KTM 390 Adventure Ownership Experience: Russell Heredia – The Hardcore KTM Fan

Russell has owned 3 KTMs in the past 13 years, including the KTM 200 Duke, 390 Duke and 390 Adventure

Every motorcycle brand has its fans who love the brand and are strongly loyal to it. But, there’s something different about KTM fans. They are just built differently like their machines and their craze for their KTMs is on a different level. KTM fans believe in testing the limits of their bikes and themselves whether on the track or off-road. One such hardcore KTM fan is Russell Heredia, who has owned 3 different KTM bikes in the last 13 years. He has been to two KTM ProXP Adventure Tours – the North East Adventure Tour and the Upper Mustang Adventure Tour. He is also a regular participant in regional KTM Pro XP Adventure Events

Russell’s Journey with His KTMs

It was the 1st generation KTM 200 Duke, where it all started for Russell. He got home his 200 Duke back in 2012 and that motorcycle made him fall in love with KTMs. Being the most powerful 200cc bike of its time Russell enjoyed riding around his 200 Duke to the fullest.

Later In 2016, he upgraded to the bigger KTM 390 Duke, which filled his life with even more excitement and thrill. Russell had his fair share of fun on his 390 Duke as well. He took that bike to Ladakh, did a 3,500km trip, rode all the way from Pangong to Hanle and made a lot of memories on his 390 Duke.

As such a passionate biker who loves touring and exploring different parts of the country on his bike, Russell couldn’t stop himself from getting his hands on the KTM 390 Adventure. Russell wanted the ADV 390 when it was launched in December 2019, but COVID-19 made him delay his purchase. He finally got the KTM 390 Adventure in 2021, and there has been no looking back since!

Always a KTM fan!

When we asked Russell if he was considering any other Adventure bikes before buying his KTM 390 Adventure. Russell replied, “I never had second thoughts! I’ve always followed the KTM factory racing team, their off-road pedigree, and Dakar dominance. When the ADV 390 launched, it was a dream come true for riders like me and I knew I had to get one”. 

Russell has also encouraged many of his friends and fellow riders to get into the KTM family. He further revealed that one of his female friend is also a motorcycle enthusiast and she loves riding bikes for longer distances as well. He told us that she had a BMW G 310 GS, which she recently sold, and Russell encouraged her to get a new KTM bike. Now, she is planning to upgrade to the new 2025 390 Adventure.

Russell told us that his KTMs never-ever disappointed him. Speaking about how KTM as a brand supports its riders and customers, he commented, “KTM has been amazing. I’ve collaborated with them on multiple occasions, led multiple KTM Pro XP rides, and hosted coffee meets as well. Their dealership support is seamless, parts availability has never been an issue. Even during my North-East ride, my bike was delayed in transit, and KTM provided me with a replacement bike for three days. That’s rare for any brand!” 

Russell also shared that he made many good friends in the KTM owners community during the rides and KTM Academy training sessions. He further talked about KTM ProXP Adventure Academy and said, “KTM ensures riders get professional coaching, making them more skilled and disciplined. I’ve been riding for decades, but even I had to unlearn certain habits to improve my off-road skills, thanks to KTM Academy." 

This was just a sneak peek into the happening life of a KTM owner. Through the KTM Pro XP rides, KTM Academy and their long tours, KTM ensures that its riders test out the capabilities of their bikes to the fullest, keep making good memories, and keep upskilling themselves while having a lot of fun. If you also want to experience such exciting adventures and connect with such passionate bikers, choose a KTM bike that suits you and be part of the KTM rider community. Visit the KTM India website for more details.