While BMW Motorrad India have just announced their launch date and a feasible pricing (INR 3.5 to 4 lakh ex showroom) for the BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS, they've now got all reasons to worry about. A new spy shot of the upcoming KTM Adventure 390 has been doing rounds, and looks like somewhere around Austria. As KTM said earlier, the motorcycle looks more like an Enduro rather than an outright Adventure motorcycle. It makes all sense considering the pricing, markets and audience it is targeted for. Now that a close to production prototype of the KTM Adventure 390 has been spied, here's what one could expect from the motorcycle. LOOKS AND DESIGN :
The motorcycle is toned down both in terms of aesthetics and ergonomics viz a viz its aggressive elder siblings, the KTM 1290 Adventure S and Adventure R. The motorcycle seems to be built around the current 390 Duke platform, with some tweaks in its chassis geometry and engine characteristics. The 390 Adventure should retain the same 373.2cc engine from KTM, but in a different state of tune and gearing. The front design is reminiscent of the 1290 Adventure with a mini sub fairing and LED headlight unit, with some cost cutting bits here and there.
The mini fairing houses a few transparent plastic parts which act as wind deflectors just below the headlight assembly. The tank panels look smaller than the Duke while the rear also looks minimalist. KTM is always known for giving their bikes "THE LOOK" just by using punchy stickers and paint scheme. The exhaust of the 390 Adventure is side mounted and looks meaty.ERGONOMICS :
The motorcycle doesn't look as tall as a true Adventure motorcycle, but will fall somewhere in between the Duke 390 and RE Himalayan. The front suspension is a USD unit, as usual from WP. The wheels look like a 19 inch front and a 17 inch rear. It should be noted that the BMW G 310 GS also runs on a similar set-up. The tyre profile seems to be a 110 section up front and a 150 behind. The rider would sit upright in a comfortable position, with a slightly rear set foot pegs. Highway long hauls and occasional off road blast would be a cake walk with the 390 Adventure. FEATURES :
The rear view mirrors and knuckle guard looks like a direct adaptation from the Duke 390, while the switchgear and dashboard must be similar as well. Bluetooth, on board computer, navigation features could all come along as a part of standard equipment. The windscreen looks a tad tiny for this category, but then KTM might give it as Powerparts. The motorcycle could be customized to a large extent as KTM would give the customers a range of Powerparts to choose from. Tank bags, metal panniers, large windscreen, engine guards are a few parts that we could bet on. HOW MUCH WILL IT COST ??
The most vital question is how much will the motorcycle cost in India. As we've seen before with the Duke and RC siblings the 390 Adventure would be priced aggressively as well. Spares and service won't be an issue due to the great OSC chain across India. If our guess is right, the KTM 390 Adventure will be priced somewhere around INR 2.6 to 2.7 lakhs, as anything above that mark would see an immature fail. Stay tuned to BikesMedia for further updates.
Image Credits: Motorrad Online
By: Aravind Rb
