WHY I CHOOSE KTM 390 ADVENTURE

Why I choose the KTM 390 Adventure, and what bikes I considered when shopping for a lightweight adventure motorcycle. The film is from a trip to Chappie-Shasta off-road park near Redding CA.
My Gear:
Helmet
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My KTM:
KTM
Fuel controller powertronicecu...
Skid plate www.t-rex-raci...
Radiator guard www.ktm.com/en...
Seat www.ktm.com/en...
Chain guide www.ktm.com/en...
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Spools Xitomer Aftermarket POM Plastic Swing Arm Bobbins/Sliders/Spools M10, Fit for ZX-6R, ZX-10R, Z1000, Ninja 250/300/ 650R, Versys 650, ZX-14, 1090/1290 Adv a.co/d/dRM2nBx
Bar raisers JFG RACING Dirt Bike Handlebar Riser,Dirt Bike Adjustable Handlebar Risers Bar Mounts Clamps CNC for 125 SX/150 SX/250 SX/250 SX-F/250 XC/300 XC/450 SX-F/350 SX-F/350 XC-F/200 EXC (Black+Orange) a.co/d/eHnuQhh
Screen protector Speedo Angels Dashboard Screen Protector for 390 ADVENTURE (2020+) 1 x Ultra Clear & 1 x Anti Glare a.co/d/3QD2S4k
Headlight guard Motorcycle Headlight Protector Guard Cover Protection For KTM 390 ADVENTURE FOR KTM 890 790 ADVENTURE S R 2019 2020 2021 Abajur frontal de motocicleta a.co/d/8VPftkw
Engine guard www.t-rex-raci...
Exhaust dominator.pl/e...
Pannier racks: www.carpimoto....
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Top rack: www.carpimoto....
Top rack mount: www.carpimoto....

[@harryg3889]

At 74 years old I hear you loud and clear. It’s now or never.

[@stevebledsoe9436]

Was second guessing myself riding again at 53. Now I feel motivated lol.

[@CenturionSilver]

@@stevebledsoe9436 Going through the exact same at 55. But the bug hit me and now all I can do is think about it. I blame KZbin.

[@draleharnett1843]

55 Here. Taking delivery of mine in March.

[@robbcraig8146]

Honest review. I use mine as a great value commuter and all around work horse. Had no issues at all and love the way it handles. Thank you

[@nealmcmillan5675]

I'm having a blast with this bike. Looks like you are also. Can't believe how inexpensive it is for most of the accessories if you don't mind being a little creative. Love hearing others thought processes are close to what I've gone through. Just ordered my first high dollar accessory, cruise control from Mccruise. Really considered the 401 until I sat on one. I think my posterior wouldn't survive a hour.😀

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah 390 is so underrated. My Svartpilen 401 actually is comfy for me, but the riding position is better on the 390. I just have stock seat on 401 and I’m fine with it, maybe because its short range, you get off before too long.

[@erkutgurun]

Thanks for the great review. My brand new 390adv sw should be coming today or tomorrow. Can't wait. It's been 3 weeks since I ordered it. I totally agree with you that the closest bike to the 390adv would be the Kawasaki Versys 300. But due to the lack of services here in Turkey, I had to choose the 390 after selling my Tenere 700 which I also found hard to pick up since it's 204kg's, but with the protection, etc, it is as heavy as a 1200GS. You might want to keep your eyes peeled for the new KTM390ADV which will be coming out in 2025 which will be a sort of "R" version, capable of much more and heavier offroading. The reason why they didn't do this with the current version is becuase they're insistingly using the Duke390 chassy which is preventing them from rising the bike, and extending the suspension.

[@makmoto0606]

Can’t wait to see a R version. Enjoy the new bike!

[@discopunkgr]

The Honda cb500x is indeed the best alternative to ktm 390 adv. But, it weights more, and more importantly if you are more offroad oriented, the ABS doesn't switch off...

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah and after further contemplation I think it’s weight is too close to Tenere 700 and Tuareg 660, but it’s still much cheaper.

[@augustbrante8117]

Reliability too. I'm getting ready to pull the trigger on this bike or the 890 but from what I hear very finicky! But all the bells and whistles are amazing the 890 has fuel on the side so keep weight low to the ground. I live abroad and after tariffs here this $14k bike becomes a $17k bike. That's why I am considering the 390.

[@AllanGallos-t5p]

Thank you for the genuine content. Please keep creating more content I believe you can help and guide more riders🏍️👌

[@RYwoodview]

Just found this review & subscribed. Amazingly, except for my not knowing then about the Norden 901, I went through exactly the same process, thought exactly the same way about all the competitors (including the Versys 300 being the last alternative), and decided on the 2023 KTM Adventure SW for exactly the same reasons. I'm glad I chose the KTM and am happy you are too. In addition to the advanced electronics, so much of this bike is adjustable. The only mod I consider necessary is horizontal, larger foot pegs. The only one I consider highly desirable is a Fuel X Lite.

[@northidrecluse2306]

I see you are in Northern CA. A long term review, even 1000 miles would be interesting. I looked at the 390 and unfortunately my local dealer didn’t seem interested in selling one, off the showroom floor. That’s when I bought the KLX300. My other adv bike is the Harley Pan America, it’s fun when it plays nice, but it has had its problems. I should have bought a T7 instead. I have tipped the Harley over several times, and unless you have great footing and traction, I can’t pick it up by myself. I look forward to seeing more of your content. Ride Safe😎

[@randyemerson8118]

I'm 59 years old I've had many bikes in my life. The 390 adventure is the only bike I have had that made me smile like my first bike a Yamaha 150cc street bike that I put a set of knobbies on and ride everywhere!

[@avgjoerides]

I too grew up on off road stuff from BMX to mountain bikes and 3-wheelers to motocross. My closest thing to an ADV bike I ever got was an old Kawasaki KE100 (sorry don't remember the year). I probably did things with that bike it was never meant for but man I had a blast. However, life got in the way and with young kids, the wife wasn't too keen on me riding so I kind of put that on the backburner for a very long time. Now the kids are in college, and I'm having a sort of midlife crisis and have the itch to get out there and go on some adventures. I think I looked hard at the Himalayan and there is something about it that is appealing but then being a bit of tech junkie, it falls way short there. I think you've more or less convinced me to give this a serious look as the 390, particularly the new '23 with spoked wheels, really does tick about 90% of the boxes for me. Anyway, your thought process when choosing this bike are very similar to what I have been going through over the past several months. Thank you for sharing.

[@makmoto0606]

Glad to hear you’re look at getting out riding again. I think most people will be happier with the KTM over the Himalayan. Much better on the highway and more performance potential. I think the Himalayan is a great budget option for someone just starting out and really want the confidence of being able to get their feet down all the time.

[@TheGridMedia]

Took the words out of my mouth. I’m a new rider researching bikes and I was sold on the 300L Rally. But I knew I would have to highway it and felt more comfortable with the high cruising power of the KTM. Still researching gear and training for when I pull the trigger. But a great mental dump of all the boxes I went thru as well.

[@makmoto0606]

Great, hit me up with any questions about gear. Can’t recommend the Givi racks enough!

[@Stihlheadd]

Great, explanation. Keep up the 390 content!

[@makmoto0606]

Thanks! Hope to have more videos soon, any suggestions?

[@Stihlheadd]

​@@makmoto0606 Suspension upgrades. Night riding quality, on and off road.

[@makmoto0606]

@@Stihlheadd alright, just been looking at doing suspension upgrades.

[@augustbrante8117]

I have it down to the KTM 390 ADV and Honda 300 Rally. Love the tech outfitted with 390. But the Honda with ECU bigger air flow and new exhaust system can bring that 29 hp up to 40+ plus do the suspension a little stronger and plus so more mods for under the price of the KTM plus the mods I would get for it. The reliability of Honda is amazing! Haven't met a KTM owner who has owned the bike for 5 yrs yet. The big difference from the Honda side is I like the clearance height and the rake of the bike too Really still today I can't pull the trigger so darn close and the highs with one bike are not there for the other. I wish that the honda Rally had the tech kit on it and then this would be an easy pick!

[@makmoto0606]

I’ll just say from having the KLX300 that the 390 is a a far better bike on the road but still plenty capable off-road. I’m very happy with the quality and reliability of the KTM. The 390 would be my choice for anything but the toughest trails. For BDRs I think the 390 will be perfect. Good luck!

[@slakk5093]

Check people actually tuning them and dyno results. Jakethegardensnake and shonkyproductions have done all the mods. 550 performance ecu, cbr300r cams (that move the power band up the rev range), exhaust, cbr air box etc. they are getting 27-29 hp at the wheel. It’s an awesome bike, but if you think your going to get 40+ hp you are dreaming 😴

[@chrisreilly4006]

Lmao. You’ll never get that bike anywhere near 40hp my dude. Not even close. The 390 is a much faster bike.

[@ndlsjk]

I have a CRF250L with all the mods, stage 1, ohlins suspension, etc etc and have tossed around the idea of picking one of these up for days when I feel lazy and don't want to ride the single track to work, but then I remember that I always want to ride the single track to work and put it on the back burner again.

[@teslageek9257]

I have a ‘24 Transalp, a ‘22 DR 650, and a ‘23 390 Adventure. All similar intentions, but each better at specific aspects. Bd cool if a manufacturer made something around a 575 cc, with a blend between the DR and the 390.

[@prw7016]

I am in the process of getting rid of my KTM 790 Duke to replace with the 390 Adventure. Good review.

[@meanwileinthedesert..2320]

Not arguing with your pick. Good pick. I do have an add on the dinosaur category that wasn't considered for the evaluation. The used market. The klr, dr, drz, and xr, are all available for half price on the used market. Often already modified, updated and upgraded even still for half price! The drz is a monster of a dual sport, and everyone knows it has too short of legs for long highway travel. The klr, dr, and xr are all built in a spectrum of usability much like Goldie locks and the three bears. One is more made for traveling, one is more made for dirt shenanigans, and one is made literally right in the middle. Depending on your skill level and needs the one in the middle can do just about anything and everything, just not tremendously well. Or the one in the middle tried to do everything yet cant really do anything well.. I've heard both perspectives. Although for myself I cant recommend the middle bike enough! It has a cush drive and is comfy on the highway, its tall enough with 10'' clearance to ride absolutely anywhere! If you find one on the used market it could be as cheap as 3.5k$. I cant recommend the dr650 enough. Its unkillable, and I love bombing hills and surfing through deep sand on mine. And still use it every day for commuting to work.

[@makmoto0606]

Thanks for the recommendation. Went with the klx300. I was already thinking about it and I could get it new with discount and low financing. Financing was a selling point, can earn higher interest than the rate they charge. Thanks!

[@bryanshaw8518]

Great points for the used market big 4 bikes! Also some of us dont need or want all the tech and simple old school is perfect for that. I wanted a midsize adv and ended up with a Tiger 660 sport tourer. I am still looking to add the adventure bike to the garage. There isnt one perfect bike as we are all different.

[@jasonpaine680]

I just picked one up from fators. Haven’t been up to Chappie yet but your video reminded me I need to get out there. Where else do you ride around Redding?

[@makmoto0606]

Do you have the Rever App? It's a great resource for finding roads. But on my one video you can see the route around Shasta Lake on Fender Ferry rd. Or Go up through French Gulch to the west. I'm going to be out of town this weekend, but would be happy to go riding with you next week if you have time.

[@jasonpaine680]

I’ve been itching to do that Fenders route as well. I’m pretty slammed at work right now (I’m a teacher) but once June hits I’ll be able to get out a bunch.

[@makmoto0606]

@@jasonpaine680 Give me a shout if you can ride in the evening next week!

[@CenturionSilver]

Just found this video and you've been where I've been going in your thoughts, which is refreshing. "It's not just me"..whew! Anyways, have had my heart set on a 2024 KLX300 but then went to my dealer today to see they have a 2023 KTM390 ADV on rebate. OTD I got a price of $7200 for the KLX300 and get this.. $7500 OTD for the KTM390. DERP!?!?? Being a short rider I've always hated high bikes. ALWAYS. I feel alot more grounded on the KTM over the KLX and being there's NO trails here but plenty of dirt roads the KTM seems to win me over more and more on top of the abundance of accessories from factory VS., the KLX300 that doesn't even have a frikin skid plate or power port. Appreciate the content dude. And those trails look amazing.

[@makmoto0606]

Thanks. Glad you got the KTM. I find it to be a far more enjoyable bike than my KLX. Great for trails and twisty roads! Enjoy!

[@windridermaui]

Great thorough comparison/ review 🤙

[@Adam-vu6ql]

Yeah man looks like we think the same on this one. I just picked up my 390 adventure about 3 months ago and have put around 1,200 miles on it thus far, have been loving it for what it is. Sometimes wish it had just a touch more power but I’m gonna add a fuelx lite and a full exhaust and see if that helps it out on the bottom end. She’s a bit jerky at lower speeds with the factory fuel mapping and the exhaust is supper restricted with that euro crap they have to adhere to. It evened out a good bit however after it hit 640 miles and the ecu reset to take the rev limiter off for the break in though.

[@makmoto0606]

Do the 14 Tooth front sprocket. Easy and cheap. Enjoy!

[@chriscleland7008]

@@makmoto0606 Just did that on mine, best mod ever for this bike!

[@chrismcdowell7567]

I'm currently shopping for the 390. Thank you

[@fredmalone798]

WR250R ? I often wish Yamaha stepped up this bike like Honda did with the 300. There is a company that make a 280 and 310 kit for them.

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah, unfortunately I feel Yamaha has just given up on dual-sport and small ADVs.

[@RalfSW]

Hi, useful thoughts! At present I drive my 1150 GS. No elektroink, not watercooled. simple. But for me high weight. Many Regards from Berlin in Germany, Ralf

[@makmoto0606]

I would love to find an early GS from the 1980s. Like the looks and would be fun to try.

[@RalfSW]

@@makmoto0606 i agree. But Good old gs are starting at 12000 Euro

[@matt_kelly]

As someone with a 390 Adv. and a 690 Enduro R, I can tell you the 390 is much better on the road. The 690 wallows quite a bit because of the long suspension, there is wind blast, and the knobby tires are loud and a bit rough on the highway. You could add a windshield or get more street oriented tires, but then you are undoing what makes the 690 so great offroad. The only issue I had offroad with the 390 was the cast wheels, it could take me everywhere I wanted to go. Sure there were times I turned around, but I don't think I would have taken the 690 either.

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah I’m convinced the 390 will go further than I can take it. I’ve beat on those cast wheels with no problems. Love it, but there are trails I don’t want to try with it. I just slid down a hill with the klx300 and was thankfully I wasn’t on the 390, because I didn’t really want to be there with the klx!

[@matt_kelly]

@@makmoto0606 I went on a camping trip with a bunch of people and hit a pothole which dented the rim and broke the bead, along with a few others. Luckily we were able to put in a tube and keep going. I bought a new wheel for 1K and put it on and it was dented a month later. Maybe I am just treating the bike too harshly, haha. I was on some tough tracks with the 690 yesterday. I would have been able to do them on the 390, but I definitely would have slowed down in some places. There were also some water crossings that I'm pretty sure I would have had trouble in as well. But either way, I love the 390.

[@makmoto0606]

@@matt_kelly I’m curious what year your bike is, mine’s a 2021 and has done well. Too bad about the rim. Maybe next time you can blow another $1000 on the spoke wheels sadly. Do you air down?

[@matt_kelly]

@@makmoto0606 Mine is a 2020, I know they released "hardened" wheels, maybe in 2021? I don't air down, but to be fair I didn't check the tire pressure before the trip. They passed the hand squeeze test, but very well might have been low. It's funny, when KTM had the spoked wheels I was saving for a house, then when I went back next month to get them they were discontinued. Same with (I think) Rottweiler. I see the new one has spoked wheels, I might invest in a set if I keep the bike.

[@makmoto0606]

@@matt_kelly thanks for the information! Enjoy!

[@scottsmith1897]

Had a KLR and was great but yes heavy....... got tired of picking it up. Just sold my 300l loved it but it does not like the highway at all. Picking up a new 390 and cant wait.......did look at the 690 but like you said the price tag......

[@makmoto0606]

Awesome! I think you’ll enjoy the 390 on the highway! Let me know if I can answer any questions.

[@Mikethebike-ov1yp]

Am a KLR rider and have ridden the 390 a fair bit also. The KLR is considerably heavier but with spoked 21/17 wheel combo is more dirt capable. It is for me a far better long range ADV for a number of reasons, particularly the ergonomics. Like good ADV's you sit within the bike rather than on top like the 390. The pegs are canted forward on the 390 and it did not suit me at all. Fatigued after 2-300kms. It does however have a fabulous motor with good usable HP- better than the dinosaur KLR, not to mention 6 speed. The extra electronics are moot in my opinion- more to go wrong which is not in keeping with ADV ideology IMHO. Great you guys are enjoying them though and they do have their positives for sure.

[@CallMeJazz]

New subscriber here...I own the 2022 KTM 390 ADV. I bought the bike because bang to buck ratio was so far ahead of all other bikes in the class. The one thing I hate is how no one really has any respect for this bike. I get loads of hate...until I wheelie or jump and then its all like: well, it's a small bike so...

[@makmoto0606]

Exactly. Totally underrated bike and when compared to many of the bikes in this class and price range it has way better quality parts and features. Thanks for subscribing and I’ll have more 390 videos soon!

[@mitchelschaller9214]

Crazy how I can recognize chappie from the first 5 seconds of your vid! Looking at maybe getting one of these for the gf in the future, we should ride sometime if you live up here! I’m in palo cedro

[@makmoto0606]

I’ll be away at work for awhile, but would be happy to go riding sometime 👍🏻. What bike do you have?

[@mitchelschaller9214]

@@makmoto0606 I have a 17 f800 gsa

[@makmoto0606]

@@mitchelschaller9214 Sweet. I try to reach out to you when I’m back. Take care.

[@Kompressor2007]

How about Voge and Benelli options? Maybe they aren't available over there.... still not the best qualities anyway. And regarding quality and issues, have you had any issues with this KTM?

[@stevewatts5167]

I looked at the 390 but went with the CRF300 Rally, if the KTM had a 21” front wheel, some decent ground clearance, much better standing riding position, it would have been the perfect bike, it’s a street bike but could be SO much better with minor changes. KTM should make a 390”R” charge more give you a choice then I would definitely buy one, great video, thanks!!!

[@makmoto0606]

Exactly, a R model that costs more but appeals to the person wanting a smaller but capable adventure bike.

[@perfectlynormal5729]

Spy photos show exactly that for 2025. 21" front wheel and 18" rear. Slightly larger engine. Rumors say it may be a late 2024 release.

[@gauravbiswas6741]

Here in India, the ADV 390 hits the sweet spot, juggling between good roads, bad roads, and Indian drivers. Ride safe!

[@makmoto0606]

Take care and be safe!

[@teddybowker7309]

Great review on the bike.

[@makmoto0606]

Glad you liked it. Is there anything else you’d like to see about this bike?

[@teddybowker7309]

@@makmoto0606 I have to same bike since 2020. You need to update the ride modes on your bike. 😀

[@makmoto0606]

@@teddybowker7309 I just had the dealership update the software in March, I didn’t notice any change. Did you do an update and now the bike will stay in Off-road mode?

[@teddybowker7309]

@@makmoto0606 the off road mode has bought more fun to ride. You can put in off Road Mode which will give a limited off road. If you want full off road you will have turn it on again. This has to be done ever time you want it in off road.

[@makmoto0606]

@@teddybowker7309 Ok, thanks for the information!

[@pmfilmsUK]

Great review and nicely said.

[@robdotcom71]

I'm in Australia and are wondering what it's like in sand (with some camping gear on the back). Am looking for something I can tour around Australia (include doing the Simpson Desert).

[@makmoto0606]

I haven’t been in sand with it. I think that’s where the lower horsepower will show, but again a lot of people crash in the sand so picking up the 390 will be easier.

[@gcprost]

I can relate to a lot of what you said here. I was 66 when I bought my Himalayan. Last fall I fell while riding on a trail and broke two ribs. I feel my mortality.

[@makmoto0606]

Too bad. I hope it doesn’t deter you from getting back out there.

[@gcprost]

@@makmoto0606 I will be getting back out there but I intend to be more cautious.

[@augustbrante8117]

Broke my rib a couple weeks ago so I truly feel your pain!

[@FindMindful]

Ktm adventure 390 is a sensible pick, when options are available.

[@maxflight777]

The fact that you have a dirt bike background is good .. However , the crash at the beggining, looks rather like a beginner ! wouldn’t you agree ? Best wishes though

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah, I’ve been out of practice that’s for sure, or maybe I was never that good!

[@thorstentrapp274]

Got it myself. It's a nice bike. Way better and more comfortable than the CRF300L (my previous one) on longer trips on tarmac and a bit of easy dirt roads here and there. However, although the CRF300's suspension is way too soft, it's a lot more fun off-road than the KTM 390Adv. Solution for me: 2 bikes...KTM 390Adv and a Dirtbike. Btw, here a competitor to the 390Adv - lighter, more power, more suspension travel, a lot better off-road: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIvKZpd_bpKcocU

[@makmoto0606]

Yeah I’m actually looking at dual sports for just that reason. Something that is very dirt oriented but street legal, just haven’t made up my mind yet. That 500 is cool, unfortunately not available here in the states.

[@stevebledsoe9436]

What are the best affordable side bags for this bike

[@makmoto0606]

Givi racks are great in my opinion www.carpimoto.it/en-US/Bike_KTM_390-Adventure/51311_PL7711-Givi-PL7711-Specific-Pannier-Holder-for-Monokey-Cases-for-KTM-390-Adventure.htm. From Carpimoto they’re a great deal and you can get many different pannier options from soft to hard cases. Cheaper and lighter might be rackless systems from Rocky Mountain www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-excursion-rackless-luggage-system-p. Cheapest and can probably go on without a rack is www.cyclegear.com/accessories/sedici-20l-dry-bag-saddlebags?sku_id=10041603.

[@garagebeers1]

I traded in my 250 rally yesterday and bought a leftover 22 390 adventure

[@makmoto0606]

Let me know what you think of the different. I’m betting it’s night and day.

[@garagebeers1]

@@makmoto0606 no comparison really. The crf suspension is soft and brake dive is downright dangerous on the road even with racetech upgrades. Off road it performs well enough with a 13 tooth front sprocket. Interstate travel was the most miserable thing I have done on a motorcycle 🤣. The 390 suspension is great, seating position needs work to fit me. The power is beyond adequate , tech is great, and so far in my light off-road adventures immediately after purchase I can say it felt stable and capable but of course not as at home as the crf. Interstate travel was very good and stable. So far very very pleased

[@makmoto0606]

@@garagebeers1 I’ve found the 390 to be a much better rounded bike than my klx300. Easy choice on which I prefer. Enjoy!

[@garagebeers1]

@@makmoto0606 my friend has the KLX and honestly…side by side…it really outperforms the crf 250 as far as power and suspension

[@makmoto0606]

@@garagebeers1 it’s more the comfort, ride, and overall performance. 390 has a more enjoyable engine and is a pleasure to ride. I don’t like the klx on road in comparison and while it is better off road, not enough to make up for everything else.

[@mohamedbenkartaba7389]

I think you forgot to mention the G310GS , which might be the closest rival to the 390 , being a small displacement single cylinder lightweight adv bike

[@makmoto0606]

True. I do remember seeing some videos about it and just didn’t seem like it was competitive. The lower displacement and lackluster reviews turned me away. Do you have a 310?

[@cagatay6712]

310gs is very bad for the price, dead engine and not much tech for the price. 390 is a direct upgrade imo but looks good tho

[@mohamedbenkartaba7389]

@@makmoto0606 I have an f650gs twin , but before buying it I was looking for some lighter trail bikes like the f310gs or the ktm390adv , and I agree the 390 seems to be a better bike overall and a better deal, the thing is there is no KTM dealership where I live, that's why I went for a BMW

[@Dani-hh3qd]

Did you put the stock exhaust back on?

[@matthewkopf6243]

Nope. Still rocking the dominator.

[@makmoto0606]

That footage is a little before I changed the exhaust. Sharp eyes.

[@bhaz1987]

This bike is similar to the Fantic Caballero available in europe I see those bike as 'scramblers' Ground clearance and and 21/18 would really be popular for real off road capability This bike will run fast hiways which blows away the 300ish bikes Good vid Thanks

[@eurika7655]

Nice ride. How fast is this bike on pavement , top speed ?

[@makmoto0606]

I believe a little over 90mph, at that speed you’re pretty much done accelerating.

[@realzeti]

@@makmoto0606 easy riding on SoCal freeways. You will not be able to pass fast due to power, but I have been riding 390 Adv for past six months w/o any problem on the freeway. I always ride the fast lanes. You will definitely be able to take it to 90+ Mph. It rides roads extremely well, and fire roads with ease. Sure it has its limitations, but as long as you keep them in mind and maybe take it easy in some areas, you will be able to get everywhere you want; just watch what some of the Indian channels are doing on these bikes. Keep in mind that KTM has been using these engines for past six years, so definitely KTM will not be putting inferior bikes on Indian market where dependability is the key. The build quality is just fine not have had any issues with any of the components. I did upgraded the skid plate for Black Dog, and very happy event though it's expensive. I would definitely buy it again, even more so with wire wheels. Was looking at BMW GS 310, but not even close to this gem.

[@matthewkopf6243]

@@realzeti Couldn’t have said it better myself. With the spoked wheels and other changes they’re making it’s going to just keep getting better.

[@BlueRidgeRider]

You nailed it!

[@arcadegamesify]

I just got one and its nice. I will say since this is my first bike I did not realize how intimidating even a 380lb bike is in dirt haha Long term I think i'll upgrade to a tuareg and get a wr250r for dirt.

[@makmoto0606]

I’ve found myself more drawn to the 390 after having the klx300, even though it’s more limiting off-road. Tuareg sounds like a great bike, but I think the 390 will do you well for a long time. I really can’t justify replacing it, unless I was just looking for high speed touring.

[@slakk5093]

The wr250r is great for the dirt

[@robertdorr6607]

great video!

[@makmoto0606]

Thanks so much!

[@irideaz390]

I did the exact same analysis a few months back. Their really is no better option on the market for a hwy capable bike in the small adv segment. Best value by far. I came to the same conclusion as you and have been absolutely loving the 390 adv. Changed out the fork springs with hyperpro progressive springs and it handles so much better! 🍻

[@makmoto0606]

I’ve been trying to decide if I would do the Hyperpro springs or Andreani Misano cartridges for the fork. I haven’t seen anyone who has used the Andreani, so not sure if it worth the extra money.

[@irideaz390]

@@makmoto0606 I haven’t seen anyone swap the cartridge. The springs were cheap and ADV Matt has a nice tutorial for them. It does transform the ride. Not as mushy and can handle a good whack alot better.

[@thespeedofchillax]

I considered the KTM 390 adventure, but i decided that the kawasaki versys x300 was a much better option for my needs, as well, it cost less and I like the aesthetics much better than what the 390 adventure offers in the looks dept...I.especially like the 22 version, so yeah I went with the versys x300...as far as being.bad for off road, i disagree completely with that assessment. anyway, i can see why one might choose with KTM, especially now that they offer wire wheels, imo it's really a toss up between the two, the 390 and the x300, it just comes down to personal preference really....

[@makmoto0606]

Sounds good. So do you find that your Versys does have decent torque and doesn’t need to be reved out? I saw Ari Hening ride one and he did get off road with it, but the ABS doesn’t have an off-road mode right?

[@thespeedofchillax]

@@makmoto0606I'm actually in the process of getting the bike for good currently, I've ridden it a couple times and finally decided it was the one to go with, tho to answer your questions, the 2022 model doesn't have switchable abs, but the 2023 model they did ass switchable abs back in as an option(tho I'm just going to wire a switch in, will take all of 15 or 20 mins tops and problem solved. as for the low end torque, obviously I haven't ridden it loads yet, but from what I can tell it wasn't a deal breaker at all, tho I think I might try one tooth more on the back sprocket, ryan f9 suggested he would do this if he owned the bike in a video a while back and one tooth, the effect on the top speed will be negligible, being that it tops out at about 110mph stock anyways, so there is some room to play with....the only other main thing imma do from the jump is switch the tires out to a pair of mitas mc24 invaders, which look to be the perfect ratio for the bike, much better than the chintzy irc tires that come stock...otherwise small stuff like handguards and a bash plate and probably eventually some aux lights and engine bars, but thats part of what appealed to me about the x300, the fact it's been out for a handful of years and aftermarket farkles and such are easily available...that and the fact it's a parallel twin, which I like so much more than thumper engines, just a personal preference....if I was ballin' more than I am, i would've prolly gotten an Aprilia taureg 660, as i really like their anesthetic and they have gotten rave reviews from everywhere, but I'm not living like that currently, so the x300 fit the bill....as I said, really between it and the 390, i think it's really a toss up, especially now with the wire wheels that ktn has on offer for the 2023 model...i just really don't like the look of the ktn but that's why I said personal preference is all.....anyways, can't wait to enjoy the bike, especially on all the fire roads and what not here in CA(I gotta get up north this summer for sure...), continue to have fun on yours...cheers.

[@makmoto0606]

@@thespeedofchillax Cool. Yeah I saw a used 300 for like 4000$ and looks like a great deal at that price, thought right now 2022 390s have like a 1000$ off the price new. I agree with the Toureg. I was really interested in it for awhile because it sounds great, but I think I’ll get a dual-sport next.

[@gregbenage5864]

I agree on the looks: I prefer the Versys-X 300 by quite a lot. I spent a fair amount of time on it because I really wanted to like it more. ;) The insurmountable issue for me is that it just amplifies the main limitations of the 390: The suspension is non-adjustable (preload on the rear), 41mm forks vs 43mm, even less suspension travel and ground clearance, only 19 ft-lb of torque and peaks at 10,000 rpm (!). Still have my fingers crossed that they'll develop a Versys-X 400.

[@mattyoz0]

You bought the wrong bike. Suspension and motor are way better on the 390. I owned the x300 and had to rev it out like a small sport bike.

[@suj3919]

Thanks WOW

[@aaronbritt2025]

I prefer your videos where you actually show us the bike and the features. Not a fan of these voice over "should have been a podcast" videos.

[@makmoto0606]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@human1513]

KTM is not know for relliabilty. II have owned KTM.

[@makmoto0606]

They’re known for performance and quality in my book. They’re make great products while other brands are making bikes from 1990s.

[@aatee5840]

however, the parts that you need to change are mostly cheapish and not really gamechangers. KTMs are usually the bikes that are ridden hardest and therefore breakages are more common than say Hondas. Of course Hondas are bombproof but after owning a 690 and being afraid it might break, 3 years went by without a hitch, daily riding.