Quick Analysis
BENELLI 502C
25.0 pts
Unweighted: 13 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 390 ADVENTURE X
14.0 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | — |
| Displacement | 500 | 398.63cc |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder/4-stroke/8-valve | — |
| Power | 35kW at 8500 r/min | 46 @ 8500 |
| Torque | 46N·m/6000 r/min | 39 @ 6500 |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21.5 | 14.5 |
| Mileage | 22 kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 220 | 181 |
| Seat Height | 760 | 825 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Switchable ABS |
| Front Brake | Disc Front Brake 280 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | 320 |
| Front Suspension | Upside down telescopic fork – 135mm | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm diameter, 200mm travel |
| Rear Brake | Disc Front Brake 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | 240 |
| Rear Suspension | Telescopic coil spring oil damped – 50mm | WP APEX Monoshock, 205mm wheel travel Adjustable for Preload (10 steps) |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 | 100/90 x 19 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/60 ZR17 | 130/80x17 |
| Tyre Type | Tube | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | — | LED headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/502cmatteblack.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM-390-Adventure-X_White.webp |
| Color Options | Matte Cognac Red Matte Black | Electronic Orange Ceramic White |
| Cons | Bulk and weight can make city riding or tight manoeuvres tricky: For its size and weight, it’s not the nimblest — U-turns, narrow lanes or heavy traffic require care and effort. Pillion comfort and practicality issues: The rear seat and pillion comfort setup don’t match the front’s promise very well; for two-up rides or long tours with a passenger, it might feel compromised. Ride can be a bit firm: Suspension may feel stiff on certain rough patches or very uneven roads — not the plushest cruiser ride in all conditions. Fuel efficiency and running cost may not be ideal: Given the displacement and weight, fuel consumption and maintenance may turn out costlier than lighter/smaller bikes — something to weigh if you ride daily. Feature-set and usability tradeoffs: While it offers the basics, it misses some modern amenities (e.g. advanced electronics or luggage accessories) that some rivals may provide — limiting its appeal for tourers or riders wanting more convenience. | Tall Seat Height: At 825 mm, the seat may be uncomfortable or difficult to reach for shorter riders, especially off-road. Lack of Cornering ABS: Unlike the standard 390 Adventure, the X variant skips cornering ABS, which reduces safety margin when leaning hard. Limited Traction Control: Fewer electronic aids compared to higher-spec ADVs — could be less forgiving on unpredictable terrain. Vibrations at High RPMs: The single-cylinder engine can produce noticeable vibrations when pushed hard, affecting comfort. Moderate Wind Protection: The windscreen and fairing design might not deflect wind strongly enough at high speeds. Suspension Can Feel Harsh on Pavement: While great off-road, the long-travel suspension may feel firm or bouncy on uneven city roads. Maintenance Cost: Premium suspension components and tech might lead to higher service costs compared to simpler commuter bikes. Limited Pillion Comfort: The seat design and limited rear padding may not provide much comfort for a passenger over long distances. |
| Detailed Overview | When you fire up the 502C, you wake a 500-cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that’s built around a DOHC, 8-valve layout. It uses electronic fuel injection and runs a fairly high compression ratio, so throttle response feels sharp and smooth — no lags or jerks when you twist the throttle. The engine makes about 35 kW (roughly 47–48 PS) around 8,500 rpm, and delivers its peak torque of around 46 Nm at 6,000 rpm. On Indian roads, that translates into a character that’s friendly in traffic yet competent and eager when you open it up — enough grunt for overtakes, decent roll-on from mid-range, and comfortable cruising at highway speeds without feeling stressed. Once you slot it into the 6-speed gearbox, shifts feel precise, and the chain drive delivers power without fuss. In daily commuting or in stop-go city traffic, the clutch and gearbox combine to give a relaxed ride. On open roads or highways, the 500-cc twin keeps things stable and alive, rather than peaky or nervous. What helps the 502C feel grounded is its chassis and suspension setup. It rides on a sturdy steel trellis frame, which provides a nice balance between rigidity and a bit of give — meaning that rough roads or small bumps don’t jolt you harshly. Up front, there’s an upside-down telescopic fork; at the rear, a mono-shock. The suspension soaking capabilities make city potholes, uneven surfaces or speed-breakers feel far less jarring than you might expect for a cruiser. If you ride alone or with a pillion, the rear suspension remains composed — and the preload-adjustability allows a little customization when carrying different loads or luggage. Physically, the 502C sits in a comforting sweet spot. Its seat is relatively low (so many riders find their feet touch the ground easily at stops) and yet the bike carries enough bulk and presence to feel like a proper cruiser. The wheelbase gives it stability at speed, and while it won’t dance through narrow alleys or squeeze through bumper-to-bumper traffic like a lighter commuter, once you’re rolling, it tracks straight and steady rather than nervous or twitchy. For longer rides — intercity or weekend rides — this relaxed stability becomes a big advantage: you don’t get tired quickly, and control remains confidence-inspiring. Stopping power on the 502C matches the confidence the engine gives. With dual discs up front and a disc at the rear — all backed by dual-channel ABS — braking feels strong and progressive. You’re unlikely to get unpleasant surprises under hard braking, whether you’re solo or riding with a pillion and load. The setup gives assurance even in tricky situations: a quick stop, a sudden swerve, or braking on slippery surfaces — the bike handles them calmly. Range-wise, the 21.5-litre fuel tank lets you cover decent distances without frequent fuel stops, which is a welcome bonus if you enjoy longer rides or city-to-city stretches. Add to that the comfortable ergonomics — upright posture, thoughtfully placed footpegs and a well-padded seat — and the 502C becomes a machine that invites you to ride for hours without undue fatigue. Of course, it’s not a light commuter or nimble sport-bike: the weight and geometry mean low-speed manoeuvres and tight traffic can be a little unwieldy, and quick lane-splits or U-turns require a bit of care. But that’s part of the deal when you choose a cruiser: in return for a laid-back, planted ride and a relaxed highway character, you trade a bit of agility. In real-world terms, the 502C feels like a “grown-up’s cruiser” — balanced, capable, and accessible. It gives you more than enough power to enjoy open roads, offers comfort and stability for longer rides, yet remains manageable enough for daily city commuting (with some care). For a mid-size cruiser, it strikes that rare balance where you don’t need to be a hardened rider to enjoy what it delivers, yet it doesn’t ride like a mere commuter. | The KTM 390 Adventure X is a scaled-down, lightweight adventure motorcycle designed to give riders a taste of serious off-road experience without stepping into the realm of big-bore ADV bikes. Built to be agile yet capable, the 390 Adventure X combines rugged design, modern technology, and a peppy engine to deliver a balanced and versatile package. The motorcycle is powered by a 398 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that makes about 46 PS and 39 Nm of torque, which gives it the right punch for both highway rides and trail days. One of the most appealing aspects of the Adventure X is its chassis and suspension setup. With WP APEX 43 mm USD front forks and a capable rear monoshock, the motorcycle offers good travel and suspension compliance. Its ground clearance of approximately 228 mm makes it suitable for mild to moderate off-road terrain, while its relatively light kerb weight improves maneuverability. Riders can confidently tackle gravel roads, broken trails or even slower forest paths, thanks to the suspension and lightweight design, making it a true entry-level adventure bike with real trail capability. KTM has equipped this motorcycle with modern electronics to back up its rugged design. A 5-inch TFT display serves as the cockpit, giving the rider access to useful ride data like gear position, speed, trip information, fuel, and more. The bike also supports Quickshifter+ for clutchless upshifts and downshifts in favorable conditions, enhancing the sporty feel. While the 390 Adventure X omits some high-end electronics like cornering ABS or full stability control, it includes switchable off-road ABS to allow controlled rear-wheel sliding for better off-trail control. Ergonomically, the Adventure X leans into KTM’s adventure-riding DNA with a tall seat, wide handlebars, and an upright riding position. This setup allows riders to stand comfortably on the footpegs—a critical feature when riding on uneven terrains. Despite its adventure-focused build, the 14.5-litre fuel tank gives it enough range for weekend touring or mixed terrain trips, particularly when coupled with the engine’s efficiency. In terms of design, the 390 Adventure X is rugged and purposeful. It features adventure-ready styling with skeletal fairing, broad fuel tank covers, an adjustable windscreen, and robust graphics that align with its off-road intentions. The slim bodywork and adventure-inspired elements give it an aesthetic that is as functional as it is stylish. While the 390 Adventure X is capable in a variety of conditions, it’s not without trade-offs. The tall seat height can be a hurdle for shorter riders, and the firm suspension may feel a bit harsh on smooth city roads. The lack of advanced rider aids like cornering ABS may deter some who ride aggressively on twisty roads. Vibration from the single-cylinder engine at high revs is also a possibility, especially when pushed hard. Despite these compromises, the KTM 390 Adventure X remains a compelling choice for riders who want real adventure capability in a manageable, lightweight frame. It’s ideal for new or intermediate dual-sport enthusiasts who want a rugged bike that excels off-road but doesn’t feel overkill on the pavement. With a strong balance of performance, technology, and capability, the 390 Adventure X reinforces KTM’s position in the adventure motorcycle segment by offering substance without overwhelming complexity. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage? A: The mileage is around 22–25 kmpl in real-world riding, while the official claim is roughly 26 kmpl. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank capacity is 21.5 litres. Q: What is the kerb weight of the bike? A: The Benelli 502C weighs approximately 216 kg. Q: What kind of engine does it have? A: It uses a 500cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin DOHC engine producing about 47.5 PS and 46 Nm of torque. Q: What braking setup does it come with? A: It has dual discs at the front and a single disc at the rear, supported by dual-channel ABS. Q: How many gears does it have? A: The bike comes with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: What is the seat height? A: The seat height is around 760 mm, making it accessible for most riders. Q: Is the Benelli 502C good for long rides? A: Yes, its comfortable ergonomics, smooth twin-cylinder engine, and large fuel tank make it well-suited for long-distance riding. Q: Is it easy to handle in city traffic? A: It is manageable, but its 216 kg weight means low-speed manoeuvres require some care. Q: What type of suspension does it use? A: It has an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock with preload adjustability. Q: Does it have LED lighting? A: Yes, the 502C features LED headlights, tail lamps, and indicators. Q: Is the bike suitable for beginners? A: It can be used by newer riders who are confident, but the weight and size may feel challenging for complete beginners. Q: What is the top speed? A: The top speed is generally around 160 km/h. Q: Are the ergonomics comfortable? A: Yes, it offers a relaxed cruiser stance with a low seat and forward-set footpegs. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 390 Adventure X? A: The 390 Adventure X is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. According to KTM India, its displacement is 398.63 cc, producing 46 PS @ 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm torque @ 6,500 rpm. Q: What type of transmission does this bike use? A: It uses a 6-speed gearbox, according to KTM’s technical specs. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and the expected range? A: The Adventure X comes with a 14.5 litre fuel tank. This gives it decent range for touring, especially when combined with its efficient engine. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is 825 mm, according to several official sources. The ground clearance is 228 mm, which helps its off-road credentials. Q: What suspension setup does the 390 Adventure X use? A: It features WP APEX 43 mm USD front forks with 200 mm of travel, and a WP APEX monoshock at the rear. Q: What brakes and ABS features are on this bike? A: The bike uses a 320 mm front disc and 240 mm rear disc, per KTM’s spec sheet. It also offers switchable ABS, including an Off-Road mode, but does not have cornering ABS on this X variant. Q: What electronic rider aids are offered? A: The Adventure X includes Ride-by-Wire throttle, a Quickshifter+, and switchable off-road ABS. Unlike the standard 390 Adventure, it doesn't include features like cornering ABS or full traction control (MTC). Q: What does the instrument panel look like? A: It comes with a 5-inch TFT display that provides essential ride information and adapts to ambient light. Q: Is the Adventure X good for off-road riding? A: Yes — with its 19″ front / 17″ rear wheel setup, high ground clearance, and off-road ABS, it’s designed to tackle dirt trails and gravel while remaining very capable on-road. Q: What is the kerb / wet weight of the bike? A: The kerb (fully fueled) weight is around 176 kg, per KTM’s UK technical spec sheet. Q: What is the rated fuel efficiency / mileage? A: According to sources like BikeWale, the mileage is claimed to be around 30 km/l for the 390 Adventure X. Some real-world owners report 21–25 km/l, depending on conditions. Q: Are there some known issues or drawbacks reported by owners? A: Yes — several riders mention vibrations at higher RPMs, particularly in the footpegs and handlebar. Also, some users believe KTM has compromised on certain parts quality (e.g., the side stand assembly) to cut costs. |
| Price Variants | | 580000 | | 326178 |
| Pros | Looks and road presence: The 502C has a bold, muscular cruiser-style appearance. Its design draws attention, giving you strong presence on the road. Balanced engine and rideability: The 500 cc twin offers smooth, linear power delivery that’s easy to manage in city traffic but still capable on highways — enough punch for overtakes or cruising without being overly aggressive. Comfortable ergonomics for many riders: With a low-ish seat height and relaxed riding posture (wide handlebars, forward footpegs), it’s reasonably comfortable for day-to-day rides or weekend trips. Good for highway and long rides: Large fuel tank and stable chassis make it well-suited for longer rides — less frequent refuelling and a planted feel at cruising speeds. Decent performance + braking hardware: The bike’s brakes (disc + ABS) and suspension are competent for its segment, offering reasonably confident stopping power and decent ride quality over typical road surfaces. | Lightweight & Nimble: Being a small-displacement ADV, it’s easier to manage than larger dual-sport bikes, making it ideal for both urban and trail use. Good Power for Class: Its ~398 cc single-cylinder engine provides enough punch for highway cruising and off-road sections without being too intimidating. Long-Travel Suspension: Equipped with WP APEX USD forks and a capable rear monoshock, it offers very good travel for handling rough terrain. High Ground Clearance: With around 228 mm of ground clearance, the 390 Adventure X is well-suited for mild to moderate off-road trails. Off-Road ABS Mode: Switchable ABS allows the rear wheel to slide slightly in off-road mode, which provides more control on loose surfaces. Modern Tech Features: Features like Quickshifter+, ride-by-wire throttle, and a 5-inch TFT display add a premium, tech-savvy feel. Good Fuel Range: With a 14.5 L fuel tank and decent efficiency, it offers a respectable touring range for a mid-sized ADV. Durable Build: Trellis frame and quality components contribute to its rugged build, making it reliable for adventure rides. |
| Starter | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6 Speed Manual |
