KTM’s RC 390 has always been the sharpest and most agile track tool in its segment. However, over time, the competition has caught up. For 2022, the RC 390 gets a major overhaul in terms of its styling as well as features. It features a race-derived design and chassis and also high-end electronics seen on bigger bikes. The 2022 KTM RC 390 aims to be as fun on the streets as it is on the race track. The 2022 RC 390 is here, READY TO RACE and also take on the competition.
The 2022 KTM RC 390 is now available at all KTM dealerships across the country. The supersport motorcycle comes with a price tag of INR 3,13,922 ex-showroom. The next-generation 2022 KTM RC 390 also comes in two new striking colour options. These new options are – KTM Orange and KTM Factory Racing Blue.
KTM has given the 2022 RC 390 an all-new design that draws inspiration from its RC 16 race bike. The new fairing design also offers better aerodynamics and a lower drag coefficient. KTM designed the fairing with computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Additionally, the bike maker also tested it in the wind tunnel. The new, larger windscreen with a bigger bubble also offers better protection in the tucked position at high speeds. Meanwhile, a wider metal tank offers a better grip for your knees while cornering. The metal tank, at 13.7-litres, is also bigger than the previous RC 390’s 9.5-litre tank.
The old projector units also make way for a new full-LED headlight, bringing it in line with the other 390 models. The turn signal indicators are now LED and are also integrated into the front fairing. The mirrors are also new and feature a single-point folding mechanism. The new mechanism allows for better adjustability. The new fairing vents divert hot air away from the rider, also adding to the usability. The rear seat now also gets a pillion grab rail for more comfort for the pillion. The instrumentation also gets a big update. The 2022 KTM RC 390 now features a full-colour TFT display. The display also brings KTM My Ride compatibility, enabling call alerts and music playback controls.
The new RC 390 boasts of a massive reduction in unsprung weight. KTM achieved this through various changes. Firstly, KTM equipped the new RC 390 with a next-gen Bionic wheel. The new wheel design gets fewer spokes and is also stiffer than before. Compared to the old wheels, the new Bionic ones weigh 1.1 kg less. This enables more confidence and a sharper handling character. Secondly, is the new next-gen front disc brake. KTM mounted the disc brake directly onto the wheel, also making it 1.1 kg lighter.
The next new-gen component is the new chassis. The frame is narrower than before and also gets a bolt-on subframe. The new frame also allows for a 40 per cent larger airbox. The airbox not only improves the throttle response but also helps it make 1 Nm more torque than before. Also, holding the front wheels are new axle clamps and a hollow front axle, which further helps in the weight savings.
Furthermore, there is a new adjustable handlebar. The 2022 KTM RC 390’s handlebars are adjustable by 10mm. The higher position also allows for a more relaxed riding position on the streets. At the same time, one can adjust the height, again providing an optimum position for the race track.
The 373cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine in the 2022 RC 390 also offers the same hard-hitting excitement as before. The motor produces 43.5 PS at 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The power figure means the RC 390 also offers the best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 253 PS per tonne. The acceleration times of the 2022 RC 390 are also better than before. The 2022 RC 390 gets from 0 to 60 kmph in 2.7 seconds, while it takes 6.3 seconds for it to hit the 100 kmph mark. The previous bike does the same in 3.2 seconds and 7.1 seconds.
The RC 390’s gearbox is a 6-speed unit. The clutch also features a slipper and assist function. In addition to this, the bike also gets a bi-directional quickshifter as standard. The feature allows for clutchless upshifts and also clutchless downshifts. Other features include a Supermoto ABS mode, Traction Control system and Cornering ABS.
The front of the 2022 RC 390 also gets a new ‘open-cartridge type’ upside-down forks. These help for more absorption on the streets and also sporty handling characteristics. The front also gets 10mm of additional wheel travel. At the back, the 2022 RC 390 uses a 5-step pre-load and rebound adjustable monoshock. The rear suspension, at 165mm, also gets more suspension travel than before. As for the braking hardware, the front gets a next-gen 320mm disc brake with a radially mounted four-piston calliper. At the same time, the rear uses a 230mm disc brake with a single-piston calliper.
Also Read: 2022 KTM RC 390 Vs. TVS Apache RR 310 – Specification Comparison