Quick notes
- The Honda CB500X is easy to ride, has a good balance of power and torque, and offers a number of features that are not available on the KTM 390 Adventure.
- The KTM 390 Adventure has a more aggressive riding position, more powerful brakes, and a number of off-road-specific features that are not available on the Honda CB500X.
- The Honda CB500X is a better choice for riders who are looking for a comfortable and versatile bike, while the KTM 390 Adventure is a better choice for riders who are looking for a more off-road-oriented bike.
The Honda CB500X and KTM 390 Adventure are two of the most popular middleweight adventure bikes on the market. Both bikes offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability, making them ideal for both new and experienced riders. But which bike is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the Honda CB500X and KTM 390 Adventure head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
The Honda CB500X is powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine that produces 47 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque. The KTM 390 Adventure is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder engine that produces 43 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the Honda CB500X has a slight edge in terms of power and torque. However, the KTM 390 Adventure’s single-cylinder engine is lighter and more compact, giving it a better power-to-weight ratio. As a result, the KTM 390 Adventure feels more responsive and agile than the Honda CB500X, especially at low speeds.
Handling and Suspension
The Honda CB500X has a traditional telescopic fork and a Pro-Link rear suspension. The KTM 390 Adventure has an upside-down fork and a WP rear shock.
Both bikes offer good handling and suspension, but the KTM 390 Adventure has a slight edge in terms of off-road performance. The KTM 390 Adventure’s upside-down fork is more rigid than the Honda CB500X’s telescopic fork, and its WP rear shock provides more damping and control.
Braking
The Honda CB500X has a single front disc brake and a single rear disc brake. The KTM 390 Adventure has a dual front disc brake and a single rear disc brake.
Both bikes offer good braking performance, but the KTM 390 Adventure has a slight edge in terms of stopping power. The KTM 390 Adventure’s dual front disc brakes provide more stopping power than the Honda CB500X’s single front disc brake.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Honda CB500X has a more upright and relaxed riding position than the KTM 390 Adventure. The Honda CB500X’s seat is also wider and more comfortable than the KTM 390 Adventure’s seat.
The KTM 390 Adventure has a more aggressive riding position than the Honda CB500X. The KTM 390 Adventure’s seat is also narrower and firmer than the Honda CB500X’s seat.
Features
The Honda CB500X comes standard with a number of features that are not available on the KTM 390 Adventure, including:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Traction control
- Automatic transmission
- Cruise control
- Heated grips
The KTM 390 Adventure comes standard with a number of features that are not available on the Honda CB500X, including:
- Off-road tires
- Handguards
- Crash bars
- Skid plate
Price
The Honda CB500X has a starting price of $6,699. The KTM 390 Adventure has a starting price of $5,999.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Honda CB500X is a great choice for riders who are looking for a comfortable and versatile middleweight adventure bike. The Honda CB500X is easy to ride, has a good balance of power and torque, and offers a number of features that are not available on the KTM 390 Adventure.
The KTM 390 Adventure is a great choice for riders who are looking for a more off-road-oriented middleweight adventure bike. The KTM 390 Adventure has a more aggressive riding position, more powerful brakes, and a number of off-road-specific features that are not available on the Honda CB500X.
The Bottom Line
The Honda CB500X and KTM 390 Adventure are two of the best middleweight adventure bikes on the market. Both bikes offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability, making them ideal for both new and experienced riders. The Honda CB500X is a better choice for riders who are looking for a comfortable and versatile bike, while the KTM 390 Adventure is a better choice for riders who are looking for a more off-road-oriented bike.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The Honda CB500X has a slight edge in terms of power and torque.
Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient?
A: The KTM 390 Adventure is more fuel-efficient than the Honda CB500X.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable?
A: The Honda CB500X has a more comfortable riding position than the KTM 390 Adventure.
Q: Which bike is better off-road?
A: The KTM 390 Adventure is better off-road than the Honda CB500X.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The KTM 390 Adventure has a lower starting price than the Honda CB500X.
