KTM 390ADV or 250ADV: Which one is right for you?
The adventure motorcycle segment (ADV) is one of the fastest-growing bike categories worldwide. Riders who spend a lot of time on paved roads want comfortable touring ergonomics, but want the flexibility of a motorcycle that has some off-road capability are drawn to this category of motorcycle… (the rally-inspired looks are part of the draw as well)!
KTM has offered midsized and 1000cc + bikes in the ADV class for years and in the right hands they are quite capable both on and off-road. KTM has wisely begun targeting the “world bike” markets (India, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines) with smaller displacement models at a lower price point than luxury mounts like the 790 & 1190 adventure.
This year KTM has released the 390 Adventure and the 250 Adventure and both have arrived in Malaysia, going on sale in early January 2021. So what do you get with these bikes and which one is right for you? Let's start with the 390, then move to the 250.
The 390 keeps the heart of the Duke 390 and the RC390 and makes 44hp and 37NM of torque. Reviewers and owners love this powerplant. It’s really torquey and a blast to really ring out. As many say, it’s really fun to ride a slower bike fast. The 390 platform has proven to be fun and reliable and has a host of aftermarket modification options. KTM’s new adventure variant differs from the Duke, however in a few significant ways. It’s frame is redesigned and it’s suspension is totally reworked with adjustable WP forks and shock. It should be quite easy to dial in the exact type of response needed based on rider weight and riding conditions. This smaller ADV also is loaded with a premium dash and electronics package, similar to the 690 & 790 Adventure. The 390 Adventure has cornering ABS, an ABS mode for off-road, and a variety of riding modes.
Retailing at RM 30,800, the 390 offers a mid-sized price point and a beefier electronics package than the competition. ADV riders will find the 158kg weight to be a vision off-road compared to full-sized ADVs coming in at over 200kgs and the powerplant and suspension allow it to carve up twisties just as well as it’s Duke brother.
Enter the 250 Adventure retailing at the same price point as the Duke 250 here in Malaysia (RM 21,500). So what don’t you get when you save RM10K? Well the front WP forks are not adjustable and you don’t get the 790’s electronics package. The 250 makes right at 30hp and is just as sporty as the Duke 250. You still get premium WP suspension and nearly identical styling. Ground clearance is satisfactory for the ADV class. One bummer is the weight…you lose 14hp and still weigh 156kgs. Not heavy by any means, but the 250 is not going to feel as peppy as the 390 off the line and in mountain roads. For the Malaysian market the biggest selling points will be 1- priced under 21k 2 – no need for a b-full license and 3 – nearly as capable off-road as the 390.
So who should buy the 390 and who should go with the 250?
If you want the max amount of fun on the road and the most safety and performance features, splurge and go with the 390…If you are on a budget and don’t feel like you need the electronics and adjustable suspension and don’t want to take the time to get your B-full, the 250 is for you. Both will get you through your daily commute, weekend tours, and entry-level to medium difficulty off-road with a smile on your face.
Ulasan
Catat Ulasan