2017 KTM RC390 was recently launched in India for INR 2,25,300 (ex-showroom Delhi). The motorcycle brought in some performance upgrades and definitely would get loved by the fans all around the country. YouTube user ‘Ride with Rahul’ recently reviewed the same in the deepest ever aspect, covering most not just the proudly visible differences but also the changes that won’t get noticed unless you see the video.
The new motorcycle is currently powered by the same 373.2 cc, single cylinder engine that is good for 43.5 PS at 9000 rpm and 36 Nm at 7000 rpm. The engine comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch while the 2017 version claims a wet weight of 170 kg. Here are the details that were shared by Rahul in his detailed video.
Detailed Video of the All-New 2017 KTM RC 390
Video Credit: Ride With Rahul (YouTube Channel)
# The new front disc brake has not just grown from 300 mm to 320 mm, the brake piston in the master cylinder has also grown from 12 mm to 13 mm. This means more stopping power and efficient braking at all times.
# The disc brake cuts are now larger and least amount of waste space has been left on the disc brake. This helps the brake stay cool and improves the efficiency of braking by a good margin. The contact area stays good on the new bike.
# The oil seals are now sourced from a reputed Japanese brand and are said to be much better than the old ones on the 2016 KTM RC 390. This means lesser chances of leaks and money saving in long term maintenance.
# Ride by Wire system on the 2017 KTM RC390 helps the rider get the optimum amount of throttle as the ECU knows how to channelize the power in a gentle manner. This can help KTM in future as traction control and quickshifter can be offered as an option later.
# The paint quality on the motorcycle is awesome and UV resistance Orange as well as White paint ensures that the color could resist much harsh conditions than ever.
# The belly pan design has now changed as the new exhaust is on the right side and there is no need for such a large part under the engine. This helps in getting better lean angle while driving around the track.
# Side exhaust on the new RC 390 is not there to meet the emission norms as the same could have been achieved through the center exhaust. It is there to keep the sound under control and weighs around 7 kg in itself.
# Rear shock on the RC 390 now gets separate position for gas and oil canisters as the exhaust pipe is now quite close to the shock and could alter the oil temperature. This could result in worst performance of the rear brake and hence, the oil canister is placed to the side.
# The tyre rating has changed from W to H but this was also seen on the 2016 model. It help in cutting down the cost as W rated tyres are good for speeds upto 250 kmph while H are good for 180-200 kmph. The latter even justifies the top speed and comes at a lower cost.
# The ECU now provides an option of transport lock. This means that even if you use the right key, the bike won’t start until the lock is removed through a connected laptop.
# The seats are now offered with 12 mm foam as addition to the older model. This makes it better than before and makes riding fun on the new RC390.
# The brake and clutch levers are now adjustable, helping riders with extra small and long fingers to drive the bike in utmost comfort. The levers are smooth and addition of slipper clutch means even lighter shifts than ever.
# The motorcycle now display kill switch on warning whenever the button is pressed to the other side. This can help the rider start the motorcycle in the first attempt in all situations.
# KTM has even updated the electrical features as the light now turns on without the engine being started for the new RC390. The wires have even been centralized on the motorcycle.
# 2017 KTM RC390 comes with vaporized fuel loss prevention system, helping reduce the loss of fuel through vaporization and atleast theoretically save fuel for the rider. They have not explained the working of this system.
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