The 2022 KTM RC 390 is a high-performance Supersports machine with its roots firmly planted on the race track. Featuring an impressive technology package, as well as race-derived styling, handling characteristics, and addictive power delivery, the KTM RC 390 is a real-world racer with undoubted pedigree. Having taken a Yamaha MT-03 on the track last year, I’d be interested to give the RC 390 a go!
It boasts a host of riders aids that are normally found on bigger, much more expensive machines. Along with the new TFT dash it features SUPERMOTO ABS, Lean angle sensitive Cornering ABS and Cornering MTC, and the optional Quickshifter+. For a bike under £6000 that’s pretty impressive.
Find the Speedo Angels Dashboard Protection for the all new RC 390 here!
Most of the RC 390′s updates focus on handling. KTM optimized the lateral rigidity of the RC’s steel trellis frame and bolt-on subframe, saving 3.3 pounds in the process. More weight savings comes in the form of trick lightweight “open hub” wheels, which are 7.5 pounds (30 percent) lighter than before, for a big reduction of unsprung weight. The 390 is also upgraded with a new fork from KTM-owned WP, featuring compression and rebound damping adjustment. The Apex shock is adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping, rare luxuries indeed for the lightweight segment.
The KTM RC 390 and all its updates come to a halt thanks to a new radial-mounted four-piston ByeBre caliper and 320mm disc up front plus a single-piston caliper clamping a 230mm disc at the rear. The RC features lean-angle-sensitive cornering ABS, a feature unique to its category. The system is switchable with KTM’s Supermoto ABS, which allows for rear-end lockup. The new braking system shaves an additional 2 pounds off the RC 390.
Revised MotoGP-inspired bodywork is claimed to have increased the top speed by approximately 7 mph, despite only minor engine tweaks. The clip-on handlebars have a 10mm height adjustment.. The fuel tank’s capacity increases to 3.6 gallons.
Specification
| MSRP: | £5500 estimate |
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder; 4 valves |
| Displacement: | 373cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 89.0 x 60.0mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Claimed Horsepower: | 43 hp |
| Claimed Torque: | 27.3 lb.-ft. @ 7,000 rpm |
| Fuel System: | Bosch EMS w/ ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: | PASC anti-hopping slipper; mechanically operated |
| Frame: | Steel trellis frame |
| Front Suspension: | WP Apex 43mm inverted cartridge fork, compression and rebound adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | WP Apex shock, rebound and spring preload adjustable; 5.9 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 4-piston ByBre caliper, 320mm disc w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston floating caliper, 230mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | 5-spoke wheels; 17 in. / 17 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 110/70-17/ 150/60-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 23.5°/3.3 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 52.9 in. |
| Seat Height: | 32.4 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 3.6 gal. |
| Claimed Dry Weight: | 342 lb. |
| Availability: | March 2022 |
| Contact: | ktm.com |