For those new to MAD TV I'd encourage you to look around the channel, we have international adventures, bike reviews and and Chris Birch extreme videos and other stuff. Occasionally we go live for some fun. Here are some links to help you find the good stuff. International Adventure th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7Ynzi55gvgbVg2Xcy_rp0vqA_R.html Thorough bike reviews th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7YnzjtGNKHELsYYQRwCQPOEp5j.html Chris Birch extreme KTM1190 videos th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7YnzithyN05N74-yoitRsGNwI5.html
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV thanks for the reply. Royalty music. Is that the epidemic sound? . I love the ktm 390 adv vid. good job. I watched it 2x a day.Vince here from the philippines
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV im reall.i love with that track. Can u pls tell the track name and what royalty free site did u download it. Theres a lot of royalty free site. Pls tell the details.pls
For me the best test about the 390 adventure out there so far. Ordered the bike last week, feels like I watched all videos available in all languages, again liked yours most. Best regards from Munich Germany. Felix
@@Stratiljirka I also watched F9s review and he only seemed disappointed with the ergonomics, which are easily fixed with risers and aftermarket pegs. Ergo's are also very subjective depending on riders height, reach, inseam etc. He's a taller guy, whereas an average height rider might feel the bike is set up perfectly for them. Horses for courses I suppose.
I'm really excited seeing how well this little bike performs. In the last 10 years I've gone from a DR650>WR250R>VStrom650>Tiger800XC and now a 1290 Super Adventure R. The SAR is an amazing bike, 160HP and an outstanding suspension. But when things get rough, I'm reminded that its 550 lbs with skid and bags, 35" seat height and $18K-all things that have me riding it less than I expected. It's just overkill and too heavy for some of the riding I do-especially as I get older. The WR was just fine for the off-roading I did-but underpowered on road-it didn't handle hills at speed (and the DR was only minimally better-with a bad suspension). The 390 is 100 lbs lighter than the Tiger or Wee, 150 lbs lighter than the SAR stock-and 1/3 the cost of a SAR and 1/4 that of a typical GS. I'd also consider a 690 Enduro or 701, but frankly they are overkill for the off-road conditions and speed I ride-and they are twice the price of the 390. This looks like a bike to bring the fun back into the sport.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I really appreciate your video. I've watched every one I can find and this is the best of the bunch in terms of showing it's capabilities as a light ADV bike, in off-pavement conditions. Many reviewers are from actual dirt bike riders, and no, the 390 won't preform like a dedicated dirt bike-it's not fair to compare it to one. Other reviews are street bike riders just trying off-pavement riding for the first time. You have actual ADV riders-and give a very fair, honest comparison.
I grew tired of wrestling my R1200GS and just purchased this bike last month. I plan to take it everywhere I took my R1200GS to prove this bike is just as capable. Some of the comfort I give up on the tarmac I gain on the offroad. It is nice to see someone finally acknowledge this bike is not just for beginners, short riders and woman riders. Every reviewer has gushed at how fun this bike is to ride but then states its for beginners. Rubbish, light weight is the way adventure bikes are trending. The low cost doesn't hurt either. I did replace the windscreen. The short one put the wind right on my chest. Cheers, and nice job.
This is the most complete review I have seen of the 390 Adv, as an owner of one I'll agree on your expertise and my experience on this motorcycle, the only thing I don't like but is not a killer is the sound with the original muffler. Congrats on the channel, greetings from Mexico.
So I already commented on this video about two months ago and frankly it convinced me to buy the 390. I bought it in mid winter here in northern part of the USA so I've only been to rack up about 550 miles. My first oil change will come this week. To say I'm happy with it would be a huge understatement. I agree with your review 100%. It is just such a fun forgiving bike to ride both on and off road. I'm going on a couple of longer adventure rides this summer and I can't believe I'm saying this but I've chosen to take the 390 over my 690 Enduro R on the first one. The only area I differ with you is the risers. I'm 6'2" with long legs and I can hardly see ahead while standing. It's my lone complaint about the bike. I've ordered a set of Rox adjustable risers and have already lowered the pegs a bit. I also bought the higher seat so the sitting geometry is very comfortable. I'm an older rider and look forward to many years of fun with this bike. Thanks for a fantastic review.
Oh man, this is the best road test & review that I have seen of this bike, very very complete and demanding about the capabilities of this motorcycle. Thanks a lot for bringing it us, great job!!!
I've been high and low over the internets doing my research. My choices were the KTM, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and the CB500X. Honestly, it came down to features. While the KTM didn't blow away the competition in every category, overall I ended up choosing it as a good starter to get into Adventure riding. I'll be making some adjustments foot pegs being one of them, but overall very good bike. Thank you guys for the time you spent on this review, it definitely helped me make an informed decision. Cheers! (I pick up my 390 next week )
Since its cheap, light and frugal it would actually be a great long distance border crossing bike when you do a good bit solo. For solo adventure you need to be able to handle it iut if a ditch if you slide into one alone, handle it alone and so on. Its not breaking the bank for many more people making long distance mortage free adventure available for more people. Its beginner friendly which unfortunately is a bad word amongst many riding bikes. I dont want to be seen as a begynner i buy a 1250 which is horrible to handle offroad unless you can handle it properly. I think this bike would be awesome for most adventure bikers. Why? Because sadly i meet 90% of them never ever been in anything but maybe a hard packed gravel road. This would etable them. Since its not worth a fortune you dont collapse in suicidal thoughts if you have a spill. You can go to places your insurance will not cover and just buy a locally required liability insurance with no worries. When you go to a dealer they dont mention this do they? Oh are you going to Marocco here look at the 890 R it is perfect, oh well then i need a loan, and if my bike is stolen in Marocco i am in such deep shit economically i would Jump off a cliff. So your Dreams stats Dreams because you cannot go. Or the monthly pay makes you not afford to go far at all. By heavens if its leased you need to return it in perfect nick. No this bike answers a lot more than novice friendly, it solves getting a bike with warranty to do a heap if stuff you else could not.
I don't care about cc anymore, after I have owned an Aprilia superbike i don't get impressed by any bikes power anymore. My last bike was an R1200RT, a good bike but big and heavy. Now I am going to buy this and take it for a long adventure this summer.
Best review of the 390 adventure by far! Excellent work, fantastic scenes, perfect cuts and so good informations! 👌✨🌈 As a 60y old complete novice in motorcycling I ordered my first bike at all. This fabulous video now makes me exited like a child for the first bike to come! After testing cb500x, 650 v-strom I fell in love with the 390.. Delivery after lockdown in 12 days... Wow! Best wishes from vienna, happy Easter, have a save ride and a great weekend!
At 60 your only a Pup. I am 77 and ride a VStrom 650 XT purchased it new in April 2018, done 35,000 km . Got a mate who is 80 yo has 15 registered bikes including a VStrom all in great condition, he does 40,000 km per year. So hopefully you have 20 years of fun in front of you Greetings from Australia
I loved the dog at the end. Her master was over the road cutting wood. That was my second time through. The first time she stoped at the waters edge. She just wanted to round me up.
Superb review! I have a dirt bike that I love riding and have been looking to get into adventure riding. The big bikes just seem too intimidating, so I have been reading and watching tons of videos of smaller adventure bikes. I have been considering the KTM 390 Adventure, the BMW G310 GS, and the Kawasaki Versys X-300. I haven’t gone through all of your videos yet. If you know much about the other two, which of the three would you recommend as best overall?
Told me nothing I didn’t already know - but I’ve had mine all summer. Excellent review and I agree with your assessment. I went 1,400 miles on the NEBDR taking all the difficult sections - not a hiccup. My stock skid plate does need replacement and I’d advise upgrading the hand guards as well. Bravo!
I completely agree, I've had mine 3 months now and loving it. My upgrades planned are Barkbusters, skid plate and I'm going to add a rear rack. I have Enduristan Blizzard luggage which I love and it doesn't fit over the grab rails, so personal choice. I will probably go with the Mitas 09 tyres next. Every time I get off this bike I want to get back on it again it's so much fun!
@SteveS How did the 390 mag wheels hold up for you in the NEBDR? I'm looking at a 23 with the spokes or an very excellent deal on a leftover 22 with mag wheels. A few of us are looking to grab 390 adv for the NEBDR instead of taking our WRR. If the mag wheels will hold up, we'll go with those vs paying $1500 for the spoked wheel models. Thank you
Great review. At my advanced age I cannot ride dirt bikes like I used to. To keep on riding I've been thinking about adventure riding. Thank you for showing what this bike can do on a technical trail. Nice to know I could still find out where a single track trail goes if I'm on an adventure ride with this bike.
Had mine for two months and love it. It replaced my WR250R that I unfortunately drowned in a water crossing. My first KTM ...Closest dealer is 150 miles away so I am hoping it is reliable. Great review and spot on👍
Not surprising that the 390 is so capable! Great review and ride. The ability to keep up with the bigger bikes is great. It's amazing how beautiful the scenery is around the world. I've never been down to Australia, but would enjoy a visit someday! Thanks for this review. As always Dave, you present the best non-biased, overall reviews I've found anywhere. Excellent content and really enjoyable videos. Ride safe mate!
Great review, this and the ktm 490 adventure is quite interesting to me, being a 640 adventure rider who hasn't been convinced by the converted 690 s or the bigger twins. I'd definitely upgrade to spiked wheels though, hopefully the 490 adv has those
I’m 5’11”, 225, 59 yr. old. I love my WR250R. It goes everywhere. I don’t race when off road. I’m trying to be a good technical rider. The WR will lumber down to very low RPM’s and then pull right up when I turn the throttle. Love the performance.
Considering its been over an year - how would you rate this bike in terms of reliability? a follow up would be great covering what all has been going well and the stuff that has broken/ needed replacement, if any. thanks in advance!
What a great trip and stunning landscape. I always enjoy how Dave reviews adv bike, especially this one. Just courious how it's compare to 790R you've tried couples of months ago. Once again it is enlighten to see how the bike behaves while you take this 390R to Dirt Bike playground to explore its capabilities. Thank you for bringing us new perspectives & great job for MAD TV video editing style. It is addicted 👍
Excellent Review from the Channel as expected. Totally covered my whole doubt about the off-road capabilities and cleared my confusion on whether to buy this motorcycle or not. Mr. Tom Foster also helped clear a lot of my assumptions of the bike on general handling and power delivery. Great Review mates!
Good to hear a sensible review from somebody who knows what they are talking about rather than the usual "borrowed it for two hours - here's my opinion !" nonsense that seems to be everywhere now. Another great video, thanks !
Fantastic review. Some earlier reviews I saw suggested this bike was only good for commuting and easy gravel, and no good for highway or dirt. But I think you showed us its true potential.
Great review. I've just picked up one of these and I agree with everything you've said. I've only been riding about 10 months and I find this bike to be really forgiving and heaps of fun. I'm a bit short for it but I find the light weight of the bike makes it easier to handle than my previous heavier bike (RE Himalayan), despite being quite a bit higher. Loving it 😊
Hi, Done about 4000km on my bike so far. Just love it! Good all rounder for the price. I rotated the handle bar a little forward and can now stand easily for long stretches at a time. Also remove the rubber insets on the foot pegs will give more room and a better fit. I am 1.70m tall and the bike fits me perfectly. Thanks for your great review. I agree with your assessment. I am from South Africa.
Tras 45 años de motos trial, enduro, trail y maxitrail, estoy encantado con mi 390 Adv. El tacto del gas con grandes y potentes monocilíndricos y bicilíndricos puede ser delicadito, hay que ser muy cuidadoso con los mantenimientos por ser motores apretados y rendidores y sobre todo hay que valorar que son motores muy puntiagudos a los que si llevas bajos de vueltas o coceando, se les rompen casquillos, bielas, cojinetes, pistones y toda la cadena cinemática del motor se daña. Como moto escuela, en mi opinión durarán poco y son desagradables para los novatos. Las KTM son siempre chispeantes y como digo más exigentes con mantenimientos y piloto. Compré mi 390 Adventure cuando salió al mercado en 2.020 y quizá con mi celtibérica altura de 1,70 cm, voy muy apurado cuando salgo de lo negro por no encontrar suelo. Hay veces que me caigo en parado. Si la vendo próximamente, será tan solo por su excesiva altura de asiento y dentro de un añito quizá compre una CFMoto 450 MT que lleva un asiento mucho más asequible para mí, la ponen muy bien y sigue siendo una moto única y ligera. Con mis 61 años me sobra moto y los 200 kilos con equipamiento de protección y carga, son el límite como utilitario en ciudad y para salir y disfrutar sin agobios. Lo primero que hay que hacerle a la KTM 390 Adventure es ponerle un alzamanillar y una pantalla parabrisas que proteja más. Defensas, barras portaalforjas, parrilla para baúl y poco más, ya que viene muy completa. A pesar de ser buen monocilíndrico, al motor no le gusta nada girar a menos de 4.000 rpm, salvo en 1ª y 2ª velocidades y desde ahí hasta las 8.000-9.000 rpms es sorprendente y eficaz. No he tenido ninguna maxitrail con frenos, iluminación y suspensiones de serie como la KTM 390 Adv. Con la peque 390 Adv, voy por las carreteras deterioradas de segundo orden, mucho más rápido, relajado, cómodo y seguro, que iba cuando circulaba con mi última moto trailera que tuve anteriormente, que era una BMW F800GS. La 390 Adv sustituyó a la GS y a una Beta Alp 200 para hacer el cabra. 🐐Y como utilitario diario con dos alforjas Givi y un baúl enorme Trekker Outback de 58 litros es como si llevaras un gran escúter pero más ligero. Saludos desde España. ✌
Wow...probably the BEST review of a motorcycle I have EVER seen! After selling my 2015 KTM 500 EXC 6 Days to buy a 2008 BMW R1200 GS Adventure so my girlfriend could be a passenger and join me on trips, the big bike performs beautifully in a variety of conditions, even with a beautiful 100 pound woman sitting behind me. But after watching this video, it is obvious KTM once again takes the lead for those of us that simply love the kinds of adventures, only motorcycles can provide. Thank you my friend!
That's some fantastic scenery. I'm going to buy the 390 next Spring. Just paid off our 4Runner and Winter is on it's way here in the Northern Hemisphere. Thanks for the great video and review.
The bike looks awesome, has the engine size and seat height I've been looking for, and has a fair price tag. I can only blame myself if I don't buy one. Thanks for doing a real test of the bike!
Great review as per mate, take note bike manufacturers more people are wanting small capacity bikes in the 300-500cc range, KTM have hit it perfect with this bike and will have market dominance by the time the Japanese manufactures take note or even realise this is what people want more than ever. Would love a WR450R or WR450 Rally that I would sell my GS for.
Awesome music n great fair review. Thanks. I've done adv riding on big 1200-1300cc bikes. It's fun but exhausting at times. And me being 150lbs wet, I'm excited about getting a separate lighter smaller adv for off road adventure. I love my r1250gs, but I don't want to pick it up and manage it in some serious off-road challenges. And current injuries are part of the reason too. I'd want at least the R version of this 390 ADV. Spoke wheels etc.
I'm not worried about spoked wheels provided you use strong side walled tyres like those fitted to this bike, which were non standard Mitas. And keep inflations up. Don't get too hooked up on the cast wheels. Yes, I agree with you on the bigger bikes, but not this size, design and weight.
Great video as always...we've recently purchased a 390 ADV and love it- however we've encountered intermittent stalling issue. Have you experienced this? Cheers.
Great video thank you for uploading. May I ask, did you have any overheating issues over tuff terrain? Some riders complain about noisy cooling fans on KTM's which come on prematurely.
Great review fellas and what stunning scenery with absolutely no humans wandering around makes me jealous here in blighty have watched a few reviews and yours is at the top need to get down to my local dealer for a spin
Didn’t catch in the video if you aired the tyres down when off road? Thanks for the time you spent putting this review of the KTM I’m really considering it, but would it be a good first bike for someone that’s over 6 feet tall and 105kg?
Nice review! Just a quick question, there's more 390 RC and Dukes available in the second hand market... Any idea how feasible would it be to take one of those, and upgrade to the adventure spec (or better)?
If you really wanted to do that, you’d be better off doing so on the Duke rather than the RC. Quite confident you could quite easily get some good adventure tyres for it, a windscreen, crash bars, a skid plate and some saddle bags
Cracking review, just bought my wife one as she wants to learn off rd. what Mitas tyres did you have and did you go with a 90-90/19 section or stay standard
Best review I´ve seen so far... and I watched a lot of them. Got my 390 a week ago and got already 1200 kilometers on it - without highways! :-D It´s such a lot of fun to ride it :-D
Beautiful shot video. Wishing I was riding in Australia soon. The bike is clearly a winner for a fellow like me who doesn't like a larger model as I ride urban and mountain roads and would like to experience a few more backroads. Cheers for testing it. As soon as I am ready for my next bike this will be on my shopping list.
Can i ask did you turn off the traction and ABS when you were on those trails? I’m thinking of getting a 390 soon so I’m trying to learn when it needs turning off. Thanks 🙏
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I tell u, I am from India and have seen almost all the reviews out till now. This is one the best that the bike deserves.
Man, this the Craziest work done on KTM 390 ADV in any of the videos on TH-cam available ryt now.. Tqsm for clearing out many doubts wth ya performance review ... One small request ,, can u plz list out the modifications Yu have done to this bike to get that level of performance. Any sprocket change needed? ThanKyou once again.
Thank you for an excellent real world review of this bike. It's still on my shortlist for an easy, budget friendly, lightweight ADV bike but I just can't help but think "if only it had a 21" front, spoked wheels, and a bit more suspension travel and ground clearance.". A 390 Adventure R would kill al my doubts and have me running towards the KTM dealer.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I get that, I really do! However around my area it's mostly rocky and muddy, instead of compacted sanded trails. A 21 inch wheel makes it easier to roll over larger boulders, and a spoked wheel is less likely to break when it takes a hit when you're not being careful enough. It would just make the bike more versatile and bulletproof in a sense, and it wouldn't even have to be a lot more expensive either I guess
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV yep but with 6'1" that wouldn't be a problem, I can easily flatfoot the 390 as it is. A wr250r isn't available where I live so when it comes to lightweight adv bikes we basically only have the 390 and the CRF250L (rally) which is utterly gutless
If I had seen this review when I was looking for a small dual sport I would have paid it more attention, I've seen them since buying my CRF rally and really like the look of it... Great review and nice tip about the chain guide to stop sticks derailing the chain - I've never thought about that.
Would you recommend this over the Tenere? I’m on a WR250R and wonder about the KTM off road although looks like you went to some rock filled areas. Oh I’m 5’7” Thx
I'm looking to get into adventure riding, i tested the this KTM 390 ADV and was very impressed and find it much better than the Honda CB500X which i also tested. My question is for the same money i can find a good used Tenere XTZ 660 2017/2018 model so how would it compare to that.
Great video, wealth of information. I am selling my 350 in order to move to adventure. Watched the review you done on the 310gs and was impressed with its capabilities, but this little beauty I think has one over on the beamer, would you say it is a more capable all rounder compared the the beamer?
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Hi again, I took the plunge and purchased the 390 yey! It is real fun on the twisties around Mount Mee. I was just wondering though, when you go off road on this bike, did you adjust the tyre pressure? 39psi seemed very hard and jittery in the rear end when i took it onto a compacted hard gravely road.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Hi again, thank you so much for your fantastic review and advice. I took my bike for small adventure ride yesterday through the state forests north of brissy, it was a cracker. I lack experience with this type of bike, but gee she handled my fumbling around very well :-)
All your content is great stuff. love it. Based on the way you tested the bike, do you feel those cast wheels are good enough for it's intended use? thanks
Great video guys, I've had mine now for a while and taken it through some pretty gnarly terrain up here in South East QLD and I noticed the chain guide and was wondering if you had an idea where it came from please 😊 is it the one for the 790? I have been hunting all night lol thanks again 😊🙂
Yes, nice! Didn’t think there was a review of the 390 from you. Didn’t look far enough back I suppose. Thanks for the excellent review! Would you recommens this bike for taller riders as well? (6 foot 3 / 193 cm)… just about to go buy my first bike and these beginner friendly bikes are usually a bit small it seems. If not, are there other bikes you guys would recommend for taller riders as a beginner, do it all sort of bike?
If you did the same ride again would you prefer the 390 over a Yamaha t7 or a 701 Husqvarna. Or what would be your preferred bike to do that same ride again? Even bikes I did not list? By the way I love all of your stuff. I live in Omaha Nebraska usa.
If it DOES have that overdrive, do you think replacing the front or rear sprocket could give the bike a bit more low end grunt? Which sprockets would you suggest. I see a lot of riders replacing the front sprocket to accomplish this.
Great review. A couple of questions: what is the seat height with the optional off road seat? Are the Mitas 09 the standard ones of the Dakar version (even stronger side walls)?
Very enjoyable video , bike seems great, more than enough power in the real world . KTM quality reputation a bit worrisome , are they as fragile as some corners of the internet report ? Bret Tkacs has had some scary issues with his 790.
Hi I m a new subscriber from Dubai. Stay blessed. I hv couple of q. U said spare two tubes! So is itnt a tubeless tyres? And tyre brand and the size can u tell me pls?
Would you recommend this for someone like me, 6"5? 197 cm. Many people say this would be way too small. I'm leaning towards the CRF300L just for this reason alone.
This is what I've understood about Aussie adventure riders of the many brands by watching the videos by each brand (KTM, Yamaha, BMW): 1. Yamaha - do some weird adventure. Still ride old bikes. Love their bikes. Reliable. 2. BMW - buy the expensive bikes and all the gear from BMW. Do some normal riding and be overwhelmed by it and think that what they did was such great adventure. 3. KTM - bat shit crazy. Make riding heavy adv bikes look like motocross bikes.
@Kambojas Kambo Hello sir, Regarding 390 in jist I can say bike is ready good considering its price-point ..I was about to purchase the bike but the news of 490 adventure coming to indian market soon stopped me...yes it's true no bike is perfect and it applies on this one also..there are many points where ktm can improve it but main point to consider is what is your need or objective from bike and purchase accordingly..if budget is not your constraint then you should wait for 490.. plus there are so many videos on 390 you can watch ..if there is anything specific you want to know , let me know pls..
@Kambojas Kambo and yes if you love biking and all the emotions connected to biking.. there are many great great channels in youtube but fo subscribe motorcycle adventure dirt bike tv...Its MAD..
Love that a major bike manufacturer took smaller ADV bikes seriously. If this platform proves reliable I'm definitely getting one, but only time will tell.
Hello from the USA! I don't' often write reply's on YT. But each of your reviews are done with excellence. I appreciate all your efforts in providing them to us. I've subscribed and tagged the bell. My wife and I both ride the 390 Adv. and really joy them on the road as well as the backcountry fire roads here in TN. Be safe and take care. Thank you again!
dave good reviews. simon from kiwi sth island ride remember about 10 years ago. cool little bike still heavy though at 150kgs? is there only one model or was the one you rode just modified?
One model for Australia, so I would expect same for NZ and it was modified. Yeah Simon I remember. You were the guy riding a Husaberg and you hit that gooly in a river and went in head first? I was lucky that didn't happen to me. :)
The only thing I don't agree with from your review is the buffering. I have the same helmet and at 6'1" I get tossed around. We bought the 390A for the wife who is 5'9". She came home from a ride freaked out from an odd handling situation. It was the turbulence from the odd shape fairing. A little fairing spoiler helped tremendously!
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV yes we did raise the screen. However, we still had the turbulence, and a lot of that turbulence hitting our shoulders and head. The spoiler helped tremendously. We are contemplating the Raid Garage 790 windscreen but, that's a pricey piece of kit. GREAT review on the bike. The offroad capability is surprisingly excellent for how soft the suspension is and how little travel the bike has. I've managed some American PNW singletrack with the little beast with ease!
I am the owner of a KTM 390 Adventure which I bought in January 2021 as my very first motorcycle. About four weeks ago, while riding on city streets, I noticed something unusual with the damping motion of the rear suspension and stopped immediately. The rear suspension was leaking fluid badly. I was able to ride back home and took the bike to the KTM dealer for a check. The KTM dealer received my bike on December 7, 2021. A month has passed, and they have no idea at all whether the faulty rear suspension is covered by the warranty and that it must be checked with the KTM factory sometime during mid-January. The bike is not in working condition and it is in their workshop since its breakdown. This is a very disappointing and frustrating situation as I bought this bike mainly because of its alleged quality suspensions and its two-year warranty. Needless to say, KTM has not lived up to my expectations as a newbie in motorcycling.
Dave, another comprehensive and excellently presente review. I have always been a great believer that it's so much more fun going fast on a slow bike, then it is going slow on a fast bike. I'm now hoping that KTM and their clients will see the benefits of placing a road going engine in a dirt oriented bike, with long service intervals and reliability ... basically, same as Yamaha did, 10 years ago, with their WR250R (I just wish the bloody Yam marketing team called it something else ... pilloks!)
"Granted I took this bike down some trails it wasn't designed for" - drives through culvert (insert noted meme) Great review, by far the best I've watched and actually showed off the abilities and limits of the bike. I'm going to be new to adv riding and I think this is going to be my bike. Thanks for the review!
I noticed you tested the rally raid cb500x. How would you compare it to the KTM. As an owner to a 2015 CB I was thinking the KTM would be a close comparison to the rally raid but only lighter
Looking for a comparison between BMW 310GS vs KTM390 vs Kawasaki Versys 300 from your channel. Also post Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Suzuki VStorm 650 vs Yamaha Tenere 700.
What do you guys think about the longer-term reliability of the small displacement KTM's like the 390 Adv? Compared to the new CRF300L, is there much difference?
Love the good honest relatable review of this bike, I am actually looking for a chain guide for mine currently, if you wouldn’t mind sharing where you obtained the one for this would be greatly appreciated
At 70 tired of muscling a big bike around but still want to ride the blacktop and the gravel. Really like this bike but at 102Kg and 1.83m should I look elsewhere or maybe try tweaking suspension and ethos?
Steve Irwin of Bike Reviews. Really loved your unbiased reviews. I will be booking it Tomorrow and getting one for myself. Had a hard time choosing but your video make me made up my mind. Thanks
Thanks for another great review. I'm planing to take one around Australia next year with those tyres and mods (hopefully the lock down will be over in May 2021) ... no hard core deserts, more SUV style. I was thinking of a DR650 but the KTM 390 is very appealing out of the box .... The suspension, low weight, fuel range and electronics all sounds like a great bike. I was worried about the cast rims ... but I think the heavy duty tyres are a great solution - would you run them tubeless? I've been riding a Versys 300x for 3 years and have done a lot of outback NSW and I love the 19"/17" set-up and seat height. (had a KTM640 Adv before that) I'm 59 and have been riding since year dot. I get this kind of ADV riding - its just a lot of fun on a smaller bike.
How did you go Brendan? Did you get the 390 adventure? I was trying to get a cb500x but dealers can't get my one. I'm now thinking dr650 but not too sure.
@@swampymarsh7214 Well, I ended up getting a 2014 XT 660 Tenere. I did the job very well, in fact it smoked my mate on an Africa Twin on the long dirt sections on The Great Central Road across the middle of Australia. I really like the big single feel and tractor power. The Husky 701 LR would be the ticket!
Looking for something for my 5ft8, 30 inch legs and not really alot of short legged options out there (above 200cc) and this is something I hadn't considered previously. I've had a klx250 and a dr650 love them both just too tall, I'm 225lb before gear and I'm wondering will this bike do what I need it to do off-road coming from my two above mentioned bikes?
For those new to MAD TV I'd encourage you to look around the channel, we have international adventures, bike reviews and and Chris Birch extreme videos and other stuff. Occasionally we go live for some fun. Here are some links to help you find the good stuff.
International Adventure
th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7Ynzi55gvgbVg2Xcy_rp0vqA_R.html
Thorough bike reviews
th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7YnzjtGNKHELsYYQRwCQPOEp5j.html
Chris Birch extreme KTM1190 videos
th-cam.com/play/PLkM9-Vs7YnzithyN05N74-yoitRsGNwI5.html
You are the best!!
Hi mad tv. May i know the acoustic song on 17:47. Its very calm and beautiful. Can you give me that info please. Nice vid for the adv 390.
@@riderbatang Royalty free music I buy in batches
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV thanks for the reply. Royalty music. Is that the epidemic sound? . I love the ktm 390 adv vid. good job. I watched it 2x a day.Vince here from the philippines
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV im reall.i love with that track. Can u pls tell the track name and what royalty free site did u download it. Theres a lot of royalty free site. Pls tell the details.pls
For me the best test about the 390 adventure out there so far. Ordered the bike last week, feels like I watched all videos available in all languages, again liked yours most. Best regards from Munich Germany. Felix
Great to hear to Felix!
Should check out Ryan at F9 Review.
@@raymondlangille2886 As much as i like F9's videos, this one is much better review.
I also ordered It week ago and I’m also watching every video I can find and I can also say this is probably the best I found😂😂😂😂
@@Stratiljirka I also watched F9s review and he only seemed disappointed with the ergonomics, which are easily fixed with risers and aftermarket pegs. Ergo's are also very subjective depending on riders height, reach, inseam etc. He's a taller guy, whereas an average height rider might feel the bike is set up perfectly for them. Horses for courses I suppose.
I'm really excited seeing how well this little bike performs. In the last 10 years I've gone from a DR650>WR250R>VStrom650>Tiger800XC and now a 1290 Super Adventure R. The SAR is an amazing bike, 160HP and an outstanding suspension. But when things get rough, I'm reminded that its 550 lbs with skid and bags, 35" seat height and $18K-all things that have me riding it less than I expected. It's just overkill and too heavy for some of the riding I do-especially as I get older. The WR was just fine for the off-roading I did-but underpowered on road-it didn't handle hills at speed (and the DR was only minimally better-with a bad suspension). The 390 is 100 lbs lighter than the Tiger or Wee, 150 lbs lighter than the SAR stock-and 1/3 the cost of a SAR and 1/4 that of a typical GS. I'd also consider a 690 Enduro or 701, but frankly they are overkill for the off-road conditions and speed I ride-and they are twice the price of the 390. This looks like a bike to bring the fun back into the sport.
It certainly was fun to ride. I think it is a great bike.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I really appreciate your video. I've watched every one I can find and this is the best of the bunch in terms of showing it's capabilities as a light ADV bike, in off-pavement conditions. Many reviewers are from actual dirt bike riders, and no, the 390 won't preform like a dedicated dirt bike-it's not fair to compare it to one. Other reviews are street bike riders just trying off-pavement riding for the first time. You have actual ADV riders-and give a very fair, honest comparison.
I grew tired of wrestling my R1200GS and just purchased this bike last month. I plan to take it everywhere I took my R1200GS to prove this bike is just as capable. Some of the comfort I give up on the tarmac I gain on the offroad. It is nice to see someone finally acknowledge this bike is not just for beginners, short riders and woman riders. Every reviewer has gushed at how fun this bike is to ride but then states its for beginners. Rubbish, light weight is the way adventure bikes are trending. The low cost doesn't hurt either. I did replace the windscreen. The short one put the wind right on my chest. Cheers, and nice job.
Like you I really rate the bike as a serious adventurer that is accessible to so many.
I have this thing and it is sooo underrated. Look closer and it blows the competition out of the water.
This is the most complete review I have seen of the 390 Adv, as an owner of one I'll agree on your expertise and my experience on this motorcycle, the only thing I don't like but is not a killer is the sound with the original muffler. Congrats on the channel, greetings from Mexico.
Just replace it with Akra or another muffler Jorge 😅
So I already commented on this video about two months ago and frankly it convinced me to buy the 390. I bought it in mid winter here in northern part of the USA so I've only been to rack up about 550 miles. My first oil change will come this week. To say I'm happy with it would be a huge understatement. I agree with your review 100%. It is just such a fun forgiving bike to ride both on and off road. I'm going on a couple of longer adventure rides this summer and I can't believe I'm saying this but I've chosen to take the 390 over my 690 Enduro R on the first one. The only area I differ with you is the risers. I'm 6'2" with long legs and I can hardly see ahead while standing. It's my lone complaint about the bike. I've ordered a set of Rox adjustable risers and have already lowered the pegs a bit. I also bought the higher seat so the sitting geometry is very comfortable. I'm an older rider and look forward to many years of fun with this bike. Thanks for a fantastic review.
Mate at 6ft 2 in it was always going to be a struggle
Hey, which pegs have you used?
Oh man, this is the best road test & review that I have seen of this bike, very very complete and demanding about the capabilities of this motorcycle. Thanks a lot for bringing it us, great job!!!
Glad you liked it! Yeah we put a lot of effort into it.
I've been high and low over the internets doing my research. My choices were the KTM, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and the CB500X. Honestly, it came down to features. While the KTM didn't blow away the competition in every category, overall I ended up choosing it as a good starter to get into Adventure riding. I'll be making some adjustments foot pegs being one of them, but overall very good bike. Thank you guys for the time you spent on this review, it definitely helped me make an informed decision. Cheers! (I pick up my 390 next week )
Glad we could help. It's a great bike.
Nice! Can you share your experience with 390 so far? :D
@Ryan Gow How are you liking it?
Since its cheap, light and frugal it would actually be a great long distance border crossing bike when you do a good bit solo. For solo adventure you need to be able to handle it iut if a ditch if you slide into one alone, handle it alone and so on. Its not breaking the bank for many more people making long distance mortage free adventure available for more people.
Its beginner friendly which unfortunately is a bad word amongst many riding bikes. I dont want to be seen as a begynner i buy a 1250 which is horrible to handle offroad unless you can handle it properly.
I think this bike would be awesome for most adventure bikers. Why? Because sadly i meet 90% of them never ever been in anything but maybe a hard packed gravel road. This would etable them. Since its not worth a fortune you dont collapse in suicidal thoughts if you have a spill. You can go to places your insurance will not cover and just buy a locally required liability insurance with no worries.
When you go to a dealer they dont mention this do they? Oh are you going to Marocco here look at the 890 R it is perfect, oh well then i need a loan, and if my bike is stolen in Marocco i am in such deep shit economically i would Jump off a cliff. So your Dreams stats Dreams because you cannot go. Or the monthly pay makes you not afford to go far at all. By heavens if its leased you need to return it in perfect nick.
No this bike answers a lot more than novice friendly, it solves getting a bike with warranty to do a heap if stuff you else could not.
I’ve had my 390 adventure for about two months and I absolutely love it. I have about 2000 miles on it. I agree with your assessment of the bike.
I'm glad my test aligns with your experience.
Can't believe I'm this excited for a review of a 390cc bike!
I'm excited by any bike that's been well thought out.
I don't care about cc anymore, after I have owned an Aprilia superbike i don't get impressed by any bikes power anymore. My last bike was an R1200RT, a good bike but big and heavy. Now I am going to buy this and take it for a long adventure this summer.
Actually 373cc
@@daveyconcrete9801 misleading name
Best review of the 390 adventure by far! Excellent work, fantastic scenes, perfect cuts and so good informations! 👌✨🌈
As a 60y old complete novice in motorcycling I ordered my first bike at all. This fabulous video now makes me exited like a child for the first bike to come! After testing cb500x, 650 v-strom I fell in love with the 390.. Delivery after lockdown in 12 days... Wow!
Best wishes from vienna, happy Easter, have a save ride and a great weekend!
Wow, thanks!
At 60 your only a Pup. I am 77 and ride a VStrom 650 XT purchased it new in April 2018, done 35,000 km . Got a mate who is 80 yo has 15 registered bikes including a VStrom all in great condition, he does 40,000 km per year.
So hopefully you have 20 years of fun in front of you
Greetings from Australia
This will be much enjoyed with Sunday morning coffee.
Sounds great!
Loved the review! David's enthusiasm is contagious. Also loved the dog at the end.
I loved the dog at the end. Her master was over the road cutting wood. That was my second time through. The first time she stoped at the waters edge. She just wanted to round me up.
Superb review! I have a dirt bike that I love riding and have been looking to get into adventure riding. The big bikes just seem too intimidating, so I have been reading and watching tons of videos of smaller adventure bikes. I have been considering the KTM 390 Adventure, the BMW G310 GS, and the Kawasaki Versys X-300. I haven’t gone through all of your videos yet. If you know much about the other two, which of the three would you recommend as best overall?
390 adv is best choice in 2020😆
Told me nothing I didn’t already know - but I’ve had mine all summer. Excellent review and I agree with your assessment. I went 1,400 miles on the NEBDR taking all the difficult sections - not a hiccup. My stock skid plate does need replacement and I’d advise upgrading the hand guards as well. Bravo!
Thanks for watching and I'm very pleased my review equates with a real world user.
I completely agree, I've had mine 3 months now and loving it. My upgrades planned are Barkbusters, skid plate and I'm going to add a rear rack. I have Enduristan Blizzard luggage which I love and it doesn't fit over the grab rails, so personal choice. I will probably go with the Mitas 09 tyres next. Every time I get off this bike I want to get back on it again it's so much fun!
Got any vids of 390 on bdr?
@Rein Have pics, no video
@SteveS How did the 390 mag wheels hold up for you in the NEBDR? I'm looking at a 23 with the spokes or an very excellent deal on a leftover 22 with mag wheels. A few of us are looking to grab 390 adv for the NEBDR instead of taking our WRR. If the mag wheels will hold up, we'll go with those vs paying $1500 for the spoked wheel models. Thank you
Great review. At my advanced age I cannot ride dirt bikes like I used to. To keep on riding I've been thinking about adventure riding. Thank you for showing what this bike can do on a technical trail. Nice to know I could still find out where a single track trail goes if I'm on an adventure ride with this bike.
A great bike for you.
Had mine for two months and love it. It replaced my WR250R that I unfortunately drowned in a water crossing. My first KTM ...Closest dealer is 150 miles away so I am hoping it is reliable. Great review and spot on👍
Thanks for sharing
Amazing trial test far away from any other I've seen. Thanks so much, and congratulations! I've enjoyed it much.
thank you. I try to make sure I'm thorough.
Not surprising that the 390 is so capable! Great review and ride. The ability to keep up with the bigger bikes is great. It's amazing how beautiful the scenery is around the world. I've never been down to Australia, but would enjoy a visit someday! Thanks for this review. As always Dave, you present the best non-biased, overall reviews I've found anywhere. Excellent content and really enjoyable videos. Ride safe mate!
Thanks! 👍 I do try to get it right.
Great review, this and the ktm 490 adventure is quite interesting to me, being a 640 adventure rider who hasn't been convinced by the converted 690 s or the bigger twins.
I'd definitely upgrade to spiked wheels though, hopefully the 490 adv has those
Fair enough!
Never underestimate a smaller CC bike, my WR 250R easily keeps up with the bigger bikes on the dirt.
In fact smaller bikes are better in the dirt because they’re easier to manhandle over rough terrain.
But does you car with the bike on the trailer on the way to the dirt? 😜😘
I’m 5’11”, 225, 59 yr. old. I love my WR250R. It goes everywhere. I don’t race when off road. I’m trying to be a good technical rider. The WR will lumber down to very low RPM’s and then pull right up when I turn the throttle. Love the performance.
@@youtubeaccount5153 Love my little WRR. Bikes a little tank that will get you through hell and back and then ask for more.
Kelse it was just a joke mate.
Considering its been over an year - how would you rate this bike in terms of reliability? a follow up would be great covering what all has been going well and the stuff that has broken/ needed replacement, if any.
thanks in advance!
I'm not sure how we can do a follow up. WE get the bikes relatively new and don't see them aigain.
What a great trip and stunning landscape. I always enjoy how Dave reviews adv bike, especially this one. Just courious how it's compare to 790R you've tried couples of months ago. Once again it is enlighten to see how the bike behaves while you take this 390R to Dirt Bike playground to explore its capabilities.
Thank you for bringing us new perspectives & great job for MAD TV video editing style. It is addicted 👍
the 390 is a completely different animal to the 790. I can't compare them, no point. But the 390 was a heap of fun.
Excellent Review from the Channel as expected. Totally covered my whole doubt about the off-road capabilities and cleared my confusion on whether to buy this motorcycle or not. Mr. Tom Foster also helped clear a lot of my assumptions of the bike on general handling and power delivery.
Great Review mates!
Glad it was helpful!
Good to hear a sensible review from somebody who knows what they are talking about rather than the usual "borrowed it for two hours - here's my opinion !" nonsense that seems to be everywhere now. Another great video, thanks !
Thanks for watching!
Fantastic review. Some earlier reviews I saw suggested this bike was only good for commuting and easy gravel, and no good for highway or dirt. But I think you showed us its true potential.
No it does all those road environments well.
Great review. I've just picked up one of these and I agree with everything you've said. I've only been riding about 10 months and I find this bike to be really forgiving and heaps of fun. I'm a bit short for it but I find the light weight of the bike makes it easier to handle than my previous heavier bike (RE Himalayan), despite being quite a bit higher. Loving it 😊
Good to hear!
Hi, Done about 4000km on my bike so far. Just love it! Good all rounder for the price. I rotated the handle bar a little forward and can now stand easily for long stretches at a time. Also remove the rubber insets on the foot pegs will give more room and a better fit. I am 1.70m tall and the bike fits me perfectly. Thanks for your great review. I agree with your assessment. I am from South Africa.
I'm pleased my review matches your experiences wih the bike.
Tras 45 años de motos trial, enduro, trail y maxitrail, estoy encantado con mi 390 Adv. El tacto del gas con grandes y potentes monocilíndricos y bicilíndricos puede ser delicadito, hay que ser muy cuidadoso con los mantenimientos por ser motores apretados y rendidores y sobre todo hay que valorar que son motores muy puntiagudos a los que si llevas bajos de vueltas o coceando, se les rompen casquillos, bielas, cojinetes, pistones y toda la cadena cinemática del motor se daña. Como moto escuela, en mi opinión durarán poco y son desagradables para los novatos. Las KTM son siempre chispeantes y como digo más exigentes con mantenimientos y piloto.
Compré mi 390 Adventure cuando salió al mercado en 2.020 y quizá con mi celtibérica altura de 1,70 cm, voy muy apurado cuando salgo de lo negro por no encontrar suelo. Hay veces que me caigo en parado. Si la vendo próximamente, será tan solo por su excesiva altura de asiento y dentro de un añito quizá compre una CFMoto 450 MT que lleva un asiento mucho más asequible para mí, la ponen muy bien y sigue siendo una moto única y ligera. Con mis 61 años me sobra moto y los 200 kilos con equipamiento de protección y carga, son el límite como utilitario en ciudad y para salir y disfrutar sin agobios.
Lo primero que hay que hacerle a la KTM 390 Adventure es ponerle un alzamanillar y una pantalla parabrisas que proteja más. Defensas, barras portaalforjas, parrilla para baúl y poco más, ya que viene muy completa. A pesar de ser buen monocilíndrico, al motor no le gusta nada girar a menos de 4.000 rpm, salvo en 1ª y 2ª velocidades y desde ahí hasta las 8.000-9.000 rpms es sorprendente y eficaz. No he tenido ninguna maxitrail con frenos, iluminación y suspensiones de serie como la KTM 390 Adv. Con la peque 390 Adv, voy por las carreteras deterioradas de segundo orden, mucho más rápido, relajado, cómodo y seguro, que iba cuando circulaba con mi última moto trailera que tuve anteriormente, que era una BMW F800GS. La 390 Adv sustituyó a la GS y a una Beta Alp 200 para hacer el cabra. 🐐Y como utilitario diario con dos alforjas Givi y un baúl enorme Trekker Outback de 58 litros es como si llevaras un gran escúter pero más ligero.
Saludos desde España. ✌
Thank you
Wow...probably the BEST review of a motorcycle I have EVER seen! After selling my 2015 KTM 500 EXC 6 Days to buy a 2008 BMW R1200 GS Adventure so my girlfriend could be a passenger and join me on trips, the big bike performs beautifully in a variety of conditions, even with a beautiful 100 pound woman sitting behind me. But after watching this video, it is obvious KTM once again takes the lead for those of us that simply love the kinds of adventures, only motorcycles can provide. Thank you my friend!
Glad you enjoyed it!
That's some fantastic scenery. I'm going to buy the 390 next Spring. Just paid off our 4Runner and Winter is on it's way here in the Northern Hemisphere. Thanks for the great video and review.
Have fun! Great purchase
Nice job ! I have two questions! 1- is it possible with 5 gallons tank ? 2- does this Terminal matches a Yamaha WR450F too?
I don't know.
The bike looks awesome, has the engine size and seat height I've been looking for, and has a fair price tag. I can only blame myself if I don't buy one. Thanks for doing a real test of the bike!
Thanks for watching
La mejor review de la Ktm 390 adv, muy especifico y practico. Felicitaciones!!!!
Thank you.
Great review as per mate, take note bike manufacturers more people are wanting small capacity bikes in the 300-500cc range, KTM have hit it perfect with this bike and will have market dominance by the time the Japanese manufactures take note or even realise this is what people want more than ever. Would love a WR450R or WR450 Rally that I would sell my GS for.
Well said. We've been waiting for Yamaha, waiting...........
Awesome music n great fair review. Thanks. I've done adv riding on big 1200-1300cc bikes. It's fun but exhausting at times. And me being 150lbs wet, I'm excited about getting a separate lighter smaller adv for off road adventure. I love my r1250gs, but I don't want to pick it up and manage it in some serious off-road challenges. And current injuries are part of the reason too. I'd want at least the R version of this 390 ADV. Spoke wheels etc.
I'm not worried about spoked wheels provided you use strong side walled tyres like those fitted to this bike, which were non standard Mitas. And keep inflations up. Don't get too hooked up on the cast wheels. Yes, I agree with you on the bigger bikes, but not this size, design and weight.
Great video as always...we've recently purchased a 390 ADV and love it- however we've encountered intermittent stalling issue. Have you experienced this? Cheers.
No I didn't experience that.
Check your quickshifter
When downshifting? Have seen someone else have the issue. Faulty clutch switch.
This has to be one of the best bike review vids I've ever seen. Thanks for leaving the ego at home and giving us a sober and unbiased opinion.
Lot's more where we come from.
Great video thank you for uploading. May I ask, did you have any overheating issues over tuff terrain? Some riders complain about noisy cooling fans on KTM's which come on prematurely.
No overheating, but having said that it's good if the cooling fan comes on early because its better than coming on late. All fans are noisy.
Great review fellas and what stunning scenery with absolutely no humans wandering around makes me jealous here in blighty have watched a few reviews and yours is at the top need to get down to my local dealer for a spin
Yep a great bike.
Didn’t catch in the video if you aired the tyres down when off road? Thanks for the time you spent putting this review of the KTM I’m really considering it, but would it be a good first bike for someone that’s over 6 feet tall and 105kg?
AT your height you need to go and sit on it. It maybe cramped. Tyres were left at road psi.
Best KTM 390 Adventure review on TH-cam, hands down.
Thank you
Nice review! Just a quick question, there's more 390 RC and Dukes available in the second hand market...
Any idea how feasible would it be to take one of those, and upgrade to the adventure spec (or better)?
No idea
If you really wanted to do that, you’d be better off doing so on the Duke rather than the RC.
Quite confident you could quite easily get some good adventure tyres for it, a windscreen, crash bars, a skid plate and some saddle bags
Legend, looks like I'm ordering one this weekend. Just curious, what tyres were you running in the last scenes, they almost look like knobblies.
Mitas MT07
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV thank you!
Cracking review, just bought my wife one as she wants to learn off rd. what Mitas tyres did you have and did you go with a 90-90/19 section or stay standard
Sorry mate a long time ago, I have no idea. I just remember they were thicker walled tyres.
Best review I´ve seen so far... and I watched a lot of them. Got my 390 a week ago and got already 1200 kilometers on it - without highways! :-D It´s such a lot of fun to ride it :-D
Glad you liked it! I think it's a great bike.
Beautiful shot video. Wishing I was riding in Australia soon. The bike is clearly a winner for a fellow like me who doesn't like a larger model as I ride urban and mountain roads and would like to experience a few more backroads. Cheers for testing it. As soon as I am ready for my next bike this will be on my shopping list.
I was only talking about it today to a friend and how it impressed me, particularly the price and what you get
Very high quality content. Love the voiceover, super informative. I would *LOVE* a similar vid about 2 of the KTM390's competition, to compare.
Thank you for the great detailed video with the amazing off roading demos
Thanks for watching.
Can i ask did you turn off the traction and ABS when you were on those trails? I’m thinking of getting a 390 soon so I’m trying to learn when it needs turning off. Thanks 🙏
Not always
The best review till now !
Thank you, glad you liked it.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I tell u, I am from India and have seen almost all the reviews out till now. This is one the best that the bike deserves.
Man, this the Craziest work done on KTM 390 ADV in any of the videos on TH-cam available ryt now.. Tqsm for clearing out many doubts wth ya performance review ... One small request ,, can u plz list out the modifications Yu have done to this bike to get that level of performance. Any sprocket change needed? ThanKyou once again.
Nothing. All standard.
Thank you for an excellent real world review of this bike. It's still on my shortlist for an easy, budget friendly, lightweight ADV bike but I just can't help but think "if only it had a 21" front, spoked wheels, and a bit more suspension travel and ground clearance.". A 390 Adventure R would kill al my doubts and have me running towards the KTM dealer.
It's not a racer. The suspension for purpose is fine. It handles beautfiully with the smaller wheels. If it didn't I would have said so.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV I get that, I really do! However around my area it's mostly rocky and muddy, instead of compacted sanded trails. A 21 inch wheel makes it easier to roll over larger boulders, and a spoked wheel is less likely to break when it takes a hit when you're not being careful enough. It would just make the bike more versatile and bulletproof in a sense, and it wouldn't even have to be a lot more expensive either I guess
@@ktmkevin It also raises seat height. I found it did OK for rocks, provided you were seated. You may need an adventurised WR250.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV yep but with 6'1" that wouldn't be a problem, I can easily flatfoot the 390 as it is. A wr250r isn't available where I live so when it comes to lightweight adv bikes we basically only have the 390 and the CRF250L (rally) which is utterly gutless
I wonder if the wheels could be changed to a spoked rim??
If I had seen this review when I was looking for a small dual sport I would have paid it more attention, I've seen them since buying my CRF rally and really like the look of it... Great review and nice tip about the chain guide to stop sticks derailing the chain - I've never thought about that.
Glad I could help
Would you recommend this over the Tenere? I’m on a WR250R and wonder about the KTM off road although looks like you went to some rock filled areas. Oh I’m 5’7”
Thx
John, you really need to go to the shop and sit on these bikes and if possible go for a test ride. I love both bikes for different reasons.
Love your work!
Noticed you are using a Klim helmet how do you find it? And how dose the sizing compare to the Arai xd4 ?
Cheers
It's a great helmet. Very stable in the wind with great vision.
I'm looking to get into adventure riding, i tested the this KTM 390 ADV and was very impressed and find it much better than the Honda CB500X which i also tested. My question is for the same money i can find a good used Tenere XTZ 660 2017/2018 model so how would it compare to that.
I woudn't do it
Great video, wealth of information. I am selling my 350 in order to move to adventure. Watched the review you done on the 310gs and was impressed with its capabilities, but this little beauty I think has one over on the beamer, would you say it is a more capable all rounder compared the the beamer?
My view is the KTM390 is a better bike on many levels.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Hi again, I took the plunge and purchased the 390 yey! It is real fun on the twisties around Mount Mee. I was just wondering though, when you go off road on this bike, did you adjust the tyre pressure? 39psi seemed very hard and jittery in the rear end when i took it onto a compacted hard gravely road.
@@owenregan1 i change tyre pressires according to conditions. If I was on the dirt I would you use less, but always remembering the alloy wheels.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV Hi again, thank you so much for your fantastic review and advice. I took my bike for small adventure ride yesterday through the state forests north of brissy, it was a cracker. I lack experience with this type of bike, but gee she handled my fumbling around very well :-)
All your content is great stuff. love it. Based on the way you tested the bike, do you feel those cast wheels are good enough for it's intended use? thanks
Yes they are, provided tyres are inflated correctly
Great video guys, I've had mine now for a while and taken it through some pretty gnarly terrain up here in South East QLD and I noticed the chain guide and was wondering if you had an idea where it came from please 😊 is it the one for the 790? I have been hunting all night lol thanks again 😊🙂
I have no idea. I thought it was an oem accessory, that's what KTM told me.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV no problem at all. Thanks for the reply it's appreciated 😊😊
Great! Loved the review. The future of adventure biking is definitely a smaller ride.
Totally agree!
Yes, nice! Didn’t think there was a review of the 390 from you. Didn’t look far enough back I suppose.
Thanks for the excellent review!
Would you recommens this bike for taller riders as well? (6 foot 3 / 193 cm)… just about to go buy my first bike and these beginner friendly bikes are usually a bit small it seems. If not, are there other bikes you guys would recommend for taller riders as a beginner, do it all sort of bike?
You’re pretty tall I’m not sure
If you did the same ride again would you prefer the 390 over a Yamaha t7 or a 701 Husqvarna. Or what would be your preferred bike to do that same ride again? Even bikes I did not list?
By the way I love all of your stuff. I live in Omaha Nebraska usa.
701
If it DOES have that overdrive, do you think replacing the front or rear sprocket could give the bike a bit more low end grunt? Which sprockets would you suggest. I see a lot of riders replacing the front sprocket to accomplish this.
yep but I wouldn't
Great review. A couple of questions: what is the seat height with the optional off road seat? Are the Mitas 09 the standard ones of the Dakar version (even stronger side walls)?
Sorry mate I don't know the answers to either. Mitas were not standard at that time.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV thank you anyway. I m a big fan
Very enjoyable video , bike seems great, more than enough power in the real world . KTM quality reputation a bit worrisome , are they as fragile as some corners of the internet report ? Bret Tkacs has had some scary issues with his 790.
Hi I m a new subscriber from Dubai. Stay blessed. I hv couple of q. U said spare two tubes! So is itnt a tubeless tyres? And tyre brand and the size can u tell me pls?
Mitas mt07 /spare tubes in case tear tyre
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV alright so kind of u
Would you recommend this for someone like me, 6"5? 197 cm. Many people say this would be way too small. I'm leaning towards the CRF300L just for this reason alone.
You need to sit on it. Maybe there is bar extenders available. At your height I would imagine every bike is a little cramped.
I picked up a 390 Adv last week with the same luggage. I can't wait for winter to be over here in Alaska!
I confident you'll love it.
This is what I've understood about Aussie adventure riders of the many brands by watching the videos by each brand (KTM, Yamaha, BMW):
1. Yamaha - do some weird adventure. Still ride old bikes. Love their bikes. Reliable.
2. BMW - buy the expensive bikes and all the gear from BMW. Do some normal riding and be overwhelmed by it and think that what they did was such great adventure.
3. KTM - bat shit crazy. Make riding heavy adv bikes look like motocross bikes.
Pretty Close but you forgot Suzuki DR650 riders, Kawasaki KLR650 riders and a couple of others. We are a weird mob.
This is the best review of adventure 390...great bike🤟
Thanks ✌️
@Kambojas Kambo Hello sir, Regarding 390 in jist I can say bike is ready good considering its price-point ..I was about to purchase the bike but the news of 490 adventure coming to indian market soon stopped me...yes it's true no bike is perfect and it applies on this one also..there are many points where ktm can improve it but main point to consider is what is your need or objective from bike and purchase accordingly..if budget is not your constraint then you should wait for 490.. plus there are so many videos on 390 you can watch ..if there is anything specific you want to know , let me know pls..
@Kambojas Kambo as of now there is not but as per old leaks it would be getting launched in first quarter of 2022.. rest time will say...
@Kambojas Kambo and yes if you love biking and all the emotions connected to biking.. there are many great great channels in youtube but fo subscribe motorcycle adventure dirt bike tv...Its MAD..
@Kambojas Kambo you are welcome sir😊
Looking forward to another great review by your team dave.
Great watch with a beverage
Glad you enjoyed it. Back to adventure riding stories next.
Good review, nice tech & seat height, but ground clearance looks low, & what are the service intervals?
10 k
This is what you guys needed in India Dave ;-)
Agree this would have been soo good. In fact I've contacted the hire company and told them about how good it was.
Love that a major bike manufacturer took smaller ADV bikes seriously. If this platform proves reliable I'm definitely getting one, but only time will tell.
Yeah looking forward to hearing about their long term reliability.
Hello from the USA! I don't' often write reply's on YT. But each of your reviews are done with excellence. I appreciate all your efforts in providing them to us. I've subscribed and tagged the bell. My wife and I both ride the 390 Adv. and really joy them on the road as well as the backcountry fire roads here in TN. Be safe and take care. Thank you again!
Wow, thank you!
dave good reviews. simon from kiwi sth island ride remember about 10 years ago. cool little bike still heavy though at 150kgs? is there only one model or was the one you rode just modified?
One model for Australia, so I would expect same for NZ and it was modified. Yeah Simon I remember. You were the guy riding a Husaberg and you hit that gooly in a river and went in head first? I was lucky that didn't happen to me. :)
Hi what would you choose between KTM 390 and the Honda 300 Rally, would love your feedback.
Honda..more dirt oriented, KTM more trail oriented
The only thing I don't agree with from your review is the buffering. I have the same helmet and at 6'1" I get tossed around. We bought the 390A for the wife who is 5'9". She came home from a ride freaked out from an odd handling situation. It was the turbulence from the odd shape fairing. A little fairing spoiler helped tremendously!
Did you rise the fairing. It is adjustable.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV yes we did raise the screen. However, we still had the turbulence, and a lot of that turbulence hitting our shoulders and head. The spoiler helped tremendously. We are contemplating the Raid Garage 790 windscreen but, that's a pricey piece of kit. GREAT review on the bike. The offroad capability is surprisingly excellent for how soft the suspension is and how little travel the bike has. I've managed some American PNW singletrack with the little beast with ease!
I am the owner of a KTM 390 Adventure which I bought in January 2021 as my very first motorcycle.
About four weeks ago, while riding on city streets, I noticed something unusual with the damping motion of the rear suspension and stopped immediately. The rear suspension was leaking fluid badly. I was able to ride back home and took the bike to the KTM dealer for a check. The KTM dealer received my bike on December 7, 2021. A month has passed, and they have no idea at all whether the faulty rear suspension is covered by the warranty and that it must be checked with the KTM factory sometime during mid-January. The bike is not in working condition and it is in their workshop since its breakdown.
This is a very disappointing and frustrating situation as I bought this bike mainly because of its alleged quality suspensions and its two-year warranty. Needless to say, KTM has not lived up to my expectations as a newbie in motorcycling.
Dave, another comprehensive and excellently presente review. I have always been a great believer that it's so much more fun going fast on a slow bike, then it is going slow on a fast bike. I'm now hoping that KTM and their clients will see the benefits of placing a road going engine in a dirt oriented bike, with long service intervals and reliability ... basically, same as Yamaha did, 10 years ago, with their WR250R (I just wish the bloody Yam marketing team called it something else ... pilloks!)
Well said!
"Granted I took this bike down some trails it wasn't designed for" - drives through culvert (insert noted meme)
Great review, by far the best I've watched and actually showed off the abilities and limits of the bike. I'm going to be new to adv riding and I think this is going to be my bike. Thanks for the review!
Thanks for that!
I noticed you tested the rally raid cb500x. How would you compare it to the KTM. As an owner to a 2015 CB I was thinking the KTM would be a close comparison to the rally raid but only lighter
Very different bikes. Both capable but the KTM has a lot of new technology that improves rider safety.
Looking for a comparison between BMW 310GS vs KTM390 vs Kawasaki Versys 300 from your channel. Also post Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Suzuki VStorm 650 vs Yamaha Tenere 700.
What tyre's are you using for this video.. thanks
Mitas mt07 because they have ard side walls.
What do you guys think about the longer-term reliability of the small displacement KTM's like the 390 Adv? Compared to the new CRF300L, is there much difference?
No idea. You need to go to forums to find that out.
Love the good honest relatable review of this bike, I am actually looking for a chain guide for mine currently, if you wouldn’t mind sharing where you obtained the one for this would be greatly appreciated
Mate have no idea that review was ages ago.
At 70 tired of muscling a big bike around but still want to ride the blacktop and the gravel. Really like this bike but at 102Kg and 1.83m should I look elsewhere or maybe try tweaking suspension and ethos?
Really not sure. For step is a test ride.
Upgrading the stock silencer wid akro - How did it turn out in terms of milege and overal engine performance ?Thanks.
no idea, sorry mate but sounded nice
first you have mad skills. what do you think as this compare to dr650 . I am waiting for the new klr 650 2021 to decide what to buy
Chalk and cheese
Hii, just wanted to know do we need to map up the engine after installing the Akrapovic exhaust?
Nope, plug and play
Watched several reviews on this bike - But MAD always does it right! Thanks and howdy for WC US!
Our pleasure!
Its the same rocky trail from the 701LR review! That speaks very well for the 390!! 😃👍
Yep that’s right
Steve Irwin of Bike Reviews.
Really loved your unbiased reviews.
I will be booking it Tomorrow and getting one for myself.
Had a hard time choosing but your video make me made up my mind.
Thanks
Have fun! I think it is a great bike.
Thanks for another great review. I'm planing to take one around Australia next year with those tyres and mods (hopefully the lock down will be over in May 2021) ... no hard core deserts, more SUV style. I was thinking of a DR650 but the KTM 390 is very appealing out of the box .... The suspension, low weight, fuel range and electronics all sounds like a great bike. I was worried about the cast rims ... but I think the heavy duty tyres are a great solution - would you run them tubeless?
I've been riding a Versys 300x for 3 years and have done a lot of outback NSW and I love the 19"/17" set-up and seat height. (had a KTM640 Adv before that) I'm 59 and have been riding since year dot. I get this kind of ADV riding - its just a lot of fun on a smaller bike.
Hope I wouldn't run them tubeless.
How did you go Brendan? Did you get the 390 adventure? I was trying to get a cb500x but dealers can't get my one. I'm now thinking dr650 but not too sure.
@@swampymarsh7214 Well, I ended up getting a 2014 XT 660 Tenere. I did the job very well, in fact it smoked my mate on an Africa Twin on the long dirt sections on The Great Central Road across the middle of Australia. I really like the big single feel and tractor power. The Husky 701 LR would be the ticket!
thanks , great review. Isn’t there a-lot of vibration on the handlebar being 1 cylinder ?
Not at all
I am thinking between KTM 390 adv and Svartpillen 401. I think KTM may be better for longer raids though;S any suggestions?
Nope. I haven't ridden a svartpillen.
It was a very nice review. Im very impress. May i ask what size and brand of tires you use? Thanks and ride safe. Ramon from Dhahran, KSA
Mitas MT07s not sure of size, you should be able to read that on the slow motion shots.
@@MotorcycleAdventureDirtbikeTV The tyres in the video have way more space between the knobs than the MT07's I see online. Maybe MT10's?
Looking for something for my 5ft8, 30 inch legs and not really alot of short legged options out there (above 200cc) and this is something I hadn't considered previously. I've had a klx250 and a dr650 love them both just too tall, I'm 225lb before gear and I'm wondering will this bike do what I need it to do off-road coming from my two above mentioned bikes?
A lot to thnk about because the 390 is a great bike.