In the more recent years, it has turned into a tradition for KTM to debut its new models at the Esposizione Mondiale del Motociclismo (EICMA) held in Milan every year. After unveiling the 2014 KTM RC 125, 200 and 390 models last year, the Austrian manufacturer will take the tradition forward and unveil the ‘390 Adventure’ at the EICMA this year (the Duke 390 was unveiled at the same event in 2012). The KTM 390 Adventure is the dual-purpose dual-sport version of the Duke 390 and will be manufactured at the company’s Chakan plant in Pune alongside the Duke and RC 390 models.
The KTM 390 Adventure will be based on the Duke 390 street-fighter version. The motorcycle will sport a stronger and longer suspension, dual-purpose tyres and a larger fuel tank. The 390 Adventure will be powered by the same 373.2cc single-cylinder engine, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike will also get a more upright riding position for comfortable seating over long distances. In terms of design, we expect heavy influences to come from the 1190 Adventure model that will be clubbed with KTM’s trellis frame.
The upcoming KTM 390 Adventure will also get ABS as standard in conjunction with front and rear disc brakes. With the middle-weight performance motorcycle segment growing by ten folds, it would make sense to bring the 390 adventure to the country. However, while India is a huge fan of fully-faired bikes, an enduro-super moto targeted for off-roading and adventure trails will find limited takers in the country, in comparison. Even though the KTM RC 390 has been declared a hit even before launch, it can’t be said the same about the 390 Adventure because of the uncertainty of the market.
Nonetheless, KTM boss Stefan Pierer had earlier stated that the company will produce the new Adventure motorcycle from the Bajaj facility in Pune for exports to international markets. If the company does plan to introduce the 390 Adventure in the country, it won’t be much of an issue, as the product is already locally manufactured alongside the Duke 390 and the upcoming RC 390. The European launch for the 390 Adventure is most likely to be in 2015, while the specifications and other details will be revealed at the EICMA in November this year.
