KTM 390 Adventure R vs S vs X: Variants Compared, Features, Pricing & Which One to Buy in 2026

• More affordable by ₹18,800 from 390 ADV
• Features Rally Mode additional to the 390 ADV S
• Shares the same 399cc LC4C liquid-cooled single-cylinder displacement​

In a continuous journey of six years, it is for the first time that 390 ADV is offering three variant options, namely, S and X, based on different riding purposes and conditions of a rider. This expanded portfolio includes a very recent addition, which is basically an offroad-focused alternative to the existing 390 ADV, i.e., the 390 ADV R. So, considering the multi-trim options, it becomes quite difficult for a consumer to choose amongst them. Therefore, this comparison piece will help you in making a suitable buying decision. 

KTM 390 ADV R:

​The KTM 390 ADV R is a recent addition to the 390 Adventure’s variant lineup. This variant is a more off-road-focused version of the 390 Adventure series, with a Dakar Rally-inspired livery differentiating it from the other variants, at the same time commemorating its rugged character. As compared to the S and X, the ADV R rides on a 21-18-inch tube-spoked 890 ADV R shared knobby Mitas tyres, incorporating a wheel travel of up to 230 mm at both ends. The benefit of an extended wheelbase coexisting with a high ground clearance of up to 270 mm, which is again 33 mm more than the 390 ADV S, and an uplifted seat height of 880 mm, which counts as an extension of almost 50 mm from the predecessors, comes in handy when tackling trails, potholes, followed by small water streams. The upgraded setup altogether allows the rider to be confident enough to face even extreme riding conditions. However, the long-heighted seat could be intimidating at first for most of the riders until you’re a pro in the business. 

Mechanically, the 390 ADV R continues to derive power from the familiar 399cc LC4C liquid-cooled 4V displacement paired to a 6-speed transmission, generating exactly the same performance output of 46 bhp and 47 Nm, although there has been some tuning in the camshaft timing, keeping in mind the real-world performance considering the offroad prowess of this single-cylinder trailing machine.

​Similarly, in terms of electronics, the 390 ADV R retains a host of features from the 390 ADV S, where the highlights remain: ride-by-wire, traction control, cornering ABS and multiple ride modes, and a rally-mode exclusive to the ADV R, making it one of the most tech-loaded adventure bikes in the segment.

​Pricing:

The 390 ADV R, skipping on the tubeless tyres, is more affordable by ₹18,800, costing around ₹377,915 (ex-showroom) from the ADV S, and expensive by less than ₹50,000 than the ADV X. The big margin between the price differences of ADV R and X is due to the ADV R sporting all the bells and whistles from the 390 S, and in comparison to that, the 390 ADV X lacks a lot in order to be value for money to the masses.

CarBike360 Says:

Now coming over, which 390 Adventure should you buy? The answer is simple: if you’re someone who could compromise with some of the tech but not the performance, given the city, highways, and mountain travels, then you can opt for the 390 ADV X. Nevertheless, if tech is your priority, in that case your ideal choice with a similar purpose becomes the 390 ADV S. While, if your daily ride includes either extensive rough roads or potholes, and you’re an adventure etho, the 390 ADV R carrying the exact package as the 390 ADV S seems the best option for you. 

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