2025-on KTM 390 Adventure R review

KTM 390 Adventure R expert review

4 out of 5 (4/5)

KTM are renowned for making incredible big-capacity adventure bikes that can tackle just about anything on and off-road. However, their previous 390 Adventure never followed in that vein; think of it more as a road bike, with a slightly more rugged set of plastics thrown on.

In 2025 that all changed, as KTM have given their mini adventure bike a new chassis, a bigger single-cylinder motor, some new tech and, most importantly, a 21in front wheel with more ground clearance too. The result? The 390 Adventure R is now a fully fledged adventure machine that punches well above its reasonable 176kg kerb weight.

Is the KTM 390 Adventure R right for you?

Reasons to buy:
+ Genuine off-road capability
+ Strong, fun and engaging engine performance
+ Well-rounded with good tech and road manners

Reasons to avoid:
– Tall seat height
– Single-cylinder thump and vibration might not be for everyone
– Extra features cost more, like the quickshifter

The real deal

The 390 Adventure R isn’t just an adventure bike in name; it’s an adventure bike in its stance and nature too. It has the silhouette and appearance of a bigger-capacity machine that really does look the part with a rally-style front end and a large, aggressive stance.

Even though KTM have kept the pricing in check, it has an impressive level of detail and finish too, from the switchgear to the bolt-on subframe and everything in between.

Peppy stuff

The KTM’s single-cylinder motor has had a host of changes for the 2025 model, including the cylinder head, fuel injectors, airbox, gearbox and exhaust, which make it bigger, lighter and Euro5+ compliant too.

It does the trick too: the 398cc motor is a feisty single with loads of grunt at the bottom end, without being too aggressive or sharp on the throttle. Not only is it really easy to ride and good fun, but it doesn’t feel outgunned on A-roads or at motorway speeds either. Also, The 390 Adventure R also comes with 10,000km service intervals.

Tackling the road

Although KTM have been keen to improve the 390 Adventure R’s off-roading abilities, it hasn’t been to the detriment of its road manners. The long-travel WP Apex suspension isn’t too soft to have fun with on the road, and even with the treaded rubber, the 390 still turns and handles well.

The riding position is also comfortable and roomy, with a well-thought out layout and a screen that is effective for deflecting wind and the elements too.

Down and dirty

The 390 Adventure R is a great machine to ride on the road; it’s on the dirtier stuff where it really excels. There’s a shedload of ground clearance, which makes tackling obstacles an absolute doddle, while the standard setup from the adjustable WP Apex suspension and the chassis absorbs an incredible amount of abuse before bottoming out.

That said, the KTM sits quite high; it makes the riding position really natural when standing, and as it’s well balanced, speed manoeuvring is easy.

The finer things

For the small-capacity adventure sector, the KTM has a great level of tech. As standard, there are three rider modes (Street, Off-road and Rain) which alter the throttle response and the cornering traction control, alongside the ABS, which is switchable too.

The LED lights are powerful, and the 5in TFT dash, which offers phone connectivity, is a doddle to use and navigate too, with all the information you need displayed clearly. There’s also the option to add an up/down quickshifter for £225 and cruise control for £89.70 too, which are well worth the investment.

A trio of 390s

Alongside the 390 Adventure R, KTM have also released their 390 SMC R supermoto and a more hardcore off-roader in the 390 Enduro R.

MCN Verdict

KTM’s 2025 390 Adventure R is a huge step up from the previous generation, and a welcome shot in the arm for the brand after some fairly turbulent times of late. Off-road, the 390 Adventure R has all the makings of a capable and confidence-inspiring machine for riders of all levels, with a light, well-balanced feel and a great level of componentry.

Yet what’s most impressive is how KTM have still managed to retain an impressive level of road manners too, which is what makes the 390 Adventure R an accomplished machine for everything from motorways to B-roads and open fire roads to tough, technical lanes. Throw in the additional tech, and it really is a well-rounded package for an impressive asking price.