@@DirtBikeTest you've done a great job of explaining your experience and how it affects your perception of the bike, and then relating how a beginner might have a different take on the same thing (like seat height). This adds tremendous value because not only does it speak to a wider audience, but it helps bridge that difference in understanding from novice to expert without talking down to anybody or making them feel stupid. Bravo.
This guy really knows what he's talking about, and it's great to listen to someone with confidence enough in their knowledge to speak naturally in depth about the bike at hand. This is just a great test and review video. No nonsense and flashy shit, just straight bike talk. Outstanding.
If only others could learn from this video. When you add music you risk things like some hate your music choice but if you are talking you cannot turn it down because you miss the talk content. And some make music while talking and music too loud. This guy is great like you and < Tilac me > both said. {others too.}
Sounds like it would be a good bike for me who has been riding dirt bikes for years and just wants to go slow, sit down and be OK on the freeway to get home. Thank you for the great review.
Exactly...maybe it's the wisdom that comes with age, but it seems I really don't want to break anymore bones :D I'm ok with a "pensioner style" type of riding nowadays:PP
That's really judgmental. You don't know anything about this person other than him looking for a bike for his son, which by the way is an incredible way to bond with your son. You don't know how old the son is, or how long he's been riding. You can probably deduce that the son has ridden before and must likely loves it and the dad probably thinks it's time for a bike of his own. And like another commenter said, he's not looking at getting him a hayabusa. There's no better time to teach someone proper skills then when they're young. He's doing EXACTLY what any dad should be doing. Wish my dad did the same for me.
Why do people always say it is a bike for new riders? My first bike was 1400ccm and i have owned 125 - 400 - 1000 - 1200 sizes also. It is also about price, the 390 costs 6000-6500, the 790 costs over 15000 USD in my country. So that is why I will go for the 390, light and fast enough.
So I'm an owner of a KTM 690 Enduro R. Last year I thought I'd buy a pure street bike to compliment it so I bought a Kawasaki z650 for riding the twisties and cruising around here in upstate NY. The problem is that where I'm finding the twisties I'm also finding lots of gravel roads. Every time I pass one I want to turn on it but don't because of the bike. So now I've find myself looking for something that's quite good on the road but can still manage the occasional gravel and fire roads. I've been eyeballing the Honda CB500x but I'm thinking the KTM 390 Adventure might be an even better choice. It seems like you're getting much bigger bang for the buck. Any opinions? Amazing review btw.
This is the best review I've seen on this little bike. Honest discussion of both the good points, the bad points and who it's aimed at. I got into ADV riding about 10 years ago, and have owned a DR650, WR250R, WeeStrom, 800XC and now a 1290SAR. All have their good and bad points. The 1290 is a beast, in good ways and bad. Very good power, but tall, top heavy and rather expensive. The WRR is the opposite extreme, light by ADV standards, but a bit too small and underpowered for the highway, especially at any elevation, in hills or wind. DR suspension is crap, by the time it's updated with Race Tech parts I had an extra $1200 or so in it, on a heavy, underpower bike with 25 year old tech. I do think the review misses out on another potential target market. Older, experienced riders that are ready for something smaller, lighter, simpler and less expensive-and don't try to ride like desert racers. For adventure riding in the mountains of North Idaho, this looks really appealing-enough performance to get the job done, enough suspension to get through most terrain at a moderate pace, and enough highway capability to jump on the highway and get home after a trip. Without the need to drop money on a bigger gas tank, suspension upgrades (not that they wouldn't help) and enough lighting to actually ride safely at night.
Great review, thanks. If KTM offers an Adventure R version of the 390 I‘ll go for that! 390 is all I need for my travels and touring - less weight is more important for me than more power.
We suspect there will be PowerParts to get closer to that and a healthy aftermarket as well, but a 390R may be a little bit of an ask. It becomes a game of the price getting way ahead of the performance.
Hi Jimmy, I gotta say that is one of the best and most thorough reviews of any motorcycle that I have ever seen on UA-cam period. The KTM 390 Adventure had already captured my attention, but after seeing this excellent review I feel like it's almost a done deal. I will at least drive the 200 miles to the nearest stocking dealer to get a hands-on look at it, and it is very likely I will be bringing one home with me. Thank you so much for doing such an awesome job reviewing this bike. I only wish more videos on UA-cam were as valuable and informative as this one is. Sadly, so many of them are nothing more than a big waste of time. Very well done. Thanks!!
After putting my 390 Adventure though 800 miles of street and off-road trails in the Colorado mountains, I have to say your review is very accurate and more thorough that any other review to date. I too come from a very long dirt bike background and and carry a bias on how a claimed Adventure bike should perform although I've never ridden one until I purchased this one, oh and by the way, your review did the trick for me and made me pull the trigger and purchase it. To go on, consider myself an advanced dirt bike rider so of course the weight made me think that, when off-road, I would spend all my time trying to keep this bike upright, rather than enjoy the performance. As you know every bike is great at somethings and not others. This bike by design is a compromise. I have to say it's great running up and down the twisty Colorado canyons. It's got enough power and great cornering to thrill most anyone. Off-road on rocky and steep up and down hills, and I mean rocky, It's not dirt bike, but it is manageable and you can get where you want to go. I did have to use all my skills given the weight, and those stock tires, but never did I go sideways or have to put my feet down on steep rocky trails. It is a little unstable if you lean too far towards the handle bars, as you said, but move back from the bars and it was back to feeling right. Off road, I really did put this bike into the realm of needing a true enduro or dirt bike and it held its own as long as I kept the speeds down and way down on the steep rocky hills, but to be honest I won't take it over those particular rocky sections again - I have a bike for that. Now remove the rocks and even on extremely washed out mining trails, it does well. To conclude; I think they have hit the mark for its intended purpose and at this price point you can't go wrong. So am I happy with this bike?, oh hell yeah. It does what I want and threw some surprises my way with the traction control and ABS. So, I guess I just agreed with all your findings., :) You've made a loyal follower out of me just for that reason. Thanks again. I really appreciate you taking the time to put this review together.
Hey bill. About to ride to Patagonia from LA on this bike. We’re not sure, but my guess is we’ll be riding 70/30 or maybe 60/40 on to off road. The one thing I’m conflicted about is the tires, and the wheels (ok two things). The stock’s ‘seem’ fine to me. I’m a beginner dirt rider and can’t imagine we’ll be doing hard core, over major rocky terrain type stuff. That said, we’ll be going through all the sand of Baja and obviously will hit lots of unexpected bumps. Curious your thoughts. Stick to stock? Switch to spoked wheels and knobbier tires? Thx in advance…
As a new rider, dad with kids and looking for a bike to go off trails and do easy sections. Maybe even pop a tent down for the night, this is literally perfect me. KTM nailed the audience on this one, adventure bikes are either enormous or low spec, this is a good mix at a very good price point.
Brilliant in depth review. The kind I wish, I’d see on the other 80% of Bike reviews out on the Net. Well done mate. I was looking for reviews on this and the CB500x, with more bias towards the Honda, however, after watching an experienced nuts n bolts review on the the 390 - I have to re-think my choice. Bloody awesome mate. Cheers!
Awesome review I’m getting myself one. Was tied between this and a duke 390 but because commuting plus traveling is my forte and I’m not quite chasing speed and I can touch ground on my feet, no brainer🏆🤞🏾🙏🏾
We're gonna answer all the questions live tonight on our Tech Talk Taco Tuesday show that takes place live on Dirt Bike Test Facebook page 7 PM PST time zone or on about an hour. We may try and go live on this channel as well if bandwidth allows...
Thank you for that fantastic review. I think you just helped me understand just what this bike is capable of doing. I came from a 1200 GSA to a WR250R, and now am considering a 390 or 790. It's been 4 years since my dual sport accident/foot injury, and I think the 390 will be a good balance of weight, suspension, and seat height (I've a 30" inseam). cheers
Superb review! I’ve been riding for many years, but I’ve only really started going properly off piste in my 50’s and I’m finding my Tenere XT660Z a bit of a handful for me on the trickier stuff. This bike has hit my radar quite recently and it seems to be ticking a lot of boxes for the price. So much so, that I’m taking a Demo bike out for a ride from my local dealership tomorrow! Everyone knows there’s no such thing as the perfect bike, but I’m thing (on paper) this bike comes pretty damn close for what I’m looking for as an alternative playmate to sit beside my beloved Tenere in the garage. Thanks for an inspirational and truthful review. Regards, Dazza. 🇬🇧
Attitude and approach to reviewing a bike is crucial. He gives the product a chance and analyzes within the mindset the manufacturer had. Everyone wants one bike to be everything and its just not possible, otherwise everyone would be doing it. The bad reviews come from their competitors paying people to say bad things, PERIOD. It's a great first bike that can do everything but heavy motorcross and heavier obstacle riding. Get an enduro for that. It does EVERYTHING else.
Why is this man crying the entire video about the power and torque? Every sentence is like power is not enough and torque is not enough.. cant overtake on highway and can't do this and cant do that! Its a single cylinder 372cc fun motorcycle can do a little of everything for poor people like us in India. Its cheap to buy and maintain. It wasnt made to be compared with multicylinder 250-300 kilo motorcycles. You have the money .. go and buy a 1250GS. Tell people about what this bike can do on narrow bumpy city roads and standard highways. Dont take it to the Autobahn or a difficult trail and start crying for what it cant do. And Bajaj makes 60-70 lakh motorcycles per year for India and the export market. Kawasaki, KTM and currently Triumph is in tie-up with bajaj for manufacturing and sales of their motorcycle in India.
You are forgetting one thing in your comments. IMHO: this is the Adventure bike for er... 'older' ADV riders. Lighter, (not 450 - 500 lbs) easier to ride, puts a smile on your face.
Really great review guys and im being an ktm 390 adv owner myself and also from india the country the bike is made loved the way you have experimented. Nicely done guys. Cheers
Got this as a commuter bike that I mostly use in town, but can rise it in the mountains or the occasional drive to Moab for weekends, and i love it! Great alternative even for experience drivers, torquey and lots of fun!
Thanks for this video, I am thinking about trading in my Versys 300 X in on one, Love every thing about the Versys X except for the high rev engine, even up the front sprocket 1 tooth but still not good at long high speed rides any thing over 80 mph and even at 80 mph I do not like the sound, but I also know some people love it. I also have a DR650 set up for off road, so just need the KTM 390 for highway and dirt and light trails, the one thing that I do not like about the KTM is the small gas tank, This is the type of bike I will be hitting the back roads on and there are, very few gas stations. That is why I put a 20 liter gas tank on my DR 650. Other than the gas tank I think this would be the right bike for me I am 72 years old so it will be more than enough. How are the tires when you hit sand, there are some gravel roads hear that turn into sand for stretches, scary on the death wings I had on my DR650 first thing I changed when I got my new one. They also put them on my Versys at the first tire change, got some Dunlop trailmax mission for it, Hope the work out, that is if I don't get the KTM first. which I will most likely go with the Dunlop trailmax mission as soon as the stock ones need changing, or before if thy do not handle the sandy spots on the roads.
Great analysis! I am currently trying to decide between this bike and the honda CRF250l. Currently leaning toward the Honda because I heard KTM bikes are more difficult to fix when there are issues. However, I'm glad you talked about seat height. With my 29 inch inseam, this bike is a better fit for me.
I don't think there is a real gap in what it costs or difficulties in fixing other than the KTM requires a "tool" that only the dealer has for some things like updates. No such device on the Honda.
I watched this video before I bought my 390 and revisiting it I think its a very solid assessment of the bikes strengths and weaknesses. Coming from a dirt bike back ground (I grew up on trail bikes) but a road bike history as an adult its been an absolute joy to find a light bike that handles both of these roles so well. I fitted cruise control to the fly by wire setup and that has turned it into a very competent all round tourer with significant dirt road chops. Each time I take it off road my confidence in it increases. I put 3500km on it over the Easter break and found it very comfortable for extended rides, doing as much as 700km a day. I'm loving the experience of getting to know this machine. Unfortunately it blew a countershaft/drive sprocket seal on the ride and I'm waiting for it to be repaired under warranty as the bike is only a month old, but assuming that is a minor blip, I'm looking forward to my next ride very much.
Great video am seriously considering getting one instead of the crf300 rally simply due to the higher power and speed on the road. Just wish it had spoked wheels!
Been literally binge watching 100s of Adv390 videos since few days and inarguably this is one of the best described video i came across. Worth the 25mins where you talk about genuine + and - than just reading out whats on spec sheet. Thanks a ton Jimmy.
Stupendous review! Technicalities, weight distribution, flaws, fantastic. Tons better than the ones simply ridden on tarmac and the spec sheet repeated in a stylish manner!
Fantastic review -- thank you, and even though I rode dirt bikes as a kid in the Midwest but I am now 59 and have been feeling the pull (while age permits) to get a 500cc or less dual sport. I like the 2019 or newer Honda CB500x (with a rally raid kit) for being able to ride both pavement and forest roads/dirt/ mountain roads/ easy trails, but I will definitely check this one out. A lot of bang for the buck to be sure. Thanks for the clear explanations on everything - although at one time I rode, I consider myself as a beginner, and you did not talk beyond what I could understand. Great job!
had a 19 500x...and am waiting for my 390a. Biggest draw was the ride by wire. The honda was very notchy (on/off) down low slow riding difficult trails...as per the now many reviews this is not due to ride by wire.
You have to pronounce every word like: B-A-J-A-J. The last J isn't silent by any means. If you ignore it and call it just 'BAJA' it becomes a slang in native Indian language where bajaj motors located. Which means, infertile person.
As someone who watches a ton of motorcycle reviews, I just want to echo the comments about how spectacular this review is. I watched it as I was considering whether to buy this bike (which I ultimately did) and here i am watching it again (in fact there is a risk I've even commented before and said the same thing). Your presentation is just so even and informative, and the clips of the offroad use helps give this novice a sense of what is possible on this bike in a range of conditions, (not that I expect to ride as well as your rider at first). I've been running around primarily to get it through its first service and identify if it has any issues (so far none). Your "not going to be in the fast lane" is spot on, (one COULD do it, but it would just feel wrong). I did buy pegs that are larger and yes flattened out; made the requisite adjustments to the brake and shift levers...easy. A couple other mods were a tougher skid plate and 50-50 tires. Heading to Death Valley soon for its first real adventure. Thanks again for helping me get to this point.
@@chinowashere The pegs are from Rival Components, (just Google them; I've also heard people using "Pivot Pegs"). On the Rival Components there is zero angle on them after the install. As far as lever adjustments they were largely driven by me using riding boots as well as the new peg angle. I had to lower the brake pedal because I ended up resting on it (and thus hitting the brakes) where it originally was and raise the shifter because the boot's toe box is pretty tall. Both adjustments are easy to do. The key on the brake is to do it with the adjusting rod at the rear of the lever. You can get away a little bit by adjusting the stop at the mid point, but I think that is primarily to adjust the free play.
If KTM installed the 390 Duke motor in a 690Enduro R frame, tweaked it for dual sport use, sold it for 7 grand, you would have had a DRZ killer. Great review and nice to see the wide range of riders on a bike segment that DBT was less likely to test. Kudos to JL and the team.
pgirard26 It probably comes down to sizing. This is obviously aimed at new riders, or someone just looking to get off pavement for the first time. Sitting on a 690 E is very intimidating, and not even possible for some. I can’t even get one leg down on a 690 E. I’ve ridden the 790 Adventure, but it’s a big bike. Feels very wide and bulky, which will also turn away new riders. Hopefully KTM have fixed the head gasket issues with these though, I had a 390 years ago and it was trouble.
@@sarahdell4042 this is an expensive way to be a newb. There is no way this bike crashes nicely. It is, however, a great only bike. Unfortunately, low seat height also equals low ground clearance. The MSRP starts low but to make truly dirt worthy the KTM Powerpart$ will need to be leveraged. I like the bike, the review was excellent, and I am glad I didn't wait for 390A to finally show up.
Wow what a review, congrats, that's better than we can expect. I'm currently evaluating this bike for my wife and your review has removed the "seat height" fear. Thanks. I personaly own the 790 Adv and I cannot explain how addictive it is. It really is a strong personality and always pushes you to go further. Very easy bike indeed. In a "work from home" period I drove 8,000 km in 3 months (5500 miles). KTM is on the way to become world nr1 motorcycle brand (OK that's only my opinion).
I know I have commented before but this is the best review I have seen of this bike. You went into more detail than anyone else. You even changed the tyres for comparison! Will you make more videos of this bike somewhere down the line? This is the first video on your channel that I have watched. OK, I'm subscribing.
Great review. I have been seeing a ton of 390 and Honda CRF 250 Rally videos lately. And this is the best. Great job. I am in the market and trying to decide between the CRF 250l Rally and the KTM 390 Adventure. My use is just light off road. More interested to take me to some nice place to fly my drone. Which one would you suggest? Thanks!
I had rally up to last year and it's great great little bike. Little underpowered for road use. It's more offroad oriented than 390 adv. If you wanna do just light offroad I would go with 390. For the money you cannot get better specs bike right now in my opinion. I personally was waiting for R version of this bike but didn't come so I went with 690 enduro.
On a performance for dollar issue the KTM is ahead, especially in the engine. The Honda, in our opinion, beats it in looks and in ergonomics-- and the CRF's wheels (sizes and spokes) are better.
While I’m not planning to learn and start motorcycling until at least 2 years from now due to studies, I can see this already good bike becoming much better after 2 or 3 iterations. Seems like it will be perfect if they implement your few suggestions. Would probably buy it as a novice rider once I get my A2 license.
Lovely, very methodical and detailed. I love the perspective you presented, one mentioning the growth potential. It takes a lot of knowledge of a subject to bring something like that up. As to the "deltas" as I say (meaning things that could have been done better) I would only add heated grips as a standard. It is an adv bike, not a ride around the block one, so...but I guess we're scrapping the bottom of the barrel here :) Anyway, planning to try it out soon, maybe it will be an "alternative" (with a wink wink) to my big GS :DD
Excellent review! I have a Versys X300 and the KTM 390 is very intriguing for a light adv tourer. I really appreciate you discussing the factory set up not being comfortable for standing. The X300 actually has good ergos for standing. I sold a Honda CB500x because the peg position was similarly shared with the street models on the same platform and was difficult to stand on. I do think KTM has packed great value into this bike. I'm interested to see how the pegs could be improved and the possibility of a wire wheel version. Thanks!
Great review. I’m a BMW R1200 GS rider. Work part time in Alaska and wanted a bike here without spending too much money. My 1200 GS is in Utah. Review spot on (subscribed to the channel). My biggest complaint is “standing” ergonomics. Sucks. Bars too low. Foot pegs canted forward (well described in review). I’ll try raising handlebars. Understandably just doesn’t want to cruise at freeway speeds. Which is fine in AK. Wants to cruise at 65 mph. Overall, good bike for the money. Much better then Kawasaki Versys x300, other then standing ergonomics
I hate, I mean really hate someone just standing there talking about a bike. BUT WOW, this video has my attention, Every piece of information was very well put across with excellent knowledge of the subject. This bike is for me, I’m not a novice rider, but a novice off road rider. New subscriber.
Beautiful review of someone who knows his stuff. None of this first time review (how can you review a bike you’re riding for an hour??), none of speaking of it going highway speeds or it being a “lovely bike”. Great review
Great review! Actually, this is the best review I have ever seen. Real full detailed review of the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Thank you a lot for that. Thank you for the opportunity to learn a lot about this motorcycle. Now I'm thinking of buying it! :-) I'm a newbie in adenturing...
Awesome review. Covered almost all the aspects of offroad capabilities of the motorcycle. The 390 adventure is essentially a road biased adventure tourer. So the on road manners are really good and as explained in this video, it gets the job done on offroad. Coming from India, most of us riders don't have the budget to buy big adventures bikes so KTM has nailed this with budget friendly ADV motorcycle for masses👍
1000 miles on a KTM without something breaking or plastic melting... sounds like they are improving! I was thinking you'd be into your third fuel pump and fifth valve adjustment by that point. Just kidding :) Great review thank you!
If I have the option of getting or not getting a quick shifter, should I go for not getting it? I don't like the sound of the engine cutting out by simply touching the shifter
I’m a street bike rider back into it after a 20+ year hiatus. Now with a 2013 Ducati Monster 1100 and thinking of getting into adventure bike riding as well. I watched and read a lot of hours of reviews over the winter. What a great review of the 390 adventure. An unbelievable amount of useful unbiased information by someone who obviously knows what he’s talking about and the fact as a crew they tested the bike with a cross section of riders is really helpful.
Looks promising but it still misses. It surprises me Suzuki doesn't have an updated fuel injected DRZ 400 - this is getting close. I have a KTM 300 for ripping the dirt but I also like to cruise the fire roads and do some off trail Enduro riding from my cabin - hoping for a lightweight DRZ type of bike soon.
For you, based on comment, you are correct. The DRZ is another category, in our opinion. There are plenty of lightweight DRZ options that are not Suzuki, the KTM 390 is not even close.
I almost never comment. This review was so insanely refreshing because it not only intelligently discussed the pros and cons of the bike, but it also contrasted those pros and cons of the bike to different rider skill levels. What is a con to an experienced dirt bike rider, is actually a bit of a pro to me as a street only rider thinking about getting into ADVs. Just beyond helpful. More than earned my subscription to the channel. Thanks for the vid.
I’m a pretty husky guy. 275 pounds. This bike seems to have some decent power.The idea for me is taking it in nice forest road rides up in the Sierra where I live. Nothing too gnarly .
That is a great review. I am keen on this bike. I disagree about the seat issue being BS. I know you do not ride with your feet on the ground but seat hight is a huge issue for me. When I go to the motorcycle shows I am afraid to sit on many bikes for fear of falling over. I am only 5'5"" or 165 cm. with a 29" inseam. I do also ride a YZ450 with a 39" seat hight. I barely tip toe one foot teetering until the start gate drops but have no problem once in motion. On the street, particularly if I have passenger on the back I do not want to look like an idiot falling over or struggling at a stop light. My knees are not sturdy from many motocross and sports injuries. So that is a big attraction for me. The larger bikes are expensive to purchase and insure and risk speeding tickets. I would like to test ride this bike as I think it might be a wee bit too tame. What would Goldilocks do if there were only two bears and neither bed was just right? I wish this was maybe a 450 with bit more punch. I am considering a used 690 duke and maybe doing some mods to make it more "adventuresome".
Excellent detailed review and honest outline of advantages and short comings. With other brands testing the entry ADV market, it's great to see that KTM can play in that field. Spoked rims would be icing on the cake.
387 pounds why would you not buy a DR650? Seat height should be low with only 7 inches of suspension? This was almost like a paid KTM impression not a test. Very Sugar coated review.
One of the best reviews I’ve seen thus far on this bike! At that price point compared to the current competition it’s a home run for KTM. It should be noted to everyone that at KTMs official press release they stated that spoke wheels will be an OEM aftermarket option. Of course this is not currently standard so figure that into your total cost when wanting the upgrade. (Quick shifter is also not standard)
Quickshift (included on our test bike) is an OPTION but we were not able to get a price on the upgrade. Thanks for pointing this out. We would skip it for our riding BTW.
Yes seat height IS AN ISSUE 😜🙃🤣🤠 FALLING BECAUSE FOOT CAN'T REACH EARTH 😜 & THE RYDER BITES THE DIRT 🙃😭🏜️ HOPEFULLY NO CACTI ! FUNNY HEARING A TALL GUY PRO RYDER CLAIM SEAT HEIGHT IS NOT A ISSUE 😜 WHAT A JOKE 😜
This is by far one of the best and informative reviews I have seen. They really stuck to the facts and that it is meant to be a price point machine not a comparison to a $18,000 KTM. I just bought the 2023 390 Adventure. For the money I think it’s a fun, good looking bike for me to zip around on street and dirt with. No intention of entering motocross or tour the US with it. It’s playful fun. I have ridden street race bikes and dirt bikes a lot. I am older now and just wanted some light weight local fun to drive to some dirt roads. This fits the bill. Hope this helps.
Also great for experienced riders that want a lighter machine. Just sold my VStrom 650 and picked up the “22 390 Lose a bit on the Highway, but just more fun off-road, and plenty capable of long distance touring Great review though
No irritating music, robot voices or flash screens, just a bloke standing behind a bike giving everything you want to know, first class job sir!
Can't get better, the best analysis of KTM 390 adv anywhere on internet.
Thanks, we do our best.
@@DirtBikeTest You did your best and made the best review of this bike on UA-cam. At least the best of all the numerous reviews I have seen.
@@DirtBikeTest you've done a great job of explaining your experience and how it affects your perception of the bike, and then relating how a beginner might have a different take on the same thing (like seat height). This adds tremendous value because not only does it speak to a wider audience, but it helps bridge that difference in understanding from novice to expert without talking down to anybody or making them feel stupid. Bravo.
You better have a look at MAD TV from Australia. Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV.
This guy really knows what he's talking about, and it's great to listen to someone with confidence enough in their knowledge to speak naturally in depth about the bike at hand. This is just a great test and review video. No nonsense and flashy shit, just straight bike talk. Outstanding.
If only others could learn from this video. When you add music you risk things like some hate your music choice but if you are talking you cannot turn it down because you miss the talk content. And some make music while talking and music too loud. This guy is great like you and < Tilac me > both said. {others too.}
Massive relief to hear a review by someone who actually knows what they're talking about (like sussing the voltage drop). Nice.
Sounds like it would be a good bike for me who has been riding dirt bikes for years and just wants to go slow, sit down and be OK on the freeway to get home. Thank you for the great review.
Same here. The days of 6 hours of gnarley single track are over ,i hate to admit...
Exactly...maybe it's the wisdom that comes with age, but it seems I really don't want to break anymore bones :D I'm ok with a "pensioner style" type of riding nowadays:PP
It does bridge that gap.
This is literally the best review of this bike I have seen yet. I REALLY appreciate it, as I'm looking for a beginner street bike for my son.
This is exactly that bike. But is can go off-road so much more versatile without sacrificing much on-road.
@WildSandwich right. You're a do as I say, not as I do type. That's fine, to each his own.
@@DirtBikeTest would a 6'2” person fit this bike?
That's really judgmental. You don't know anything about this person other than him looking for a bike for his son, which by the way is an incredible way to bond with your son. You don't know how old the son is, or how long he's been riding. You can probably deduce that the son has ridden before and must likely loves it and the dad probably thinks it's time for a bike of his own. And like another commenter said, he's not looking at getting him a hayabusa. There's no better time to teach someone proper skills then when they're young. He's doing EXACTLY what any dad should be doing. Wish my dad did the same for me.
@WildSandwich Shut up!
Why do people always say it is a bike for new riders? My first bike was 1400ccm and i have owned 125 - 400 - 1000 - 1200 sizes also. It is also about price, the 390 costs 6000-6500, the 790 costs over 15000 USD in my country. So that is why I will go for the 390, light and fast enough.
So I'm an owner of a KTM 690 Enduro R. Last year I thought I'd buy a pure street bike to compliment it so I bought a Kawasaki z650 for riding the twisties and cruising around here in upstate NY. The problem is that where I'm finding the twisties I'm also finding lots of gravel roads. Every time I pass one I want to turn on it but don't because of the bike. So now I've find myself looking for something that's quite good on the road but can still manage the occasional gravel and fire roads. I've been eyeballing the Honda CB500x but I'm thinking the KTM 390 Adventure might be an even better choice. It seems like you're getting much bigger bang for the buck. Any opinions? Amazing review btw.
This is the best review I've seen on this little bike. Honest discussion of both the good points, the bad points and who it's aimed at. I got into ADV riding about 10 years ago, and have owned a DR650, WR250R, WeeStrom, 800XC and now a 1290SAR. All have their good and bad points. The 1290 is a beast, in good ways and bad. Very good power, but tall, top heavy and rather expensive. The WRR is the opposite extreme, light by ADV standards, but a bit too small and underpowered for the highway, especially at any elevation, in hills or wind. DR suspension is crap, by the time it's updated with Race Tech parts I had an extra $1200 or so in it, on a heavy, underpower bike with 25 year old tech.
I do think the review misses out on another potential target market. Older, experienced riders that are ready for something smaller, lighter, simpler and less expensive-and don't try to ride like desert racers. For adventure riding in the mountains of North Idaho, this looks really appealing-enough performance to get the job done, enough suspension to get through most terrain at a moderate pace, and enough highway capability to jump on the highway and get home after a trip. Without the need to drop money on a bigger gas tank, suspension upgrades (not that they wouldn't help) and enough lighting to actually ride safely at night.
I thought we mentioned "seasoned riders" someplace in there...
many maaaaany people buy these bikes for practical reasons including price so, don't call it an entry lever bike....call it a purposefull bike.
Great review, thanks. If KTM offers an Adventure R version of the 390 I‘ll go for that! 390 is all I need for my travels and touring - less weight is more important for me than more power.
We suspect there will be PowerParts to get closer to that and a healthy aftermarket as well, but a 390R may be a little bit of an ask. It becomes a game of the price getting way ahead of the performance.
longer travel, stock knobbies, bigger wheels, variable TC?, mods for standing position.. an R sounds good to me!
Spoked wheels, tough skid plate and re routed exhaust pipe
Hi Jimmy, I gotta say that is one of the best and most thorough reviews of any motorcycle that I have ever seen on UA-cam period. The KTM 390 Adventure had already captured my attention, but after seeing this excellent review I feel like it's almost a done deal. I will at least drive the 200 miles to the nearest stocking dealer to get a hands-on look at it, and it is very likely I will be bringing one home with me. Thank you so much for doing such an awesome job reviewing this bike. I only wish more videos on UA-cam were as valuable and informative as this one is. Sadly, so many of them are nothing more than a big waste of time. Very well done. Thanks!!
Did you buy one?
@@DirtBikeTest Hi, I ended up with a 790 adventure. Still appreciate your review. It helped in my ultimate decision to go with KTM.
Wow....great review ! This is wht a motorcycle review looks like ! Nothing unnecessary, no bullshit review. Great job guys. Subscribed 👍
bought one last month...love this bike so much I'm glad I didn't get another street only bike. great review, spot on!
Do you have problems with the kickstand bouncing when you're in the dirt and killing the motor?
This is what I would like to see more dual-sport bikes turn into. He mentioned the street bike feel as a negative but I think it is a positive.
It's really down to personal preferencs though :)
After putting my 390 Adventure though 800 miles of street and off-road trails in the Colorado mountains, I have to say your review is very accurate and more thorough that any other review to date. I too come from a very long dirt bike background and and carry a bias on how a claimed Adventure bike should perform although I've never ridden one until I purchased this one, oh and by the way, your review did the trick for me and made me pull the trigger and purchase it. To go on, consider myself an advanced dirt bike rider so of course the weight made me think that, when off-road, I would spend all my time trying to keep this bike upright, rather than enjoy the performance. As you know every bike is great at somethings and not others. This bike by design is a compromise. I have to say it's great running up and down the twisty Colorado canyons. It's got enough power and great cornering to thrill most anyone. Off-road on rocky and steep up and down hills, and I mean rocky, It's not dirt bike, but it is manageable and you can get where you want to go. I did have to use all my skills given the weight, and those stock tires, but never did I go sideways or have to put my feet down on steep rocky trails. It is a little unstable if you lean too far towards the handle bars, as you said, but move back from the bars and it was back to feeling right. Off road, I really did put this bike into the realm of needing a true enduro or dirt bike and it held its own as long as I kept the speeds down and way down on the steep rocky hills, but to be honest I won't take it over those particular rocky sections again - I have a bike for that. Now remove the rocks and even on extremely washed out mining trails, it does well. To conclude; I think they have hit the mark for its intended purpose and at this price point you can't go wrong. So am I happy with this bike?, oh hell yeah. It does what I want and threw some surprises my way with the traction control and ABS. So, I guess I just agreed with all your findings., :) You've made a loyal follower out of me just for that reason. Thanks again. I really appreciate you taking the time to put this review together.
Now I just need to know if the 790s windshield fits on the 390 for the long haul rides.
Not sure on that but the aftermarket will have one soon for sure. Thanks for compliments.
@@gpnmoab1 yes
Hey bill. About to ride to Patagonia from LA on this bike. We’re not sure, but my guess is we’ll be riding 70/30 or maybe 60/40 on to off road. The one thing I’m conflicted about is the tires, and the wheels (ok two things). The stock’s ‘seem’ fine to me. I’m a beginner dirt rider and can’t imagine we’ll be doing hard core, over major rocky terrain type stuff. That said, we’ll be going through all the sand of Baja and obviously will hit lots of unexpected bumps. Curious your thoughts. Stick to stock? Switch to spoked wheels and knobbier tires? Thx in advance…
As a new rider, dad with kids and looking for a bike to go off trails and do easy sections. Maybe even pop a tent down for the night, this is literally perfect me. KTM nailed the audience on this one, adventure bikes are either enormous or low spec, this is a good mix at a very good price point.
Wow, extremely detailed. Great review
Rare. Really rare to find this kind of honesty. Subbed.
Brilliant in depth review. The kind I wish, I’d see on the other 80% of Bike reviews out on the Net. Well done mate. I was looking for reviews on this and the CB500x, with more bias towards the Honda, however, after watching an experienced nuts n bolts review on the the 390 - I have to re-think my choice. Bloody awesome mate. Cheers!
14T or 47T rear sprocket does the job.
Ok, this is the type of reviews that can change minds. I thought I had made a decision for a BMW, mmmm!!!
I would rather see instead of all the bullshit electronics - 21"/18" spoke wheel set.
It will cannibalise bigger bike from KTM
@@Masters_Yukesh Hardly, people run away from anything that it's less then 600cc...
really hoping 490 adventure will be an R version with everything from 790r just smaller
Got this one three months back, worth every penny. As an owner, I find this review really honest and to the point.
Awesome review I’m getting myself one. Was tied between this and a duke 390 but because commuting plus traveling is my forte and I’m not quite chasing speed and I can touch ground on my feet, no brainer🏆🤞🏾🙏🏾
Right on!
BMW should be scared.
That was a good review!! Can you do Honda CB500x and KTM 390ADV comparison test?
We're gonna answer all the questions live tonight on our Tech Talk Taco Tuesday show that takes place live on Dirt Bike Test Facebook page 7 PM PST time zone or on about an hour. We may try and go live on this channel as well if bandwidth allows...
Thank you for that fantastic review. I think you just helped me understand just what this bike is capable of doing. I came from a 1200 GSA to a WR250R, and now am considering a 390 or 790. It's been 4 years since my dual sport accident/foot injury, and I think the 390 will be a good balance of weight, suspension, and seat height (I've a 30" inseam). cheers
Superb review! I’ve been riding for many years, but I’ve only really started going properly off piste in my 50’s and I’m finding my Tenere XT660Z a bit of a handful for me on the trickier stuff. This bike has hit my radar quite recently and it seems to be ticking a lot of boxes for the price.
So much so, that I’m taking a Demo bike out for a ride from my local dealership tomorrow! Everyone knows there’s no such thing as the perfect bike, but I’m thing (on paper) this bike comes pretty damn close for what I’m looking for as an alternative playmate to sit beside my beloved Tenere in the garage.
Thanks for an inspirational and truthful review.
Regards,
Dazza. 🇬🇧
I'm getting it next week hopefully...can't wait. I'm in EU so I ordered crash bars, it's a must!
Attitude and approach to reviewing a bike is crucial. He gives the product a chance and analyzes within the mindset the manufacturer had. Everyone wants one bike to be everything and its just not possible, otherwise everyone would be doing it. The bad reviews come from their competitors paying people to say bad things, PERIOD. It's a great first bike that can do everything but heavy motorcross and heavier obstacle riding. Get an enduro for that. It does EVERYTHING else.
Why is this man crying the entire video about the power and torque? Every sentence is like power is not enough and torque is not enough.. cant overtake on highway and can't do this and cant do that! Its a single cylinder 372cc fun motorcycle can do a little of everything for poor people like us in India. Its cheap to buy and maintain. It wasnt made to be compared with multicylinder 250-300 kilo motorcycles. You have the money .. go and buy a 1250GS. Tell people about what this bike can do on narrow bumpy city roads and standard highways. Dont take it to the Autobahn or a difficult trail and start crying for what it cant do. And Bajaj makes 60-70 lakh motorcycles per year for India and the export market. Kawasaki, KTM and currently Triumph is in tie-up with bajaj for manufacturing and sales of their motorcycle in India.
You are forgetting one thing in your comments. IMHO: this is the Adventure bike for er... 'older' ADV riders. Lighter, (not 450 - 500 lbs) easier to ride, puts a smile on your face.
Really great review guys and im being an ktm 390 adv owner myself and also from india the country the bike is made loved the way you have experimented. Nicely done guys. Cheers
Got this as a commuter bike that I mostly use in town, but can rise it in the mountains or the occasional drive to Moab for weekends, and i love it! Great alternative even for experience drivers, torquey and lots of fun!
Thanks for this video, I am thinking about trading in my Versys 300 X in on one, Love every thing about the Versys X except for the high rev engine, even up the front sprocket 1 tooth but still not good at long high speed rides any thing over 80 mph and even at 80 mph I do not like the sound, but I also know some people love it. I also have a DR650 set up for off road, so just need the KTM 390 for highway and dirt and light trails, the one thing that I do not like about the KTM is the small gas tank, This is the type of bike I will be hitting the back roads on and there are, very few gas stations. That is why I put a 20 liter gas tank on my DR 650. Other than the gas tank I think this would be the right bike for me I am 72 years old so it will be more than enough. How are the tires when you hit sand, there are some gravel roads hear that turn into sand for stretches, scary on the death wings I had on my DR650 first thing I changed when I got my new one. They also put them on my Versys at the first tire change, got some Dunlop trailmax mission for it, Hope the work out, that is if I don't get the KTM first. which I will most likely go with the Dunlop trailmax mission as soon as the stock ones need changing, or before if thy do not handle the sandy spots on the roads.
Great analysis! I am currently trying to decide between this bike and the honda CRF250l. Currently leaning toward the Honda because I heard KTM bikes are more difficult to fix when there are issues. However, I'm glad you talked about seat height. With my 29 inch inseam, this bike is a better fit for me.
I don't think there is a real gap in what it costs or difficulties in fixing other than the KTM requires a "tool" that only the dealer has for some things like updates. No such device on the Honda.
Great review 👍👍👍
Let's hope Kawasaki will launch the new Versys 400 soon...
176kg (387 lb). That is more than a Suzuki dr650 166.4kg , (366lb). The DR is often considered a bit heavy for dirt.
Exceptional, honest, and realistic review of this bike, and all the pragmatic considerations explained in a way that everyone can understand.
I watched this video before I bought my 390 and revisiting it I think its a very solid assessment of the bikes strengths and weaknesses. Coming from a dirt bike back ground (I grew up on trail bikes) but a road bike history as an adult its been an absolute joy to find a light bike that handles both of these roles so well. I fitted cruise control to the fly by wire setup and that has turned it into a very competent all round tourer with significant dirt road chops. Each time I take it off road my confidence in it increases. I put 3500km on it over the Easter break and found it very comfortable for extended rides, doing as much as 700km a day. I'm loving the experience of getting to know this machine. Unfortunately it blew a countershaft/drive sprocket seal on the ride and I'm waiting for it to be repaired under warranty as the bike is only a month old, but assuming that is a minor blip, I'm looking forward to my next ride very much.
Looks like a good replacement for a Kawasaki KLR 650. The KTM 372cc motor puts out more power than the old KLR.
Great video am seriously considering getting one instead of the crf300 rally simply due to the higher power and speed on the road.
Just wish it had spoked wheels!
You don't like some things like standing position, but watching the way it flies on gravel and sand is just amazing!
Great review!
Great detailed review -it looks more like a street bike to me -thanks for all the great information to digest
By far the best review
Been literally binge watching 100s of Adv390 videos since few days and inarguably this is one of the best described video i came across. Worth the 25mins where you talk about genuine + and - than just reading out whats on spec sheet. Thanks a ton Jimmy.
Thanks
Stupendous review! Technicalities, weight distribution, flaws, fantastic. Tons better than the ones simply ridden on tarmac and the spec sheet repeated in a stylish manner!
Great review! Cool little bike, I have a 790R, and I love it! KTM hit this one out of the park!
Fantastic review -- thank you, and even though I rode dirt bikes as a kid in the Midwest but I am now 59 and have been feeling the pull (while age permits) to get a 500cc or less dual sport. I like the 2019 or newer Honda CB500x (with a rally raid kit) for being able to ride both pavement and forest roads/dirt/ mountain roads/ easy trails, but I will definitely check this one out. A lot of bang for the buck to be sure. Thanks for the clear explanations on everything - although at one time I rode, I consider myself as a beginner, and you did not talk beyond what I could understand. Great job!
had a 19 500x...and am waiting for my 390a. Biggest draw was the ride by wire. The honda was very notchy (on/off) down low slow riding difficult trails...as per the now many reviews this is not due to ride by wire.
Ride it like you stole it, have some fun. No bitch'n right Ft9?
Awesome review. Very informative. Covered everything I wanted to know. Thanks
You have to pronounce every word like: B-A-J-A-J. The last J isn't silent by any means. If you ignore it and call it just 'BAJA' it becomes a slang in native Indian language where bajaj motors located. Which means, infertile person.
As someone who watches a ton of motorcycle reviews, I just want to echo the comments about how spectacular this review is. I watched it as I was considering whether to buy this bike (which I ultimately did) and here i am watching it again (in fact there is a risk I've even commented before and said the same thing). Your presentation is just so even and informative, and the clips of the offroad use helps give this novice a sense of what is possible on this bike in a range of conditions, (not that I expect to ride as well as your rider at first). I've been running around primarily to get it through its first service and identify if it has any issues (so far none). Your "not going to be in the fast lane" is spot on, (one COULD do it, but it would just feel wrong). I did buy pegs that are larger and yes flattened out; made the requisite adjustments to the brake and shift levers...easy. A couple other mods were a tougher skid plate and 50-50 tires. Heading to Death Valley soon for its first real adventure. Thanks again for helping me get to this point.
@bedmac2 - Hi! Could you mention what pegs specifically and what adjustments you made to the levers? Thank you.
@@chinowashere The pegs are from Rival Components, (just Google them; I've also heard people using "Pivot Pegs"). On the Rival Components there is zero angle on them after the install. As far as lever adjustments they were largely driven by me using riding boots as well as the new peg angle. I had to lower the brake pedal because I ended up resting on it (and thus hitting the brakes) where it originally was and raise the shifter because the boot's toe box is pretty tall. Both adjustments are easy to do. The key on the brake is to do it with the adjusting rod at the rear of the lever. You can get away a little bit by adjusting the stop at the mid point, but I think that is primarily to adjust the free play.
@@bedmac2 Thank you for the detailed reply! It is much appreciated!
If KTM installed the 390 Duke motor in a 690Enduro R frame, tweaked it for dual sport use, sold it for 7 grand, you would have had a DRZ killer. Great review and nice to see the wide range of riders on a bike segment that DBT was less likely to test. Kudos to JL and the team.
pgirard26 It probably comes down to sizing. This is obviously aimed at new riders, or someone just looking to get off pavement for the first time. Sitting on a 690 E is very intimidating, and not even possible for some. I can’t even get one leg down on a 690 E. I’ve ridden the 790 Adventure, but it’s a big bike. Feels very wide and bulky, which will also turn away new riders. Hopefully KTM have fixed the head gasket issues with these though, I had a 390 years ago and it was trouble.
Sarah Dell the problems are sorted, I think this engine has all its kinks removed now
@@sarahdell4042 this is an expensive way to be a newb. There is no way this bike crashes nicely. It is, however, a great only bike. Unfortunately, low seat height also equals low ground clearance. The MSRP starts low but to make truly dirt worthy the KTM Powerpart$ will need to be leveraged. I like the bike, the review was excellent, and I am glad I didn't wait for 390A to finally show up.
@@sarahdell4042 The problems you speak of are in the past. They were unfortunate but long since sorted.
They say there will be a 490 smc r
Wow what a review, congrats, that's better than we can expect. I'm currently evaluating this bike for my wife and your review has removed the "seat height" fear. Thanks. I personaly own the 790 Adv and I cannot explain how addictive it is. It really is a strong personality and always pushes you to go further. Very easy bike indeed. In a "work from home" period I drove 8,000 km in 3 months (5500 miles). KTM is on the way to become world nr1 motorcycle brand (OK that's only my opinion).
I know I have commented before but this is the best review I have seen of this bike. You went into more detail than anyone else. You even changed the tyres for comparison!
Will you make more videos of this bike somewhere down the line? This is the first video on your channel that I have watched. OK, I'm subscribing.
Thanks for the very thorough and enjoyable review Jimmy, that was terrific
Great review. I have been seeing a ton of 390 and Honda CRF 250 Rally videos lately. And this is the best. Great job. I am in the market and trying to decide between the CRF 250l Rally and the KTM 390 Adventure. My use is just light off road. More interested to take me to some nice place to fly my drone. Which one would you suggest? Thanks!
I had rally up to last year and it's great great little bike. Little underpowered for road use. It's more offroad oriented than 390 adv. If you wanna do just light offroad I would go with 390. For the money you cannot get better specs bike right now in my opinion. I personally was waiting for R version of this bike but didn't come so I went with 690 enduro.
On a performance for dollar issue the KTM is ahead, especially in the engine. The Honda, in our opinion, beats it in looks and in ergonomics-- and the CRF's wheels (sizes and spokes) are better.
I have to make the exact same decision at the moment. What did you go for? How do you feel about it now?
While I’m not planning to learn and start motorcycling until at least 2 years from now due to studies, I can see this already good bike becoming much better after 2 or 3 iterations. Seems like it will be perfect if they implement your few suggestions. Would probably buy it as a novice rider once I get my A2 license.
Best analysis and review on the KTM Adventure 390 on the internet till date.
Worth every minute of the review.
Thanks
🙏
The best review of KTM 390 ADV.
❤️ from India
Best Review!!!!!!!!
Lovely, very methodical and detailed. I love the perspective you presented, one mentioning the growth potential. It takes a lot of knowledge of a subject to bring something like that up. As to the "deltas" as I say (meaning things that could have been done better) I would only add heated grips as a standard. It is an adv bike, not a ride around the block one, so...but I guess we're scrapping the bottom of the barrel here :) Anyway, planning to try it out soon, maybe it will be an "alternative" (with a wink wink) to my big GS :DD
Thanks, We did not see a setting in the menus for heated grips so not sure if it is planed but the aftermarket can easily fix this.
Ktm 390 adventure nothing like it the best
Excellent review! I have a Versys X300 and the KTM 390 is very intriguing for a light adv tourer. I really appreciate you discussing the factory set up not being comfortable for standing. The X300 actually has good ergos for standing. I sold a Honda CB500x because the peg position was similarly shared with the street models on the same platform and was difficult to stand on. I do think KTM has packed great value into this bike. I'm interested to see how the pegs could be improved and the possibility of a wire wheel version. Thanks!
Great review. I’m a BMW R1200 GS rider. Work part time in Alaska and wanted a bike here without spending too much money. My 1200 GS is in Utah. Review spot on (subscribed to the channel). My biggest complaint is “standing” ergonomics. Sucks. Bars too low. Foot pegs canted forward (well described in review). I’ll try raising handlebars. Understandably just doesn’t want to cruise at freeway speeds. Which is fine in AK. Wants to cruise at 65 mph. Overall, good bike for the money. Much better then Kawasaki Versys x300, other then standing ergonomics
I hate, I mean really hate someone just standing there talking about a bike. BUT WOW, this video has my attention,
Every piece of information was very well put across with excellent knowledge of the subject.
This bike is for me, I’m not a novice rider, but a novice off road rider.
New subscriber.
Fantastic job. I honest and intelligent review of the 390 Adventure! Many thanks.
Great thorough review. KTM is the BOMB, THEY DO it right!
Except this ain't got a KTM manufactured engine tho
Beautiful review of someone who knows his stuff. None of this first time review (how can you review a bike you’re riding for an hour??), none of speaking of it going highway speeds or it being a “lovely bike”. Great review
Great review! Actually, this is the best review I have ever seen. Real full detailed review of the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Thank you a lot for that. Thank you for the opportunity to learn a lot about this motorcycle. Now I'm thinking of buying it! :-) I'm a newbie in adenturing...
Awesome review. Covered almost all the aspects of offroad capabilities of the motorcycle. The 390 adventure is essentially a road biased adventure tourer. So the on road manners are really good and as explained in this video, it gets the job done on offroad. Coming from India, most of us riders don't have the budget to buy big adventures bikes so KTM has nailed this with budget friendly ADV motorcycle for masses👍
With the stock tires, this bike is as good as some street-only bikes in this displacement range too!
1000 miles on a KTM without something breaking or plastic melting... sounds like they are improving! I was thinking you'd be into your third fuel pump and fifth valve adjustment by that point. Just kidding :) Great review thank you!
Were is this place you tested the bike? I'm moving tomorrow! Lol
What a stellar review. Incredible bike for the money. KTM are going to sell boatloads of these. Hopefully the quality proves to be good.
We are adding miles as much as we can to see how this works out.
If I have the option of getting or not getting a quick shifter, should I go for not getting it? I don't like the sound of the engine cutting out by simply touching the shifter
We'll go into detail on this tonight on TTTT#84
Excellent analysis,thks.JHB-SA
This is by far the best review I could find, thank you!
I’m a street bike rider back into it after a 20+ year hiatus. Now with a 2013 Ducati Monster 1100 and thinking of getting into adventure bike riding as well. I watched and read a lot of hours of reviews over the winter. What a great review of the 390 adventure. An unbelievable amount of useful unbiased information by someone who obviously knows what he’s talking about and the fact as a crew they tested the bike with a cross section of riders is really helpful.
Wow. Best review I’ve seen yet on this little bike. Nice job.
Looks promising but it still misses. It surprises me Suzuki doesn't have an updated fuel injected DRZ 400 - this is getting close. I have a KTM 300 for ripping the dirt but I also like to cruise the fire roads and do some off trail Enduro riding from my cabin - hoping for a lightweight DRZ type of bike soon.
For you, based on comment, you are correct. The DRZ is another category, in our opinion. There are plenty of lightweight DRZ options that are not Suzuki, the KTM 390 is not even close.
I almost never comment. This review was so insanely refreshing because it not only intelligently discussed the pros and cons of the bike, but it also contrasted those pros and cons of the bike to different rider skill levels. What is a con to an experienced dirt bike rider, is actually a bit of a pro to me as a street only rider thinking about getting into ADVs. Just beyond helpful. More than earned my subscription to the channel. Thanks for the vid.
Very thorough review by a guy that really knows how to ride a motorcycle.
Great review. Thanks. Not bad for a bike that KTM states is for "light offroad use only"
Definitely do well in what is designed for ;
I’m a pretty husky guy. 275 pounds. This bike seems to have some decent power.The idea for me is taking it in nice forest road rides up in the Sierra where I live. Nothing too gnarly .
One of the best reviews out there. I can finally say I heard an expert review.
That is a great review. I am keen on this bike. I disagree about the seat issue being BS. I know you do not ride with your feet on the ground but seat hight is a huge issue for me. When I go to the motorcycle shows I am afraid to sit on many bikes for fear of falling over. I am only 5'5"" or 165 cm. with a 29" inseam. I do also ride a YZ450 with a 39" seat hight. I barely tip toe one foot teetering until the start gate drops but have no problem once in motion. On the street, particularly if I have passenger on the back I do not want to look like an idiot falling over or struggling at a stop light. My knees are not sturdy from many motocross and sports injuries. So that is a big attraction for me.
The larger bikes are expensive to purchase and insure and risk speeding tickets. I would like to test ride this bike as I think it might be a wee bit too tame. What would Goldilocks do if there were only two bears and neither bed was just right? I wish this was maybe a 450 with bit more punch. I am considering a used 690 duke and maybe doing some mods to make it more "adventuresome".
Excellent detailed review and honest outline of advantages and short comings. With other brands testing the entry ADV market, it's great to see that KTM can play in that field. Spoked rims would be icing on the cake.
387 pounds why would you not buy a DR650? Seat height should be low with only 7 inches of suspension? This was almost like a paid KTM impression not a test. Very Sugar coated review.
This is more like a 390 Adventure GT/S.. and still hoping for an R version with spoke wheels, higher travel suspension, bigger tank.
One of the best reviews I’ve seen thus far on this bike! At that price point compared to the current competition it’s a home run for KTM. It should be noted to everyone that at KTMs official press release they stated that spoke wheels will be an OEM aftermarket option. Of course this is not currently standard so figure that into your total cost when wanting the upgrade. (Quick shifter is also not standard)
Quickshift (included on our test bike) is an OPTION but we were not able to get a price on the upgrade. Thanks for pointing this out. We would skip it for our riding BTW.
I cannot decide between this or the Versys 300. I like the wheels on the Versys a lot more.
I would definitely go for KTM. Get spoked wheels at the aftermarket later.
Brilliant brilliant no nonsense:) review as an ex gsa owner looking at different options before I get back on a beemer this is interesting :)
Yes seat height IS AN ISSUE 😜🙃🤣🤠 FALLING BECAUSE FOOT CAN'T REACH EARTH 😜 & THE RYDER BITES THE DIRT 🙃😭🏜️ HOPEFULLY NO CACTI ! FUNNY HEARING A TALL GUY PRO RYDER CLAIM SEAT HEIGHT IS NOT A ISSUE 😜 WHAT A JOKE 😜
This is by far one of the best and informative reviews I have seen. They really stuck to the facts and that it is meant to be a price point machine not a comparison to a $18,000 KTM.
I just bought the 2023 390 Adventure. For the money I think it’s a fun, good looking bike for me to zip around on street and dirt with. No intention of entering motocross or tour the US with it.
It’s playful fun. I have ridden street race bikes and dirt bikes a lot. I am older now and just wanted some light weight local fun to drive to some dirt roads. This fits the bill.
Hope this helps.
that bike looks FUN!
KTM, if you are watching this...FIX THE STALLING ISSUE!!!!!!!!!
Also great for experienced riders that want a lighter machine. Just sold my VStrom 650 and picked up the “22 390
Lose a bit on the Highway, but just more fun off-road, and plenty capable of long distance touring
Great review though