BREAKING: 2022 KTM RC 390 Launched In India

Now comes with an all new design, better electronics and underpinnings, but the India-spec bike misses out on one key component

After what feels like an eternity, KTM has finally launched the 2022 iteration of the RC 390 supersport. This bike comes with major aesthetic and functional updates, all with an increase of Rs 36,287 over the older bike.

The 2022 RC 390 is now priced at Rs 3,13,922, ex-showroom Delhi, and takes on the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and TVS Apache RR 310. Boasting of styling borrowed from its grand-prix siblings, the new RC 390 features a new split trellis frame, along with a whole range of electronics like Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), Quickshifter, lean-angle sensitive ABS with Supermoto mode, and a TFT display that has bluetooth connectivity.

Powered by a 373cc liquid-cooled single cylinder engine developing 43.5PS and 37Nm, the updated bike gets a 40% bigger airbox which claims to help improve torque delivery. The new RC 390 also gets revised engine mapping to improve rideability. The power and torque figures remain the same as the outgoing model, and so does the slipper clutch.

Underpinnings include an open cartridge WP APEX upside-down front forks (non-adjustable in the India-spec version) and a WP APEX rear shock absorber, which offers preload adjustment. The bike also features an all-new wheel design, hollow front axle and new ByBre braking system which reduces unsprung weight over the previous generation. The frame, too, has undergone the knife with massive weight savings.

Featuring MotoGP inspired paint schemes, namely KTM Factory Racing Blue and KTM orange, the bike features a new, more aerodynamic bodywork. KTM has also stated that they have improved the ergonomics of the bike, especially in the knee area to allow for more fluid rider movement. This, coupled with a two-step adjustable clip-on bar, should help with easier day-to-day riding. The bike also gets a bigger 13.7 liter fuel tank to improve range. Also new are all LED headlight, tail light and indicators. While the bike showcases tons of new features, it still continues to miss out on the adjustable front suspension, a feature present only on the export models of the new RC 390. The newly launched 390 Adventure also misses out on the same feature. 

The RC 390 is one of the best sub-400cc supersport in the market with top-of-the-line features. The new color scheme, coupled with the revised design definitely refreshens the overall look of the bike visually, however, the lack of an adjustable suspension, despite an increase in premium, is disappointing. While the new RC 390 looks promising on paper, the question here is, how it feels on road and on track. Stay tuned until we find an answer to this soon.