The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure are two of the most popular midweight adventure motorcycles in 2025. Both bikes offer a mix of on-road comfort and off-road capability, but they cater to different riding styles.
So, which one is the better choice for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down the engine performance, off-road capability, technology, comfort, and price to help you decide.
🏍️ Engine & Performance: Power vs. Torque
| Feature | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled | 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Power Output | 40 HP @ 8,000 RPM | 43 HP @ 9,000 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm @ 5,500 RPM | 37 Nm @ 7,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slipper clutch | 6-speed with quickshifter |
| Top Speed | ~150 km/h (93 mph) | ~165 km/h (102 mph) |
| Mileage | ~30-35 km/l | ~28-32 km/l |
🏆 Verdict:
- The KTM 390 Adventure offers slightly more horsepower and a higher top speed, making it better for highway cruising and spirited rides.
- The Himalayan 450 delivers more torque at lower RPMs, making it better suited for off-road adventures and slow-speed maneuvering.
- Both bikes offer a 6-speed gearbox, but the KTM 390 comes with a quickshifter, making shifts smoother at higher speeds.
➡ Best for Highway & Speed: KTM 390 Adventure
➡ Best for Off-Road & Low-End Torque: Himalayan 450
🏔️ Off-Road Capability: Which One Handles Rough Terrain Better?
| Feature | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | USD Forks (Long Travel) | USD Forks (Adjustable) |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock with Linkage | Adjustable Monoshock |
| Front Wheel | 21-inch spoked wheel | 19-inch alloy wheel |
| Rear Wheel | 17-inch spoked wheel | 17-inch alloy wheel |
| Ground Clearance | ~230 mm | ~200 mm |
| Weight | ~190 kg | ~172 kg |
🏆 Verdict:
- The Himalayan 450 is built for off-road adventures, thanks to its 21-inch front wheel, spoked rims, and higher ground clearance.
- The KTM 390 Adventure is more road-focused, with its 19-inch front wheel and alloy rims, making it less forgiving on rough terrain.
- Both bikes offer long-travel suspension, but the KTM has fully adjustable settings, giving riders more control over the suspension feel.
➡ Best for Hardcore Off-Roading: Himalayan 450
➡ Best for Mixed Riding (Street & Light Off-Roading): KTM 390 Adventure
🛠️ Features & Technology: Classic vs. Modern
| Feature | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | TFT Display with Navigation | TFT Display with Navigation |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth & Tripper Navigation | Bluetooth & MyRide App |
| Riding Modes | No riding modes | Off-Road & Street Mode |
| Traction Control | No | Yes |
| ABS | Switchable Dual-Channel | Cornering ABS |
| Lighting | Full LED | Full LED |
🏆 Verdict:
- Both bikes feature a full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, but the KTM’s display is more advanced with additional riding stats.
- The KTM 390 Adventure comes with riding modes and traction control, making it more suited for riders who want extra electronic assistance.
- The Himalayan 450 keeps things simple, focusing on a rugged, adventure-ready setup without extra electronics.
➡ Best for Tech & Features: KTM 390 Adventure
➡ Best for Simplicity & Reliability: Himalayan 450
🪑 Comfort & Ergonomics: Long-Distance Touring
| Feature | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Height | 825 mm (Adjustable) | 855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17L | 14.5L |
| Wind Protection | Adjustable Windscreen | Standard Windscreen |
🏆 Verdict:
- The Himalayan 450 has a lower seat height (825mm), making it easier for shorter riders compared to the KTM’s taller 855mm seat.
- The larger 17L fuel tank on the Himalayan 450 gives it a longer range, making it better for long tours.
- Both bikes have upright ergonomics, but the Himalayan’s relaxed stance is more comfortable for long rides, while the KTM’s sporty stance is better for aggressive riding.
➡ Best for Comfort & Touring: Himalayan 450
➡ Best for Sporty & Aggressive Riding: KTM 390 Adventure
💰 Price & Value for Money
| Country | Himalayan 450 Price | KTM 390 Adventure Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $6,000 – $6,500 | $7,000 – $7,500 |
| India | ₹2.80 – ₹3.00 lakh | ₹3.30 – ₹3.60 lakh |
| UK | £5,500 – £6,000 | £6,500 – £7,000 |
🏆 Verdict:
- The Himalayan 450 is more affordable than the KTM 390 Adventure in all major markets.
- If you’re on a budget and want a capable ADV bike, the Himalayan 450 offers great value.
- The KTM 390 Adventure justifies its higher price with additional electronics, a quickshifter, and traction control.
➡ Best for Budget & Value: Himalayan 450
➡ Best for Advanced Features & Performance: KTM 390 Adventure
🏆 Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 if you:
✅ Want a rugged, off-road-focused adventure bike
✅ Prefer a lower seat height and comfortable riding posture
✅ Need a simple, reliable motorcycle with fewer electronics
✅ Want a budget-friendly adventure motorcycle
Buy the KTM 390 Adventure if you:
✅ Want a high-tech adventure bike with advanced features
✅ Need a powerful engine for highway speeds
✅ Prefer a lightweight and sporty ADV bike
✅ Want traction control, quickshifter, and riding modes
💬 Which one would you choose – the Himalayan 450 or the KTM 390 Adventure? Let us know in the comments! 🏍️🔥
