If you’re planning to dive into the world of adventure touring in India, the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure lineup offers two compelling options: the 390 Adventure S and the 390 Adventure X. Both bikes are rooted in KTM’s off-road legacy, but which one do you choose? Lets find out together!
Overview: What’s New in 2025?
Both the 2025 390 Adventure S and X use the new engine platform, has updated design and improved ergonomics. However, KTM continues its strategy of offering the S variant as a premium package and the X variant as a stripped-down, value-focused version.
Key feature differences between the 2025 390 Adventure S and 2025 390 Adventure X
390 Adventure S
- 3 ride modes
- Switchable traction control (Lean angle sensitive)
- ABS (Lean angle sensitive)
- Adjustable front suspensions
- Cruise control
- 21 inch front wheel
- Tubeless spokes
390 Adventure X
- No traction control
- No cornering ABS
- No riding modes
- No Adjustable front suspensions
- No cruise control
- 19 inch front wheel
- Alloy wheel
- Almost Rs. 75,000/- cheaper
Engine & Performance
| Specification | KTM 390 Adventure S | KTM 390 Adventure X |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 398.7cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC | 398.7cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC |
| Power | 44.25 PS @ 8500 rpm | 44.25 PS @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Quickshifter | Yes | Yes |
| Switchable ABS | Yes | Yes |
Both bikes share the same new 398.7cc engine (up from the older 373cc), delivering slightly more grunt and improved refinement. However, the S variant gets rider aids like traction control, cornering ABS, and quickshifter — features that the X misses out on to keep the price down.
Also regarding the ride modes, if you have been riding for a bit, you really would not need the different power modes, your right hand throttle experience is just fine, it’s just 44 PS after all.
Verdict:
Pure performance is the same, but the S offers better rider aids, making it more suitable for mixed terrain touring.
Suspension & Handling
| Component | 390 Adventure S | 390 Adventure X |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | WP Apex USD fork (adjustable) | WP Apex USD fork (non-adjustable) |
| Rear Suspension | WP Apex monoshock (pre-load adjustable) | WP Apex monoshock (pre-load adjustable) |
| Tyres | Apollo Tramplr XR tubeless tyres | Apollo Tramplr XR tubeless tyres |
| Wheels | 21” front / 18” rear alloys | 19” front / 18” rear alloys |
The Adventure S comes with adjustable WP suspension, giving riders the ability to tweak settings for on-road comfort or off-road control. The X variant sticks with fixed suspensions. While the X variant can handle pretty much anything the S can, the S can go that little bit further into extreme conditions and be comfortable while doing it.
Verdict:
If you’re planning to tackle varying challenging terrains constantly, the adjustable suspensions and the larger front tyre on the S can make a significant difference.
Technology & Features
| Feature | 390 Adventure S | 390 Adventure X |
|---|---|---|
| TFT Display with Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Ride-by-wire | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | No |
| Cornering ABS | Yes | No |
| Quickshifter | Yes | Yes |
| Dual-channel ABS | Yes | Yes |
The Adventure S is packed with electronics – ideal for tech-savvy riders who demand adjustability and ride modes. The X variant focuses on mechanical simplicity, making it easier (and cheaper) to maintain.
Verdict:
The S is loaded with features for serious touring and safety. The X is not far behind in safety either, the lack traction control can be easily managed, the lean angle sensitive ABS is probably the only real miss.
Weight & Ergonomics
| Parameter | 390 Adventure S | 390 Adventure X |
|---|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | ~182 kg | ~181 kg |
| Seat Height | 830 mm | 825 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 L | 14.5 L |
The weight and the ergonomics remain pretty much the same across both.
Pricing & Value
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 390 Adventure S | ₹3.60 lakh |
| 390 Adventure X | ₹2.85 lakh |
The 390 Adventure X undercuts the S by about ₹75,000, making it one of the most affordable ADV bikes in its segment. That’s a huge advantage for new riders or budget-conscious buyers.
Verdict:
The X wins on value-for-money. But if you have the budget and plan on serious ADV riding, the S justifies its price tag with its tech and equipment.
Which One Should You Buy?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Features & Technology | KTM 390 Adventure S |
| Price & Affordability | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Suspension & Off-road Use | KTM 390 Adventure S & X depending on intensity of it |
| Simplicity & Maintenance | KTM 390 Adventure X |
| Touring & Comfort | KTM 390 Adventure S & X |
Buy the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure S if:
- You want top-tier adventure features
- You’re serious about long-distance touring and off the road riding
- You want rider aids like traction control and cornering ABS
- You’re okay spending more for long-term gains
Buy the 2025 KTM 390 Adventure X if:
- You’re on a tighter budget
- You prefer mechanical simplicity and easier maintenance
- You’re want to do ADV riding but will not push the machine extremely hard off the road
- You plan to ride mostly for touring
Conclusion
The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure S and X while having their purposes quite split on paper, in the real world there is a lot of overlap. The 390 Adventure X seems to be the best buy for most of the riders out there. Add in the price difference and its almost a no brainer.
The S variant while being slightly more capable demands you to upskill yourselves as an off-road rider, especially if you want to squeeze the extra potential out of it.
Whichever path you choose, both bikes offer great performance and a strong foundation for your touring dreams.
FAQs: KTM 390 Adventure S vs X
Q: Are both bikes suitable for off-roading?
A: Yes, but the S is better equipped for rough terrains due to better tyres and adjustable suspension.
Q: Which bike is better for long highway touring?
A: The 390 Adventure S just nudges ahead, thanks to cruise control. Although the X is just as good and more stable on tarmac.
