in a variety of conditions. It can perform from daily commuting to weekend adventures allowing you to explore a mix of paved roads and off-road trails in the same trip.
Conclusion
The 2024 KTM 390 Adventure is a well-rounded motorcycle that offers a lot of features and capabilities for a reasonable price. Its versatility, nimble handling, and modern technology make it an appealing option for riders who want a bike that can do it all.
