KTM RC 390

KTM RC 390

The KTM RC 390 is back again with a snazzy appearance in a new set of colours just as dynamic and polarising as the bike’s original faired outfit. This faired sports bike was quite hardcore and serious even by the small-capacity standards of America and Europe, and an immediate superhit in India with its angular bodywork and explosive performance. The new KTM RC 390 looks sportier and more aggressive as a result of constant modifications. Motorcycle manufacturers have diverted their focus towards the cushier adventure commuters which led to lower price points and displacement. And this new bike is uncompromising in performance.

How is the Design?

The intended suit of the bike is not as sharper, yet manages to look as aggressive and beastly as before. The sharp edgy front consists of two DRLs and independent projection headlamps. Comfier sitting, kinder ergonomics, a host of electronic and technical nannies and a large fuel tank for travelling longer make it as savage but no more lightweight or powerful than before. The rear-view mirror is wider and ensures better visibility. The new edition uses a combination of high-gloss white and black chrome paint with orange wheels and grid frames. The hint of orange on certain panels of the body makes the bike cooler and sportier. The abdominal exhaust of the bike makes way for the lateral exhaust which is BS6 compliant. The comfort and approachability of the bike is immediately apparent. The clip-on handlebars of the bike can be lowered by almost 14mm for adjusting the aggressive seating posture.

How is the Performance?

The super sport machine carries the same old 337 ss liquid cooling, single cylinder engine. But there are definitely some improvements and modifications such as the Bosch fuel pumps, EVAP and the CAN-BUS system inspired from the KTM Moto 3 WSBK models. This arrangement gives a peak torque of 36 Nm and an unmatched power of 43 PS. It can pick up a maximum speed of 200 kmpl. The engine feels grownup- pretty linear and tractable for the matter, having no glaring spikes or flat spots in its powerband. Throttle transition seems smoother and vibrations more in check. The acceleration is pretty nice but beyond 120 kmph it trails off noticeably and resembles the older BS4 bikes in this aspect.

How does the KTM RC 390 Ride?

The theme is apparent once it sets off. The outgoing KTM RC 390 is known for being super sharp but demands an experienced and precise hand for it to give the most. The new version retains this concerning quality, it is easier to rear it now than before. The new machine feels natural and predictable once the limit is hit, and overall, the KTM RC 390 continues to be sporty and agile which has become more friendly and neutral than before. However, it lives up to its old reputation for being a heavy machine with super-sharp handling. The new brakes and wheels are now lighter and its facelifted weight is cut off painstakingly in some areas like the chain guard and the frame. One cannot feel the few kilos added from the saddle and the bike actually feels pretty light and planted on its feet.

How comfortable is the KTM RC 390?

Overall, the new KTM RC 390 is pretty sturdy and well-built and aerodynamically it is more efficient now. The slip clutch shows great improvements in the new model; however, the switchgear seems a little clicky and does not feel good to operate. Downshifting in this bike is pretty fast and smooth, making clutch handling easier. This especially helps in congested city traffic. The performance of the bike at low and high speed seems to improve. It will not stutter when slowly pulled from 50 kmpl to 60 kmpl. However, beyond 90 kmpl, vibrations can be felt at the peg but the bike will still have ample power to keep running. Overall, the bike is smooth and fast and feels comfortable on the track.

How's the Tech?

The KTM RC 390 is propelled by a single-cylinder, liquid cooled, 373 cc engine with manual transmission coupled by a six-speed gearbox. The engine is able to generate 44 hp of power at 9500 rpm and 36 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm. It is further equipped with an LED tail light, dual projection headlamps and turn signal light. The instrument panel in this bike is fully digitalised that displays an odometer and a clock, besides other regular information.

How's the mileage of the KTM RC 390?

On an average, the KTM RC 390 gives a mileage of 28.9 kmpl. On highways it can deliver a mileage of 36 kmpl.

Is the KTM RC 390 good value for money?

The KTM RC 390 has a good impression in the market and with uncompromised performance, this bike is the best in its category. However, it has lost the rawness and razor-sharp feeling that it once carried with pride. It has been revamped into a more versatile and rounded commuter. However, it is a usable package and better on the road. Although it has not compromised with some of its racetrack qualities, it seems more practical now. The thrill is there but in a different way though. This bike is still good value for money in its range and acceptable to buyers who did not tune well with its hard-edge predecessors.

How is the after sales service?

KTM provides good after sales services for the KTM RC 390. The first three services are free of cost. The first can be availed after 45 days of purchase or 1000 km, the second after 150 days or 5000 km and the third after 240 days or 10000 km. The following paid services can cost up to Rs 2500 every single visit.

Which motorbikes compete in this segment?

The closest and toughest contenders of KTM RC 390 in its segment are Bajaj Dominar 400, TVS Apache RR 310, Kawasaki Ninja 300, Honda CB300R, and BMW G 310 RR.

Verdict (Value for money)

If you are looking for a daily commuting bike, then there are more practical and cheaper alternatives that provide better mileage and handling. If you demand that thrill and fun, then this is the right bike for you. It is luxurious, comfortable, aggressive and sporty and gives good performance on racing tracks.