KTM India is set to ignite the adventure motorcycling segment once again with the confirmed launch of the 390 Adventure R in January 2026. Sparked by overwhelming popular demand, this upcoming release was highlighted during the ongoing 2025 India Bike Week (IBW) in Panchgani.
As a hardcore, off-road-oriented variant, the 390 Adventure R is specifically designed for enthusiasts who demand superior all-terrain capability without sacrificing touring potential.
Built for the Rough: Key Off-Road Upgrades
The “R” variant distinguishes itself from the standard model with several significant hardware upgrades aimed at technical trail riding:
- Extended Wheel Travel: The 390 Adventure R features 230mm of wheel travel at both the front and rear. For comparison, the standard 390 Adventure offers 200mm at the front and 205mm at the rear.
- Larger Off-Road Wheels: Unlike the S variant’s 21-inch front and 17-inch rear setup, the Adventure R is equipped with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheel configuration.
- Superior Ground Clearance: The R variant boasts a massive 272mm of ground clearance, significantly higher than the 237mm found on the Adventure S.
- Lightweight Performance: Despite the beefier hardware, the 390 Adventure R is approximately 6kg lighter than the standard version, tipping the scales at a kerb weight of 176kg.
Performance and Core Specs
While the chassis and suspension see major revisions, the heart of the machine remains the proven LC4c platform.
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 398.6cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 45.3 bhp (approx. 44-45 bhp) |
| Torque | 39 Nm |
| Seat Height | 870mm |
| Standard Tech | Traction Control, Cornering ABS, Off-road ABS, Cruise Control |
Launch Timeline and Expected Price
Official bookings are expected to commence within the next few days, with customer deliveries slated to begin in early January 2026.
While final pricing is yet to be announced, early estimates suggest the 390 Adventure R could follow KTM’s international strategy of charging a premium for “R” variants. Given that the current 390 Adventure is priced at Rs 3.95 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), experts anticipate the Adventure R to launch at a premium of approximately Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000, placing it in the Rs 3.80 lakh to Rs 4.15 lakh range depending on final specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the KTM 390 Adventure R launching in India?
KTM India has confirmed a launch for January 2026, with bookings starting in late December 2025.
What is the difference between the KTM 390 Adventure and the 390 Adventure R?
The “R” variant features more suspension travel (230mm), higher ground clearance (272mm), a larger 18-inch rear wheel, and is approximately 6kg lighter than the standard model.
What is the seat height of the KTM 390 Adventure R?
The seat height is set at a taller 870mm due to the increased suspension travel and larger rear wheel.
Does the 390 Adventure R have tubeless spoke wheels?
The international-spec R variant typically uses tube-type spoke wheels (21-inch front/18-inch rear) for better off-road durability, whereas the Indian S variant often uses tubeless spoke wheels with a 17-inch rear.
What is the expected price of the 390 Adventure R?
It is expected to be priced between Rs 3.80 lakh and Rs 4.15 lakh (ex-showroom), commanding a premium over the current standard model.
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