KTM RC 390

KTM RC 390 has always been a bit of a legend in the Indian sports bike scene. When it first arrived, it was all about sharp looks, aggressive riding, and performance that made even bigger bikes take notice. Over the years, KTM has made changes to make it easier to live with, but without losing that race-ready feel.

We’ve ridden the latest version of the RC 390, which lets us go from city streets to racetrack straights. This new-generation model is smarter, more comfortable, and better equipped, while still being a proper corner-carving machine. Let’s know more about our experience with the bike. 

• The front of the RC 390 now looks more mature. It has a big windscreen and a single LED headlight that lights up the road nicely at night. It also gives off that proper race bike feel.

• KTM has cleverly placed the front indicators inside the fairing, so they don’t stick out. When you see the bike in person, it actually looks more impressive than it does in photos.
• From the side, it has a very track-ready look. The fairing doesn’t cover everything, so you can still see parts of the engine, which adds to its sporty style.
• You can choose between two colours: Orange and Blue. The Orange is bold and eye-catching, while the Blue, inspired by KTM’s MotoGP bikes, feels a bit more special and premium.
• The build quality is good for everyday use. There are some small gaps near the tank, but nothing major. Even after riding on rough roads, nothing has come loose or rattled

• The 5-inch colour TFT screen is a nice upgrade. It shows speed, gear, fuel level, and can connect to your phone for calls and music. Navigation is also included through the KTMConnect app.

• Cornering ABS and traction control work quietly in the background to keep the bike stable on slippery roads or in sharp corners.
• The quickshifter allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts. It works well most of the time, but can feel stubborn at high revs
• Further, the supermoto mode gives more rear-wheel freedom, great for sliding into corners on a track.
• The brake and clutch levers are adjustable so that you can set them for comfort during long rides or track days.

• The old RC 390 had a low, aggressive riding position that could be uncomfortable in city traffic. The new model has higher clip-ons and is easier on the back.
• The footpegs are still sporty and slightly rear-set, but don’t feel too aggressive. Even in traffic, the position is comfortable.
• Our rider was 5’9 and can get both feet flat on the ground. Riders around 5’5” may need to tiptoe at stops.
• The rider’s seat is longer, well-padded, and lets you move between a tuck for the track or an upright position for city riding.

• The pillion seat is now wider and more comfortable, but still set high. Getting on takes effort, though there is good space and grab rails once seated.

• The 373cc engine makes 32kW and 37Nm. There’s a larger airbox that gives more torque at low revs.

• In traffic, you can ride at low speeds in second or third gear comfortably. Overtakes are quick with just a twist of the throttle.
• The heat management is much better than before. On highways, it cruises easily at 100–110kmph and has enough power to overtake without downshifting. It has touched over 170kmph on a test track.
• The 6-speed gearbox is smooth, and the light clutch is easy on the hand in heavy traffic. The slipper clutch keeps the bike stable during hard downshifts.
• Fuel economy is about 26kmpl in the city and 31kmpl on the highway.
• The 13-litre fuel tank offers a 350–400km range, good for weekend tours without frequent refuelling.

• The new bolt-on subframe and lighter wheels make the RC 390 more agile. It changes direction easily, especially on twisty roads.
• The suspension is firm but not harsh. Small potholes and rough patches are manageable, though big potholes still remind you it’s a sports bike.

• Metzeler tyres offer good grip, but other options like TVS Eurogrip ProTorq Extremes have felt more confidence-inspiring on the track.

• The brakes are strong and sharp, with ABS engaging smoothly. From high speeds, it stops quickly while staying stable.

• In the hills, it tips into corners easily and holds its line without feeling nervous or unstable.

If you want a sports bike that can be exciting on track days and weekend rides but still works for daily commutes, the KTM RC 390 is a great choice. It’s not the most comfortable bike, but that’s what makes it exciting to ride.

If comfort is your main priority, the KTM 390 Duke or a touring bike will suit you better. But if you want a bike that makes you smile every time you twist the throttle, the RC 390 is the one to get.