Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Which Adventure Bike is Right for You?

Who doesn’t know Kawasaki in India? The company launches many of its bikes every year, and in 2025, it has also made a bold comeback in the small-capacity ADV segment with the launch of the Versys-X 300. But the KTM 390 Adventure stands in competition with it, which is already winning the hearts of the Indian people for its performance and tech features. If we look at their prices and compare Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure, both these motorcycles are quite close in price, so let’s see which bike will be best for you based on performance, features, engine, comfort, and value for money.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Engine Comparison.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Engine Comparison.

The core of both bikes is their engine, and here, both follow a different approach.
If we look at the Kawasaki Versys-X 300, we get a 296cc parallel-twin engine in it, which is capable of generating 38.8 bhp and 26 Nm of torque. Being a twin-cylinder, the power delivery is smooth, and the refinement is also better, making it ideal for highway cruising or long touring.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Which Adventure Bike is Right for You?

While driving the KTM 390 Adventure, we get a 398.6cc single-cylinder engine that produces 45.3 bhp and 39 Nm of torque. The KTM is quite ahead in terms of raw output, which comes in handy for steep climbs or quick overtakes. Apart from this, the KTM also gets modern features like ride-by-wire throttle and quick shifter that make the gear shifts even smoother.

Hardware and Suspension – Off-Road or Touring?

Strong hardware is very important for adventure bikes, and here the KTM 390 Adventure dominates. It gets a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke wheel setup, both shod with tubeless tyres, which is perfect for long touring. There is also a fully adjustable WP suspension which the rider can tune according to his/her preference.

The setup of the Versys-X 300 seems a bit road-focused. It gets 19-inch front wheels and tube-type tyres. The suspension setup is basic – non-adjustable telescopic forks and a simple monoshock at the rear. Talking about braking, the KTM gets bigger disc brakes with switchable ABS, while the Versys gets basic dual-channel ABS.

Dimensions & Ergonomics – Accessibility vs Clearance

Dimensions & Ergonomics – Accessibility vs Clearance  of KTM 390 Adventure.

The KTM 390 Adventure has more suspension travel and ground clearance than the Versys-X 300. It has 205mm front, 210mm rear, and 237mm ground clearance, making it perfect for tough terrains. But its seat height is 830mm, which can create problems for short riders.

Dimensions & Ergonomics – Accessibility vs Clearance of kawasaki  versys x 300.

The Versys-X 300 is comparatively more accessible – it has a seat height of 815mm and ground clearance of 180mm, which is mainly suitable for highway and light trails. The Versys weighs 179 kg, which is 3 kg lighter than the KTM, which makes it easily manageable.

Features & Equipment – ​​What is best for Tech Lovers?

  • Switchable ABS
  • Traction Control
  • Multiple Riding Modes
  • Cruise Control
  • Cornering Aids
  • Bluetooth-enabled TFT Display

In comparison, Versys-X 300 follows a minimalist approach. It has only dual-channel ABS and a semi-digital instrument cluster. For those who want a simple and fuss-free experience, Versys-X 300 can be a perfect choice.

Price Comparison – Feature-rich but still cheap?

The KTM 390 Adventure is priced at ₹3.68 lakh (Ex-showroom) while the Versys-X 300 starts at ₹3.80 lakh. That means KTM is offering more power, more features, and better off-road capability, but is priced lower than the Versys-X 300, making it a value-for-money option.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Who should buy it?

If you want better power, modern features, and rugged off-road capability, then the KTM 390 Adventure is perfect for you. But if you like simple controls, highway comfort, and twin-cylinder refinement, then the Versys-X 300 can also be considered, but its price is a bit high. Real-world performance comparison will happen later, but on paper, the KTM 390 Adventure takes the upper hand in this competitive ADV comparison.

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