Kawasaki Versys 650 vs. KTM 390 Adventure: Middleweight vs. Lightweight Adventure

What To Know

  • When it comes to adventure motorcycles, the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the KTM Adventure 390 are two of the most popular options on the market.
  • However, the Versys 650 offers more features and a more powerful engine, so it’s a better value for riders who are looking for a more versatile motorcycle.
  • The Versys 650 has a 649cc engine that produces 69 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, while the Adventure 390 has a 373cc engine that produces 43 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque.

When it comes to adventure motorcycles, the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the KTM Adventure 390 are two of the most popular options on the market. Both bikes offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we’ll compare the Kawasaki Versys 650 vs KTM Adventure 390 to help you decide which bike is right for you.

Engine and Performance

The Kawasaki Versys 650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 69 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque. The KTM Adventure 390, on the other hand, is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder engine that produces 43 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque.

On paper, the Versys 650 has a clear advantage in terms of power and torque. However, the Adventure 390 is much lighter than the Versys 650, so it actually has a better power-to-weight ratio. This means that the Adventure 390 feels more nimble and responsive than the Versys 650, especially at low speeds.

Handling and Suspension

The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a long-travel suspension that provides a plush ride, even on rough roads. The KTM Adventure 390 has a shorter-travel suspension, but it’s still very capable of handling off-road trails.

Both bikes have a neutral handling character that makes them easy to ride, even for beginners. However, the Versys 650 is a bit more stable at high speeds, while the Adventure 390 is more agile in tight corners.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a comfortable upright riding position that makes it great for long rides. The KTM Adventure 390 has a more aggressive riding position that’s better suited for off-road riding.

Both bikes have adjustable handlebars and seats, so you can customize the fit to your liking. However, the Versys 650’s seat is wider and more comfortable than the Adventure 390’s seat.

Features and Technology

The Kawasaki Versys 650 comes standard with a number of features that are not available on the KTM Adventure 390, including:

  • Traction control
  • Cruise control
  • Handguards
  • Heated grips

The KTM Adventure 390, on the other hand, has a few features that are not available on the Versys 650, including:

  • Off-road riding modes
  • Quickshifter
  • Cornering ABS

Price and Value

The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a starting price of $8,899, while the KTM Adventure 390 has a starting price of $5,999. This makes the Adventure 390 a much more affordable option, especially for first-time buyers.

However, the Versys 650 offers more features and a more powerful engine, so it’s a better value for riders who are looking for a more versatile motorcycle.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The Kawasaki Versys 650 and the KTM Adventure 390 are both great adventure motorcycles, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The Versys 650 is more powerful, comfortable, and feature-rich, while the Adventure 390 is more affordable, nimble, and off-road capable.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for each bike’s performance, handling, and comfort before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

The Kawasaki Versys 650 and the KTM Adventure 390 are two of the best adventure motorcycles on the market. They offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability, and they’re both capable of handling a wide range of riding conditions.

If you’re looking for a powerful, comfortable, and feature-rich adventure motorcycle, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great option. If you’re looking for a more affordable, nimble, and off-road capable adventure motorcycle, the KTM Adventure 390 is a great option.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which bike is more powerful?

The Kawasaki Versys 650 is more powerful than the KTM Adventure 390. The Versys 650 has a 649cc engine that produces 69 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque, while the Adventure 390 has a 373cc engine that produces 43 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque.

2. Which bike is more comfortable?

The Kawasaki Versys 650 is more comfortable than the KTM Adventure 390. The Versys 650 has a more upright riding position and a wider, more comfortable seat.

3. Which bike is more affordable?

The KTM Adventure 390 is more affordable than the Kawasaki Versys 650. The Adventure 390 has a starting price of $5,999, while the Versys 650 has a starting price of $8,899.