SPIED: KTM 390 Adventure Prototype

Tom Roderick
by Tom Roderick

We predicted it, and now it looks to be arriving in 2018

Back in March we MOronic soothsayers gazed into our crystal ball and prophesied the coming of a KTM Adventure model powered by the same 373cc Single found in the 390 Duke. With spy photos of a diminutive Adventure-looking model from KTM now in our possession comes confirmation the price of our glass sphere was money well-spent.

Coming Soon (Hopefully): KTM 390 Adventure

These unglamorous images reveal a model very early in its development stage: Exposed frame welds, zip-tied bodywork, and an information-gathering module in place of where actual gauges will eventually reside. We’re guessing it’ll be a 2018 model revealed at next year’s EICMA show, but even our crystal ball is unclear about that proclamation. Earlier would be better, though, as the onslaught of 300cc-ish adventure bikes from Japan and Germany is already underway ( BMW G310GS, Honda CRF250L Rally, Kawasaki Versys-X 300, Suzuki V-Strom 250).

Wonky looking and clearly far from production-ready, the test mule seen here is obviously in information-gathering guise. We’re seeing different engine cases than what’s currently housing the 390 Duke mill, so maybe there’s an engine surprise in the works, or perhaps a smoother-shifting transmission.

Wire wheels fit expectations, but the very-streetable rubber pictured will most likely be replaced with something more knobbyish, befitting a proper off-roader from KTM. Outfitted with those tires it’s hard to say exactly what wheel sizes the KTM will roll on, but we expect either a 19-/17-inch front/rear combo or maybe 21-/18-inch wheels.

2016 KTM 390 Duke Long-Term Review

Suspension appears to be on the longer-travel side of what we’d expect of a beginner-type bike with seat-height concerns. But that swingarm certainly isn’t from the 390 Duke and appears almost as if to be a temporary unit for possibly configuring a proper swingarm length.

The headlight configuration and windscreen are reminiscent of the old 990 Adventure model making it likely that the face of the new 390 Adventure will be much different when the actual model arrives. Hopefully, it’ll retain the handguards and bash plate.

The front and rear brakes are of the single-disc variety, but also appear different than what’s currently on the 390 Duke. At the rear brake is visible a wire most likely indicating ABS (mandatory in Europe), but don’t expect a price-conscious model such as this to be outfitted with other expensive electronic equipment like Cornering-ABS. Maybe a slipper clutch like the Duke.

Little Tearers Comparison: Honda CB500F Vs. KTM 390 Duke

If, like the 390 Duke, KTM can bring the 390 Adventure to market at a relatively competitive price (2016 390 Duke $4,999), the bike will sure to be another win for the Austrian company. Like the 390, it likely will be built at KTM’s plant in India to keep costs down, so KTM should manage an MSRP close to that of Kawasaki’s Versys-X 300 ABS ($5,699) or Honda’s CRF250L Rally ($5,899).

We’ll share more news when we get it. Meantime, expect to see a production version at next fall’s EICMA show in Milan.

Tom Roderick
Tom Roderick

A former Motorcycle.com staffer who has gone on to greener pastures, Tom Roderick still can't get the motorcycle bug out of his system. And honestly, we still miss having him around. Tom is now a regular freelance writer and tester for Motorcycle.com when his schedule allows, and his experience, riding ability, writing talent, and quick wit are still a joy to have – even if we don't get to experience it as much as we used to.

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  • Neil Abraham Dowsing Neil Abraham Dowsing on Jan 27, 2017

    It's a strong copy of the stunning CCM GP450. CCM invented the mini-adventure class. Check one out. The engineering is superb

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    • Neil Abraham Dowsing Neil Abraham Dowsing on Feb 03, 2017

      Hi Matt
      I would suggest emailing the factory who are very helpful. I'm certain they sell them in Canada.The problem with small manufacturers wanting to export to the US is ( I think ) some sort of legal deposit of about 1-1.5million dollars for product liability for each and every state you wish to sell your motorcycle in. That effectively kills of everybody but the big boys.
      They do a lowered seat version for ladies. They are extremely light and capable and will cruise on highways at quite respectable speeds also. Loads of info on YouTube on this bike. Good luck. Neil

  • Spirit Spirit on Jan 08, 2018

    i regularly see 7 and 8 year old drz 400s going for 4-5k. At 5 grand, this thing would kill. Where i live, avoiding the interstate is a huge hastle. I've always felt that the 250 isn't quite up to it and 400 is the sweet spot.

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