It looks like we’re in a straight line for the KTM 390 Adventure after Bajaj/KTM India high-ranking official Amit Nandi openly talked about this bike in a recent statement quoted by the Indian media.
"With the 390 Adventure we would be making our long-awaited entry into the niche premium dual-sport segment which is a very apt segment for Indian roads," Nandi added, making it clear that KTM is readying the bike for 2019. This means that we’ll get to see the bike showcased at one of this year’s motorcycle shows, either Intermot or EICMA, most likely hitting the dealerships in the spring or so.
KTM plans to sell the 390 Adventure mainly in the Eastern markets, such as India, Southeast Asia and China, but we reckon there will be a strong demand for it in Europe, as well. No word on having the 390 Adventure crossing the pond any time soon to North America. However, given KTM’s traditional delay in bringing new models to the US, we figure out it will only happen in at least a couple of years or more, unless Mattighofen changes their marketing policies.
The 390 Adventure is largely based on the 390 Duke platform, by the same 373cc single-cylinder, 43 HP engine. The frame will be redesigned to add more strength and rigidity on rough terrain, while some adjustable, MX-derived WP long-travel suspensions will replace the stock ones. We might also see aftermarket accessories manufacturers jumping in the game and adding various crashbar options, luggage systems and other adventure-related whatnot right off the bat.
KTM’s upcoming small-displacement machine is a direct rival of the BMW G310GS, and we’re anxious to see these bikes pitted one against the other in grueling adventure tests. We’ve already put the G310GS through its paces and can’t wait to see how the small orange adventure machine stacks up to it.
READ MORE on adventure: 2018 BMW G310GS review.