Test ride: Ready for adventure – KTM 390 Adventure R

KTM has built a reputation for big-capacity street and off-road bikes but it is the smaller-capacity models that are now making a big impact and winning buyers after the brand’s financial woes.

The market is now awash with mid-capacity models so it speaks volumes for KTM’s reputation that it is more than holding its own against some serious competition, says motoring writer Andy Russell.

One of its smaller motorbikes making a big impact is the 390 Adventure R, a serious off-road motorbike launched alongside the 390 Enduro R and SMC R.

The fact we have only just put a 390 Adventure R on our demo fleet highlights the demand for customer bikes. But it has been worth the wait.

The first thing that strikes you about the 390 Adventure R is it is actually quite a big adventure bike with serious attitude and great looks set off by that rally-style front end.

With an 870mm seat height my biggest problem was climbing on but fortunately I could get the tips of my toes on the ground and soon mastered leaning the bike slightly when I came to a stop.

Apart from that, the 390 Adventure R is a doddle to ride.

The single-cylinder engine pulls from low revs, is punchy and smooth above 4,000rpm with little buzz through the bars and pegs. This little workhorse keeps up with traffic on road while its flexibility bodes well for green laning.

This latest 398cc engine develops 45PS at 8,500rpm and 39Nm of torque at 6,500rpm.

A 320mm front disc and 240mm rear disc are well up to the job of stopping this 165kg motorbike.

High-performance, fully-adjustable front and rear suspension, both offering 230mm of travel, and 200mm of ground clearance mean the latest 390 Adventure R is geared up for serious off-road riding like bigger KTM adventure bikes.

Its off-road ability has not been at the expense of road manners even with 21in front and 18in rear heavy-duty spoked wheels shod with off-road biased tyres.

Supple suspension makes light work of cushioning bumps and lumps on the road, without feeling soggy.

The 390 Adventure R handles with a light, nimble feel and has a real fun factor on twisty roads.

Electronic rider aids include off-road mode, to allow some rear-wheel slip, and off-road ABS.

The high riding position gives commanding views and that small screen does a decent job of suppressing wind buffeting even at 70mph. This is a small bike you could munch miles on and the seat is more comfortable than it looks!

A 14-litre fuel tank and claimed economy around 80mpg gives a good range.

The five-inch TFT display has a clear layout and you can connect your smartphone. A multi-function menu switch on the left-hand cluster is easy to use on the move, including selecting street, off-road and rain rider modes, and a USB C port is standard.

The 390 Adventure R, priced from £6,199, is available in one white and orange colour scheme. The optional quickshifter is slick, both up and down, and a worthwhile option, as is cruise control.

The 390 Adventure R is a serious KTM adventure bike and great to ride, particularly if you have long legs! 

It makes a big impression and is one of the new-generation, smaller-capacity KTMs that have the big job of revitalising the brand.