FIRST LOOK: 2023 KTM 390 ADVENTURE

When you think adventure motorcycles, you tend to think larger capacity machines. But that hasn’t stopped KTM’s 390 Adventure from carving out a niche for itself by offering a lighter weight, user-friendly option for those who want a daily commute that’s also capable of venturing off the blacktop.

A year ago, the 2022 390 Adventure copped a bunch of upgrades that brought it closer than ever before to KTM’s larger-capacity Adventure models. And for 2023, KTM has bolstered this agile little all-rounder’s off-road chops by introducing a spoked-wheel (“SW”) version – which is due in dealership in Oz and NZ from May.

Here’s a snapshot of KTM’s PR about the evolution and technology now found on both alloy- and spoked-wheel versions of their 2023-model 390 Adventure…

THE DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

This compact and highly advanced package is one of the most versatile in the KTM range. The 2023 KTM 390 Adventure is not only about the epic outings, but also the ‘every day’. Want that serviceable and dependable machine for the commute, but also something that can handle a light off-road blast? No problem. Desire a bike that can still put out the torque and motor performance for a longer weekend ride-out with buddies? Easy. Need a modern, developed, race-informed all-rounder to discover the delights of a trail for the first time and for LAMS requirements? Look no further.

For 2023, KTM have not only splashed the KTM 390 Adventure with a sharp, fresh look, but have also beefed-up the off-road credibility even more. The bike now has tough and light black anodised aluminum rims and spoked wheels (19” front and 17” rear) so even the hardest of bumps and stones will not bring a journey to a swift halt. The 2023 KTM 390 Adventure warranted this upgrade considering the strengths of the rest of the motorcycle, and to emphasize that ‘adventure’ really can be part of the daily routine.

THE POWERPLANT

The impressively compact four-stroke 373cc single-cylinder engine uses twin overhead camshafts, four values, a balancer shaft and electronic FI for smooth and uninterrupted momentum to the beat of 44hp and 37Nm of torque at 7000rpm. Two catalytic converters ensure the system breathes within Euro5 emission targets, while the fuel tank (sized for a 14.5-litre fill) vapor design also boosts the eco-friendliness of this particular KTM Adventure.

THE ELECTRONICS

The 2023 KTM 390 Adventure may have smaller dimensions and specs compared to some of its big brothers, but it does not lack features essential to adventuring. Ride-by-wire, Motorcycle Traction Control, Cornering ABS, OffRoad mode (more rear wheel slip) and linked OffRoad ABS (disengaged on the rear, reduced on the front) are feathered by the 46mm throttle body and the slipper clutch while being administered through the 5” colour TFT and intuitive handlebar switch.

THE HANDLING

Light weight and unbeatable agility are partly supplied by a chassis that takes its design cues from KTM’s work at the sharp end of rally competition. The KTM 390 Adventure’s 2023 color also comes from this racing background. The steel trellis design and subframe construction achieves a satisfying blend of both feel, flex and long-term comfort; even the wind of the exhaust system is optimized for prime centralization. WP Suspension Apex hardware is adjustable for compression, rebound and preload and achieves that rare chemistry of tactile grip with the road and confidence-inspiring efficiency for the dirt.

THE ERGOS

Add bodywork that has been angled to protect zones of the bike and thrust the rider into full-control stance, a two-tier seat (that can be easily removed to reveal storage space and even swapped out for other models in the KTM PowerParts collection), LED lights, a windshield with two positions and wide ‘all-day’ footpegs, Brembo Bybre brakes (320mm front and 230mm rear discs with four-piston calipers on the front) and the 2023 KTM 390 Adventure is complete. Live adventurously.

Check out KTM’s website for more information and tech specs on the 2023 KTM 390 Adventure.

2023 KTM 390 ADVENTURE SW – HIGHLIGHTS

• New tougher aluminum spoked wheels for robust extra off-road potential and all-round topline performance granted by the Continental TKC70 tyres.
• Brand new 2023 colour and graphics scheme for fresh vibrant and sporty look.
• Dependable 373cc four-stroke single engine pumping out 44hp at 9000rpm and 37Nm of torque at 7000rpm. Euro5-ready for the best emissions count.
• Lightweight and reassuring steel trellis chassis with adjustable WP Apex 43mm fork and shock.
• Bosch electronics helping to inform the latest generation of Motorcycle Traction Control and Cornering ABS systems.
• 172kg fully fuelled, 14.5-litre tank and 830mm lowest seat height.
• Wide selection of KTM PowerParts – including accessories, aftermarket components, aesthetic touches, riding gear and more.

For 2023, the KTM 390 Adventure comes in two different choices:

• The ‘spoked wheeled’ edition (available at authorised KTM dealerships in Australia and New Zealand from May 2023); and
• The version with cast wheels and black/orange or blue/orange color scheme (available now from authorised KTM dealerships in Australia and New Zealand).

Recommended Ride Away pricing for the ‘standard’ (alloy-wheel) 390 Adventure is $10,250. Pricing is yet to be confirmed by KTM Australia for the new SW (Spoked-Wheel) version.