Adventure touring in the sub-500cc segment has become more focused and specialised, and the KTM 390 Adventure R and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 sit at the centre of that shift. Both motorcycles are designed
to handle long highway stretches and challenging terrain but they approach the task very differently. The KTM prioritises lighter weight, sharper performance and off-road-focused hardware, while the Himalayan 450 is built around stability, comfort and versatility. This comparison breaks down their pricing, specifications and performance differences to help riders understand which motorcycle fits their riding style better.
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Price And Positioning
The KTM 390 Adventure R is priced at Rs 3.78 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a more off-road-focused variant within KTM’s middleweight adventure lineup. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is priced from Rs 3.06 lakh to Rs 3.37 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on colour and variant. This puts the Himalayan at a clear price advantage. KTM justifies its premium with higher-end suspension components, lighter construction and more aggressive off-road geometry, while Royal Enfield positions the Himalayan as a globally developed all-round adventure motorcycle with wider touring appeal.
Engine And Performance
The KTM 390 Adventure R uses a 399cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine producing 44.3 hp and 39 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. It delivers strong top-end performance and quick throttle response, especially on highways and fast trails. The Himalayan 450 features a 452cc liquid-cooled Sherpa engine producing 39.4 hp and 40 Nm. While it has lower peak power, it offers stronger low- and mid-range torque, making it easier to ride at slow speeds and on technical terrain. KTM feels sportier; Himalayan feels more relaxed and tractable.
Chassis, Suspension And Wheels
The KTM equips the 390 Adventure R with fully adjustable long-travel suspension, a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheel setup, and a lighter overall kerb weight. This translates to better control during aggressive off-road riding. The Himalayan 450 also uses a 21/18-inch spoke wheel combination with Showa suspension tuned more for stability than sharp response. It feels planted on broken roads and during long-distance touring but is heavier and less agile than the KTM when pushed hard off-road.
Also Read: New KTM 390 Adventure R India Launch: Price, Features And What’s New
Electronics And Features
The KTM offers multiple riding modes, off-road ABS, traction control and a TFT display focused on performance riding. The Himalayan 450 counters with ride-by-wire, riding modes, switchable ABS and a navigation-enabled TFT cluster, offering better touring-focused tech. Both bikes are well-equipped, but their electronics reflect different priorities.
The KTM 390 Adventure R suits riders prioritising performance, lighter handling and aggressive off-road riding. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 works better for riders who want comfort, touring stability and lower upfront cost with strong real-world usability.
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