With new options from KTM and CFMOTO, the intermediate trail bike segment gains unprecedented competition in Brazil
The Chinese CFMOTO made its production and commercialization in Brazil official at the end of May this year and, now, weeks later, who reinforces its presence in the national market is KTM, which is now commanded by Bajaj in the country. The consolidation of these giants in the world market directly impacts the Brazilian sector and, even more, the minds of consumers, who now have new options in the intermediate trail category. After all, which one will be the best choice?
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In the intermediate trail category, three models appear as novelties: CFMOTO Ibex 450, KTM 390 Adventure R and KTM 390 Adventure X.
If we compare it with competing national motorcycles, that is, trail models homologated for the streets and with efficient off-road capability, the main rival so far is the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, since the BMW F 450 GS has not yet reached the market. Some could mention larger motorcycles, such as the various 700 or 800 options currently available, or smaller, such as the Honda XL300 Tornado, but these already belong to other motorcycle and proposal ranges.
The rider, instructor and two-wheeled specialist, Trinity Ronzella, told AutoPapo that there may even be an “avalanche of fallacies on the internet” comparing these models, but that motorcycles like Honda XRE 300 Sahara, Yamaha 250 Lander and the XL300 Tornado itself do not belong to the same group of motorcycles as these new ones more focused on off-Road
The dispute between the four motorcycles is quite balanced, but each one bets on different characteristics to win over the public.
The CFMOTO Ibex 450 and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 use twin-cylinder and single-cylinder engines, respectively, both developed with a focus on versatility. The Chinese delivers about 44 hp of power, while the Indian offers approximately 40 hp. The new KTM 390 Adventure R and Adventure X share the Austrian’s well-known 399 cm³ single-cylinder, which generates 46 hp, making them the most powerful although smallest of the group.
When it comes to weight, the KTM continue to have the advantage. The Adventure R and X have 165 kg in running order, reaching up to 176 kg fully fueled (oil and fuel). The Himalayan 450 weighs at least 196 kg, while the Ibex 450 is positioned in a middle ground, with about 185 kg.
In terms of chassis, the KTM 390 Adventure R is the most off-road-oriented. It has fully adjustable long-travel suspension, a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, a traditional combination for those looking to face more severe terrain. The Himalayan 450 also uses 21/17 wheels and has a large capacity for adventurous use, while the Ibex 450 bets on a similar set, but adds several standard electronic equipment.
The KTM 390 Adventure X, on the other hand, targets a more urban audience. Although it maintains the same mechanical base as the R version, it uses simpler suspensions, 19/17 wheels and a comfort-oriented setup on highways and light dirt roads.
In terms of technology, the tables turn, and the Ibex 450 appears among the most complete. The model offers traction control, ABS with actuation modes, full LED lighting, TFT panel with connectivity and several electronic features normally found in higher-category motorcycles. The Himalayan 450 also stands out for its modern TFT panel with integrated navigation and mechanical simplicity, a feature valued by many adventurers. KTM, in turn, bets on riding modes, refined electronics and a set focused on performance.
However, above all, the price will be the decisive factor in this dispute. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 currently starts at R$ 29.990, the CFMOTO Ibex 450 arrived on the Brazilian market for R$ 35.990 and the new KTM 390 Adventure X and Adventure R have not yet had their prices revealed.
Specialist Trinity Ronzella pointed out that Royal ENfield, which has the most attractive price, and KTM, even without the values disclosed, are not well-known brands in Brazil. However, the Chinese CFMOTO is still a big news.
Here in Brazil, the CFMOTO Ibex 450 has yet to prove itself. It may even be a beautiful motorcycle, apparently efficient and even consecrated abroad, but here it is new and has to show its value.” Said Ronzella. “It has a very interesting proposal, but I believe that the most interested motorcyclists will be the owners of big trails who are looking for a lighter model to “play” on more agile trails. The most demanding owners of larger models who want a well-finished motorcycle should look for it as a second motorcycle for these purposes. I don’t see it as a product to be sought as a first bike.”
Comparing all models, Trinit believes that who will feel the market will be Royal Enfield, after all it is the one that predominates and has just won competitors.
“The Himalayan 450 is a very cool product that I like a lot, but it is more ‘archaic’ and heavy structured. The advantage I see in it is that, theoretically, it has already proven itself to Brazilians, so this gives a certain security. You can use it off-road, but you can’t put it to ‘grind’ on the heaviest trails, precisely because of its structure, since it’s a heavier bike.”
KTM, in turn, is already a well-established brand and will attract, with the new models and operation, those looking for a specific motorcycle for off-road.
“So, like that, I’m a naked off-road guy without a shadow of a doubt, I would go to the KTM 390. Those who want a little more comfort and make long trips with a quieter motorcycle and with a little more structure in Brazil and South America, even in terms of network, would go with Himalayan 450. And CFMOTO I’m still curious about, because it still has to prove itself.”
