Adventure motorcycling in India has reached a golden phase. Riders today want machines that can cruise highways, tackle trails, and still commute comfortably through the city. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure (2025) represent two of the strongest contenders in this space.
While both bikes share the same “go anywhere” philosophy, their personalities couldn’t be more different. One relies on old-school charm and mechanical toughness; the other brings modern technology and razor-sharp performance. However, with a price gap of nearly ₹70,000 between them, the question remains: is the KTM 390 Adventure truly worth the extra cost? Let’s find out.
Design and Build Quality
KTM 390 Adventure: Tech-forward and Modern
The 2025 KTM 390 Adventure showcases an aggressive, purposeful design that emphasizes off-road readiness. The sharp LED headlamp, high stance, minimal overhangs, and bold color palette make it stand out. Compared to the outgoing version, the new model looks leaner yet more muscular, with a stronger stance on its dual-purpose tyres and 19/17-inch wheel setup.
The underbelly exhaust gives it a distinctive look but slightly reduces ground clearance for hardcore trail riding. While the KTM feels premium, the abundance of plastic panels can lead to minor rattles and buzzes over time. However, fit and finish remain excellent, and the bike’s ergonomics clearly prioritize function over flash.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Rugged Simplicity
In contrast, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 feels traditional and burly. Its tank-heavy design, upright profile, and minimal bodywork give it a purposeful, ready-for-anything vibe. The metal construction feels substantial, giving it that “built to last” character that long-distance riders love.
Where the KTM feels edgy, the Himalayan feels earthy and dependable. The new chassis and revised proportions make it look more muscular, though it does carry extra visual bulk. The added weight enhances stability on highways but makes slow-speed handling slightly more demanding, especially for shorter riders.
Features and Technology
KTM’s Electronic Arsenal
The KTM 390 Adventure is a tech lover’s dream. Its 5-inch TFT display offers Bluetooth connectivity, ride data, navigation, and even smartphone notifications. More importantly, the electronics suite is class-leading — it includes cornering ABS, traction control, off-road ABS, and cruise control, all of which can be toggled easily from the handlebar switchgear.
The ride-by-wire throttle system allows for precise control on slippery surfaces, while multiple riding modes (Street and Off-road) adjust power delivery accordingly. KTM’s LED lighting setup is also one of the best in this price range, with exceptional brightness and coverage during night rides.
Royal Enfield’s Balanced Approach
The Himalayan 450 may not pack as many gadgets, but what it offers feels more refined and usable. It features a TFT color display with smartphone connectivity and navigation, switchable ABS, and multiple riding modes (Eco, Performance, and Off-road). The interface is clean, the graphics are smooth, and the navigation system is arguably easier to read in sunlight compared to the KTM’s busier screen.
Where RE shines is in customization — the brand offers a wide range of OEM accessories like crash guards, panniers, touring seats, and taller windshields. The KTM, though better equipped electronically, doesn’t match Royal Enfield’s touring-friendly practicality.
Comfort and Ergonomics
On-Road Comfort
The KTM 390 Adventure has a commanding riding position with a wide handlebar and slightly forward-biased posture. It feels natural for taller riders and offers great control while standing up during off-road sessions. The seat, however, feels firm over long rides. The tall windscreen provides good wind protection but can limit airflow in city traffic.
In contrast, the Himalayan 450 feels like a true long-distance tourer. The seat is softer, the handlebar sits closer to the rider, and the footpeg placement offers a relaxed, upright posture. The optional touring seat is a big improvement for pillion comfort. While the KTM feels sportier, the Himalayan feels more “sit back and cruise.”
Off-Road Ergonomics
Off-road, the KTM’s lighter weight (13kg less) becomes a huge advantage. The narrower tank and lower center of gravity make it far easier to maneuver on loose trails or through rocky sections. Its clutch and throttle response feel precise and predictable, helping riders tackle technical terrain with confidence.
The Himalayan, though heavier, compensates with stability. Its longer wheelbase and weight distribution make it feel planted on rough roads. It’s ideal for slow, controlled climbs and descents. However, its heavier front end demands more effort in tight switchbacks or sand.
Engine and Performance
KTM 390 Adventure: Power Meets Precision
| Specification | KTM 390 Adventure |
| Engine | 399cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 44.3 hp @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 39 Nm @ 7000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Weight | 172 kg |
The KTM’s new 399cc engine is an absolute gem. It feels alive, responsive, and eager across the rev range. In city riding, the bike is smooth and manageable, while on highways it transforms into a fast, confident tourer. The gearbox is slick, and the quickshifter works flawlessly, even in aggressive riding conditions.
Despite its sporty DNA, KTM has tuned this engine to deliver tractable low-end torque for off-road riding. Combined with traction control, it makes steep climbs and tricky mud sections surprisingly easy to handle.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450: Linear and Composed
| Specification | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 |
| Engine | 452cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Power | 40 hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 40 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Weight | 191 kg |
Royal Enfield’s all-new Sherpa engine represents a massive leap in refinement. It’s smooth, torquey, and feels more linear than ever. The Himalayan doesn’t have the same punch as the KTM but makes up for it with effortless cruising and predictable throttle response.
At low rpm, it feels calmer and more tractable, which helps in slow-speed trail riding. On highways, it comfortably sits at 110–120 km/h without strain. Vibrations are minimal, and the engine exudes a sense of relaxed confidence — the kind that encourages long rides.
Ride and Handling
The KTM 390 Adventure rides on fully adjustable WP Apex suspension, which is one of the best setups in the segment. It can be dialed in for comfort or stiffness depending on terrain. The chassis feels light, communicative, and confidence-inspiring, even at high speeds.
The Himalayan 450, meanwhile, has a simpler but effective Showa suspension setup. It offers plush damping on broken tarmac and gravel, soaking up undulations better than the KTM in stock form. The heavier build helps it stay stable over bumps but slightly dulls its agility in corners.
Braking performance is excellent on both, though KTM’s sharper ABS tuning gives it an edge, especially in off-road mode where rear ABS can be disabled independently.
Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
| Parameter | KTM 390 Adventure | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 |
| City Mileage | 28–30 km/l | 30–32 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 33–35 km/l | 34–36 km/l |
| Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres | 17 litres |
| Service Interval | 5,000 km | 6,000 km |
The Himalayan wins in range and ease of maintenance, while the KTM costs more to service but offers higher performance per litre of fuel. Both have comparable real-world efficiency.
Pricing and Value
| Bike | Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
| KTM 390 Adventure | ₹3.39 lakh |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | ₹2.69 lakh |
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 undercuts the KTM by a wide margin, but KTM’s feature set justifies the premium for riders who value performance and technology. The RE appeals to practical buyers who want durability and all-day comfort without extra electronics.
Verdict: Which Adventure Machine Wins?
This battle boils down to personality.
- The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is the more approachable, comfortable, and practical motorcycle. It’s made for explorers who value comfort, simplicity, and all-day cruising capability. It’s the dependable workhorse of the segment.
- The KTM 390 Adventure, on the other hand, is for riders who want speed, precision, and cutting-edge tech. It rewards skillful riders and shines on both tarmac and trails.
If you want a motorcycle that will grow with your experience and handle serious adventures — the KTM 390 Adventure is the one to choose. But if you’re starting out and want a reliable all-rounder for both city and countryside — the Himalayan 450 remains unbeatable for the money.
