Triumph in the Himalayas: KTM’s New Adventure Lineup Conquers Upper Dolpa
31st August 2025, Kathmandu
In a true test of man and machine, a team of three dedicated KTM riders has achieved an extraordinary feat, conquering the famously treacherous terrain of Upper Dolpa on the company’s latest adventure motorcycles.
KTM Adventure Bikes
The journey, which saw Bijay Shrestha, Bikesh Shrestha, and Dhiraj Basnet navigate the formidable Mustang route and cross the Dhukung Pass at a staggering altitude of 5,500 meters, served as a powerful demonstration of the KTM’s new adventure bikes’ resilience and performance in the face of Nepal’s most extreme conditions.
This epic ride was not just about the riders’ endurance but also a vivid showcase for KTM’s recently launched lineup in Nepal. The star of the show, the newly unveiled KTM 390 Enduro R, was put through its paces on the rocky, high-altitude trails.
Priced at Rs. 9,99,900 in Nepal, this machine is purpose-built for hardcore off-road enthusiasts. Its specifications speak volumes about its capability: a 398.63cc engine, a substantial 253mm ground clearance, and an array of advanced electronic aids including multiple ride modes, traction control, Quickshifter+, and switchable ABS.
Its minimalist and rugged design, featuring a tall beak-style fender, wide handlebars, and a flat seat, is optimized for maximum rider mobility on challenging surfaces. Rolling on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup, the 177kg Enduro R is further enhanced by long-travel suspension (200mm front, 205mm rear) and dual-disc brakes, making it a true beast on the trails.
The 2025 Adventure Series Joins the Expedition
Alongside the Enduro R, the expedition also featured models from the recently introduced 2025 Adventure series. The KTM 390 Adventure, priced at Rs. 10.74 lakh, proved its mettle by balancing high-performance cruising with exceptional trail agility.
Its 399cc single-cylinder engine, which produces 46 hp and 39 Nm of torque, provided ample power to tackle the steep ascents and rugged paths of the Mustang route.
The 390 Adventure’s versatility is supported by its 21/17-inch spoke wheels, three riding modes (Street, Rain, Off-Road), a fully adjustable suspension, and a 5-inch TFT display with integrated navigation—essential features for a journey through one of the world’s most remote regions.
For newer riders or those seeking a more accessible entry point into the adventure segment, the KTM 250 Adventure joined the fleet. Priced at Rs. 7,49,900, it retains KTM’s bold adventure styling and impressive off-road prowess.
Powered by a 249cc engine, the 250 Adventure offers a very capable package with its 227mm ground clearance, long-travel suspension, ride-by-wire, and Off-Road ABS.
Its presence on the journey highlights that KTM’s off-road DNA is not limited to its top-tier models but is a core part of its entire adventure motorcycle lineup.
KTM’s Legacy of Off-Road Prowess Reaffirmed
By successfully navigating the treacherous high-altitude pass and rugged trails of Upper Dolpa, the KTM riders have not only etched their names into the annals of Nepali motorcycling history but have also provided the ultimate proof of concept for the new KTM Enduro and Adventure bikes.
This grueling expedition goes far beyond a typical product launch, demonstrating the bikes’ genuine capability and reliability under conditions that few other machines would dare to face.
This achievement solidifies KTM’s position as a leader in off-road adventure biking in Nepal. The successful expedition to Upper Dolpa, a region synonymous with extreme difficulty, reaffirms that KTM’s commitment to building performance-oriented, capable, and durable motorcycles is unwavering.
For adventure riders in Nepal, this feat provides compelling evidence that the new Enduro and Adventure series are ready to take on any challenge, no matter how daunting, and push the boundaries of exploration.
For more: KTM Adventure Bikes