First Look: KTM’s 390 Adventure

Back in May this year, Bloomberg posted an article about KTM’s profitability and sales success, and the Austrian company’s bold projection that it would sell 400,000 units in 2022. Also appearing in that piece, KTM’s CEO, Stefan Pierer, dropped a couple of hints about new models in the pipeline for KTM and Husqvarna. Whether it was because Pierer was not quoted directly about these new machines, or because the motorcycle industry doesn’t pay much attention to the outside-industry news outlet, Bloomberg, the fact is that no one really picked up on the piece’s startling revelation that: “KTM’s new offerings will include a 390 cubic centimeter, single-cylinder enduro bike this year, and a touring model with a lightweight two-cylinder engine in 2020. Husqvarna will introduce an 800cc travel enduro for 2021, and Pierer is considering a 1300cc V2 similar to the KTM Super Duke.”

Well, at the recent EICMA Show in Europe, that “800cc travel enduro” from Husqvarna turned out to be a Norden 901 Concept machine. And KTM’s “390 cubic centimeter, single-cylinder enduro bike” was revealed at EICMA as the 390 Adventure. So, what is this all-new small-capacity Adventure model from KTM?
According to KTM, “The new KTM 390 Adventure has harnessed the attributes and DNA from the incredibly capable and highly versatile KTM 790 Adventure, as well as the R&D information gathered from nearly two decades of Dakar Rally success. A light, agile, and ideal entry model for riders looking to discover the world adventure riding, this motorcycle offers added versatility for touring and light off-roading. Using elements of the KTM 390 Duke as a base and taking performance cues found at the heart of the KTM 450 Rally, the KTM 390 Adventure offers off-road performance, but with impressive road manners as part of the package.”

KTM Australia’s marketing Manager, Alan Baratto, told Transmoto that the 390 Adventure was expected to start arriving in Australia in the first quarter of 2020, and that pricing was yet to be confirmed.
To help put this new 390 Adventure in context, check out the specs table for KTM’s rapidly expanding Adventure model range for 2020.

*Click to enlarge the specs table