What to know
- On the other hand, the Meteor 350’s shorter wheelbase and heavier weight contribute to a more stable and predictable ride, making it a better choice for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed riding experience.
- The Meteor 350 captivates with its classic charm, comfortable ride, and budget-friendly price, making it an ideal choice for beginners, urban commuters, and those seeking a laid-back adventure experience.
- On the other hand, the KTM 390 Adventure unleashes a torrent of power and agility, paired with advanced technology and off-road prowess, catering to experienced riders and adventure enthusiasts seeking a more thrilling and versatile motorcycle.
The advent of the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and the KTM 390 Adventure has ignited a fiery debate among adventure enthusiasts. These two motorcycles, hailing from different worlds, offer a tantalizing blend of capabilities and characteristics that have left riders torn between their allure. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the depths of the Meteor 350 vs. KTM 390 Adventure debate, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that ultimately determine which one emerges as the victor in your adventure-seeking heart.
Power and Performance
Meteor 350:
- Air-cooled, single-cylinder engine
- Displacement: 349cc
- Maximum power: 20.2 bhp @ 6100 rpm
- Maximum torque: 27 Nm @ 4000 rpm
KTM 390 Adventure:
- Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine
- Displacement: 373.3cc
- Maximum power: 43 bhp @ 9000 rpm
- Maximum torque: 37 Nm @ 7000 rpm
The KTM 390 Adventure reigns supreme in the power department, boasting a substantial lead over the Meteor 350. Its liquid-cooled engine unleashes a surge of power and torque, ensuring exhilarating acceleration and effortless overtaking. However, the Meteor 350’s air-cooled engine provides a smoother, more relaxed ride, with its low-end torque making it a capable companion for leisurely cruising and city commuting.
Handling and Agility
Meteor 350:
- Wheelbase: 1400mm
- Ground clearance: 170mm
- Seat height: 765mm
- Weight: 191kg
KTM 390 Adventure:
- Wheelbase: 1430mm
- Ground clearance: 200mm
- Seat height: 855mm
- Weight: 158kg
The KTM 390 Adventure excels in handling and agility, thanks to its lighter weight and longer wheelbase. Its nimble nature allows it to navigate twisty roads with ease, while its generous ground clearance makes it a formidable contender on rough terrain. On the other hand, the Meteor 350’s shorter wheelbase and heavier weight contribute to a more stable and predictable ride, making it a better choice for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed riding experience.
Off-Road Capabilities
Meteor 350:
- Spoked wheels
- Basic suspension
- Limited ground clearance
KTM 390 Adventure:
- Spoked wheels
- Advanced WP suspension
- Excellent ground clearance
When the tarmac ends, the KTM 390 Adventure truly shines. Its advanced WP suspension, coupled with its high ground clearance, enables it to tackle challenging off-road conditions with confidence. The Meteor 350, while capable of handling light off-roading, falls short in this area due to its limited ground clearance and basic suspension.
Features and Technology
Meteor 350:
- Tripper Navigation
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Single-channel ABS
KTM 390 Adventure:
- TFT display
- Smartphone connectivity
- Cornering ABS
- Traction control
The KTM 390 Adventure boasts an impressive array of features and technology, including a large TFT display, smartphone connectivity, and advanced rider aids such as cornering ABS and traction control. While the Meteor 350 offers some essential features like Tripper Navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, it lacks the more sophisticated technology found on the KTM.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Meteor 350:
- Upright riding position
- Comfortable seat
- Relaxed ergonomics
KTM 390 Adventure:
- Adventure-oriented riding position
- Adjustable windscreen
- Height-adjustable seat
The Meteor 350 prioritizes comfort, with its upright riding position, well-cushioned seat, and relaxed ergonomics providing a fatigue-free riding experience over long distances. The KTM 390 Adventure, while not as comfortable as the Meteor 350, offers an adjustable windscreen and height-adjustable seat, allowing riders to tailor the ergonomics to their preference.
Price and Value
Meteor 350:
- Starting price: INR 1.90 lakhs (ex-showroom)
KTM 390 Adventure:
- Starting price: INR 3.29 lakhs (ex-showroom)
The Meteor 350 holds a significant advantage in terms of price, offering a more affordable entry point into the adventure touring segment. The KTM 390 Adventure, while more expensive, justifies its premium price with its advanced features, superior performance, and off-road capabilities.
Takeaways
The Meteor 350 vs. KTM 390 Adventure debate boils down to individual preferences and riding style. The Meteor 350 captivates with its classic charm, comfortable ride, and budget-friendly price, making it an ideal choice for beginners, urban commuters, and those seeking a laid-back adventure experience. On the other hand, the KTM 390 Adventure unleashes a torrent of power and agility, paired with advanced technology and off-road prowess, catering to experienced riders and adventure enthusiasts seeking a more thrilling and versatile motorcycle.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which motorcycle is better for off-roading, the Meteor 350 or the KTM 390 Adventure?
A: The KTM 390 Adventure is the superior choice for off-roading, thanks to its advanced WP suspension, high ground clearance, and off-road-oriented features.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Meteor 350 offers a more comfortable ride for long distances, with its upright riding position, well-cushioned seat, and relaxed ergonomics.
Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Meteor 350 is more fuel-efficient than the KTM 390 Adventure, with its air-cooled engine and lower power output.
