Honda CBR500R vs KTM RC 390: Spec Comparison
Is an extra cylinder and more displacement enough for the Honda to trump the KTM?
Is an extra cylinder and more displacement enough for the Honda to trump the KTM?
We’ve recently learned that Honda will be bringing its 500cc lineup, including the fully-faired CBR500R, to India before the end of this financial year. But how does it take on the bike that rules the small-capacity sportsbike segment in India, the KTM RC 390?
Engine & Transmission
Despite the extra cylinder and a 98cc displacement advantage, the CBR’s twin-cylinder motor only puts out slightly more power than the KTM’s single-pot mill. Torque, however, is a considerable 8Nm higher on the Honda. That being said, the RC has a punchy mid-range while the CBR engine is more linear in power delivery. All this means if you’re on a tight technical circuit, the RC might just be able to hang in there.
Underpinnings
Though the RC gets an upside-down fork compared to the CBR’s right way up unit, Honda has thrown in preload-adjustability, which will help set up the bike more precisely. The CBR also sports slightly fatter tyres to help put down the power better and a marginally larger rear disc. Though the disc size at the front might be identical, the RC’s 4-piston caliper should theoretically provide better performance to the CBR’s 2-piston unit. To learn more about different kinds of brake calipers, head here.
Dimensions & Weights
They say extra horsepower is an advantage on the straights but weight savings are an advantage everywhere. It’s here that the RC 390 gains a significant advantage. It’s hard to compare kerb weight to dry weight, but we’re confident the KTM weighs a good 20kg less than the CBR when fully fuelled-up. The Austrian bike also has a significantly shorter wheelbase, which will make it that much more agile when the going gets twisty. That being said, the Honda has a more relaxed riding posture, shorter seat height and larger fuel tank, which makes it a better touring weapon than the RC.
Verdict
There’s a distinct contrast in focus between these two machines. Though the red bike sports the CBR tag, it isn’t really as hardcore as some of its CBR stablemates. It is more of a sports tourer than an all-out sportsbike. The RC, on the other hand, has an almost singular focus on lap-times and performance, making it a scalpel on the racetrack at the cost of road usability. Picking between the two comes down to a matter of personal choice, though it’s hard to see Honda being able to price the CBR anywhere close to the KTM when it arrives.
Honda CBR500R User Reviews
- Hi, This bike is very good luckingHi, This bike is very sexi Is most pawerfull mashine This bike is my favorite Good lucking parfhome This bike is very good lucking My dream6 5
- The amazing Honda bikeAll over look is gorgeous and the price is decent. performance of this bike is really good in comparison of other bikes4 1
- That os a good bikeThat os a good bike is milage 145 that Is a good performans for a racer andfor a good speed this is a sports boke3 1
- It’s is a best bikeIt’s is the best bike under 500cc, Its looks are killer, its mileage is great for a sportbike. The only downside is it’s colour option are very less.9 2
- Its My DreamIt is really very beautiful attracted me a lot. The front look is more attractive.6