2023 KTM 390 Adventure SW And X Variants Review: In Pictures

The KTM 390 Adventure has garnered quite a fan following amongst adventure and off-road enthusiasts. Now KTM has not only expanded the range but also introduced a slew of upgrades to make the 390 Adventure more accessible and more capable. First up is the 390 Adventure X, a more accessible low-spec version in comparison to the standard 390 Adventure, and the second is the top-of-the-line 390 Adventure SW, featuring wire-spoke wheels, adjustable suspension and a new livery. 

2023 KTM 390 Adventure SW And X Variants Review Video

With SW denoting ‘Spoke Wheels,’ the 390 Adventure SW is the new top-spec variant in the 390 Adventure range. The 19-inch front and 17-inch black-anodized aluminium rims come shod with Metzeler Tourance tyres. It gets WP Apex fully-adjustable suspension units offering 30-clicks of compression and rebound settings at the USDs up front, 10-clicks preload and 20-click rebound on the rear monoshock.

The KTM 390 Adventure SW features an updated colour scheme that takes inspiration from KTM’s Dakar Rally racing heritage with the existing steel trellis frame finished in KTM orange. Feature-wise, the motorcycle continues to be offered with all the existing features like traction control, cornering ABS, riding modes, slipper clutch, quick-shifter, adjustable levers, LED headlamp, and also the 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity.

Also Read: 2023 KTM 390 Adventure SW And X Variants Review

Coming to the most accessible 390 Adventure X, it looks almost identical to the standard 390 Adventure, but gets two similar yet different colour schemes. The motorcycle carry-forwards a couple of components from the 250 Adventure that includes, big piston fork assembly at the front, non-adjustable levers, the monochrome LCD and MRF Mogrip Meteor tyres instead of Metzeler Tourance.

On the feature-front, the 390 Adventure X retains the switchable dual-channel ABS, however, to meet the more accessible price tag, it loses out on several rider aids like cornering ABS, quick-shifter, traction control and smartphone connectivity.

Both variants of the 390 Adventure are identical to each other in terms of powertrain. Powering them is the same 373cc single-pot mill that never disappoints regardless of terrain or the traffic conditions it is being ridden in. With the responsive character of the engine and the generous amount of power it packs, these bikes are fantastic for riding in the city and on the highway.

With the addition of new equipment, there is a noticeable difference to be mentioned. The adjustable suspension reacts and adapts better in comparison to the standard settings. While off-roading, the bike felt a lot more planted and stable around the course, inspiring more confidence to carry more speed and have a faster pace, with less fear of unsettling the bike and losing control. 

Also Read: 2023 KTM 390 Adventure - Top 5 Highlights

The spoke wheels allow more freedom to attack off-road obstacles like jumps and ride over challenging rocky terrain. The thick wire-spoke wheels can take a lot more beating, compared to alloy wheels, and one can continue to ride on, even if a spoke or two is to break.

Out on the highway, the 390 Adventure SW rides very similarly to the standard variant. With the suspension set according to one preference, there is a noticeable difference in the ride quality and how the motorcycle communicates, especially over broken roads, making the ride a lot more enjoyable.

Meanwhile, the 390 Adventure X, also feels or rides much like the standard 390 Adventure. But, the MRF tyres do limit how much one can push the bike if you wanted to. That said, the omission of most rider aids does require the rider to be cognizant of his skills and experience as a rider.

Also Watch: KTM 390 Adventure First Ride Review Video

Coming to the sticker price, the 390 Adventure X is the most affordable way to add the KTM adventure bike to your garage, while the 390 Adventure SW is the top-spec version offering all the bells and whistles that KTM has on offer. In comparison to the standard 390 Adventure, the more accessible X variant is Rs 58,094 cheaper, while the top-spec is Rs 22,134 more expensive.

With the two new variants, KTM has not only made its adventure and off-road-ready motorcycle better, but also provided the buyer with the option to choose from different variants based on their usage, purpose and budget. While the 390 Adventure SW is a potent deal for serious off-roaders, the 390 Adventure X is for those with a combination of city and highway usage, allowing you to save up on money but at the cost of rider aids.