Upcoming KTM 490 Adventure Spied Testing With All-Terrain Tyres and Minimal Body Panels

The upcoming KTM 490 Adventure has been spotted during testing abroad. This new model is expected to bring more power and better touring ability to the middleweight adventure segment.

The test mule appeared with very few body panels, but its overall shape clearly showed it as a proper adventure motorcycle.

How Will the KTM 490 Adventure Look? 

Even in its unfinished state, the 490 Adventure displayed typical adventure bike proportions. It has a tall stance, long-travel suspension, and upright riding ergonomics. The front looks similar to the 390 Adventure family.

The test bike did not have a high-mounted front fender, which is common on many adventure models. This could be because it is still an early prototype. It was fitted with block-pattern dual-purpose tyres, most likely Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR, which offer good capability on both roads and off-road trails.

The wheel setup includes a 21-inch front and a 17-inch rear with tubeless spoke wheels. This combination is ideal for rough terrain. The suspension comes from WP, and brakes feature a single disc at both ends with a radial caliper at the front for better stopping power.

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What Engine Will the KTM 490 Adventure Get?

The KTM Adventure 490 is expected to get a new parallel-twin engine, likely producing 60 to 70 PS. A similar engine was recently spotted on the upcoming KTM 490 Duke.

While it is being widely reported that this engine could be a result of KTM and Bajaj's partnership, we believe KTM could be collaborating with CFMoto for the development and production of the Adventure 490 and more upcoming 490cc models.

Compared to KTM’s single-cylinder engines, the parallel-twin should offer smoother performance and better refinement, making the bike more comfortable for highway cruising and long-distance touring.

The new 490 platform is likely to be used across several models in the future, including Duke and RC variants. In the adventure segment, the 490 Adventure could compete with motorcycles like the Honda NX500 and BMW F 450 GS.

Also Read - Top 5 Highlights You Need to Know About the BMW F 450 GS
 

When Will KTM 490 Adventure launch in India?

If development stays on track, the Adventure 490 could make its global debut sometime in 2027, followed by an India launch.

KTM is expected to manufacture this bike locally in order to keep prices competitive, especially against the BMW F 450 GS, which is manufactured locally by TVS at their Hosur plant.

The 490 Adventure looks set to fill the gap between the 390 series and larger 790 models in KTM's lineup.

Image Source: Motobob via YouTube