KTM Adventure Bikes: Complete Model Comparison 2025
KTM has seemingly overcome its financial woes in Europe and has restarted production. Their smaller adventure bikes are manufactured in China and India, while the larger halo models are still made in Austria. We take a look back at the 2025 model lineup.
When it comes to dual-sport capability, few manufacturers command as much respect in South Africa as KTM. Built on decades of Dakar Rally pedigree, Mattighofen’s READY TO RACE ethos shines brightest in its Adventure range. Whether you are hunting for an entry-level commuter for the daily Johannesburg crawl, a midweight long-distance weapon for the Karoo, or a continent-crossing flagship to tackle Sani Pass with two-up luggage, KTM’s 2025 lineup has a tailored solution.
Related: Top 5 things you have to know about the KTM 1390 Super Adventure R
With major updates landing across the board—including next-gen chassis designs, expanded engine capacities, and cutting-edge Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) tech—here is how the 2025 KTM Adventure range stacks up.
How does the Triumph Tiger 900 compare to the KTM 890 Adventure R?
1. Entry-Level Explorers: KTM 390 Adventure Series
For rider training, daily urban commutes, and light trail riding, the 390 range offers exceptional accessibility without sacrificing off-road competence.
Designed primarily for urban riders who want adventure styling and road-biased practicality, the 390 Adventure X retains a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast-alloy wheel setup. Powered by the refreshed LC4c single-cylinder engine (now displacing 399 cc), it delivers responsive low-end punch. It is ideal for riders seeking an affordable, fuel-efficient daily driver that isn't afraid of smooth dirt roads.
KTM 390 Adventure R
For 2025, the 390 Adventure R takes a massive leap into serious dual-sport territory. Equipped with full 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoked wheels, 230 mm of fully adjustable WP suspension, and a rally-inspired fairing, this machine redefines what lightweight adventure bikes can do off-road. It features Cornering ABS, Offroad ABS, and optional Cruise Control—making it arguably the most capable lightweight adventure motorcycle available today.
2. Midweight Specialists: KTM 790 & 890 Adventure
The middleweight segment strikes the ultimate balance between highway cruising speed and single-track agility.
KTM 790 Adventure
Positioned as the entry point to parallel-twin touring, the 790 Adventure utilises the proven 799 cc LC8c engine. Delivering 70 kW, it offers plenty of grunt for two-up riding and loaded panniers while keeping maintenance costs predictable. Low-slung fuel tanks keep the centre of gravity low, making low-speed technical manoeuvres surprisingly manageable.
KTM 890 Adventure R
Widely considered the benchmark for hard-enduro adventure riding, the 890 Adventure R pumps out 105 hp from its 889 cc twin. Fitted with WP XPLOR 48 mm front forks, heavy-duty spoked rims, and a comprehensive suite of lean-angle-sensitive electronics (including Rally Mode), the 890 R is built for riders who prefer rocky riverbeds and sand dunes over smooth highways.
3. The Heavyweight Kings: KTM 1390 Super Adventure Range
For top-tier performance, massive torque, and transcontinental comfort, the flagship V-twin range receives a complete overhaul with the introduction of the 1390 platform.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO
The 1390 S EVO represents KTM’s technological tour de force. Pushing 129 kW and 145 Nm of torque from its revised 1350 cc V-twin, it introduces CAMSHIFT technology for improved low-RPM tractability and surging top-end power.
Key upgrades include:
- Automated Manual Transmission (AMT): Offers clutchless automatic or manual push-button gear changes.
- WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT): Real-time electronic suspension adjustments matching road conditions.
- Radar-Assisted Adaptive Cruise Control: Includes Stop & Go functionality, collision warnings, and brake assistance.
- 8-Inch Portrait TFT Display: High-resolution touchscreen cockpit interface.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure R
Where the S EVO leans into high-speed tarmac touring, the 1390 Super Adventure R remains an unadulterated off-road missile. Featuring manual shifting, fully adjustable heavy-duty WP suspension, a 21-inch front wheel, and aggressive ergonomics, it caters to experienced riders who want maximum horsepower in demanding off-road conditions.
2025 KTM Adventure Range Comparison
| Model | Engine Capacity | Power / Torque | Front/Rear Wheels | Primary Focus |
| 390 Adventure X | 399 cc Single | ~44 hp / 39 Nm | 19" / 17" Alloy | Urban commuting & dirt roads |
| 390 Adventure R | 399 cc Single | ~44 hp / 39 Nm | 21" / 18" Spoked | Lightweight rally & trail riding |
| 790 Adventure | 799 cc Twin | 95 hp / 87 Nm | 21" / 18" Spoked | Budget-friendly midweight touring |
| 890 Adventure R | 889 cc Twin | 105 hp / 100 Nm | 21" / 18" Spoked | Hard-core technical off-roading |
| 1390 Super Adv S EVO | 1350 cc V-Twin | 173 hp / 145 Nm | 19" / 17" Alloy | High-tech continent-crossing tourer |
| 1390 Super Adv R | 1350 cc V-Twin | 173 hp / 145 Nm | 21" / 18" Spoked | Maximum-power off-road adventure |
Which KTM Adventure Bike Should You Buy?
Choosing the right KTM comes down to honest self-assessment regarding your riding experience and terrain:
- The Daily Commuter & weekend Explorer: Pick the 390 Adventure X or R. Low running costs, manageable weight, and genuine off-road capability make them ideal for single-bike garages.
- The Sweet Spot Adventurer: Choose the 890 Adventure R. It handles long asphalt stretches to the Baviaanskloof with ease, yet remains nimble enough when the trail gets rocky.
- The Tech-Focused Long-Distance Specialist: Look no further than the 1390 Super Adventure S EVO. Its AMT gearbox and semi-active suspension make cross-country touring effortlessly comfortable.
