off-road terrain can be readily accomplished,
aggressive use in the rough may not be your
friend. Offroad the 19/17-inch front/rear wheel
combination has its limitations, particularly
in the wet and in more extreme going the
200mm ground clearance will be a limiting
factor as well. However, stick to the easier
adventure side of life and the KTM is a gem
in the handling and suspension department.
MODERN CONVENIENCES
As always, I think, adventure style ergonomics
are the most practical and comfortable for
general use. The commanding, upright riding
position allows great visibility, is relaxing on
the limbs and is helpful body positioning wise
everywhere, from lane splitting to gravel and
beyond. The two-position screen and hand
guards help keep the winter chill off and
certainly enhance general rider wellbeing.
At 855mm from the deck, seat height will
be a stretch for some but it’s not too bad
and certainly more manageable than most
adventure bikes.
Safety electronics on the 390 are a standout
for a small machine. A large TFT screen displays
the main information on the home page clearly.
Also, when making setup changes it logically
shows the next scroll step/steps to finalise
selections. The ABS defaults at startup to full
road mode, but can be turned to offroad mode
when needed. This setting allows for front ABS
and traditional rear wheel (lockable) braking.
The 320mm single front disc brake is a very solid
performer for this size of machine and the rear
works well too.
Traction control on, is also the default setting
at startup and can be turned completely off for
offroad work. Like most bikes the switch off
procedure for TC and ABS is simple enough
once you know the drill. On the 390 it’s the
usual multi-step button pressing and holding
extravaganza for each mode that frankly pisses
me off. In my perfect world, there would be one
off/on button that deactivates both ABS and TC
instantaneously on the fly and likewise reactivates
immediately when required. Simpler and safer
too, I reckon.
KIWI RIDER 101