Highlights of the Article:
- The 2024 update brings new colour options: orange/black and blue/orange.
- The engine retains its punch: 373cc motor with 43bhp and 37 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch.
- Loaded with tech: ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, ABS with Supermoto mode, cornering ABS, TFT dash with Bluetooth, and riding modes.
- Decent fuel efficiency: 26.6kmpl with a 350 km range from its 13.5-liter tank.
- Two variants, same price: standard and GP differ only in colours (Rs. 3.18 lakh ex-showroom).
KTM has recently elevated the game with a burst of fresh colour choices, transforming the RC 390 into a showstopper both on and off the tarmac. But is it merely a surface upgrade? Hold on tight as we delve into the depths of the 2024 RC 390, exploring its new colour schemes, fundamental specifications, feature lineup, and how it measures up against its rivals. By the conclusion of this journey, you'll ascertain whether the 2024 KTM RC 390 sparks your enthusiasm for adrenaline-fueled adventures.
Unveiling the 2024 KTM RC 390 - A Splash of New Colors
Gearheads, rejoice! The 2024 KTM RC 390 isn't just about blistering performance; it boasts a fresh coat of paint that injects excitement both on the racetrack and city streets. Let's delve into the two new colour palettes that grab attention:
- Striking a Balance: The first option features a classic combination of KTM's signature orange seamlessly integrated with sleek black fairings. This timeless aesthetic lets the RC 390's aggressive spirit shine through. For a bolder statement, the orange extends to the wheels, creating a unified and dynamic look.
- Electrifying Blue: The second colourway showcases a base of KTM's bold blue, reminiscent of their top-of-the-line machines. Accented with vibrant orange highlights, this combination exudes a sporty and electrifying vibe. The black alloy wheels on this variant provide a touch of contrast, further enhancing the bike's visual appeal. Rest assured, these colour updates are purely aesthetic.
Retaining the Classic - The Unchanged Core
While the 2024 update injects a shot of colour, the core design elements that make the RC 390 a track weapon remain unchanged:
- Sharp, Aerodynamic Fairings: The RC 390 retains its aerodynamic design, ensuring optimal wind protection and stability at high speeds.
- Split Trellis Frame: The lightweight and robust trellis frame, a signature KTM design, continues to deliver exceptional handling and agility.
- Clip-On Handlebars: The sporty clip-on handlebars provide an aggressive riding position ideal for attacking corners.
Powering Performance - The Heart of the RC 390
At the heart of the 2024 KTM RC 390 lies a potent force propelling you towards exhilarating rides. This machine boasts a compact yet powerful 373cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. Don't underestimate its size; this engine packs a punch, churning out a healthy 43bhp and 37 Nm of torque.
These figures translate to exhilarating acceleration and thrilling power delivery, making the RC 390 a perfect companion for carving corners on the track or weaving through city streets. Let's delve deeper into the technical aspects that make this engine a masterpiece.
Engine Specs - A Punchy Single-Cylinder Powerhouse
- 373cc Liquid-Cooled Engine: The compact design keeps weight down, contributing to the RC 390's agility. The liquid-cooling system ensures optimal engine temperature for consistent performance, especially during aggressive riding.
- 43bhp Peak Power: This impressive power output for a single-cylinder engine translates to exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling power band, perfect for experiencing the joy of riding at its peak.
- 37 Nm of Torque: Ample torque ensures strong pulling power at low and mid-range RPMs, making overtaking and navigating tight corners a breeze.
Transmission and Control - A Seamless Riding Experience
The 2024 RC 390 boasts a smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox that precisely delivers power to the rear wheel. This allows riders to find the perfect gear for any situation, whether it's maximizing acceleration on straights or maintaining control on twisty tracks. Additionally, the inclusion of an assist and slipper clutch elevates the riding experience. This clutch system provides two key benefits:
- Assist Function: During aggressive acceleration, the assist function prevents the clutch from becoming overly stiff, reducing hand fatigue and allowing for smoother gear changes.
- Slipper Clutch: Under hard braking or downshifting, the slipper clutch helps prevent rear wheel lockup, enhancing stability and preventing uncontrolled slides. This feature is particularly beneficial for new riders or those pushing the limits on the track.
Feature Frenzy - Tech-laden Equipment for the Rider
The 2024 KTM RC 390 isn't just about raw power; it's a technological marvel designed to elevate your riding experience. Buckle up for a comprehensive electronics package, a stunning display with smartphone connectivity, and additional features that enhance both comfort and control.
Electronics Package - Taking Control and Safety to New Heights
Modern motorcycling is all about precision and confidence, and the RC 390's electronics suite delivers exactly that.
- Ride-by-Wire Throttle: Ditch the traditional cable and embrace the responsiveness of a ride-by-wire throttle. This system translates your hand movements into precise throttle inputs, leading to smoother power delivery and sharper handling.
- Traction Control System (TCS): The days of wrestling with unexpected wheelspin are over. The RC 390's TCS constantly monitors rear-wheel traction and adjusts engine power accordingly, keeping you glued to the tarmac and maximizing control, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Dual-Channel ABS with Supermoto Mode and Cornering ABS: Braking is a crucial aspect of performance riding, and the RC 390 boasts a top-shelf braking system. Dual-channel ABS prevents wheel lockup during hard stops, while Supermoto mode allows you to disable ABS on the rear wheel for playful slides on closed circuits. Cornering ABS takes things a step further, intelligently adjusting braking based on a lean angle for unmatched control during aggressive cornering manoeuvres.
Advanced Display and Connectivity - A Modern Dashboard Experience
Gone are the days of rudimentary gauges. The RC 390 features a dazzling colour TFT display that serves as your central information hub.
- Color TFT Dash: This crystal-clear display offers a wealth of information at a glance, including speedometer, tachometer, trip information, gear indicator, and more. Customize the layout to suit your preferences and stay informed while you ride.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair your smartphone with the RC 390's Bluetooth functionality and unlock a world of possibilities. Access call and message notifications, utilize turn-by-turn navigation and even adjust certain bike settings – all without taking your hands off the handlebars.
- Riding Modes: Select from a range of riding modes to tailor the RC 390's performance to your needs and riding conditions. Each mode adjusts throttle response, power delivery, and traction control intervention for a truly personalized riding experience.
Additional Features - Enhancing Comfort and Convenience
The RC 390 doesn't compromise on comfort.
- LED Lighting System: Experience superior visibility and a touch of style with the RC 390's full LED lighting package. LED headlights provide excellent illumination, while the LED taillight ensures you're seen by fellow riders.
- Additional Comfort Features: Look out for features like adjustable levers that allow for a personalized fit and enhance long-distance comfort (depending on availability).
Fuel Efficiency and Range - Striking a Balance
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many riders, especially in an era of rising fuel costs. The 2024 KTM RC 390 delivers a respectable average fuel economy of around 26.6 kilometres per litre (km).
This figure places it squarely in the ballpark of similar sport-oriented motorcycles in its segment. While some competitors might boast slightly higher mileage ratings, the RC 390 makes up for it with its thrilling performance. With a 13.5-litre fuel tank, you can expect a range of approximately 350 kilometres on a full tank.
This range makes the RC 390 suitable for weekend getaways and spirited twisty runs, but keep in mind that aggressive riding styles and heavy traffic conditions can significantly impact fuel economy.
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy:
- Riding Style: Aggressive acceleration, frequent gear changes, and high speeds will naturally decrease fuel efficiency.
- Traffic Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic in congested cities can significantly reduce fuel economy compared to highway cruising.
- Road Conditions: Uneven, rough roads can also slightly decrease fuel efficiency.
Gearing Up for Competition - The RC 390 and its Rivals
The 2024 KTM RC 390 isn't alone in the hunt for track glory. The Indian motorcycle market offers a thrilling selection of contenders vying for your attention. To help you navigate this competitive landscape, let's size up the RC 390 against some of its fiercest rivals. We'll explore their key specifications and highlight what sets the RC 390 apart from the pack.
Main Competitors:
- TVS Apache RR 310: A worthy Indian challenger, the Apache RR 310 boasts a similar displacement engine but with slightly less power. It makes a case for itself with a lower price tag and comfortable ergonomics.
- Yamaha R3: This established Japanese contender offers a smoother and more refined riding experience with a twin-cylinder engine. However, the R3 carries a hefty price tag and might feel a tad bulky compared to the RC 390's sharp handling.
RC 390's Unique Selling Points:
- Sharpest Handling: The RC 390's lightweight chassis and aggressive riding position prioritize razor-sharp cornering and agility.
- Most Feature-Packed: The RC 390 boasts a comprehensive electronics suite with ride-by-wire throttle, cornering ABS, and a colour TFT display, features some rivals might lack.
- Value for Performance: The RC 390 offers a compelling blend of power, handling, and features at a competitive price point.
Read more articles
- Upgraded KTM 390 Adventure Spotted With Two New Colours
- KTM 390: The Spice of Life on Two Wheels (A 2024 Review)
- 2024 KTM 1390R Super Duke Revealed: The Beast Gets Bigger, Badder, and More Advanced
Conclusion
Still undecided if the 2024 KTM RC 390 is your ideal riding companion? If you crave a track-focused weapon with exhilarating performance and sharp handling, the RC 390 is a strong contender. It offers a thrilling ride wrapped in a stylish package, boasting the latest technology and features to elevate your experience. But if prioritizing comfort over razor-sharp precision or seeking a more touring-oriented machine, the RC 390 might not be the perfect fit. This blog has equipped you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. So, are you ready to unleash your inner racer and explore the limits with the 2024 KTM RC 390?