10 reasons for liking KTM RC 390

KTM has finally pulled the wraps off their most anticipated motorcycles -- the RC 200 and the RC 390. The bikes were recently launched at Rs 1.6 lakh for the RC 200 and Rs 2.05 lakh for the RC 390 ex-showroom Delhi. With such aggressive pricing the Austrian major is confident of good profits from India. We know that KTM offers remarkable quality and technology on their motorcycles, but what is it about the RC 200 and the RC 390 that make them stand apart from the crowd?

We list 10 features about these two RCs that you ought to know.

Design inspiration

The KTM RC 200 and RC 390 are designed on the lines of KTM's purebred superbikes -- the KTM 1190 RC8 R. The manufacturer has incorporated all the major elements of RC8 into the new bikes, making them highly enthralling and tempting for prospective buyers. From the fairing to the sharp and sporty rear end, the bike simply looks impeccable.

Platform

The KTM Duke 200 and Duke 390 play a vital role in the formation of these two machines. The Duke series has been fantastically tweaked to shape the RC 200 and RC 390.

Built on a tubular space frame made from steel tubes, all the four machines are crafted to perform like warriors. The RC series get an uplifted sportsbike-like rear making it more race track suitable.

Engine

KTM RC 200 and RC 390 are powered by mono-cylinder, 4-stroke, water-cooled engine with a displacement of 199.5cc and 373.2cc respectively. These machines are the most powerful options available in sub 500cc category. The RC 200 produces a maximum power of 25bhp while the RC 390 dishes-out an astonishing 45bhp of power.

Transmission

The transmission on the RCs is the same as seen on the Dukes. It is a a 6-speed claw shifted transmission that works with a mechanically operated clutch in oil bath. The gear ratio of the bike is: Primary gear ratio: 22:72; Secondary gear ratio: 14:42.

The short ratios make the RCs feel like a shooting bullet.

Wheels and tyres

KTM has used different set of tyres to run RC 200 and RC 390. The RC 200 boasts of MRF tyres while the RC 390 runs on Metzeler tyres. However the tyre size of both the machines is the same; the front tyre is 110mm wide while the rear is 150mm. These wider tyres offer good grip and improve manoeuverability.

Braking

KTM has offered both the machines with a 300mm disc brake with four-pot brake caliper at the front and 230mm disc brake with one-pot brake caliper at the rear. Fortunately the company has also kept Anti-lock brake system (ABS) as a standard option but just for the RC 390.

Suspension

KTM RC 200 and RC 390 come with one of the finest suspensions. They work with upside-down front forks from WP Suspension that offers utmost stability and WP shock absorbers at the rear for incredible tracking stability. The suspension system is also inspired from the RC8.

Instrumentation

KTM has done its best to keep the RCs accommodative and futuristic. Both the bikes sport a fully digital LCD panel which displays speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel level, including engaged gear, service reminder information, etc. To top it all the Austrian manufacturer has given the instrumentation an indicator that reminds the rider when to shift gears to attain optimum performance.

SuperSport features

KTM might have kept the price of the two machines affordable but has certainly accelerated the worth of the product by blessing it with perfect bodywork. The supersport look of the RC is complimented with twin headlights drawn on a sharp cowl with rear view mirrors and integrated blinkers. The pillion seat is designed in such a way that besides offering a comfortable ride, it looks just like a real racing bike tail.

Ergonomics

KTM has given both the machines similar standard elements -- both the KTM RC 200 and RC 390 come with newly designed clip on handlebars for a sporty riding position and ease of maneuverability. The fuel tank compliments its masculine design and offer a capacity of 9.5 litres. The split-seat perfectly matches the sporty aesthetics of the RC bikes. To cut down wind resistance the RCs come with an advanced design wind shield that further aids in aerodynamics.