2022 KTM 390 Adventure: Price, Specs and Detailed Review

KTM 390 Adventure has been given a set of minor improvements for 2022 that focus on improving the riding experience. Today, we are going to review it based on our research and customer reviews.

The 390 Adventure has been available in India for two and a half years, which is yet another reminder of how quickly time passes. We climbed on one to find out. For 2022, KTM has given the bike its first (though minor) set of improvements that should improve the riding experience a little.

What’s new in the 2022 KTM 390 Adventure?

This modest dark gray and black palette looks pretty well in person, according to the first impression. When the photos were first released, I thought I'd prefer the new Blue/Orange mix, but this one appeals to me more. The bike also gets a new set of alloy wheels, which KTM claims are lighter and stronger than the previous set. Nothing else has changed in terms of appearance, so you can expect the same funny face and long bodywork that culminates in a sleek and attractive tail section.

The TFT display will see the most significant changes in 2022. The unit remains the same as before, being spacious, well-designed, and appealing to the eye. The addition of two riding modes – On-Road and Off-road – is a welcome addition. The main difference is that the off-road mode allows for far more lenient traction control intervention, allowing the rear wheel to slide quite a bit before cutting the power. This mode works well in the dirt and is ideal for less experienced riders who might be intimidated by the KTM's 43 horsepower and 37Nm of torque when riding off-road.

While Bajaj makes no note of it, the latest bike also seems to run a touch smoother and more refined than the previous model. The up-down quickshifter's shift mechanism has also been enhanced, and it operates smoothly over 5,000 rpm. At low rpm, it's still not very nice, but you'll quickly learn when to utilize the system and when it's preferable to just shift with the clutch. Add on that, the features, along with Bluetooth connectivity, cornering ABS, and traction control, is a wonderful value addition.

Performance and Engine of 2022 KTM 390 Adventure!

After riding a 2014 390 Duke and now a 790, the 390 ADV strikes as the most un-KTM, KTM you’ll ever ride. At city speeds, it's smooth, gentle, and amazingly well-behaved, with none of the jerky, rev-hunting, angry pitbull-on-a-leash behavior you would’ve experienced with previous KTMs. Because of its longer chassis and more relaxed steering geometry, it doesn't have the tense, jittery handling that a Duke would have on rocky roads.

Aside from the large handlebar, this is an excellent commuter bike, with a soft clutch, smooth throttle reflexes, and no unpleasant engine heat. It's also not boring, since there's a satisfying surge of power as you reach 6,000rpm. Sure, the engine gets hot, but even in heavy traffic, the temperature is kept under control, and the twin radiator fan setup ensures you're never blasted with any uncomfortable hot spots.

The 390 ADV has a tendency to stall at low speeds, both in the city and off-road, but this is easily fixed by swapping out the front sprocket for a one-tooth smaller one from the 250 KTMs. It costs a few hundred rupees and greatly enhances low-speed tractability and in-gear acceleration without sacrificing top speed – you can still comfortably cross 160kph while riding erect. After having tried this mod, I can confidently say that it is the most rewarding and cost-effective improvement you can make, particularly in our riding environment. However, before proceeding with the modification, it's a good idea to check with your dealer about any warranty consequences.

Suspension: 2022 KTM 390 Adventure

The suspension is the same, so we don't get the international-spec, adjustable suspension, and the set-up is firm as well. Big bumps and ugly expansion gaps will give your back a smack, but it's still a really pleasant motorcycle with very large seating and good ergos.

Slowing the bike down quickly demands more work at the front brake lever than usual, which is likely due to the ADV's usage of organic brake pads from smaller KTMs rather than the sintered pads found on the 390 Duke and RC.

Things are pretty much the same off-road. With roughly 180mm of suspension travel and 200mm of ground clearance, the bike has a reasonable amount of capabilities, but it's not especially easy or natural to ride. The bike bounces more than it absorbs because the handlebar is too low, the foot pegs are angled forward, and the suspension is too firm. This bike might be a lot of fun if the ergonomics and suspension are improved. However, unless you want to spend some money on improvements, it's not something you should buy if your primary goal is off-road riding.

Price: 2022 KTM 390 Adventure

You definitely will have a lot of fun with the 2022 390 Adventure. It might be a little disappointing as an off-road-focused ADV, but it's a wonderful all-arounder. The bike's laid-back personality may disappoint KTM enthusiasts, but it appeals to a wider audience and makes it more practical to purchase. While the 855mm seat height may be an issue for short riders, it is likely the best option for larger, taller riders looking for something under Rs 4 lakh.

The price has increased by roughly Rs 6,000 for the 2022 model, making it a costly motorcycle at Rs 3.35 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). On the other hand, it's a great all-arounder and makes you feel unique, which makes it a simple bike to suggest to anyone who doesn't prioritize off-roading.