KTM launched the 390 Duke almost two years back but the Austrian bikemaker is yet to upgrade the RC and Adventure lines of motorcycles to the new-gen 390cc platform. It now seems that KTM is gearing up to introduce the 390 Adventure soon. A near-production version of the new-gen KTM 390 Adventure is making headlines at the international stage.
A camouflaged prototype of the new-gen 390 Adventure made its appearance during the 2024 KTM Adventure Rally in South Dakota, USA. The Research & Development department of KTM USA showcased two prototypes of the new 390 Adventure R at the rally ahead of its official global debut at EICMA 2024 on November 5.
KTM 390 Adventure Rally spied
It will be the first time that KTM will introduce a rally-spec version of the 390 Adventure which will be specified with the letter ‘R’ as the suffix. As expected, this version of the adventure bike is expected to offer higher specifications than the standard model. Despite its heavy camouflage, the design of the new 390 Adventure is very evident which gets brand new body panels.
The first glimpse of the Adventure 390 R promises a much more rugged appeal over the existing model. We notice a new twin LED headlamp cluster with a large, adjustable visor or top flaunting the ‘R’ moniker. This is complemented by a new LED DRL signature around the headlamp bezel. Going by the images, this version of the Adventure 390 is likely to roll on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheels wrapped by knobby dual-purpose tyres.
In terms of hardware, we notice upside-down front forks, a rear monoshock with a single-sided swingarm, and single disc brakes at both ends. Other visual highlights evident from recent images are a single-piece seat, a floating tail section, split pillion grab rail, a metallic belly pan, an underbelly exhaust, hand guards, a tall beak up front, and an exposed blacked-out trellis frame.
Powering the next-gen KTM 390 Adventure will be a 399cc DOHC 4V, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that debuted in the KTM 390 Duke. In Duke, this motor pushes out 44.25 bhp and 39 Nm of peak. Transmission duties will be carried out by a 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch.
The new 390 Adventure R will benefit from rider aiding electronics such as a bi-directional quickshifter, ride-by-wire throttle, multiple ride modes, traction control, and switchable rear ABS. Other expected features include a fully-digital TFT instrument console, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, USB charging port, etc.
