Introduction
Yamaha has recently introduced the R3 in India adding to the excitement in the motorcycle market. With the recent launch of the Aprilia RS 457, we couldn't resist comparing these two newcomers with the well-established players in this segment, namely the KTM RC 390 and the Kawasaki Ninja 400. To find out which bike is the best option let's examine the specifics of their features, specifications, and costs.
Engine Specifications
- Yamaha R3:
- Engine: 321cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
- Power: 42PS @ 10,750rpm
- Torque: 29.5Nm @ 9000rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed
- Aprilia RS 457:
- Engine: 457cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
- Power: 47.6PS @ 9400rpm
- Torque: 43.5Nm @ 6700rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed
- KTM RC 390:
- Engine: 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder
- Power: 43.5PS @ 9000rpm
- Torque: 37Nm @ 7000rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed
- Kawasaki Ninja 400:
- Engine: 399cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
- Power: 45PS @ 10,000rpm
- Torque: 37Nm @ 8000rpm
- Gearbox: 6-speed
With a larger engine that results in stronger power and torque numbers, the Aprilia RS 457 appears to be the strongest competitor on paper. Notably, its peak torque at 6700rpm suggests a finely tuned balance between low-end thrust and top-end performance. In contrast, the Japanese counterparts, the Yamaha R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 400, though high-revving, may demand more throttle input for an exhilarating experience. The KTM RC 390 with its revamped engine offers a more evenly distributed torque enhancing versatility and tractability. For a deeper insight refer to our real-world road test review.
Underpinnings
- Yamaha R3:
- Front Suspension: Inverted Fork (130mm travel)
- Rear Suspension: Monoshock (125mm travel)
- Front Brake: 298mm disc
- Rear Brake: 220mm disc
- Front Tyre: 110/70 - R17
- Rear Tyre: 140/70 - R17
- Aprilia RS 457:
- Front Suspension: Preload-adjustable inverted fork (120mm travel)
- Rear Suspension: Preload-adjustable mono-shock (130mm travel)
- Front Brake: 320mm disc
- Rear Brake: 220mm disc
- Front Tyre: 110/70 - 17
- Rear Tyre: 150/60 - 17
- KTM RC 390:
- Front Suspension: Inverted fork
- Rear Suspension: Preload-adjustable monoshock
- Front Brake: 320mm disc
- Rear Brake: 230mm disc
- Front Tyre: 110/70 - 17
- Rear Tyre: 150/60 - 17
- Kawasaki Ninja 400:
- Front Suspension: Telescopic Fork (120mm travel)
- Rear Suspension: Monoshock (130mm travel)
- Front Brake: 286mm disc
- Rear Brake: 193mm disc
- Front Tyre: 110/70 - 17
- Rear Tyre: 150/60 - 17
While these motorcycles share closely matched underpinnings, the Aprilia RS 457's preload adjustability provides it with a potential advantage and this feature allows riders of varying weights to fine-tune the suspension for an optimal riding setup. An interesting observation is the Yamaha R3's adoption of the skinniest rear tyre, which, during our initial ride experience, revealed room for improvement. Hence, for riders seeking a more serious approach, a recommended tyre upgrade could enhance the overall riding experience.
Dimensions
- Yamaha R3:
- Wheelbase: 1380mm
- Ground Clearance: 160mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 litres
- Seat Height: 780mm
- Kerb Weight: 169kg
- Aprilia RS 457:
- Wheelbase: Not Available (NA)
- Ground Clearance: Not Available (NA)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 litres
- Seat Height: 800mm
- Kerb Weight: 175kg
- KTM RC 390:
- Wheelbase: Not Available (NA)
- Ground Clearance: 153mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 litres
- Seat Height: 835mm
- Kerb Weight: 172kg
- Kawasaki Ninja 400:
- Wheelbase: 1370mm
- Ground Clearance: 140mm
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 litres
- Seat Height: 785mm
- Kerb Weight: 168kg
The Japanese motorcycles showcase practicality with their low seat heights, manageable kerb weights, and substantial fuel tank capacities. Despite the Ninja 400's relatively lower ground clearance of 140mm, our past testing revealed it to be adequate for various riding situations. However, a notable consideration is the RC 390's towering seat height of 835mm, which may seem daunting on paper, especially when compared to its counterparts. Contrary to initial concerns, real-world riding experiences indicate that even riders of shorter stature find the RC 390 comfortable, alleviating worries associated with the seemingly imposing seat height.
Features
- Yamaha R3: No TFT Console, No Bluetooth Connectivity, No Slipper Clutch
- Aprilia RS 457: TFT Console, Bluetooth Connectivity (Optional), Slipper Clutch
- KTM RC 390: TFT Console, Bluetooth Connectivity, Slipper Clutch
- Kawasaki Ninja 400: No TFT Console, No Bluetooth Connectivity, Slipper Clutch
The Japanese models, particularly the R3 and Ninja 400, adopt a more traditional approach with a lack of advanced electronics. Notably, the R3 misses out on a slipper clutch, a component now considered standard in this competitive segment. An intriguing observation arises when comparing these bikes to the R15 V4, a motorcycle with half the R3's displacement, yet offering a TFT console on its top-spec variant, an accessory quickshifter, traction control, a slipper clutch, and Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) as standard features.
Price & Verdict
- Yamaha R3: Rs 4,64,900 (ex-showroom Delhi)
- Aprilia RS 457: Rs 4,10,000 (ex-showroom Delhi)
- KTM RC 390: Rs 3,18,173 (ex-showroom Delhi)
- Kawasaki Ninja 400: Rs 5,24,000 (ex-showroom Delhi)
Remarkably, the Japanese motorcycles share a similarity, albeit an unwelcome one – they stand out as the priciest in the segment. This pricing disparity can be attributed to their Complete Built-Up (CBU) route. The Ninja 400's price tag of Rs 5.24 lakh raises eyebrows, and even the R3's price of Rs 4.64,900 is somewhat challenging to justify. Despite also following the CBU route, the Aprilia RS 457 presents a compelling case by offering more on paper at a considerably lower price. The key differentiator here is that the RS 457 is locally produced at the manufacturer's facility in Baramati, Maharashtra.
On a final note, for riders on a more constrained budget, the KTM RC 390 emerges as not only arguably the best single-cylinder bike in its segment but also a commendable value-for-money option at Rs 3,18,173 (ex-showroom Delhi). Consider your individual preferences, riding style, and budget constraints to make an informed decision among these exhilarating motorcycles each with its unique set of attributes and appeal.