Cycle News Staff | January 30, 2025
KTM launches two 390 Adventure models for 2025, the 390 Adventure R and 390 Adventure X.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
Both have the latest-gen LC4c (c for compact) 399cc single-cylinder powerplant, a rally-inspired instrument tower, a compact 3.69 gallon metal fuel tank, and LED lights at each end. KTM says its new 390 Adventure R “the most off-road capable adventure platform in the segment to date,” while the 390 Adventure X is the more road-oriented option with a 1.8-inch lower seat height.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure X
Both have WP Apex suspension, front and rear, with some differences. The R model uses 43mm open cartridge forks with nine inches of travel (compression and rebound adjustability in 30-click steps), while the X model’s front suspension is nonadjustable, with less travel at 7.8 inches.
The R has Off-center, a WP Apex Separate Piston shock absorber with 20 levels of rebound adjustment and nine inches of travel. The X has WP Apex Emulsion shock absorber with 7.8 inches of travel, preload adjustable only.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
2025 KTM 390 Adventure X
The 390 Adventure R comes equipped with spoked 21”/18” wheels (tube type) and Mitas Enduro Trail E07+ tires, while the 390 Adventure X has 19”/17” cast wheels wrapped in road-focused tires.
The default ride mode for both is Street, both have Offroad mode, and the R gets an extra mode in Rain.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
Both have Bybre brakes with a new two-piston caliper and 320mm floating brake disc up front and a 240mm disc paired with a single-piston caliper at the rear. Both get ABS. When in Offroad mode, the Offroad ABS allows for rear-wheel slip. This Offroad ABS feature is managed by dual circuit Bosch ABS (Bosch 9.3MP ABS module for the R, and Bosch 10 MB ABS for the X).
The 2025 models also include an ‘always on’ feature. This means that whatever Ride Mode was in use when the motorcycle was turned off will be retained at startup.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
2025 KTM 390 Adventure X
The R has an aluminum handlebar and the X’s is made from steel.
Both have launch control, while Motorcycle Traction Control comes on the R only, and it can be turned off for riders looking for more control or to slide the rear wheel into corners.
The pair of midsized ADV bikes have a five-inch display (TFT on the R, LCD on the X) and include Bluetooth connectivity functions, such as a music player via the KTM app, the ability to answer incoming calls, and turn-by-turn navigation.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
The new dashboards are supported by completely redesigned switchgear with optimized ergonomics and Illuminated switches. These allow riders to control various motorcycle functions, such as lights, indicators, and ride modes, and, of course, interact with different connectivity features.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R accessorized
MSRP for the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R starts at $6999, and the X model is $1100 cheaper, starting at $5899.
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R
2025 KTM 390 Adventure X
2025 KTM 390 Adventure R/390 Adventure R Specifications
Engine Type |
Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, DOHC |
Displacement |
398.7cc |
Bore/Stroke |
89/64mm |
Starter |
Electric 12V 8Ah |
Transmission |
6 Gears |
Fuel System |
Bosch EFI, 46 mm Electronic Throttle Body |
Lubrication |
Wet Sump |
Cooling |
Liquid Cooling |
Clutch |
PASC Slipper Clutch, Mechanically Operated |
Ignition |
Bosch EMS with Ride-By-Wire |
Frame |
Steel Trellis |
Subframe |
Bolt-on Steel Trellis |
Handlebar |
Aluminum / Steel |
Front Suspension |
WP Apex USD Ø 43mm |
Rear Suspension |
WP Apex Monoshock |
Front Wheel Travel |
9 in. / 7.8 in. |
Rear Wheel Travel |
9 in. / 7.8 in. |
Front Brakes |
Disc Brake 320mm |
Rear Brakes |
Disc Brake 240mm |
Front Wheels |
1.85 x 21, Tube Type / 2.5 x 19 |
Rear Wheels |
2.50 x 18 Tube Type / 3.5 x 17 |
Front Tires |
90/90R21 / 100/90R19 |
Rear Tires |
40/80R18 / 130/80R17 |
Wheelbase |
58.3 ± 0.6 in / 57.6 ± 0.6 in |
Seat Height |
34.2 in / 32.4 in |
Tank Capacity |
3.69 gal |
Weight (fully fueled, claimed) |
388 lb |