This will be the first major update for KTM’s compact fully faired RC family
Pierer Mobility AG, parent company of KTM and Husqvarna brands, recently conducted an investor meeting to present the medium term plans. Some parts of the presentation have been leaked, giving us a sneak peak into the brands’ product pipeline. While Husqvarna is developing E-01 and E-Pilen electric two wheelers, KTM is at the verge of introducing a heavily updated RC 390.
2021 KTM RC 390
The 2021 KTM RC 390 was recently spied in Europe sporting near-production-spec body panels. A small image of the production-ready version of the compact fully faired motorcycle is featured on the internal document. The motorcycle sports an overhauled design which is complemented by a new blue-orange livery which seems to be inspired by KTM’s current MotoGP contender.
The low-slung twin-projector headlamp unit has been replaced by full LED unit which is similar to the one seen on recent KTMs. The revised fairing seems to have a slightly wider front fascia. The side panels are sleeker and edgier than before. The motorcycle also features new alloy wheels and exhaust canister.
Specifications at a glance
The 2021 KTM RC 390 is expected to retain its widely appreciated 373 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which currently develops 44 hp. We don’t expect any drastic changes to the output figures as the motorcycle continues to A2 license holders in Europe who have to abide by power restriction (47 hp / 35 kW being the limit).
Previous spyshots revealed some important changes incorporated by the 2021 KTM RC 390. For starters, the motorcycle employs a revised rear sub-frame and the ergonomics has been tweaked to better accommodate taller riders. Another interesting feature is the front disc brake which is mounted to the wheel spokes rather than the hub. This design reduces the unsprung mass.
Equipment
In terms of features, we expect the 2021 KTM RC 390 to be equipped with a new color TFT instrument console with all the features that are available on the 390 Duke. It will continue to offer dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, LED taillights, WP front and rear suspension and premium rubbers.
Launch
The 2021 KTM RC 390 is expected to make its sales debut sometime later this year. Considering that it will be made in India by Bajaj for global consumption, India would be one of the first markets to receive the updated motorcycle. It will lock horns with the TVS Apache RR 310. The smaller engined RC 200 is also expected to receive similar updates in due course.
