KTM has recently updated its entire Adventure line-up, giving the 390 series a new engine, a new chassis and more features. We put it against its chief rivals, Royal Enfield and BMW, to see how it fares in a spec comparison.
390 Adventure X vs G 310 GS vs Himalayan 450: engine and output
All three models displace over 300cc but differ in cooling technology and performance. The KTM 390 Adventure X is the most powerful, with the BMW G 310 GS trailing by 12hp, and the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 sits between them. The G 310 GS has the oldest engine of the lot, and that is visible in its power deficit. However, BMW is working on a new 450 engine, which might debut soon.
In terms of torque, the Himalayan 450 leads, with the BMW again behind – by 12Nm. The 390 Adventure X has the best power-to-weight ratio, while the other two motorcycles are pretty closely stacked. All three models feature liquid cooling.
390 Adventure X vs G 310 GS vs Himalayan 450: weight and dimensions
The 390 Adventure X and Himalayan 450 have a more approachable seat height. The RE’s seat is adjustable, too. The G 310 GS’s seat is 10mm higher and non-adjustable. The BMW bike aces with its lighter kerb weight, but, as a result, it has the lowest fuel-carrying capacity, which might reflect on its touring range.
390 Adventure X vs G 310 GS vs Himalayan 450: suspension and brakes
All these three adventure tourers run on a similar suspension setup. The KTM and Royal Enfield models offer similar travel at both ends, while the G 310 GS has 20mm lower travel. As for brakes, the Himalayan 450 gets the largest diameter discs at both ends to compensate for the additional weight. The Himalayan also uses a larger front wheel than the other two’s road-biased 19-inch front wheel.
390 Adventure X vs G 310 GS vs Himalayan 450: features
390 Adventure X vs G 310 GS vs Himalayan 450: prices
The BMW G 310 GS was launched in 2018 and, therefore, lacks in features and technology. However, it remains the most expensive of the lot. On the other hand, the KTM 390 Adventure X and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 have been recently updated. The Himalayan 450 is the most budget-friendly, and its base model undercuts the KTM 390 Adventure X by Rs 6,000 and the BMW G 310 GS by Rs 45,000.
Ved Janve
Vishal Venugopal
