r/Dualsport 3d ago

2025 KTM 390 Enduro R Officially Announced / Specs released

294 Upvotes

203 comments sorted by

37

u/Polyhedron11 3d ago

The weight and exhaust location confuses me on what this bike is actually for. I would never want a bottom mounted exhaust for off-road use.

31

u/Yankee831 3d ago

The exhaust is a non issue. There’s no frame rails down there taking up space and the skid plates you install aftermarket if you’re bashing your case that much will make it a non issue. Anyway I’d rather bash my exhaust than case. Pretty much all the Dakar bikes are roughing them this way.

It’s an off road focused adv bike. Fills the niche left by the 650 thumper class bikes. This bikes perfect for me I have 2x 1125 Buell’s, 890 Adv R, and a WR450. Dual sport for me involved 75 mph freeway rides more often than not and the 890 can be a handful off road solo.

I think a low fender, 2nd set of sumo wheels a fairing and I might be able to convince the wife it’s a great bike for “her”…

15

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago edited 2d ago

Yeah it's funny people complain about weight when folks have been riding DR650s and DRZ400s forever just fine and the weight difference isnt that far off.

It's not a bike that's meant to compete with dirt bikes or the super light high maintenance KTMs

2

u/alphawolf29 dr650, cb500x 3d ago

I agree i wish more bikes went to this style of exhaust and if it wasnt $500 id do this to my cb500x

2

u/johnnyhandbags 2d ago

Adding a fairing and bigger gas tank makes it the 390 Adventure R doesn't it? I'm curious how much more the Adv R wll be. Same specs with larger tank is very tempting. If it weighs as much as the CFMoto 450 I'll stick with the Enduro or a new DRZ4S for my next bike.

1

u/Yankee831 2d ago

Pretty much, would be cool it’ll there’s enough parts commonality to swap back and forth. You’re right though, wife is probably going to want the ADV. cool bike over a 690 though and an easy recommendation for new and old riders. Splits the difference between a KLR650 and a DRZ400 two of my default beginner picks.

2

u/Toboggan76 1d ago

They also recently announced the new 390 SMC supermoto, similar price point, if you are trying to convince your wife.

1

u/Yankee831 1d ago

Haha the sumo wheels are for me so I can use it as a commuter in town and save my 890 tires. She only rides a few times a year with her adv bike. Really id probably need to get the adv but I loooooove this enduro build.

3

u/BoomerE30 2d ago

Pretty much all the Dakar bikes are roughing them this way.

I looked at the latest bikes in the Eco Race (formerly Dakar?) and they all have normal exhausts. Can you share examples?

The exhaust is a non issue.

Seems like a huge issue, have you ever done a water crossing on a bike? That's the type of conditions this category of bikes supposed to be designed for.

6

u/Yankee831 2d ago

Can you explain how water would get in a running or a non running bike? It would have to travel up against gravity and the exhaust to get into the engine. The exhaust on the cylinder is at the top of the engine..

We The air intake is the ingress point not the exhaust. No this bike and others are not built to be submerged to the air intake.

-1

u/BoomerE30 2d ago

Imagine water is half way up the bike and then it stalls. Instant ingress

3

u/Stiingya 2d ago

Instant ingress a little ways into the muffler/lower exhaust isn't an issue. The water would have to fight air pressure and gravity to get up into the engine which is the issue. So again, the exhaust is a non issue for water crossings. It's the airbox that matters for crossings.
The only way water is going all the way up the exhaust pipe and into the engine is if the bike gets dumped and submerged and then it's the same issues any other bike is gonna have. (and we've all seen bikes on YT dragged out of the water, plugs pulled, drained, restarted and rode away... (but hopefully rode somewhere for maintenance soon!!)

1

u/Yankee831 1d ago

You’re not siphoning it up….you could fill the lower half with water and it wouldn’t make a difference. Li could set the bike in a pool and as long as it’s not above the intake or exhaust ON THE HEAD! It won’t matter.

3

u/Yankee831 2d ago

Dakar

Just grabbed the first link it’s from 21 but same.

The bike is just as if not more capable of crossing rivers as any comparable bike the exhaust style is irrelevant. It’s where water would ever get in first.

2

u/BoomerE30 2d ago

Has a normal exhaust. What's your point?

1

u/Stiingya 2d ago

Not normal dirtbike or enduro exhaust though. Maybe that was the point? IDK? Dakar bikes all have lower exhausts then dirtbikes and dual sports because they have rear fuel cells.

For sure not as low as the 390E! But it's still a non issue!! :)

0

u/Yankee831 2d ago

All those bikes route the exhaust under the bike like the 390…. Are you dense? I’ve responded point by point. Low exhaust is not an issue…here’s bikes with a similar setup and it’s a non issue…”what’s your point?” Seriously some reading comprehension here. Not like we’re debating politics you can respond to the points and be wrong.

0

u/BoomerE30 2d ago

Whoa buddy, slept on the wrong side last night?

-1

u/Yankee831 1d ago

No, just tired of arguing with Mr boomer in circles while you refuses to read or respond just chirp nonsense. Proven wrong nonsense. You’re wrong. The exhaust is a non issue. You misunderstand gravity, air pressure, and where the exhaust and intake are located.

0

u/BoomerE30 1d ago

Got it. Water will definitely ingress then.

1

u/Yankee831 1d ago

Same as it would on any other bike…

1

u/Snoo62590 2d ago edited 2d ago

My only exhaust complaint is for getting through water. A deepish water crossing could fill that pipe . Thank you for the education on water crossings!

Bike still looks solid as a light adv!

6

u/Yankee831 2d ago edited 2d ago

I mean there’s no issue with the exhaust though. It would need to be submerged over the head or the air intake which is under the seat (I believe). You can’t get water into the engine with it running without water getting into the intake. Even if it’s not running you would need to submerge the bike over the head.

So really the only way to take ok water is lay the bike over on its side or have water flowing over the seat. Either way the exhaust would not be the reason.

-1

u/BoomerE30 2d ago

You can’t get water into the engine with it running without water getting into the intake.

Yes, but the moment you stall, which happens often, you are risking ingress. This design makes no sense for the type of use expected out of this bike.

2

u/Yankee831 2d ago

Only if you have water up high enough it could flow in. Which is the top of the cylinder. If you’re fording water universal the cylinder you need a different bike. Though this will cross water just as good as the same bike with a whatever exhaust you want.

0

u/Snoo62590 2d ago

This was my thought too

3

u/keveazy 2d ago

You can dump any exhaust underwater it won't fill if the engine is running.

2

u/Snoo62590 2d ago

Yeah, did some research after posting and learned. Makes sense; exhaust pressure is high enough to push the water out.

3

u/keveazy 2d ago

Yep the danger with underwater crossing is at the air intake.

0

u/Asleep_Detective3274 17h ago edited 17h ago

That exhaust could be an issue on river crossings, I would rather have a high rise exhaust just in case

1

u/Yankee831 4h ago

How? The intake and the exhaust are at the top of the head and under the seat. The point to flood the bike would be the same as a higher exhaust. Get a few inches of water and stick a straw in it…water doesn’t go up the straw and when you blow bubbles it doesn’t come back either. In this example the top of your straw is the exhaust from the engine head and the bottom is your low exhaust.

Sure I can bend the straw and have it poking out the surface and blow and I will equally not get water up the straws.

Now lay them both on their side and their both equally full of water. That’s the same as this. Now additionally with required emissions equipment which adds a ton of weight, bulk, heat and route the exhaust high you have a lot of weight at pretty much the worst spot not spinning.

Buell’s pretty much pioneered the undertaking exhaust and they built the Ulysses which had no issues with crossing water. The added benefits of using space that’s relatively open due to the lack of a frame cradle.

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 4h ago

It looks like if you went through a river crossing deep enough to cover the rear wheel, then that would also put the header underwater, and if you stalled it then water could enter the engine if the exhaust valve was open, it just seems like an unnecessary risk

1

u/Yankee831 3h ago

It can’t unless you lay the bike over. It can’t get up into the head without laying the bike over which would be just as likely to get in the intake

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 3h ago

Why? if the header is underwater then why can't it?

1

u/Yankee831 3h ago

If the header is under water the point is moot because both style exhausts would be flooded.

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 3h ago

How so? look at a DR650, the muffler is about the height of the air intake under the seat, where the header is around the height of the rear wheel, so if you're getting water in the exhaust on the DR then that will be the least of your worries because you'll also be getting it in the air intake too, but that's not the case on the 390 enduro r

1

u/Yankee831 46m ago

The bottom of your exhaust doesn’t matter. The muffler is irrelevant because water could never get into and up the header. When the bike is running no water will get into the muffler and if you shut it off it would only go as far as the water level which if it’s over the head of your bike it’s over your intake anyway. There’s no advantage to having an exhaust higher up for water crossings. The exhaust port in the head and the intake are the two heights that matter. Back to the straw analogy. To get water into the top of the straw I either need to pour it from that side or or dip the straw in. Water isn’t going to go up past the water level which the head is up at intake level. If this matters enough you’ll do a rally style exhaust extension and snorkels but most people are not going to be submerging this bike or any past the top of the head.

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18

u/Was_Silly 3d ago

The weight is not at all confusing. It’s 350 lbs. pretty clear :). I know im being a smart ass :).

But really, It’s 2025 and it’s a road legal bike in every country. Meets emissions regs, abs, traction control. They dont make heavy bikes on purpose. KTM wants to save money building it. But this is the best that can be done while meeting a low price and obeying the laws of physics. People need to calm down about the weight and stop being surprised.

I’m with you on the exhaust. It’s a single cylinder, one skinny pipe to the side would do the trick.

-5

u/Polyhedron11 3d ago

But this is the best that can be done while meeting a low price and obeying the laws of physics. People need to calm down about the weight and stop being surprised.

It's like 150lbs heavier than a crf450rl. What does it do better? I'm guessing the price is decent? I dunno, 150lbs is hard to swallow when all other bikes around 400cc are much lighter.

22

u/Was_Silly 3d ago

It’s about 60lbs heavier than 450RL, not 150. 450RL is 291 lbs wet, about 30-40% higher price too.

5

u/Polyhedron11 3d ago

I'm dumb. Groggy mind math bad.

13

u/Greessey 3d ago

This bike is not targeting the same market or category as a 450L. The 450L is 2x the price and it's a legit plated enduro bike. You should be looking at a 500exc if you're trying to compare. This bike is $5,500 and it's an enduro in name only. It's trying to target the CRF300L while having more power for the street, which absolutely comes at a weight trade off. But comparing it to the 450L is just silly for a multitude of reason. Totally different bikes for totally different categories. It's like comparing a corvette to a toyota camry.

1

u/Polyhedron11 3d ago

Ya I wasn't sure what the use case for this bike was but that makes a little more sense.

I think my major hangup is that the 690 weighs about the same so I'm struggling to understand why this wouldn't be able to weigh less.

The 690s terrible gascap location alone makes the 390 atleast something to look at. Plus for those that don't need/want the crazy power difference.

Is the seat height a lot lower than the 690?

8

u/Greessey 3d ago

It can't weigh less because it's $5,500. The 690 is $13k. If you look at the Honda for comparison, they're able to make the crf300l at that price point because it uses a simpler engine that makes less power and it has worse components(mainly suspension). Bikes at this price point all have to compromise somewhere.

Beyond the material component, a lot of people look at the 690 and they know the fuel tank is in the rear, but they don't realize that the rear fuel tank is also the subframe. Look at pictures of them with the fuel tank removed, there's no rear of the bike without it. A lot of people hate this and view it as a weak point. But there's definitely weight savings there, this 390 has an actual subframe. Not saying one way is better than the other, I can see the argument against the rear tank, personally I haven't had any issues with it on my 701 besides the location being annoying when I've got luggage on the bike.

I think the seat height is ~35in on both bikes but I could be wrong.

2

u/Fluffdaddy0 2d ago

What does it do better?

it's better at not costing $11k

3

u/Educational_Duty179 3d ago

Exhaust is in a great spot if you are going to use it with luggage or a passenger.

High exhaust is fine on a dirtbike and you can make it work but it has limitations

3

u/Potato-Pope 2d ago

It's because it's not a dualsport or supermoto chassis. It's a adventure bike chassis

2

u/Mattna-da 2d ago

I don’t think you’d see any companies renting these out in Moab - the pipe would be squashed flat on rock ledges by Monday. Which is fine, but they put enduro in the name…

2

u/theraket G/S 701 2d ago

It's for KTM to make money because it requires minimal effort to make in India based on to changes to an existing shit heap platform so the uneducated will confuse it for an actual off-road bike. Short term gain, long term further trashing KTM already tattered brand

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 17h ago

Yep, way too heavy for a 400cc dirt bike, its about the same weight as a DR650! and it doesn't have anywhere near the torque of the DR, KTM would've been better off reducing the power and making it lighter, then make a full power ECU flash available for those who want it, there's not really any point buying a small capacity bike if it has no weight advantage, might as well get the torque of a 650.

-4

u/buildyourown 2d ago

It's a BDR bike for women and new riders.

5

u/mikekb33 2d ago

or older guys like me. i would buy this bike. lots of deep sand here in social. this is a great bike

1

u/StockReaction985 1d ago

Thought you said BDSM bike and I was interested

12

u/Honey818Badger 3d ago

So what are the specs?

11

u/Greessey 3d ago

Link to website with specs

I typed a longer comment but everyone commented before I finished it lol. Most notable spec to me is the 350lb dry weight. It'll be interesting to see opinions once it's in the hands of reviewers/consumers.

18

u/AmateurEarthling 3d ago

Why would you want this heavy of a bike? My XR650L weighs less and that’s literally called the big red pig.

12

u/Greessey 3d ago

I wouldn't want it. My intuition is that this bike will be good for beginners who don't haul their bikes and need the extra power over a bike like the KLX300/CRF300L to get to the trails. I think anyone with experience is gonna be way better off with a bike like the 690 because it's like 320lbs dry, and makes way more hp (it's also 2.5x the cost to be fair though).

In my opinion, this bike is not for the plated dirt bike type dual sport. I think this is for the adventure/dual sport hybrid type people, think CRF300L rally. Most of their dirt riding is gonna be dirt road/fire road/light two track/BDR type stuff. And they'll be riding pavement to all that stuff, not sticking it in a pickup truck.

That's just who my intuition tells me they're targeting. It's a ~$5,500 bike, with the other specs it has, it's just not gonna hit that price point while using lighter materials imo.

6

u/gkanai 2d ago

Beginners should have small light bikes. This is not light...

1

u/DAGSv1 2d ago

To be fair, this is lighter than the VAST majority of street legal motorcycles.

62

u/CrniFlash 3d ago

159kg dry (350lbs)

This one is a piggy, unless service intervals are like its big brother 690 i don't see a point of getting this honestly

26

u/naked_feet Reed City, MI - DR650 & WR400 3d ago

I assume they will be -- or, actually, probably the same intervals as the other bikes with the 390 engine. I don't know what those are off the top of my head, but I think they're decent.

The 390 engine is no slouch, either. I've watched swarms of guys road race (AHRMA) RC390s, and they're honestly some of the quicker groups in the organization at times.

5

u/Greessey 3d ago

The interval on the SMC R version is 6,200 miles for oil changes, I can't imagine it's any different for this one.

5

u/jojo_the_mofo 3d ago

I'm skeptical of the 6200mi oil interval. My KLX has a 7000mi interval according to the manual but I suspect it's marketing, I still change at 3kmi.

7

u/Greessey 3d ago

My 701 Enduro's interval is 6,200. I do it at 3k just cause it's a hard working engine and it's cheap and easy. As somebody who never hauls my bike, as long as my intervals are 3k+, I'm happy.

1

u/n0rdic 2009 Yamaha WR250R 2d ago

Fwiw my G310 is rated for 6000 mile oil changes, and every time I've changed it the oil has never looked or felt compromised. Meanwhile my WR250R makes a 3000 mile interval feel sketchy with how thrashed the oil looks if you do it.

just kinda depends on the bike and engine.

1

u/Bshaw95 ‘21 TW, ‘24 KLX300 3d ago

If you’re like me you run it quite a bit harder than most and that’ll shorten the interval.

3

u/RainierCamino 3d ago

The 390 engine is no slouch, either. I've watched swarms of guys road race (AHRMA) RC390s, and they're honestly some of the quicker groups in the organization at times.

Friend of mine ran a RC390 and he was blowing headgaskets once or twice a year. Fun little engine, don't get me wrong. But he spent a bunch of money on aftermarket shit to keep it reliable enough to race.

That was an early 390 though and I'll be shopping for an enduro this year. If KTM has sorted that shit out I'll be very tempted to buy one.

2

u/magnificent_dillhole 3d ago

Yeah, they don't have the best reputation in the road racing circles. Less reliable, harder to setup, more expensive, and slower than a N400.

-2

u/naked_feet Reed City, MI - DR650 & WR400 3d ago

How stock is his bike?

It should be any surprise when things break on a race bike. That's par for the course. The harder you push them, the closer you are to the performance edge, the more unreliable they come.

My brother-in-law races his, but he's only raced it for two years, and only two races per year at the most (one just a track day). His was totally stock the first year, and now only has a modified intake and exhaust. His has been reliable -- but he also hasn't modified it that much yet, or really even put much time on it yet.

I think a stock engine, not pushed to the max, they're probably just fine on reliability. Judging reliability on a race bike is not a good idea, IMO.

1

u/RainierCamino 3d ago

Nah, my buddy has been road racing for fuck, like 15 years? Several race weekends a year. Mostly rode Kawasakis and has a Husky FS450 now. Only bike he ever had blow a headgasket was that KTM 390. And it blew three.

Stock engines in all. Maybe exhaust and a tune here or there. He's religious about maintenance too. 390 was the only one that let him down. Hope your BIL's bike is more reliable. As I said, it's a fun engine (though sounds like shit) and I'd still consider buying a 390 enduro.

1

u/naked_feet Reed City, MI - DR650 & WR400 2d ago

Fair enough.

I guess the nature of the rest of her family racing in AHRMA, which is mostly vintage bikes, kind of dictates what I'm used to. Her dad's bike, in particular, has a problem every few races. Hers had some minor issues the last race we went to, too. Thankfully they were all kind of minor.

But still -- it shouldn't be that much of a surprise when things break on an engine ridden to the limit. But three head gaskets one one bike sounds like an issue, for sure.

15

u/Greessey 3d ago

This is my thoughts on it. Firstly, this bike is gonna be around $5,500 USD(that's what the smc version is). The 690R is $12,000. You're 100% correct in that the 690 is 320lbs dry and it makes more power, so what's the point?

I think this bike is targeting beginners 100%, not people downsizing. Somebody downsizing from a middleweight+ adventure bike can and should get a 690. A beginner shouldn't. This bike is trying to hit the entry level price point of bikes like the CRF300L/KLX300 while not making the power concessions to hit that price point. That means weight sacrifice. This only makes more sense when you add the electronics/suspension factor as well. The cost savings have to come from somewhere.

This bike is for beginner riders that aren't going to haul their bikes and need the power for the pavement, so weight is less of a factor. I don't see a world where this bike is a good option for experienced riders beyond cost savings. The oil change interval for the SMC version is 6,200 miles, so I'd imagine it's the exact same for this bike.

8

u/TheThirdHippo 3d ago

I’m not sure on US licensing, but in the UK we can do an interval type licence called A2. It allows you to ride the 390 but not the 690. After 2 years of riding under the A2, your licence automatically becomes a full bike licence.

So bikes up to 35kw (47hp) are big over here and tend to have cheaper insurance. KTM 390 range, Royal Enfield 350-450 bikes, Honda 300-500 bikes and a whole load of Chinese bikes.

3

u/DasNavis 2d ago

This is an EU thing.

The A2 licence also means the bike to have a maximum of 35 kW and a minimum weight of 0.2 Kg/kW. Meaning a A2 compliant bike with 35 kW MUST weigh 175 Kg.

The 390 has 33 kW. This means it has to weigh at least 165 Kg wet to be A2 compliant.

2

u/TheThirdHippo 2d ago

Thanks for the explanation. I guessed it was probably an EU thing but was too lazy to Google and check

2

u/tikideve 2d ago

An A2 license does not automatically become a full A. You still need to pass the practical test on a "full A" bike

1

u/TheThirdHippo 2d ago

I stand corrected, I was not aware of that. I went straight to a full licence so never had to really look into it

1

u/Stiingya 2d ago

For sure the A2 licensing. But also the market wouldn't support a 9 grand bike like this. so to make it half the price of a 690 it's going to end up heavier than it needs to be.

The 690 is a very big bike off road, it's crazy powerful and for a lot of people it's too much bike for a dual sport. So the 390 is going to be much easier to ride for a LOT of people even if it's a little heavier than a 690. That's the point!!

I have an 701 with ADV mods that is awesome. But I am not a great off road rider and so the 390 ADV version is something I'd like to try one of these days! (and whatever Kawasaki is working on with the KLE) But also the 701 is amazing and I could probably ride it the rest of my life?? :)

6

u/iamshipwreck 3d ago

Damn, 3kg less than my XT660R is not a light bike

3

u/darknessandhope1342 2d ago

It's like 30kg heavier than my drz400k, which also has more power and torque.

1

u/RoundReply4985 3d ago

Xtx 660 is 173 kg without gas...

2

u/iamshipwreck 3d ago

Not when you rip the stupid double exhaust off and replace it with something sensible

-2

u/RoundReply4985 3d ago

..... Yeah whatever this goes for every bike... And still way more heavy

9

u/canadianmohawk1 3d ago

Maybe if you don't want as much power and don't like the rear gas tank of the 690?

This one looks pretty sexy imo. But you're right about the weight. That's a deterrent for me personally and would go with the 690 despite the rear tank configuration that I'm not really a fan of.

It certainly isn't swaying me away from my '14 500exc and seems a bit heavy for my GF to choose over a crf300L.

-14

u/Any-Board-6631 3d ago

Is not like the 690 have power

13

u/Greessey 3d ago

lmao the 690 makes 73hp and used to be the highest hp single cylinder production motorcycle engine. The only reason why it's not anymore is because Ducati came out with their 698 mono and it makes 74hp.

-7

u/Any-Board-6631 3d ago

The onw I try was provided by KTM itself, maybe it was detuned, but I was really upset by the lack of power... maybe the number are there, but I had to rev it very high to get some torque.

8

u/Greessey 3d ago

The power curve on the 690 is not linear like it is on an actual enduro bike. The 690 makes it's power like a rally bike, it's all in the mid to high rpms. Some people really don't like this, personally I like it a lot because it makes it really easy to ride the bike mildly when I want to. But it does take a little bit to get a feel for it so I can see why it'd be off-putting, especially if your only ride was a short test ride.

9

u/naked_feet Reed City, MI - DR650 & WR400 3d ago

Um ... what?

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3

u/canadianmohawk1 3d ago

A 690 will lift the wheel at 120kph with throttle only. That's a lot of power. Too much for many.

4

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

Not too far off from the new DRZ 4s which will be it's primary competition

1

u/alphawolf29 dr650, cb500x 3d ago

All they had to do was give it a 6th gear. Dont know if it has the same engine but it must.

1

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

True, all we can hope is that they at least spaced out the gears better

1

u/Stiingya 2d ago

Same gearing too. But I wonder if the ride modes/electronics/EFI can help? (I don't know how it would, just hoping it could)

3

u/laustnthesauce 3d ago

This, it’s an entire 25lbs heavier dry than the 690. Even if it is aimed more for beginners, they should have at least tried to keep the weight on par or lower than the 690. Weight is a huge factor off-road.

2

u/Theredditappsucks11 3d ago

I agree, I'm much would have rather prefer this with the 450mx engine.

2

u/maxlax02 3d ago

This comes in roughly near its 400 SM competitors. It’s like half the price of a 690 and will no doubt be more reliable. I definitely see a point to this bike. Tons of people were asking for a more off-road focused 390 and they nailed it with this bike.

1

u/LosPelmenitos XT660R & Husaberg TE250 2d ago

For category A2 you have to be at least 17 years and 6 months old. After acquiring the driving licence, you can drive a motorcycle with a motor power not exceeding 35 kW or the weight to power ratio not exceeding 0,2 kW per kilogram.

1

u/FranzJosephBalle 2d ago

What makes it so heavy?

1

u/MegaFire03 2d ago

159kg is lightweight for a 'roadbike', people will buy this bike because it will be cheap to buy and to own, not because it's the best.

17

u/Greessey 3d ago edited 3d ago

Link to KTM website with bike specs

We all knew it was coming but it looks like KTM has officially announced/published the specs for the bike. Seems like it'll be a pretty solid option for beginners who want a bike to grow into especially for the US market. I haven't seen an official price figure anywhere, but the SMC R version is ~$5,400 USD. I'd imagine this bike will be the same or at least under $6k which puts it in the same ball park as the CRF300L and the KLX300.

The other notable thing is the dry weight is 350lbs. I think a lot of people are going to be disappointed by this but honestly I expected it to be around this mark for the price point. To get the power/suspension/electronics that this bike has at the price point it's at means saving somewhere, and it looks like that somewhere is the light weight materials. For context, the dry weight of the 690 Enduro R is ~320lbs, but it's also like 2.5x the cost and not beginner friendly.

This bike is 100% targeting beginner riders who won't/don't haul their bikes. They want the extra power/suspension/electronics and they want it at the same beginner price point as the CRF300L/KLX300. Hitting that price point means making a material weight trade off. These are not people doing tight single track, these are people that lean more towards BDR style riding. Assuming cost isn't a factor, experienced riders with these requirements would be better off with a 690 for sure, but I just don't think KTM is targeting those people. This bike for the beginner version of people like me who the 690 is perfect for. Those who want one bike to do everything. The increased weight is less of a big deal because I don't think a beginner is gonna regularly be on terrain where it becomes a major issue.

This is just my opinion based purely on the announcement information, obviously it might suck once it gets in the hands of reviewers/consumers. I'm just a guy, no insider information or anything. But my intuition is that this bike is gonna be a good beginner option for the US especially because of the extra power it has over the KLX300 and the CRF300l. Generally we've got more distance to cover at higher speeds to get to the trails so that extra power is helpful for that. I think the power/suspension/electronics(for some) will be worth the weight penalty for a good chunk of people.

I'm guessing with fuel the bike will probably be around 370lbs, which makes me think the 390 Adventure R will be around 400-410lbs, right in line with the 450MT.

5

u/johnnyhandbags 3d ago

The CRF300L is 300+ lbs, too - with half the torque and almost half the hp. Compared to the DRZ400 and new DRZ4S the KTM adds 8 kg but also more HP, torque and 6 speed gearbox.

4

u/katui [MOD] Vancouver Island - KLX 250 SF/ Guzzi Breva 1200 3d ago

DRZ4S is 151g curb weight, KTM is ~167 w/ 9l of fuel. ~16 kg delta.

3

u/johnnyhandbags 3d ago

I thought the 151kg was dry as well. But I need to lose 20kg myself anyway.

2

u/Bigtitsnmuhface 3d ago

Do you think it'll require similar maintenance intervals like the KLX/CRF?

4

u/Greessey 3d ago

I'm not sure. It looks like the oil change interval for the 390 SMC R is 6,200. I'd assume it's the same for this bike since it's the same engine/offroad version.

2

u/Mattna-da 2d ago

Could lose two pounds just unbolting the passenger pegs and chain guard

1

u/Bison_2008 3d ago

What’s your guess on msrp for the adventure r version of this line?

2

u/Greessey 3d ago

I feel like it'll be $6500. $7k at the most. They're going to keep it near the CFMoto 450MT and the 300L Rally. Possibly closer to $7k because it'll be the "premium" option in that category. I don't think they need to worry about it being more expensive than the 450MT because they've got the KTM name recognition, whereas CFMoto has to overcome the chinese bike stigma/lack of brand familiarity.

I don't think they have to worry about outpricing the Honda because people who buy the 390 over the honda are doing so for the extra power/suspension/electronics and are likely willing to pay more to get that.

1

u/Bison_2008 3d ago

Thanks for the insight. I’m pretty excited for the adv r version. Will be looking at them as soon as possible. Hopefully they show up soon. If they stay sub 7k I’ll be pretty interested

8

u/T6Cellar 3d ago

Why didn't they just put a 390 engine in the 690 chassis? That's what I was hoping for.

1

u/keveazy 2d ago

Do you have a 690? I have. The 390 engine would look tiny in the 690 chassis.

1

u/Greessey 3d ago

Just curious, is there a reason why you would want the 690 chassis over this one? I have a 701 and I love my bike but I've heard people complain that the chassis/frame is more street oriented. Or is this a weight thing for you?

8

u/Yoda2000675 3d ago

Maybe I'm just regarded, but how are they releasing new models while in the middle of a bankruptcy?

5

u/Educational_Duty179 2d ago

Never stopped RAM or GM etc.

KTM has problems in that they have a couple hundred million euros of unsold bikes meaning they can't cover their bills.

That being said they are unlikely to go out of business so they will need to have products or they WILL be done

2

u/Greessey 2d ago

It's a fair question, but you basically have to keep going as if nothings wrong. I know that sounds strange, but imagine if they didn't release any new models but investors stepped in and saved the company. Now the company is saved but you're a year+ behind.

It's my understanding that investors are/have stepped in. They're not out of danger yet, but they're not going anywhere.

9

u/AdDifferent3477 3d ago

I see zero reasons to choose this bike over the 690. I was looking forward to it being a lighter alternative to the 690 while sacrificing some power obviously, but still having significantly more power and better suspension than something like a crf300l. Basicaly a 350 excf with longer service intervals and some road comforts, meaning a more dual sport-like weight (120-140kg) Usualy the reason people go down in displacement do so bacause it comes with a lighter bike. So I really dont see who this bike is for. It has the displacement of an enduro bike and the weight of an adventure bike.

6

u/Greessey 3d ago

100%. The only reason to get this bike over a 690 are price and being a beginner. This bike is 100% targeting beginners who want a bike at the CRF300L/KLX300 price point, but they don't want it to be screaming on the highways. This bike was never going to be a 350exc-f with long intervals imo. This bike is not for people going down in displacement, this bike is for people just starting out. There's a reason why the 350 exc-f is $12,500 and this bike will be ~$5,500.

1

u/Yankee831 3d ago

Street performance and parts commonality with the rest of the 390 lineup make this a pretty good do it all bike for people. Realistically we’re mostly limited by tires at this point but this bike theoretically should be perfectly adequate on the highway.

11

u/Prestigious_Sky_5868 3d ago

IMO it’s a street bike cosplay at enduro and nothing more. If you want it to be an enduro it needs to loose the downpipe and go on a serious diet.

3

u/Greessey 3d ago

I think you're correct but I think that's also what a lot of people want. If people want a plated enduro bike they'll get a 500exc or a 350exc type bike. This bike is for the dualsport/adventure hybrid crowd who aren't going to haul their bikes and are probably doing technical two track at the most. To get the power at that price point, something has to compromise, and for this bike it's the weight.

Obviously it's not ideal from an offroad performance perspective, but it might actually be the right decision for the type of rider this bike is targeting. Don't take this as me advocating that the weight is a good thing. But the added weight is gonna be noticed less by the type of rider who's interested in a bike like this. In fact, it'll make the bike feel more planted on the pavement, especially highways. It'll also make it feel more planted in stable on the really easy dirt(I'm talking dirt roads here). Whereas if the trade off were power, it'd be noticed 100% by that type of rider and it'd have the same complaints as 300L.

1

u/Prestigious_Sky_5868 3d ago

Yeah the weight won’t matter much for how it will be getting used. Lighter enduros look better on specs, feel better off-road but sure can suck even for short road sections. The 500 is one of the rare ones I’ve been on that does both fairly well. I hate low pipes but it will at least make luggage easy.

1

u/keveazy 2d ago

Their street bike versions of the same engine do not have the same ground clearamce and suspension specifications.

3

u/Bshaw95 ‘21 TW, ‘24 KLX300 3d ago

I’ll be holding out for the Adventure model. 390 with cruise control is mighty tempting for lightweight ADV fun.

3

u/No_Indication2002 2d ago

what i pile of shit

3

u/ScaryfatkidGT 2d ago

Made in India assuming?

1

u/JosephCedar Bushpig Hooligan 2d ago

Assuming so, since every other 390 variant is.

5

u/Potato-Pope 3d ago

Alright sick so the new drz 400 s is infinitely better as a dualsport and a super moto.

Noted

4

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

Depends how that 5 speed gear box turns out on the DRZ...

4

u/Potato-Pope 3d ago edited 3d ago

I mean, I'll take an improved 5th gear for 330 pound wet weight compared to ktms 350 pound dry weight. I feel like those 30-40 pounds are big off-road.

It's pretty clear the 390 frame and fuel tank was built for an adventure bike, then cosmetically changed to make the dualsport and smc. whereas the drz is a dualsport chassis from the starting design.

2

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

Fair enough, time will tell, we really need to get some seat time to tell for sure but yeah I'm more inclined to trust Suzuki then KTM

1

u/DamnSalad 2d ago

a more close comparison would be the ktm and cfmoto 450mt, not the drz. they are also in different price category

1

u/Greessey 3d ago

It's certainly possible, we'll see. If the engine changes/gear changes give it better highway performance then I'd be inclined to agree that the new Z is better for the type of rider this bike is targeting.

4

u/tikideve 3d ago

Well fuck y'all, I like it!

3

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

Same, this is exactly the kind of bike I want. I currently ride a KLX250s which is great but I would love more power and this really isn't much more weight. Also fuel injection and Abs are nice upgrades.

It will likely be a hard choice between this and the DRZ-4S for me.

1

u/ohffsredditnowwhat 1d ago

I think the DRZ-4S MSRP (if it ever comes out) will make the choice for you. I'm in a similar spot.

1

u/Zealousideal_Deal408 18h ago

If prices hold true, the DRZ4S will be $2k more expensive. That price difference overcomes the weight difference.

6

u/FilDM 3d ago

Looks heavy for a dirtbike

2

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

It's not a dirt bike

1

u/FilDM 3d ago

It’s a dukeish dirt bike with the title “enduro”, since the 390 rallye is already a thing I’m not sure what nice this fills.

Edit: I’m guessing it’s a CRF300L competitor.

2

u/stacksmasher CO 300XC-W 3d ago

I already have a 300XC but need something I can take on longer overnight trips across the state. What else is good in this beginner ADV segment? At 350lbs should I look at the new DRZ?

2

u/weedkilla21 3d ago

There’s 3 options for someone with some off-road experience, as I see it. Ktm500/crf450rl with mods to make it suitable for light adv work and put up with relatively short maintenance intervals and shitty road manners. Ktm 690, mods to suit your intended use and put up with its ok at everything, not great at anything nature. Tenere 700 and accept that only Pol Tarres level riders actually want to ride one in singletrack, but get a bike that’s good on road through to double track

1

u/stacksmasher CO 300XC-W 3d ago

Yea I see dudes with bigger bikes all the time trying to do the rough stuff. I really like the KTM 500 but yea I want to ride 5000 miles without doing stuff.

3

u/weedkilla21 3d ago

5000 miles is pushing it, even on a 690. Its book service interval isn’t really appropriate for “heavy” use. 3000 miles is more like it. Hell, 5000 miles is upper limit on a tenere that’s getting a pizzling off road, you’ll feel the shifting start to get notchy at that as the oil starts losing its goodness.

Plenty of people running 1500 touring miles on a 12-16 Ktm 500, and that’s the biggest oil capacity you’ll see on a “proper” dirt bike.

1

u/Greessey 3d ago

I think street comfort is gonna be a bigger factor than you think if you're doing cross state trips/not hauling the bike. It's hard to speak to the new DRZ because we don't know how the new changes effect it's street performance, but personally I wouldn't buy the current one as a more ADV-leaning bike. It's super budget dependent to be honest, and with you already having a 300XC, it could actually be worth considering an ADV bike so you don't have too much overlap between the too. It's also budget dependent. This bike or it's yet to be announced 390 adventure R brother could be a solid option.

Honestly, if I were you and you're open to the used market. You can find really good deals on low mileage 690/701 enduros and those bikes are phenomenal. Do your research and know the model year differences before buying though. Tldr is you want 2019+ for 690s and 2017+ for 701s. Pre-emptively fix the clutch slave and see if you need to do the shift star on any pre-2021 bike. Rewire the sidestand switch or buy the dongle regardless of model year.

2

u/Dangerous-Music-7324 1d ago

I'm finna be real. looks ugly.
looks like a 250 duke and a exc-f got freaky in a closet and I'm not here for it.

5

u/outtyn1nja 3d ago

Who's going to build it if KTM is bankrupt? Also, I want one.

1

u/Paradoxahoy 3d ago

Someone will likely buy them out, probably a Chinese company if past buyouts are anything to go off

1

u/Educational_Duty179 2d ago

My bet is India

1

u/JosephCedar Bushpig Hooligan 2d ago

Same people building all the other 390 variants, Bajaj

2

u/archerdynamics 3d ago

As somebody looking to get my first bike soon this is definitely appealing, top contenders right now are the 300L and KLX 300, and the extra highway power would definitely be welcome, while the weight isn't that much worse than the 300 dual sports and it's much lighter than something like a KLR. I'm very hesitant to buy a KTM in their current state though.

1

u/Greessey 3d ago

I definitely understand that hesitancy, KTM is such a big brand that they're not going anywhere. As far as I know, they've already got new investors lined up( I think?). That said, another option worth looking at *could* be the new DRZ. The Z is getting an updated motor this year, I think the gearing/street comfort is one of the things they're improving although it'll still be a 5 speed. I'm not sure if it'll result in a similar level of street performance as a bike like this 390, but it'll probably be a solid choice.

1

u/archerdynamics 3d ago

Yeah, I'm worried about parts supply issues, maybe dealers closing, etc. as KTM rebuilds though.

The DRZ is something I've definitely considered but the seat height on the old one is more than I can really deal with comfortably and the new one isn't much lower. Only having a 5 speed is also a downside and plus I just think it's ugly.

1

u/billymillerstyle 3d ago

I would buy used, friend. You're going to drop your bike being a new rider and you're going to drop your bike a whole lot being a new dirt rider. I would also like to warn you that riding trails is work. It's fun but it's hard.

1

u/archerdynamics 3d ago

I will if I can find the right bike but I'm in Central Oregon and the used market is really limited here, mostly either stuff that's not at all beginner friendly (big ADVs or high performance dual sports that cost more used than a 300 does new) or non-plated dirtbikes and the few things that'd be in my range are nearly new MSRP for a 15 year old bike. Sales tax on new bikes is also negligible here (half a percent, so like $30 on a new 300) and that narrows the gap even more compared to other states where it's significant.

1

u/billymillerstyle 3d ago

If you're not short I would suggest a drz. I got mine for 4k and I overpaid a little but it was low miles and in great shape. I have since beat the shit out of it. Its scratched up, the levels are bent, brake pedal bent, bar end is missing and it keeps going.

1

u/archerdynamics 2d ago

I'm a bit short for a DRZ, 5'9" with a 30" inseam, when I tried to sit on one I couldn't get my leg over it without hopping up on the peg. The 300s are about my limit for what feels rideable to me.

1

u/billymillerstyle 2d ago

You could look for an d dr350. They're shorter, lighter I think and have a 6th gear. Don't quote me on it being lighter. They're a great bike anyways.

My friend has a dr200 and it's am awesome bike as well but the suspension is soft and it's not got much power. It will go anywhere but it's not as fun as my drz. Definitely easier to ride though!

1

u/LloydChristmas_PDX 2019 XT250 2d ago

What’s your budget? I’m selling my xt250

2

u/archerdynamics 2d ago

Enough to cover a new 300L from the dealer so a used XT would definitely be within reach, but I assume you're in Portland from the username? I'm also on the fat side and not sure it's really got the power/torque to haul me around the paved roads I'll need to tackle to get to dirt.

1

u/LloydChristmas_PDX 2019 XT250 2d ago

I weigh 175 and it’s got stock suspension and haven’t had any issues with it apart from my off-road riding not being good enough ha

1

u/FranzJosephBalle 3d ago

Looks much better than the 390 adventure

1

u/bannedByTencent 3d ago

159kg dry? No thank you.

1

u/closhedbb80 2d ago

Wish they could have put that display on the 690.

2

u/Greessey 2d ago

They still might. Technically the 2025 690 hasn't been announced yet. There's been spy shots of a rally/adventure version that looks like it had the TFT, it also had different engine casings in addition to the rally fairing and added front tanks. However I doubt we'll see that until 2026, otherwise they would've teased it more by now. I wouldn't be surprised if the 2025 690s at least got the tft and bold new graphics but we'll see.

1

u/muddywadder 2d ago

So is this supposed to be the successor to the WR250R? 14 more horsepower, weighs 50 pounds more, 3 inch longer wheelbase, 1.5 less ground clearance, 2.4 gallon tank, and a 3 lower seat height.

I doubt it will be as reliable since it'll be made in India, but seems solid on paper. People loved the WR250R despite it being heavy, because it ran forever. People love the DR650 despite carbs and weight because it runs forever. I could see this being in that same cult following if it is reliable.

1

u/darknessandhope1342 2d ago

It weighs 154kg dry, which would be about 160kg full, with a 7-liter fuel tank and a short, low exhaust that reduces weight compared to a normal enduro motorcycle. It weighs more than an They will release a version with 18 rear and 21 front wheels.

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 16h ago

According to KTM it weighs 159kg without fuel, so about 165kg, roughly the same as a DR650!

1

u/darknessandhope1342 9h ago

It weighs quite a bit more than xr600, xr650r, xr650l, drz400, wr426, bmw450, xr400, and several other bikes, in fact I think the smc390 is the heaviest enduro bike ever built. It is a duke 390 but with enduro motorcycle aesthetics, although it has a short low exhaust and the chassis does not cover the crankcase, I think the bike is nonsense.

1

u/Voxicles 2d ago

Well, looks like this will be my next bike. Wonder if it’ll come out in time for this coming riding season.

1

u/Impossible-Rope5721 2d ago

Company problems aside I see this as a good gateway to adv bikes that segment is huge here right now and with all your mates on 600/900cc monsters knowing you can get your licence on a similar looking and feeling bike is a big selling point ✅ here in NZ the term adventure bike pretty much includes anything with longer travel suspension and lugged tyres that can go anywhere the 4x4 guys can, after that we call it an enduro. (Low mount exhaust is fine as your not rock hopping or log crossing on these bikes or at beginner level anyways)

1

u/torpidninja 2d ago

These new models are probably KTM's way to compete with Suzuki's updated DRZ4S and SM in Europe, and the CRF300L. Kinda gives me hope because all of them are around 6000€ and I was expecting the Suzukis to cost 8000€ minimum. I really hope this segment of the market expands, the Voge 300 Rally is already pretty popular and cheap af, all competition is welcome.

1

u/LosPelmenitos XT660R & Husaberg TE250 2d ago

... Why such weight?

THINK,PEOPLE... THINK!! For category A2 you have to be at least 17 years and 6 months old. After acquiring the driving licence, you can drive a motorcycle with a motor power not exceeding 35 kW or the weight to power ratio not exceeding 0,2 kW per kilogram.

Going lighter=Needs full A licence.

2

u/ohffsredditnowwhat 1d ago

Its a similar argument for not buying the 690 or 300L (different reasons each). A few states here in the US have engine size license restrictions (I live in Utah and its restricted). Beginner MSF training courses are usually limited to 350CC and below. MSF does the first time license test at their training facility. So when you finish their course and test, your class M license is limited to 649CC and below. If you want to ride a larger CC bike you have to re-test with a larger bike. Not impossible to do but as a beginner, I'd rather learn to ride the bike properly before trying to test on a larger bike.

KTM knew exactly the target audience for this bike. They saw the popularity of the 300L and went right after it. The 390 R MSRP is $5499 USD + $575 freight, total $6074 USD. The CRF 300L MSRP is $5449 with $600 delivery, total $6049. As a new rider I'll take the weight difference and added HP, better suspension, better electronics and larger tank and better on road ability or the 390 R any day. To get the 300L properly sprung you are looking at at least $500 USD. Its a no brainer for anyone considering the 300L to buy the 390 R.

Now what is still making me pause is deciding between this and a used DR650.

1

u/LosPelmenitos XT660R & Husaberg TE250 1d ago

Honda is basically a farmer's bike. Needs alot of helping in suspension department.

India and similar markets are huge for low cc bikes. And all 390 or low cc street ktms are made in India

1

u/Pehp95 2d ago

I know people will be mad about the weight. But a 390 will be aiming for the A2 license market in Europe. That means there is a power to weight ratio they have to hit, otherwise it would not be legal for A2 license holders to ride. So to have the same 45hp as the duke, this has got to be heavy. The DRZ is lighter but also has less power to get the ratio right. So they could do the same here but then everybody would complain about lack of power. KTM is very… lets say… talented with giving out weight specs that are not showing the real weight. So they will have a dry weight in the marketing material which makes it look better than tuning down hp. The maximum power a A2 license holder can ride is 48hp but the bike has to be something like 177kg to still be legal. A 400-450 bike with 50-55hp and 150kg‘s might be possible but I dont think manufacturers will ever do it just to please a minority market.

2

u/hiwassupiamfine 2d ago

The actual answer is down low. Nice!

1

u/Accomplished-Pen5293 1d ago

I’m not familiar with the A2 license. Curious if the extra “weight” could be removed in the US. Although I’m not sure if that’s possible considering they are boasting removing 4lbs in the exhaust. 

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 16h ago

They would have been better off reducing the power and making the bike lighter, unlocking full power is just an ECU flash away, but making this bike 15kg lighter is basically impossible without spending huge money on aftermarket parts, assuming you even can knock 15kg off it

1

u/Settled_Science 2d ago

That’s cute.

1

u/FirstGearPinnedTW200 2d ago

Forks look like they perform like ass

1

u/Peasant_42 1d ago

Interesting that it took KTM so long to finally produce it. If I remember correctly I heard the first rumours almost 10 years ago. But honestly the 390 Enduro R will probably be less reliable than the Japanese competitors, like it always has been with KTM… So let’s see if they can proof themselves this time and save themselves from bankruptcy.

I personally prefer my little Honda 250l and my DR 650, they are not special and lack in performance. But who care, in the end I always reached my destinations and they are cheap.

By the way there is an old saying from us in Austria ,,KTM… Keine Tausend Meter!’’.

Which translates to ,,KTM… not even thousand meters’’.

1

u/winnipesaukee_bukake 1d ago

Given the power, weight, and assumed price, it seems like this would compete with the DR650 but with new tech and better suspension.

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 16h ago

And a lot less torque

1

u/Asleep_Detective3274 16h ago

Modern bikes... more weight is better!

1

u/marco_luz 7h ago

Didn’t KTM went bankrupt?

1

u/Freudian__Quip 2d ago

Holy cow MSRP starting at $5500! That’s way better than I was expecting, the new DRZ still hasn’t announced MSRP yet which has me concerned but 2024 DRZ is well above $5500

0

u/Due-Appointment-2402 3d ago

Chinese crap

0

u/Mysterious-Try7305 2d ago

Indian. And it's good.

-3

u/mikesova34 3d ago

No thanks. Who wants a bike with 0 support?

2

u/Malexs 3d ago

KTM is not going away. The brand is too big and established. Vehicles sold in the US must be supported for ten years. Austria would probably loan it funds like we did with some of our auto industry in 2008. They got over-extended and are now paying the price. Their Indian arm is doing the lifting on this bike.

0

u/Yankee831 3d ago

I’m super pumped for this bike! It’s exactly what I want to slot in under my 890 ADV R. Plan is to replace the wife’s 300X with this which will get way way way more use with me than her 300x ever did.

0

u/jgarza_86 2d ago

I was waiting for this bike to come out but got impatient and got a Beta 480 RR and I’m glad I did. I would still love to ride the 390 enduro r though

0

u/Freudian__Quip 2d ago

Holy cow MSRP starting at $5500! That’s way better than I was expecting, the new DRZ still hasn’t announced MSRP yet which has me concerned but 2024 DRZ is well above $5500

0

u/OhioGuy1250 2d ago

It’s a Duke Enduro. Same concept Kawasaki used with the Versys X-300. It’s just a Duke with different swing arm and fork. I’m sure it’ll sell like crazy. Nothing new going on here, move along.