KTM India has launched a more affordable version of its premium ADV, dubbed as the 390 Adventure X. The new KTM 390 Adventure X misses out on a few electronic rider aids, but gets a mouth-watering price tag of Rs. 2.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Feature-wise, this puts it on par with the G 310 GS, while still undercutting the BMW counterpart by a fair margin. So, how do the two ADVs stack up against each other? Let’s take a look.
KTM 390 Adventure X vs BMW G 310 GS: Engine Specifications
The KTM 390 Adventure X uses the same 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor from its premium 390 Adventure sibling. This engine makes 42.9bhp at 9,000rpm and 37Nm at 7,500rpm. The motor is coupled to a six-speed transmission. Now as we know, the 390 Adventure makes most of its power in the mid-range and top-end, and the power delivery is ballistic, to say the least.
On the other hand, the BMW G 310 GS draws power from a 313cc, water-cooled, single-cylinder motor that is tuned to push out 33.52bhp at 9,250rpm and 28Nm at 7,500rpm. This mill is mated to a six-speed gearbox. Compared to the 390 Adventure, the G 310 GS’s engine feels far more relaxed and refined. And although this one too makes a major chunk of its power in the mid-range and top-end, the power delivery isn’t as frantic as its KTM counterpart.
KTM 390 Adventure X vs BMW G 310 GS: Features and Equipment
The KTM 390 Adventure X misses out on a lot of electronic rider aids, which are standard on the top-spec 390 Adventure. Thus, it loses out on features like a colour TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, riding modes, cornering ABS and a bi-directional quick-shifter. It also doesn’t get the traction control system and Bluetooth connectivity. That said, what you do get is LED lighting all around, dual-channel ABS with SuperMoto mode, a 12V charging socket, and a slipper clutch.
On the other hand, the BMW G 310 GS is loaded with features like full-LED lighting, a non-switchable dual-channel ABS, a ride-by-wire throttle system, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Even with some feature misses, the 390 Adventure X packs an edge over the G 310 GS, especially considering its lower price tag.
KTM 390 Adventure X vs BMW G 310 GS: Cycle Parts
This is one department where both the motorcycle is evenly matched, well almost. Both bikes come equipped with USD forks up front and a mono-shock at the back. Both of them ride on 19/17-inch alloy wheels at the front and rear respectively. And although both of them are stiffly sprung, the G 310 GS offers a more pliant ride quality compared to the 390 Adventure. The latter, on the other hand, feels more sure-footed around corners.
In the braking department, the KTM 390 Adventure X outclasses the BMW G 310 GS with a relatively better braking setup. Not only does it also offer a switchable ABS with SuperMoto mode, but the brakes also offer better stopping power.
KTM 390 Adventure X vs BMW G 310 GS: Pricing
With this new update, the KTM 390 Adventure X is on par with the BMW G 310 GS when it comes to features. But more importantly, at Rs. 2.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the 390 Adventure X cost Rs. 40,000 lesser than the G 310 GS, while offering better performance. The BMW G 310 GS, on the other hand, offers a better brand recall and a premium ownership experience.