If you’re eyeing the new 2025 KTM 390 Adventure lineup, you’re probably torn between the X, S, and R. But which one is right for you? As someone who recently made an adventure trip to Ladakh, I’ll break it down in a way that makes sense for real-world riding.
Meet the Lineup: What’s Different?
KTM has designed the 390 Adventure X, S, and R for different rider needs. All share the same 399cc single-cylinder engine pumping out 44 hp and 28.8 lb-ft of torque, but that’s where the similarities end.
| Feature | Adventure X | Adventure S | Adventure R |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension | Preload-adjustable rear | Fully adjustable WP Apex | Fully adjustable WP Apex (long travel) |
| Wheels | 19/17-inch alloy | 21/17-inch spoked | 21/18-inch spoked |
| Brakes | Off-road ABS | Cornering ABS + Off-road ABS | Cornering ABS + Off-road ABS |
| Electronics | LCD display, launch control | TFT display, traction control | TFT display, lean-sensitive traction control |
| Seat Height | 825 mm | 830 mm | 870 mm |
| Weight | 165 kg | 165 kg | 165 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 232mm | 227mm | 272mm |
KTM 390 Adventure X: Budget-Friendly Adv
If you’re new to adventure biking with light off-road capability, the 390 Adventure X is an absolute steal. Expect it to start around ₹3 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting the Himalayan 450.
The S, with more features, might cost ₹3.8 lakh. The R? That’s the premium beast, likely around ₹4.5 lakh.
Pros:
✔️ Most affordable option in the lineup.
✔️ Lighter setup for city riding.
✔️ Simple, low-maintenance electronics.
Cons:
❌ No adjustable suspension.
❌ LCD display instead of the fancy TFT on the S and R.
❌ Lacks cornering ABS and traction control.
Best For: Riders who stick to highways and occasionally go off-road but don’t want to spend big bucks on unnecessary features.
Engine
All three share the 399cc engine from the Duke 390. Same 44 hp, same torque. But the R feels angrier. It’s tuned for quick throttle response on rough roads, while the X and S are smoother for city rides.
Mileage? The X could give 30 kmpl on highways—suitable for long trips. The R? Maybe 28 kmpl if you’re gentle.
Suspension: Cushion or Control?
The X has a basic suspension—fixed front, adjustable rear preload. It’s comfy for potholes and weekend off-roading. The S lets you tweak front and rear settings, which is great for highway rides and occasional mud.
The R? It’s the king here. With long-travel suspension, you can fine-tune for rocks, jumps, or whatever the Himalayas throw at you. Bottom line: If you stick to roads, the X works. For dirt addicts, the R’s worth every extra rupee.
Wheels
The X rolls on 19-inch front alloy wheels—great for tarmac, okay for gravel. The S and R have 21-inch spoked fronts (R gets an 18-inch rear). Spoked wheels handle rough stuff better, but alloy wheels are cheaper to fix.
Tires matter too: the R’s Mitas rubber grips dirt like glue, while the X’s street tires might slip on slush. If you’re 70% city and 30% dirt, the X’s setup is practical.
Tech Features
The X keeps it simple: LCD screen, two ride modes (Street, Offroad). No frills. The S and R get a slick TFT display with three modes (adds Rain mode) and cornering ABS.
Rain mode softens throttle—useful for monsoons. The R even has lean-sensitive traction control.
Missed on the X? Adjustable suspension, quick-shifter, and traction control. But ask yourself: Do you need these, or just want them? For beginners, the X’s basics are enough.
Ergonomics
The X’s 825 mm seat is forgiving for shorter riders. The S (830 mm) and R (870 mm) demand longer legs.
Ground clearance? The R’s 272mm laughs at speed bumps. The X’s 232mm is decent but might scrape on rocky climbs.
Handlebars on the S/R feel sportier; X’s are relaxed for traffic.
Pillion comfort? None are couches, but the X’s softer seat and upright stance are less punishing for your passenger.
Off-Roading
The X can handle dirt roads and light off-roading, but its suspension and tires aren’t for boulders or deep mud. The S has better adjustability and grippier tires.
The R? It’s built to dominate. Add the optional quick-shifter, and you’ve got a bike ready for Ladakh. But ask: Will you actually ride that hard? If not, the X or S saves money for helmets or riding jackets.
Who Should Buy Which?
- X: You’re new to ADV bikes. You ride 80% city, 20% easy off-roading. You want KTM’s style without the price.
- S: You tour on highways but dabble in off-roading. You like tech (TFT screen, extra modes) but don’t need pro-level specs.
- R: You live for dirt. You’ll ride to remote villages, riverbeds, or mountain passes. You’ll pay more for suspension that won’t quit.
Final Word
KTM’s 2025 lineup gives Indian riders choices. The X is a gateway drug to adventure biking—affordable, practical, but still fun. The S is for the “best of both worlds” crowd. The R? It’s for those who see a dirt path and think, “Challenge accepted.” Test-ride all three. Your backside, your budget, and your heartbeat will tell you which one fits.
P.S.: Dealers are taking bookings. If you’re tempted by the X’s price, grab one fast—KTM’s betting it’ll fly off showrooms. And hey, orange looks great in Instagram photos. Just saying.
Read: Is KTM Really Going Out of Business? A Closer Look at the Facts
