2026 KTM 390 Adventure R Specs & Review

The 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R is a lightweight, single-cylinder adventure machine aimed at riders who split their time between tarmac and trails. In this KTM 390 Adventure R review, we break down the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R specs to see how it stacks up for commuters, weekend explorers, and budding ADV riders.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 398.7 cm³
• Engine: 1-cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid cooled
• Power: 45 PS (33 kW; ~44.4 hp)
• Torque: 39 Nm
• Wet weight: 176 kg
• Seat height: 870 mm

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the bike sits a 398.7 cm³, 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine managed by a Bosch EMS with ride-by-wire (RBW). On paper, the 45 PS (33 kW; ~44.4 hp) and 39 Nm are right in the sweet spot for a lightweight ADV: tractable enough for tight city use, responsive for spirited backroad runs, and flexible on gravel where smooth throttle control matters most. The 6-speed transmission lets you keep the thumper in its happy zone whether you’re threading traffic or picking your way up a rocky climb.

The engine meets the EURO 5.2 emissions standard, and CO2 emissions are listed at 79 g/km. Paired with a 14 L (3.69 gal) tank, the package is built for real mileage without constant fuel stops. Overall, these figures point to a practical, efficient powertrain that still dishes out enough punch to keep the ride engaging.

Handling, Comfort & KTM 390 Adventure R Seat Height

The chassis is classic KTM: a steel trellis frame (powder coated) delivering direct feel and durability. Geometry numbers—62.9° steering head angle, 110 mm trail, and a 1481 mm wheelbase—aim for a stable yet agile compromise. Ground clearance is a generous 272 mm, and the 21 in x 1.85 front and 18 in x 2.5 rear wheel sizes are exactly what you want for serious rough-road work.

Suspension travel is 230 mm at both ends, with adjustability that stands out in this class. Up front, a WP APEX open-cartridge 43 mm fork offers compression and rebound adjustment (30 clicks). Out back, the WP APEX split-piston shock includes preload adjustment with a top ring and rebound (20 clicks). This level of tuning lets riders dial in support for luggage, bigger hits, or a smoother daily commute.

The KTM 390 Adventure R seat height is 870 mm. Shorter riders will want to try before they buy due to the tall stance, while taller riders typically appreciate the commanding ergonomics. The KTM 390 Adventure R weight is listed at 176 kg wet (165 kg without fuel), which helps at low speed and on technical sections compared to heavier middleweight ADVs.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is solid and trail-friendly: a Bybre axial floating 2-piston front caliper biting a 320 mm disc, with a rear Bybre 1-piston caliper on a 240 mm disc. Electronics are notably comprehensive for the segment: Cornering MTC (traction control), Cornering ABS, Offroad ABS, OFFROAD MODE, a 5-inch TFT dash, KTMconnect smartphone integration, and Cruise Control. The chain is a durable 520 X-Ring unit.

That electronics suite pays dividends for mixed-use riders. Cornering ABS and MTC boost confidence on wet commutes, while Offroad ABS and OFFROAD MODE let you loosen the reins on dirt without going fully analog. Add the clear TFT and connectivity for navigation and notifications, and you’ve got a thoroughly modern toolkit in a compact adventure package.

Who Is the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R For?

Riders stepping into ADV for the first time will appreciate the manageable output, complete electronics, and 6-speed flexibility. Commuters get a tall, commanding view with robust braking and safety aids. Weekend explorers benefit from real off-road geometry, 21/18 wheel sizes, and adjustable WP suspension with 230 mm travel.

The main caveat is seat height; at 870 mm, it favors riders comfortable with tall bikes. If that fits you, the overall package is versatile—equally at home slicing through city traffic or tackling a rocky fire road.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 390 Adventure R nails the lightweight adventure brief. Standout strengths include its adjustable WP APEX suspension, generous ground clearance, real-deal 21/18 wheel combo, and a deep electronics suite rarely seen at this displacement. The engine’s 45 PS (33 kW; ~44.4 hp) and 39 Nm are well-matched to the chassis, and the 14 L (3.69 gal) tank supports longer stints between stops.

Potential downsides? The tall 870 mm perch may limit accessibility for some riders, and this single-cylinder’s mission is more about versatility and control than outright speed. But taken as a whole, the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R specs and equipment make it a compelling, confidence-inspiring pick among lightweight ADVs.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R good for beginners? Yes. Its 398.7 cm³ single produces a manageable 45 PS (33 kW; ~44.4 hp) and 39 Nm, and it includes Cornering ABS, Cornering MTC, and OFFROAD MODE. The 870 mm seat height, however, may be tall for shorter riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R? The seat height is 870 mm.

• How heavy is the 2026 KTM 390 Adventure R? Wet weight is 176 kg; weight without fuel is 165 kg.

• What are the power and torque figures? Power is 45 PS (33 kW; ~44.4 hp) with 39 Nm of torque.

• What features stand out on the 2026 model? WP APEX adjustable suspension (230 mm travel front and rear), Cornering MTC, Cornering ABS, Offroad ABS, OFFROAD MODE, 5-inch TFT with KTMconnect, Cruise Control, Bybre brakes (320 mm/240 mm discs), and a steel trellis frame.