Q&A: INSIDE THE ALL-NEW KTM 390 ENDURO R

At the Australian Media Launch for KTM’s all-new 390 Adventure R and 390 Enduro R models back in August 2025, we were impressed by both machines’ performance, component specs, and build quality. But, we also came away from that launch a little unclear on how exactly the all-new 390 Enduro R model ‘fits’ into KTM’s existing line-up, and into the broader motorcycle market in general. To clarify our confusion and provide us more context in terms of upgrades, pricing structure and target customer, we spoke with KTM Australia’s Marketing Manager, Rosie Lalonde…

TM: At the bikes’ media launch, when I asked where the 390 Enduro R model ‘fits’, you said it’s like an ‘adventure bike without the bells and whistles’ and that it was ‘a pathway model into the 690 Enduro R’. I’m still struggling to get my head around how KTM is positioning this model, though.

RL: “The marketing people from KTM HQ positioned it as the entry to the 690 Enduro R. And once I rode it, I completely understood that. Some riders don’t want the big screen, the tower, the larger‑capacity tank, or the extra weight. They want a lighter, minimalist adventure bike. The 690 has been popular, but niche. The 390 Enduro R now slots in as a more accessible, more comfortable, more affordable option for riders who want something capable off‑road, but still comfortable for the 1.5‑hour ride to those trails.”

TM: And did you notice how, ergonomically, the Enduro R is surprisingly similar to an EXC when sitting down?

RL: “I did. That’s why I think the Enduro R will be a bit of a dark horse; a lightweight adventure platform which, at $10,695, is $700 cheaper than the Adventure R. Also, because it’s 6kg lighter (159kg, compared to Adventure R’s 165kg dry), the Enduro R is a great alternative for riders – just like the 690 is to the 890. It really comes down to horses for courses, and that is why I think it is fantastic that we can offer customers both the Enduro R and Adventure R options.”

TM: What can you tell us about the electronics package on the 390 Enduro R compared with the Adventure R?

RL: “The 390 Adventure R gets a five‑inch TFT screen, three ride modes, adjustable throttle response, adjustable ABS, and you can turn MTC on/off. The 390 Enduro R has a 4.2‑inch screen and a simplified electronics package with two ride modes — with the freedom to turn ABS off completely.”

KTM has made it crystal clear that the 390 models are all “designed and developed in Austria and built in India”. What’s your experience been with the build quality of KTM’s models that roll off the production line in India?

RL: We recently tested these bikes even further in real-world conditions, as both myself and our New Zealand Marketing Manager, Shaun Jubber, rode the KTM Australia Adventure Rallye in Bunbury – five days, over 1500km, and these bikes did not miss a beat! To be honest, the 390 Enduro R that I was on was the perfect choice, as pea gravel and sand can be extremely challenging surfaces, and I felt confident through everything the route threw at us. As you mentioned, the 390 platform that has been built in India has been in the market for well over a decade now, and the results speak for themselves. The models produced in India have consistently delivered solid component and build quality, backed by strong reliability and long-term customer satisfaction. It’s a proven formula that continues to serve riders extremely well.

In your mind, what makes KTM’s 390 Adventure R – and the 390 Enduro R – good value for money when compared with the growing number of options in the small-capacity adventure bike segment?

RL: Beyond the advanced electronics packages and the high level of adjustability we’ve already discussed, the 390 Adventure R and 390 Enduro R deliver the premium quality and distinctive features riders expect from a KTM adventure model, but at an exceptionally accessible price point. KTM has always been about pushing the boundaries of performance, capability and rider experience, and these models carry that DNA through to the small-capacity segment. For riders who want true off-road credibility, real performance, and the spirit of KTM’s adventure heritage – without the big-bike price tag – the 390s offer outstanding value for money.