KTM 390 Adventure vs BMW G 310 GS: Which One To Buy?

The KTM 390 Adventure has been launched in India at Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). At this price point, the new adventure motorcycle can be had at Rs 50,000 less than the BMW G 310 GS adventure bike. So what do you get and miss out on each of these motorcycles? We explain.

Also read: BMW G 310 GS: Road Test Review

Design and features:

Both the KTM 390 Adventure and the BMW G 310 GS look adventure-ready. It is the KTM that packs in premium features like an LED headlamp, LED turn indicators, and colour TFT instrument console with smartphone connectivity. The BMW gets halogen headlamps, bulb type turn indicators, and a digital instrument console. While the G 310 GS gets a rear rack, the 390 Adventure gets an adjustable windscreen. The BWM impresses with its build quality and fit and finish levels but the KTM isn't too far behind either. 

Also read: The BS6 Royal Enfield Himalayan Is On Sale Now!

Engine and performance:

The BMW G 310 GS has a smaller powerplant compared to the KTM 390 Adventure. Its 313cc motor delivers 34PS at 9500rpm and 28Nm at 7500rpm. The KTM’s 373cc mill delivers 43.5PS and 37Nm of torque and clearly has an upper edge when it comes to performance. However, both the KTM 390 Adventure and the BMW G 310 GS make power higher up. Not a good recipe for off-road riding where you need good bottom-end grunt. The 390 Adventure gets lean sensing traction control, which should be quite helpful over loose surfaces. 

Underpinnings:

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Both motorcycles get trellis frame, upside down forks and a monoshock. However, while the 390 Adventure gets WP Apex suspension, the G 310 GS gets Kayaba units. The 390 Adventure gets a tall 855mm seat, while the G 310 GS has a slightly lower 835mm setup. On the tyre front, both get 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels with Metzeler Tourance tyres. Braking setup on the G 310 GS consists of 300mm front disc clamped with a radial caliper and a 240mm rear disc with dual-channel ABS. The 390 Adventure gets a 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc with cornering ABS. 

Pricing:

The 390 Adventure is clearly big on performance and features and while we do not think it will sustain hardcore offroading, it should be able to tour really well. The fact that it comes for Rs 50,000 less than the BMW makes the 390 Adventure the clear pick. Also, the G 310 GS is due for a BS6 update, which will drive up the price difference even further. BMW will have to match the KTM on features to justify the G 310 GS’ premium pricing. For now, the KTM 390 Adventure is the one to go for.