KTM RC390

The new KTM RC390 is set for an early November launch at EICMA show in Milan, but its fans don’t have to wait that long to find out what the new KTM has in store for them. The images and spec details have been leaked from the motorcycle manufacturer’s Canadian website, and we have a number of details on the now A2 legal bike. Yes you read it right. Unlike the D390 which needed a restrictor to be A2 legal, the new RC390 at 147kg and 43PS (32KW) peak power just about manages to stay under the o.2KW/kg power/weight ration mandatory for a bike to be A2 legal.

A2 category is a European specification for medium sized bikes. Missing the A2 category would have meant the new KTM missing out on most of the vital 19-23 years age group. This makes the RC390 the sportiest option for the A2 license holders.

The leaked images, which appeared on visordown.com, show that the RC390 frame, while similar to the D390’s steel trellis frame, has been modified to realize its complete racing potential, better ergonomics and a more dynamic handling. The steering head angle has been increased to 66.5 degrees which results in shorter trail and wheelbase, and increased ground clearance.

The RC390 gets the same single-cylinder, liquid cooled 375cc four-stroke engine as the Duke 390. The brilliant engine comes with twin overhead camshafts, four valves and electronic fuel injection delivers 43PS max power and thanks to the balancer shaft, delivers the highest level of smoothness. The engine is equipped with an electric starter powered by a 12V/6Ah battery.

Other significant changes include a new 9.5 litre steel fuel tank with 1.5 litre reserve, specifically developed for the RC, brand new twin headlight for the supersport look and integrated blinkers. It also gets a brand new bodywork, footrests and pedals that help the RC master extreme cornering by allowing a greater leaning angle.

The telescopic fork, 100 per cent digital LCD display with an rpm alert indicating the best moment for shifting up, the light alloy swing arm, 17in alloys with Metzeler tyres (110mm front, 150mm rear), and ABS are standard.

Technical Details Of KTM RC390

Engine 350cc
Design 1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled
Displacement 373.2 cm³
Bore 89 mm
Stroke 60 mm
Transmission 6 speed, claw shifted
Engine lubrication Forced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps
Primary gear ratio 30:80
Secondary gear ratio 15:45
Shock absorber WP Monoshock
Suspension travel front 125 mm
Suspension travel rear 150 mm
Brake system Front Disc brake with four-pot brake caliper
Brake system Rear Disc brake with one-pot brake caliper, floating brake discs
Brake discs – diameter Front 300 mm
Brake discs – diameter Rear 230 mm
Seat height (unloaded) 820 mm
Total fuel tank capacity approx. 10 l
Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON)
Weight without fuel approx. 147 kg
Expected Launch: February 2014
Expected Price: Rs. 2,40,000-2,60,000
KTM RC390 Information on this page is tentative.

View KTM RC390 photos