The KTM 390 Adventure is one of the most exciting motorcycles in the entry-level ADV space. It made its debut at EICMA 2019, but it seems like it’s already in store for an update. Zigwheels has shared images of a test mule, revealing some rather significant changes.
Image Source: Zigwheels, KTM
Earlier this week, the 390 Adventure received some rather notable updates in its home market. These include a revised traction control system — now has an off-road mode — and changes to the alloy wheel design and new color schemes.
Autocar India reports that the prototype in these pictures will likely go on sale in 2023 or be added to the existing lineup as a new variant. One of the most notable changes is with the front end. The headlight unit that also houses the instrumentation clutter sits visibly higher on the motorcycle than on rally-spec Dakar bikes.
Along the same lines, the test mules sport a more substantial windscreen, resulting in much better wind protection. Considering the 390 Adventure’s tarmac-biased setup, the added wind deflection will be significant on the highway. The report also mentions that KTM has revised the ergonomics of the upcoming variant with a taller handler and flatter footpegs.
Another change is to do with the tires. While the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel setup seem the same, the wheels are shod in tires with a more prominent block pattern. This leads us to believe that this model could be a more off-road biased iteration or variant of the existing bike.
Only time will tell if this is the next generation of the KTM 390 Adventure or a new variant. Considering that the changes are pretty minimal, the latter does seem unlikely.