I ruled out the KTM RC 390 due to its aggressive riding position and passenger discomfort.
BHPian mp417 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
After enjoying my 2016 KTM Duke 200 for 8.5 years, the urge to upgrade to a bigger bike finally hit me. I wanted to stay loyal to KTM, so the options were clear: the RC390 or the Adventure 390.
The RC390 was ruled out due to its aggressive riding position and passenger discomfort, leaving the Adventure 390 as my main competition. I was originally thinking of getting a whole new bike, but decided to keep my Duke 200 for city rides and look for a used Adventure 390 for weekend getaways, some off-road rides and long distance. After all, my Duke is still in perfect condition after all these years!
The search began on platforms like Olx, Facebook and BikeDekho. Finally, I found a 2021 Adventure 390 in my favorite orange color with only 14,000 km on the odometer. I contacted the seller who luckily turned out to be a fellow Bhpian (@joelabreo227).
After some quick discussion, we scheduled an inspection. We connected instantly and he patiently shared his ownership experience and answered all my questions about the bike and variants etc.
I did a quick inspection and test ride, and the bike was in excellent condition. Within a few days we finalized the deal. Getting the bike from fellow Bhpian was a big confidence booster and a crucial factor in this whole purchase. The delivery was delayed due to the ongoing pitru-paksha, but I finally took delivery on the auspicious occasion of Navaratri.
First impressions after more than 150 km (city + highway):
- Dimensions: The Adventure 390 is big, tall and a bit heavy, but the transition is smooth for a 5'11″ rider like me. Seat height is not an issue for me. Despite its size, the radius steering wheel is surprisingly maneuverable. You can maneuver in tight places.
- Pilot comfort: The wide handlebars and large saddle ensure a comfortable ride. My wife, who avoided riding the Duke, immediately approved of the Adventure 390 passenger seat.
- Engine: The engine pulls beautifully above 5,000 rpm, exactly what you expect from KTM. I haven't experienced any low rpm issues reported by others so far, although 1st and 2nd gear need a bit of work in city traffic.
- Suspension: This is the particularity of the bike! The suspension handles bad roads easily, sending no vibrations to the rider. Even my wife noticed how smooth the ride was.
- Tires: The motorcycle is still equipped with Metzeler Tourance tires. The front tire has about 5,000 km left and the rear has about 2,000 km left. I'm still adjusting to the lean angle, as I'm not as confident as I was with my Duke, but I'm sure that will come with time.
- Electronic: The bike is loaded with technology. The color screen is sharp and gives it a premium feel.
Many thanks to @joelabreo227 for maintaining his machine very well and making this dream purchase a smooth experience and, more importantly, for becoming a lifelong friend in the process! Well done to the TBhp family!!
I am really excited to join the Adventure 390 family.
Complete the formalities (L – mp417, R – joelabreo227)
Baby Duke welcomes his big cousin
Check Comments from BHPian for more information and information.
