2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Specifications Compared

On paper, the KTM 390 Adventure sounds like the sportier of the two 

• The KTM 390 Adventure makes 43.5PS and 37Nm from its famed 373cc mill. 
• The Himalayan, on the other hand, makes 40PS and 40Nm
• What should help the Himalayan 452 when going off-road is its 21-inch front wheel, compared to the KTM’s 19-inch unit.

If you’re looking for an adventure bike in the sub 500cc segment, firstly, congratulations, because that is truly a very practical segment, especially for India. Secondly, if you are, you must have stumbled over both the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 and the KTM 390 Adventure, both of which have proved to be very good bikes in their own, different ways. 

So if you are confused between the two, here’s the one that you should go for: 

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Design

The KTM 390 Adventure showcases a striking design inspired by the KTM 450 Rally, encapsulating a sleek body around its muscular trellis frame. In its 2022 iteration, the model introduces redesigned five-spoke cast wheels, touted to be more robust than their predecessors. Notably, the steel trellis subframe is removable, enhancing versatility. The bike's aesthetics are completed by a streamlined tail section, an upswept exhaust, and robust dual-purpose 130-section Metzeler Tourance rubber.

The Himalayan 452, on the other hand, gets a simple design language that’s also an ode to the older Himalayan 411. 

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Engines

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 debuts the Sherpa 450 engine, boasting a displacement of 452cc and delivering 40hp and 40Nm. Remarkably, this engine introduces several firsts for Royal Enfield, including ride-by-wire, liquid cooling, double-overhead camshafts, an aluminium bore, and a forged piston. 

With an 84mm bore and an 81.5mm stroke, the Sherpa 450 exhibits a departure from the traditional slow-revving motors of Royal Enfield. Despite the modern engine sound, the torque curve is meticulously crafted to preserve the distinctive Himalayan character.

Contrastingly, the KTM 390 Adventure's engine offers a smooth and docile performance, exhibiting well-behaved characteristics at city speeds. Its longer chassis and relaxed steering geometry contribute to a stable ride, devoid of the jerky behaviour associated with some KTMs. Commuting on this bike is a pleasure, featuring a light clutch, smooth throttle responses, and minimal engine heat. Beyond city limits, a surge of power awaits riders beyond 6,000rpm, ensuring an exhilarating experience.

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

The Himalayan 452 impresses with a new steel twin-spar frame that utilizes the engine as a stressed member, eliminating the need for a lower cradle. The repositioned rear shock linkage enhances ground clearance, while larger brakes at both ends address a previous limitation. The bike maintains a 21-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, with the latter now boasting a wider 140-section radial tyre.

In contrast, the KTM 390 Adventure may experience stalling at low speeds, but a simple modification involving a smaller front sprocket resolves this issue. This modification significantly improves low-speed tractability and in-gear acceleration without compromising top speed. On the highway, the bike effortlessly reaches 100kph, allowing riders to cruise at 120-130kph with ease. The bike strikes a balance between performance and a relaxed riding experience.

The Himalayan's prowess extends beyond asphalt, delivering an exhilarating off-road experience without compromising on ride comfort and suspension composure. The suspension strikes a harmonious balance, avoiding excessive softness or firmness. Potholes that would induce discomfort on other bikes are effortlessly absorbed by the Himalayan, making it a serene companion on various road surfaces.

Off-road enthusiasts can push the Himalayan to its limits, thanks to features like 230mm of ground clearance and 200mm of suspension travel at both ends. However, it's the quality of suspension control that truly sets the Himalayan apart. The bike excels in handling big jumps, soaking them in beautifully, while the front wheel adeptly absorbs large impacts. The elongated chassis, with a 40mm increase in wheelbase to 1,510mm, contributes to a stable and controlled ride even when encountering unexpected

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Dimensions

The Himalayan 452, with a kerb weight of 196kg, is slightly lighter than its predecessor but heavier than competitors like the Triumph Scrambler 400X and the KTM. The bike projects a substantial presence with a 17-litre tank, contributing to a roomy riding position. However, this larger stature may make the Himalayan 452 less approachable for some riders. Seat height is adjustable, ranging from 825mm to 845mm, accommodating a variety of rider heights. For those seeking a lower seat height, an accessory option reduces it to 805mm.

In terms of off-road capabilities, the 390 Adventure maintains its prowess with 170mm and 177mm of front and rear suspension travel, respectively, and 200mm of ground clearance. However, the bike's ergonomics and suspension setup may require consideration for those prioritizing off-road adventures.

The Himalayan 452’s impressive new chassis strikes a remarkable balance between stability and agility. Surprising riders with its capabilities on smooth and winding roads post the Atal tunnel, the bike instills confidence during spirited cornering without a hint of nervousness. The 21-inch front wheel, though requiring a bit of effort when flicking it from side to side, remains largely inconspicuous as the Himalayan effortlessly navigates corners.

2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 vs KTM 390 Adventure: Price

While the KTM 390 Adventure’s standard variant is slightly pricey, the brand had earlier this year introduced the X, whose prices begin from a mouth-watering Rs 2.80 lakh. Talking about the Himalayan 452, on the other hand, we think it could be priced around the Rs 2.80 lakh, ex-showroom mark. 

Verdict

All in all, both bikes turn out to be really nice bikes in their own ways. What we loved about the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 was just how easy it is to use it, just how easy it is to extract all the performance and capabilities out of it. Even when going off-road, despite it weighing a fair bit, the bike doesn’t feel difficult to manage or ride. Everything happens smoothly and the Himalayan 452 inspires a lot of confidence.

The KTM 390 Adventure, on the other hand, isn’t straightforward and you have to work it out to extract all the performance. But once you do, it’s definitely the more exciting bike of the two, at least on the tarmac. 

So which one should you go for? Well, if you want a fast and sporty adventure bike, and if your riding is mainly to the tarmac, it’s the KTM 390 Adventure that stands out. Do note that this KTM will require a more experienced hand of the two too. But if you want an easy-going, no-nonsense adventure bike that’ll handle pretty much anything you throw at it, it’s the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 that you should consider.