KTM 390 ADVENTURE | On and Off Road Review

[@advmatt]

This bike is also for all the riders tired of the over weight and overly expensive adventures bikes. Down sizing seems to be the way bikes are going.

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

Agreed. And all the 650cc bikes and higher (with a few exceptions) and over engineered and almost seem like they’re built to fail. And god forbid you get a 9 THOUsand dollar motorcycle dirty or ride it hard enough to possibly crash it.

[@alrightdave6135]

If you are a rookie. It has no ground clearance, the pegs are wrong. Go and watch Fortnine review.

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

@@alrightdave6135 it’s an adventure bike, not an enduro. But I agree the pegs aren’t suitable for the more versed riders looking at this bike.

[@HardBoiledGregADV]

@@alrightdave6135 I thought the Fortnine review didn't do the bike justice. His cinematics are awesome, but I think he misses the mark on the review. Check out the review from Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV (MAD TV) for a review that really puts the bike through its paces. I think that review really shows some of the off--road capabilities of the bike.

[@anxiousappliance]

@@alrightdave6135 The one where he is jumping off all sorts of things, pretends his ankles can't bend, and then says nah cuz he can't get over a big log. Nah

[@glennmcguire5571]

I just sold my T7 and bought a 2023 390 Adventure SW. I can tell you that I really liked my T7, but I ride mostly on my own and I got into to many situations where the weight and top heavy bike made it hard for me to get out of a lot of situations. With the 390 I will now go back to exploring every trail without fear of getting stuck. I've only changed out the pedals and put Barkbusters on the bike. So far. Nicecnc makes a pedal for the 390 for $89. Good quality.

[@michaelh6002]

This bike is built and sold as an adventure bike if you want a bike for difficult single track this is not the bike if you want a bike for miles and miles of interstate this is not the bike this is an adventure bike. Ride this bike for what it was designed for and there is none better. The fact that this bike is not a fat pig and has a performance engine it’s in a class by itself. I rode my 390 ADV on the Great Continental Divide TRAIL from Mexico to Canada then back to TEXAS , 5500 miles it preformed flawless. Yes it is an adventure bike. PROVEN. HOWDY FROM TEXAS

[@rod1449]

Well here we are 2 years later and the review is still attracting viewers. It's a good review. KTM knew what they were doing when they built this bike. A lightweight, economical, all roads travel bike. It's been surprising to see how many reviewers don't get it. Built in India for the Asian market, where bikes are utilities, rather than toys. More planted on the road than a trail bike (dual sport), and quite capable of getting to the campsite.

[@monzadh]

i'm 5'10" and have this bike and just raised the seat height this weekend and it made world of difference in comfort and peg/knee angle. just 2 clicks up on the rear shock.

[@konijaya]

Hi what's the seat height of this bike? In india it's 855 mm and seems to be just fine for a tall bloke.

[@moehrepingu]

@@konijaya yes 855mm. I think statements like "only for people above / below this height" are never true. First, it is mostly about leg inseam and seat-to-footpeg distance OR shoulders to handle bars but these are not the same measurements for people of the same height. And I notice that the "standards" that people have are vastly different. Some people which are quite small put even higher seats on bikes and taller people don't because they think is is fine. So personally, I ignore nearly every statement about ergonomics and just test it out in person if a bike seems interesting.

[@salazam]

How does adjusting the rear shock have any effect on the peg/knee angle?

[@chrisredfield3240]

@@salazam it doesn't.

[@salazam]

@@chrisredfield3240 but just two clicks made a world of difference!

[@bedmac2]

I'm six months in with my 390ADV and am delighted with it. I have, however, modded the heck out of it with the two most critical mods being better off-road tires and flat angled pegs. The main thing about this bike for me is that it is confidence-inspiring off-road. I have plenty of road experience, (and two other bikes in the garage: a Ducati Multistrada and a Moto Guzzi V7 III). Not that experienced off road. I briefly had a DRZ400 but I never warmed to it. The KTM has taken me on many miles off road in places I previously would have been nervous about trying, and getting to the off road was more fun than on the DRZ.

[@p0weraid]

How is the power compared to the drs?

[@bedmac2]

@@p0weraid I had a pretty decent gap between owning the DR and the KTM, so I'm not really sure. Can't say I've noticed any difference in power, and the real pleasure is having a sixth gear for the highway.

[@chrisvonkleist3984]

@@p0weraid no comparison-smokes the dr

[@salazam]

@@chrisvonkleist3984 doubt

[@tonygreen8221]

By far and way the most informative review of this bike that I’ve seen. The height suitability is such an important point. Some of these smaller bikes on the market literally won’t fit a larger rider.

[@VermontMan]

I got to check out my friend’s 390. I was waaaay more impressed than I expected. Quality and features is far better than its price says it could have. Ergonomically it fit me great at 5’ 9” too. Perfect class 4 road and 2 track explorer. Now to get some miles on it 😀

[@neilstodart4413]

Good, balanced review. I have one and I really like it. (I am 5'10".) I also have other bigger and smaller bikes, so I can enjoy this one for the trips where it shines. If you view it as a bike for light-duty offroading, it's a great package. 390 fuel economy is awesome. Friend and I recently took my 390 and my Desert Sled on the same journey. 390 used 5.3L of fuel, while the DS used 7.5L.

[@pegumoto]

Good wrap up. I have been riding nearly 20 years now and have ridden nearly all the big adv bikes out there but this one checks off most of the must-haves. The light weight is great and on the trails, I didnt feel it lacking in any way. It surprised me on the highways by being really fast and steady too. Maybe could do with 10 more bhp? But who couldn't haha! It's my second bike though because, in the end it's a KTM - so when it will break down, I will have my Yamaha to fall back on lol

[@salazam]

Cat delete and yoshi pipe adds like 6 or 7 hp I think. I'll let you know in a few paychecks.

[@Rookie7219]

@@salazam The Coober kit to remap increases torque massively! They did a dyno vid somewhere here I think.

[@salazam]

@@Rookie7219 This bike is a massive piece of turd. I got rid of it as soon as I could.

[@Soned19]

Small for all guys there but big thing here, literally 😍 love those bikes

[@ryanmamaril7524]

Good review! The chin-mounted camera constantly moving gave a me headache though mate. But thanks for the review, this bike is on my shortlist and the info helps.

[@Alaska_MD]

The wheels are fine. Every time I hear someone bash aluminum cast wheels I ask them if they have ever bent a wheel frame, and the answer is always "no." Also, there is no evidence that deflating your tires in sand gives you better traction. The recommended tire pressure is important to maintain the side wall adhesion to the rim. The traction from tires comes from the lugs, and letting air out to get 10% more contact has never made sense to me. Hey here's an idea... just hit the throttle more and get some momentum.

[@gianlucajandelli6387]

Good balanced review. Thanks. I was among the first to use the 390 Adventure when released early this year. I certainly feel that for an adventure bike it needs more clearance and spoked wheels. The 790 ADV suspensions are a starting point for a custom job front/rear. Spoked wheels by KTM are now available, but I would prefer 21"/18", rather than 19"/17". So, starting from available wheel hubs, rims can be chosen for another custom job. Furthermore, one has to remember that this bike is made in India for the Asian market, so even a future 490 model is always going to have height problems.

[@AussieAdventurer]

I am tempted to buy this bike but like for all the reasons listed I don’t know if it’s worth doing all the upgrades or simply just go and get the 790s instead. Being in the Philippines I don’t know what’s available for upgrading the rims, suspension etc, as it isn’t available as yet here. What are your thoughts? I am 5’7 and want to take my girlfriend plus side Paniers and top box ( I know top box isn’t ideal but not going to do extreme speeds or off road stuff here anyway 🤷‍♂️😬) plus pack basic stuff for 2 to 6 day rides.... I am worried I will bottom out the suspension a lot and any advise or recommendations would be appreciated. The price of the 790s is a turn off but if it is the better option then modifying the 390 to the hilt, then I go that way. Cheers 🍻

[@billadmond9450]

@Gianluca Jandelli It's made in India because the labor cost is $5 per hour not because the bike suites Asians LOL The 390adv has a very low pivot centre which is a precious feature but it seems like you don't understand it.

[@Matthew-gw3yx]

I respect your review but I don’t feel you are correct on the height. I’m 6ft and find the bike plenty comfortable.

[@krustdogg131]

Many people change the foot pegs for flat ones and put bar risers to make the standing position better.. also you can get spoked wheels. After those mods it can handle quite alot

[@yanickmoore5146]

I didnt find the ktm spoked wheel on the market. I purchased a new bike this week. Are they available still somewhere?

[@mmaaddict78]

It's probably going to be between this and a Tenere 700 for me in the spring. I just want something to hit the dirt roads and maybe attempt the MABDR. I have the old '82 XL500R for dualsport type rides. The T7 is a bit uncomfortably large and heavy when I sit on it, so I may go with the little KTM.

[@nofixedplan]

Nice simple review 👍.. if you don't mind please share the details of the rear suspension change that had been done on the bike.

[@barrymessenger8203]

Thanks for a good, balanced review and your thoughtful Final verdict

[@leslieaustin151]

I couldn’t keep my eyes off the two little face sculptures at the top of the screen frame! I like the bike, but won’t be swapping out my Serow any time. Les in UK

[@Trickhorn]

“I’m on an adventure bike ... so I need a latte.” Lol.

[@barrymessenger8203]

Given the relatively recent launch of the BMW 310 GS and the KTM Adv 390, I would be interested to know how you think it stacks up to the (now venerable?) Kawasaki Versys 300, which I still have a hankering for.

[@jpsautomotive4207]

spoked wheels are now available as a power part option complete with discs and sprockets ... not cheap tho !!!!

[@vivekjk6729]

Because ktm doesn't make Em.

[@CHURCHISAWESUM]

You didn't mention cornering abs which is a revolutionary and expensive tech that this bike has

[@DKrappenschitz]

It’s nice to see you back in the saddle! Cheers

[@chroniclesofsolid]

😁

[@havey]

Thanks for posting. I think you were referring to the optional quick shifter when you talked about the slipper clutch (which is standard, for rev matching).

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Oops! thanks for pointing that out 😁

[@havey]

@@chroniclesofsolid Oh. And how tall are you? I'm 5'11.5" and seriously thinking about this bike.

[@darrinfiltness5170]

@@havey I'm 5'11" and own this bike. I have added 22mm bar risers and changed the foot pegs to SW-Motech EVO which allows the pegs to be flat. Combine these changes with the amount of adjustability with the stock handlebar position you should be able to find a comfortable standing position.

[@jkpinpdx]

Nice but, what will KTM update to this bike for 2021... also hopefully the 490 adventure twin will be introduced!

[@salazam]

I hope so too, I've found this thing to be pretty anemic. Will trade at the first opportunity.

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

Got the better KTM skid plate on and hit some very rough toads and trails, and it is handling them very good, the only draw back so far is the deep sand, think the front tire is a bit wide, for the deep sand, as my DR 650 with the same TrailMax Mission tires is doing very good in the sand for a 50/50 tire. The ones on the DR are quite a bit narrower than the ones on the KTM, all so think the larger 21" wheel helps. Had a few rocks fly up and hit the skid plate so glad I upgraded it. I only hit the skid plate once and that was in a very deep pot hole filled with water, if I knew how deep it was I would of slowed down, did that road 2 more time staying under 60 Km and had no problem. Find the even so the front suspension is only 7" of travel it handles every thing very well, have not bottomed it out, but do keep my speeds down when the going gets rough around 60 KM per hour or less. This bike will do very good off road just have to keep your speed down, and the ADV riders I have been with with much bigger bikes are not going any faster when the going gets rough, But if you do want to go fast just get the KTM 890 Adventure R. it will do more than most riders are capable of .

[@2WheelTT]

Good review mate. I'm 2nd on the list for a 2022 and can't wait as the bike looks like a lot of casual fun. I'm nearing 64 and have been riding since I was 10 and have owned 24 bikes for woods desert trials street and track. Looking at this as an upscale scooter or high performance walker. :) Bought an '06 950Adv when they first came out and understand the challenges of high weight and CG's especially on mountain single track. Setup wise what tires, rear shock and windscreen were on this bike? Thanks & Cheers!

[@actstuntcam]

Great, clear, thorough review. Great work:)

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks 🤠

[@vnreddy40]

Reminded me Oswald as u were checking both sides of road 😀

[@emidrummer1990]

I bought the 390 Adventure a few months ago and i love it :) i am over 6 foot and i just bought the special seat from the Powerparts. I have no problems with comfort. The thing is, that i love the vibrations. Feels like i am sitting on a tractor :) love it

[@jonasbaine3538]

Hey what’s inseam length? I’m 6,1 32 inseam wondering if I will fit without massive changes to bars and pegs

[@Dan-56]

I think you’re spot on with this review👍. (Purchased one in July this year). I’m 5’-10”, geared up 175 lb (79 kilos) and it fits me well, except as you said the bars are a bit too low. The one demographic you left out is people like me, old farts with battered bodies that aren’t capable of bashing through the woods any more 🤪. It works better than I had expected on dirt, gravel, and two rut roads, and handles quite well on the pavement. The one thing I will disagree with you is just a minor point, that it’s just a dressed up Duke. My wife has a 390 Duke so I can directly compare the power delivery difference of the two. I’ll agree there is not a lot of torque down low, (Certainly not like my DR-Z), however it is mapped differently than the Duke and it does seem to come in 500-750 rpm lower in the rev range, (Yes, it wold be nice if it was lower yet😉.), and it has a higher output alternator that adds a little extra flywheel weight. And if you sit the two bikes side by side, the Adventure is physically larger in almost all dimensions. PS: Love your channel, keep up the good work 😃👍.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Great post mate, should be very helpful for those looking to buy 👍

[@nathaniel2062]

I'm getting one very soon too. Just wondering what kind of deal you managed to negotiate, the shop I'm dealing with will only take $500 off.

[@Dan-56]

@@nathaniel2062: That’s about the best you can expect to get. They have priced this one pretty “close to the bone” so there’s not a lot of markup for the dealers to work with 👍.

[@nathaniel2062]

Thx mate, appreciate the reply.

[@shannonrose7219]

Nathaniel mate did you end up getting a deal? I’m about to get one and he didn’t want to talk at all about maybe even throwing in seat which is like $270..

[@giuliobuccini208]

Cast alloy wheels are naturally adapting their shape to the rocks (organic design), and the reduced clearence allows you easy parking on potato fields. Least but not the least, vibs will mix the sugar in your coffe (multitasking design).

[@chroniclesofsolid]

😂

[@T_Mike]

Nice vid. - thanks :) If you guys were mainly commuting but want some adventure capabilities, would you go for this or DR650 (with some upgrades)? Or something else. I’m constantly tossing up between the 390 and DR650.

[@bullsharkdb]

Great review from the point of view of non professional rider but just an average rider, take it as a compliment. Great honest review The Honda cb500x is much more expensive though, I dont know why some youtubers like to compare the other adv bikes and include the honda (?)

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Depends on your country. Here in OZ the CB500X is the same price, sometimes cheaper new compared to the 390.

[@bullsharkdb]

@@chroniclesofsolid well depends where one lives😁 Same price? Definitely the Honda

[@andrewtreloar7389]

Nice on mate, good review.

[@jthompson6189]

this is my first motorcycle, really having a blast with it. Since I am new, I get stuck a lot, or drop it...it being very light makes picking it up, or pushing it a breeze. Loads of fun for sure. My only issue, the stock tires (this bike does not have stock tires) are woeful in the mud/sand, the stock tires are really 70/30 road/off road.

[@juergenfromm6111]

Great video, thanks. Question: I'm wondering about the ear plugs you are wearing. Can you please tell me the brand?

[@RonenChordekar]

Great video buddy ! I am looking to buy this one so your review definitely helped me. Quick question though, what is that on your neck ? Is it like an airbag or cushion ?

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks Ronen and that is a neck brace 👍

[@hakancakr1253]

I agree most of you sign about 390 adv cause I had 750 km experience as my new bike. But its not a dressed up duke. I heard it twice from fortnine and you :)

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

I feel like this is the DRZ400 everyone wants

[@andrewstambaugh8030]

I'm making that mental debate right now. $6k vs $3200... (looking at used drz's). I am certain my ninja 300 will feel a lot better on the freeway (less buzzy), and is also just big enough for me to slot into. I don't think i'd quite fit the 390 (5'-11")

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

@@andrewstambaugh8030 I agree, but don’t forget the 6th speed and creature comforts. A loan on this toy would barely hit $165 a month. Plus it has such a nice suspension and KTM stock parts it’s hard to say no.

[@CarefreeChris]

klx 300 appears to be the drz replacement

[@mr.terwilliger5728]

@@CarefreeChris true. They could have made a 400 but I’m sure there’s a big tangled agreement between all of the different companies about making certain bikes in certain ways. We all know a 6 speed 400 is perfect.

[@andrewstambaugh8030]

​@@CarefreeChrisBy naming convention it would suggest that, but when I looked into it, the klx300 is a completely different style of bike than the klx250. It isn't a dual-sport. It's a dirtbike, with all that comes with that, like (modern) dirt maintenance intervals and lack of road manners and comforts. When I checked, I didn't even see a dual-sport package offered for it. Offroad, it is probably nicer than the drz, though less calm, but that comparison ends when you reach the pavement (or so I have seen from reviews). Also, I think that 4stroke-300 is a bit small for many Americans. 400cc's is a very nice sweet spot for small but much more torque than a 300. I like the engine on my ninja 300, and i take it offroad open forest riding. All the dirtbikes I have ridden have much less smooth and responsive throttles, and it has noticeably more torque than a ninja 250, (which is still to say, none). You can gear it down to be more torquey/more grom like (they did that a half-step for the versys x300), but you don't end up with a torquey tractor feel. What you actually get when you do that is a peaky throttle that requires a lot of clutch control to compensate for it's lack downlow: The engine still lacks torque, so it is easy to stall near idle Give it a little more rpm, and it wants to break the back tire loose. You can raise your idle to partially compensate for the low rpm stall inclination, but you still end up having to use the clutch a lot to compensate for that, and you just lost your put-put fuel economy. Is that a terrible bike? No. Just think of it as an extension of the wr250 vs drz comparison, but you are starting with a heavier wr, so the negatives of low torque may be more pronounced. A modern 400 tuned for longevity would do that without needing the close gears and have massively more tractor-factor, while still allowing for a dual-sport/light-adventure weight range. 6 gears, efi. (which brings it back to the telling kawi to hurry up and throw their 400cc into their versys frame)

[@Taylod1]

finally someone that talks about the vibes, thank you!

[@DudeGuyWho]

Awesome video! Do you know the electrical power output in city driving vs. highway speeds with everything stock maxed out (e.g. high beams, display brightness etc)? It would be nice to know for planning to add heated and other power gear. How many watts to we have to work with after the bike draws power for stock systems?

[@flyinryan7340]

I love your no nonsense review of the Ktm! I've rode pavement and race tracks for years.. eager to get into dirt. I'm torn between the 390a and a KLX300 dual sport. If I'm only needing to ride 15-40 minutes at approx 50-60mph on pavement to hit the trails, do you think a 300 dual sport would be a viable option? I love the ktm, it seems like you get so much for the money.. but I feel maybe the dual sport is actually the bike I should get for trails

[@Glen-t7x]

That’s nice of him lending you his ktm

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Very lucky and it allows me the time needed to do a proper review 😊

[@giuliobuccini208]

Unfortunately for him, he didn't buy the bike... 😅

[@blockhead52]

A good honest review I found that the engine protection bars caused a lot of extra vibration on mine I think that they need a cross bar between both sides to reduce vibration. I would like to know what the rear shock is, but with a few adjustments have my bike sorted to my liking. I also think you meant Quick shifter not slipper clutch which is stranded on the 390 Adventure. I have a BMW 1200 GS and far prefer to ride the 390 on the dirt.

[@dnx789]

I have a crf250m with the 17"" rear and a built 19" front both with anakee wilds, a lark on the back roads and a nice trail bike. But still would like a manufacturer to produce a new dualsport unicorn.

[@chrisredfield3240]

I've got a Honda xr125L has 90/90/19 front 4.60 rear keeps the bike a bit lower the 21/18 seams to work really well at anything really.

[@Boleh888]

Thanks. Waiting for 390 Adv R.

[@sic04250f]

It appeals to me. Maybe occasional commute and some twin lane stuff on the weekend.

[@monolunarazul]

Hey mate, great review, cheers from Vancouver Island, Canada! What kind of windshield do you have there, could you pass on the link please?

[@chroniclesofsolid]

It was a Givi windshield I believe

[@taz473]

Great channel,lovely bike.🤙

[@charles87sf39]

Good review, but I would have to disagree on one thing. I believe this bike to be plenty capable in rough terrain. I don't consider myself to be an expert by any means when it comes to riding off-road, but I do have a good deal of experience. I recently took my 390 ADV to a local OHV park and put it through some VERY difficult terrain and I was quite surprised by how well it handled itself. It responded well to any and all adjustments I made while navigating. Aside from a set of bags, my 390 is in stock configuration.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks mate, thats all part of the fun with bikes. We all like different bikes for different jobs 👍

[@MotoCampAdv]

Do you know what pannier rack is mounted in this KTM

[@scottyaustria]

you comment about the great suspension but at the beginning you tell us that the bike has a aftermarket rear shock, so what are we supposed to think? are you referring to the aftermarket one or not? which brand was it... otherwise the comments about it are pretty useless...

[@petervanoosterom2794]

Hi, what is the Pannier setup on that bike?

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

I just watched a video where the take the KTM 390 Adventure over some pretty gnarly rocky trails, yes the ground clearance could be better but with the stiffer suspension it is no needed as for the cast wheel with the proper tires they were no problem. They were going at a pretty good clip over a lot of rocks and had no problem. I have also hit a lot of deep pot holes and very bad broken up pavement doing 80 Km and never had a problem and I only have 50/50 tires (Dunlop TrailMax Mission) It would be nicer to have a narrower tire for the sand but how often are you going to be going through deep sand at high speeds. For the weight of the bike and what 99% of the people will be using it for they are not going to have any problem with the cast wheals, So you can scratch that off your bad points, and saying it is bad because you are to tall is your fault not the bikes, People 5'10" like to do ADV riding as well as people over 6' do not know why people think all bikes have to be made to suite 6'+ people only, so take that off your bad as well. As far as low end power it is more than enough for what most people need and if you need more just bring up the revs. and it has more than enough. Also this is a ADV bike not a duel sport. Also there are places that people will take the KTM390 where they would never take a 12000 CC heavy weight, another plus for the bike.

[@PriscilaYandhaha]

Excelente review! Tks

[@DavidKD2050]

Always slightly surprised 😯, and grateful, that you mention your off-road abilities. My 10 cents worth on the bike. Sure, a skilled off-road rider could (and I see on KZbin) DO, take this little baby into the rough stuff. But why? I could, and I would destroy it because I love popping the wheel over a log. My lack of self control would result in way too much abuse for this road bike to cope with. However I want this bike because I am 5’10” and 77kg. I want a single. I want the great fuel economy and 400km or there about range. If I ever (when), drop it I demand a bike that doesn’t have much to break and that I can pick up, even one handed if I have hurt myself. Speeding tickets I don’t need, at least on this I wouldn’t easily get them highway riding. My biggest beef is that I don’t live near a dealership so servicing and support are not close by.

[@SWShawgo]

Great work, nice review @chroniclesofsolid! I have this bike and like to hear what other folks have to say about it. Could you please tell me what pannier frames are on the bike? I'm trying to decide what to put on mine and the ones on this bike look like they would fit what I'm considering. Any info would be appreciated!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

The owner welded up his own frame for the pannier rack. I forget which pannier plates he bought to do so 🙃

[@Mightycaptain]

Looks like a barrett frame. The rest looks custom. Mostly. Looks like he may have used a barrett mounting piece near the passenger foot pegs.

[@johnniefritzamatong5639]

Loved the video especially good and bad things for the 390 Adv. Uh, i noticed the quadlock…what exactly are the parts you used to mount your phone? I wanna get mine also.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

There should be a motorcycle handlebar mount kit on their website and then you just select whatever phone case you need 👍 www.quadlockcase.com.au/

[@johnniefritzamatong5639]

@@chroniclesofsolid Thanks a lot mate! I already placed my order and it getting ready for shipment! Stay safe!

[@maciejb2169]

love the mirrors. What are they ?Great video mate.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Doubletake Mirrors 👍

[@easy4steve]

good vid ,, thanks for your input . cheers

[@davelariviere682]

Hi, would you be able to provide the Brand Name or a Link to the phone mount you are using during this review? Much appreciated.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Yep, the company is called quad lock. I use them on my bikes and am very happy with the design. They are an Australian company with good reputation for quality 👍 www.quadlockcase.com.au/

[@davelariviere682]

@@chroniclesofsolid Super, Thank you very much for the reply.

[@Toomanydays]

No one mentions how suitable this bike is for old people. My beginner bike was a '78 KZ400. I've owned standards, sport and lately a R1200GS. Now I'm looking for an exit bike. In a few years when I'm 70, I want something a little more fun than my wife's Vespa.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Fair point Jon 👍

[@stevewasion8082]

I just turned 71 and replaced a Tiger 955 and a Bonneville with the 390 ADV. Loving it!

[@Davidlouis3]

Don’t know how you come to specific sizes of riding ergonomics, I’m 6ft 2 and mine is bang on , I’m 16 stone also, riding in Scotland in heavy wind and rain is also good .any one that’s tall will love this bike it’s brilliant and comfy also, seen reviews about can’t find neutral , yes you can it’s a fine click but works good . Don’t be put off test ride it , makes you feel like a kid again, I’m also 58 years old and have gsx 1250 fa.

[@algee8228]

Great review! I think I'll wait for the "R" version.

[@fcalin21]

Hi Solid ! It vibrates more than CRF300L ?

[@wizbangdiving]

@14:58 you mention this could be your primary off-road machine out of the four bikes listed. Would you imagine that to still be true with the upcoming Honda crf300 Ralley? Is the crf300 enough of a potential lift in performance and suspension to become number? Obviously a guesstimate considering you can’t ride the crf300 yet.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

On paper and with no test ride - Rally all day. Lighter, longer travel suspension, more ground clearance and 21x18 spoke wheels. I'm happy to put up with the slower road performance for all those benefits off road YMMV.

[@broncosauer6006]

Very good review , the vibrations on the road are there because of the tires, put roady tires and the vibrations will vanish (not completely), greetings from LA

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

before saying it is not good off road put a better bash plate on and give it a try it is no dirt bike or duel sport, but at slower speeds it will get you through all most every thing. I had them put the Dunlop TrailMax Mission tires on mine and no problem doing very rough dirt roads with large pot holes and some roads with 2' of grass growing up the center, as soon as I get the up graded KTM bash plat, will be trying some light single track. but at slower speeds ( 20 to 60 Km per hour at most ) even on my DR650 on off road I mostly stay between 20 to 60 Km and that is max not steady. On gravel and better dirt roads will hit 80 Km with no problem on the DR or the KTM but will always slow down where there are pot holes. Not that the bikes can't handle them, but at 72 my skill level ant what it use to be. You should always try some thing before you talk about it, as the KTM 390 Adventure is a lot more off road capable than most think it is, The suspension is not all that long but much stiffer than most bikes in that range. I did hit a dirt road and not knowing that the pot holes were so large and so many hit them doing just over 60 Km and it did not bottom out, to my surprise. ( there were more pot holes than level road.)

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Love your channel. So don’t get me wrong but ... Have you considered turning off “in video ads”? This is now the default when you publish a vid, but it’s very annoying when multiple ads are spread through your videos. Ads at the start and end are fine. I wonder his many people simply stop watching rather than suffer through the ads.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Sorted 👍

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

@@chroniclesofsolid - excellent. My humble channel fell foul of this sneaky change from KZbin too. Grrrr.

[@jcf6597]

Do you have the DR650 over there? I know they are very different bikes but it might be a fun comparison between these 2 bikes?

[@chroniclesofsolid]

We do and that would be an interesting comparison

[@SRaghushastry]

good honest review mate👍

[@thorstentrapp274]

Got this one and a CRF300L...6'1" and sitting on it quite well...standing is a different story, but that's a bit of an issue on the CRF300L as well. It feels lighter than it is. It can do quite a bit off road, but the CRF300L is better at it of course and just more fun in the dirt I find (despite its average suspension). On tarmac the KTM is way better and a lot more comfortable. Might keep both...or replace the Honda with a Yamaha WR250F or something similar...that would be perfect for me...well, actually, I'd like the KTM 390 Adventure R more...but one with more suspension travel. Who knows when that one will finally come out.

[@RandolphMaunder]

Thanks for the very balaanced review!

[@davidrivera1727]

What about the Suzuki vstrom 650xt ???

[@CalgaryGuy71]

It's funny, I see so many contradictions on the size of the rider this bike suits. I am 6'2" tall and I have sat on this bike and find it suits me very well in comfort.

[@jkpinpdx]

What windshield & side luggage racks are those? Looks nice!👍🏽

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Windshield is by Givi and the pannier racks are by Barret.

[@emeralbesa4006]

Is there issues among ktm users on the ride by wire system?

[@iangriffiths9930]

I really feel KTM took the lazy option here, it’s just a duke with a different body! Check the specs and it’s just a few mm different. I waited so long for this bike to come out, and then when it did I was so disappointed. I went out and bought the CRF250L instead and it’s been a brilliant bike so far for me. In summary I feel the duke could probably do 95% of what the adventure can do for less money! Pay your money and make your choice 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@HardBoiledGregADV]

I had a CRF250L. It was a miserable bike on the road for anything other than a very short trip. It was great in the dirt. If you are looking for a true "adventure" bike as opposed to a dual-sport and you intend to ride at length on the highway, then the CRF250L is going to leave you wanting something different.

[@iangriffiths9930]

I think as it stands you are correct, I was expecting the KTM to be more dirt oriented but instead we got another road bike that can go a little bit off road. I really like the CRF250L, it’s bulletproof as everyone knows and although slow on the road as long as you know that then it’s not an issue. Off road it’s not an enduro but he’ll it’s bloody fun!

[@seasea5938]

介紹清晰完整，非常有用的資訊。謝謝。

[@grayl5514]

If you are serious about dirt riding, cast wheels are a no-no. If you can find a 2nd hand Dr650 under $7000 (almost impossible at the moment) you would be better off spending $2500 to sort out suspension, large tank and some carb mods, bigger foot pegs and tyres and you will have a much more capable dirt bike that can still be decent on the road. You would have much more suspension travel and ground clearance, the same power but a longer range, be 11 kg lighter, a better fit for taller riders and total reliability and easy maintenance. But you have to put up with no technology which is no big deal for dirt riding. When you see the word “Adventure” it is pure marketing. All those bikes that Solid mentioned are really road bikes with a few token mods.

[@GuillermoHernandez-pd4iz]

What phone mount do you have? I've been looking for one that can be attached to the GPS thing like the one you have.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Quadlock www.quadlockcase.com.au/

[@GanGoz]

When you say slipper clutch are you referring to the optional quick shifter?

[@jimscar930]

I caught that also. But this bike does also have a slipper clutch. My understanding is if you down shift while going too fast, instead of the rear wheel skidding, it will allow the clutch to slip and not lose control because of the rear wheel locking up. If this is not correct, someone correct it.

[@GanGoz]

@@jimscar930 you are correct, slipper clutch allows the clutch to partially engage and minimise/stop rear wheel lock up, it is a mechanical feature not a purchased option. The quick shifter allows clutchless gear changes in both directions and is an option in the electronics package.

[@cyclopathic998]

Solid this is a cheap all around/travel bike it will do fine as long as you don't look at it as dualsport. Yeah I understand there's a fit issue for you but for guys and gals a foot shorter it isn't a problem. If you think what you say no different from what Dave said, you just have different needs. And as for taking it off tarmac it will do as good or better than most ADV bikes due to lesser weight.

[@jeremyslade7839]

COS mate, would you wait for the 490 twin, if we thing it's coming, to solve the vibration issue (+more power)?

[@adamrichards2072]

Pretty sure the 490 is just a bored out 390

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Myself and the owner both agreed the 490 would be worth the wait if you can. But with no release date it might be some time...

[@jeremyslade7839]

@@adamrichards2072 It's supposed to ne a twin mate, not a thumper

[@jeremyslade7839]

@@chroniclesofsolid Yes I can! I'm chasing the 50hp twin ADV unicorn for a 5'-8" very occasional rider 😁

[@adamrichards2072]

@@jeremyslade7839 oh really. That changes everything then. I'll be looking more closely at this bike now.

[@obleshkiran5446]

I need those saddle stay....cn any one pls tel me wr to gt those

[@davidroberts7490]

Great review mate 😊👍

[@aliratcliff]

Great review and very accurate. I also have a 390 adventure and find the screen noisy even in the higher position. This one looks like an after market screen what brand is it and was it quiet on the highway? I put 20 ml risers on mine and it has really helped my standing position, I’m 5 ft 11.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

It was a Givi screen, cannot remember the model.

[@aliratcliff]

@@chroniclesofsolid ok thanks mate, keep it the good work!

[@bobingham8740]

I want the bush plate on the bottom. Send us a link for that please.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

It's a KTM OEM accessory 👍

[@13thearl]

Another category of rider is old blokes looking for a lighter bike we can manage with our arthritis and creaking backs! I have an NC750X and a Versys 300X and one of them will probably be chopped in for a KTM at some point.

[@pokr-ez7kp]

This 390 or the crf300 rally ?

[@mirrindbaloch9328]

👍❤👍 Awesome reveiw mate

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks 👍

[@taz473]

Il hang on for the 490 though.

[@mts982]

could you do any mods to get more low end torque?

[@anxiousappliance]

Recalibrate your wrist for 5000rpm

[@slakk5093]

I agree that MAD tv rated it a bit too highly... 🤔

[@giuliobuccini208]

The same for the gs310...

[@HardBoiledGregADV]

Maybe so, but you have to admit what he was able to do on the bike off-road was pretty impressive.

[@StayFrostyR9]

For cell phone holder what model you are using it mate ? Please let me know.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Quad Lock

[@StayFrostyR9]

@@chroniclesofsolid thanks mate

[@malanthrope]

I'm 6 feet tall and 390 fits like a glove

[@johnscott9829]

Do you think KTM will make an R version?

[@vivekjk6729]

Nope