The introduction of the KTM 390 Adventure X has opened up the mid-size ADV market to a good extent. With the lower price tag, the 390 Adventure X sits right between the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the BMW G 310 GS. Now, we have already done a spec comparison between the 390 Adventure and the G 310 GS. In this article, let’s take a look at how it stacks up against the Himalayan.
Features and Equipment
Being a more affordable version, the KTM 390 Adventure X misses out on features like cornering ABS, riding modes, colour TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, a bi-directional quick-shifter, and a traction control system. However, it does come equipped with features like ride-by-wire throttle, LED lighting, a 12V charging socket, dual-channel ABS with SuperMoto mode, and a slipper clutch.
In comparison, the Himalayan is almost bare bones. It gets a switchable dual-channel ABS, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and a USD charging socket. That said, it does get Bluetooth connectivity with the optional Tripper navigation pod.
Engine Specifications
Powering the KTM 390 Adventure X is the same 373cc, liquid-cooled motor that the top-spec 390 Adventure uses. This single-cylinder, four-valve engine produces 42.9bhp at 9,000rpm and a peak torque of 37Nm at 7,500rpm. It is linked to a six-speed gearbox. The 390 Adventure’s powertrain delivers most of its power in the mid and higher, unlike the Himalayan, which offers a relaxed power delivery.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan, on the other hand, is powered by a 411cc, air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine that pushes out 24.3bhp at 6,500rpm and 32Nm at 4,500rpm. This motor is paired with a five-speed gearbox. The Himalayan motor is extremely tractable and offers excellent low-end and mid-range torque. However, it lacks top-end performance and you’d find yourself cruising at 90-100kmph.
Cycle Parts
While the 390 Adventure is a road-focused tourer with little off-road credentials, the Himalayan is completely opposite. And that shows in their suspension hardware too. Where the KTM 390 Adventure comes equipped with USD forks and a mono-shock, the Royal Enfield Himalayan sports telescopic forks up front and a linkage mono-shock at the back. Not only is the ride quality more absorbent on the Himalayan, but it also gets more suspension travel.
The Himalayan rides on 21-17-inch wire-spoke wheels, while the 390 Adventure comes shod with 19/17-inch alloy wheels. While the spoke setup is more abuse-friendly, the KTM benefits from tubeless tyres. In the braking department, the KTM 390 Adventure outclasses the Royal Enfield Himalayan with better hardware and performance. Not only does it offer a SuperMoto mode, but also has better-stopping power.
Pricing
The KTM 390 Adventure X, courtesy of its missing features, now costs Rs. 2.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). On the other hand, The Royal Enfield Himalayan is priced between Rs. 2.16 lakh to Rs. 2.29 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the colour options. So, if you like munching miles on the highway and want a fast motorcycle with more features, the 390 Adventure is the obvious choice. But, if you are looking for a hardcore off-roader with a relaxed performance, the Himalayan is the way to go.
