KTM has brought out its newest bike for people who love riding off-road in India: the much-awaited 390 Enduro R. This bike looks like it will be a strong choice for riders who want a light but able machine to handle tough ground.
Based on the popular 390 Adventure bike, the Enduro R gets rid of some parts made for roads to be more ready for dirt. The biggest change is fewer body panels, making it lighter at 177 kg. This lightness, along with a high space under the bike of 253 mm and a long distance between the wheels of 1470 mm, suggests it will be easy to move and steady when the smooth road ends.
The 390 Enduro R uses the same 398.63cc single-cylinder engine that cools with liquid and follows the latest BS6 rules. It gives a strong 45.37 bhp of power and 39 Nm of turning force. This engine is known for its lively performance, and with a changed final drive using a bigger 48-tooth back gear (compared to the Adventure’s 46-tooth), the Enduro R should have even stronger power at low speeds – very important for getting over bumps.
The parts that help the bike handle bumps are made for off-road riding. At the front, fully adjustable WP Apex upside-down forks with 200 mm of movement take care of the bumps, while a WP monoshock at the back with settings for how much it compresses and bounces back has 205 mm of movement. While some other countries get a version with even more movement, the Indian model still looks good for rough paths. The 21-inch front and 18-inch back wheels with spokes, using tube-type Mitas Enduro Trail+ tyres, are a classic off-road setup, giving good grip and lasting long in tough conditions.
For features, the 390 Enduro R has enough. A 4.2-inch TFT screen shows important info and can connect to Bluetooth for calls, music, and directions. Riders also get switchable ABS brakes for both wheels with an off-road mode and traction control, which helps with safety and control in different riding situations. Two riding modes, Street and Off-Road, let you change how the bike acts.
The 9-litre fuel tank is smaller than the Adventure’s, but this is common for a bike that is smaller and more focused on off-road. The flat, motorcycle-style seat should let riders move around easily, which is key for staying balanced on uneven ground.
Priced around ₹ 3.36 lakh (without extra costs from the dealer), the KTM 390 Enduro R is in a market with other similar bikes. However, its focus on being good off-road, along with the known performance of the 390 engine, makes it a good choice for Indian riders who want to explore beyond the paved roads. While some might want the longer suspension like in other countries, the Indian 390 Enduro R seems to find a good middle ground between being ready for off-road and being easy to get. It’s a bike that is clearly “loves dirt” and ready to give some serious fun away from the roads.