Adventure motorcycles are gaining popularity globally, and the sub-500cc segment has been a keen interest to many, as they are usable without scaring the rider. The Himalayan set a good example, however, other manufacturers have their offering as well, and one motorcycle to watch out for is the KTM 390 Adventure R, which now gets updates to suit the adventure badge.
Here are our top three adventure motorcycle picks from EICMA.
Although still in the concept stage, the BMW F 450 GS looks like a scaled-down version of the flagship R 1300 GS. BMW’s aim was to build a light, flickable adventure motorcycle with good road manners and off-road capabilities, and the F 450 GS seems exactly like that. Powered by a 48bhp twin-cylinder engine and long travel suspension, the 450 GS will have many takers once it goes into production.
The Hero Xpulse has been the go-to choice for many in India, but the motorcycle just needed a bit more updation. Hero’s has now sorted that with the Xpulse 210, giving it a 25bhp liquid-cooled motor from the Karizma XMR, while the added sixth gear will give the motorcycle better highway presence. The new Hero Xpulse 210 also gets a TFT instrument console now, giving it a more premium feel. However, USD forks would have been a big welcome.
Nobody builds adventure motorcycles like KTM does, however, the 390 Adventure was a letdown. It was a street bike dressed as an adventure motorcycle. Now, KTM has given the 390 Adventure the capabilities to suit the name and some to carry the ‘R’ badge. The new KTM 390 Adventure R gets 230mm of suspension travel, 21-18 wire-spoke wheels, the latest electronic aids, and a punchy engine with 45bhp of torque. The launch of the KTM 390 Adventure R is expected early next year.
