Since we received our KTM 390 Adventure long-term test bike, it has proven to perform better than expected off-road over a range of different terrain. With a nimble chassis, along with a fairly stiff suspension, it’s a confidence inspiring machine on the trail. Yet it is still a bit of a mystery why the ‘Ready to Race’ company didn’t fit their Small ADV with wire-spoke wheels. 

Spoked wheels give a more compliant ride in rough terrain and can absorb punishment better than cast wheels. KTM’s decision to go with cast was likely based on costs, which may have been the sensible choice considering the typical owner will likely never stress the stock wheels. Even so, a set of spokes could unleash some additional capability and confidence in the dirt. At a minimum, it would improve the appearance of the 390 Adventure, giving it that proper adventure bike look.

We previously reported on the extensive number of factory accessories KTM has made available for the 390 Adventure, and the number one question we got was ‘what about spoke wheels?’. Well it looks like KTM has finally answered the call with a new spoke wheel option in their PowerParts catalog. 

We haven’t received full specs on the new wheels yet but it appears the kit contains all the hardware and components needed for a straight forward wheel swap (wave-style brake discs, rear sprocket, cush drive, rim tape). Wheel sizes remain the same 19″ front and 17″ rear, but we haven’t heard if the rim widths have changed. Also, they appear to be tube type wheels which require taking off the wheel to repair a flat.

So far, the new KTM 390 Adventure PowerParts wheels are only available in Europe and Asia but we spoke with KTM North America’s product developer, Quinn Cody, who’s been testing a set and he says he hopes they’ll be made available in the U.S. soon.

No pricing details have been set here in the States at this time, but European websites show a price of €867 Euro for the set which is about $1050 USD. We’ll share more details when we receive additional information from KTM. Stay tuned!

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.