KTM RC 390

Detailed Review by Maxabout Team

Overview

New KTM RC 390 is one of the most appreciated sports bikes in its segment that offers high-end performance and is a perfect example of a value-for-money motorcycle. With aggressive styling, an impressive power-to-weight ratio as well as sharper handling, the motorcycle redefines style and power. The 2023 model of the motorcycle recently went on sale in India at an ex-showroom price tag of around INR 3.16 lakh and features an all-new design. The brand has also equipped the RC 390 with a new livery to offer a fresh look to its MY2023 avatar.

KTM RC 390 Design and Style

Coming to the looks of the motorcycle, the brand has imparted it with a similar aggressive sports motorcycle styling though the new variant now features a tweaked design and colour options. Going by the design, the next-gen RC 390 features an all-new front fascia, side fairing and most importantly, the frame under its body. The sportbike now features the same mainframe as the KTM 390 Duke, covered partially under the new fairing and finished in a dark grey shade. The tyres, suspension, and exhaust look more or less similar to the last-gen model of the RC 390. The sports bike is also available with an orange-blue colour scheme, which seems to be inspired by the new model of KTM 1290 Super Duke R.

KTM RC 390 Engine and Gearbox

Powering the new KTM RC 390 MY2023 variant is a BS6-compliant 373.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that is now capable of churning out a maximum power of 43.5 HP at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The power figure on the updated engine remains the same when compared to the BS4 version though the torque has been reduced by 1 Nm. The motorcycle continues to feature a 6-speed gearbox though the brand now offers a slipper clutch. The BS6-compliant engine is also equipped with a fuel pump sourced from BOSCH while also featuring an all-new Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP). The addition of new technologies offers more refined power delivery as well as aggressive riding.

KTM RC 390 Instrument Console

As expected, KTM has replaced the ageing instrument console of the new RC 390 with the modern TFT unit from the 390 Duke that offers apt riding statistics. The console has been equipped with a trip meter, an odometer, a fuel gauge, a speedometer and a distance-to-empty indicator. The brand has further equipped the motorcycle with an ABS light as well as a gear shift light.

KTM RC 390 Dimensions, Mileage and Top Speed

The KTM RC 390 MY2023 variant measures 1978 mm in length, 688 mm in width and 1098 mm in height. The brand has equipped the motorcycle with an aggressive fuel tank design whose capacity stands at 13.7 litres. The ground clearance offered by the motorcycle stands at 153 mm while the kerb weight offered is 172 kgs. The seat height offered to the sports machine now stands at 835 mm while the wheelbase is measured at 1340 mm. The 2023 KTM RC 390 is capable of offering a mileage ranging between 25-30 kmpl depending on different road conditions while the top speed stands at 169 kmph (approximate).

KTM RC 390 Suspension and Brakes

The suspension duties on the sports machine are handled by WP 43mm USD forks at the front while the rear has been mated to a fully adjustable monoshock mated to an aluminium swingarm. The brand has offered the new RC 390 a ride-by-wire throttle. The braking department is foreseen by a 320mm single disc brake at the front and a 230mm single disc brake at the rear mated to a dual-channel BOSCH ABS as standard. The stiffer suspension is capable of offering the motorcycle better handling properties while the braking setup is good for offering progressive braking for a refined riding experience.

KTM RC 390 Colour and Graphics

The KTM RC 390 in its 2023 avatar is available in two colour schemes - Orange with Black, and Blue with Orange. The brand has equipped the revised motorcycle with black alloy wheels setup while the tyres at either side feature a hint of orange adding to its sports character. The motorcycle features larger RC 390 decals on the front fairing as well as under the rear seat.

Verdict and Competitors of KTM RC 390

2023 KTM RC 390 is one of the most sought after motorcycles in India whose popularity knows no bounds. The motorcycle has been imparted with a splendid design language while offering top-end performance to keep the riders on their toes. The Ready-to-Race character of the sports bike with an equally justifiable price tag makes it one of the most preferred 390cc motorcycles that currently compete in the market against the likes of BS6 TVS Apache RR 310 as well as Kawasaki Ninja 300.