Born on the racetrack but tamed for the streets, the KTM RC 390 is not your average lightweight sportbike. With its aggressive design, punchy engine, and high-end tech, this machine brings serious performance to everyday roads.
Whether you’re just getting into sport riding or looking for a fast, flickable track tool, the RC 390 checks all the right boxes.
Design
One look and you know the RC 390 means business. It’s got sharp, edgy bodywork that screams speed. The full fairing isn’t just for looks — it slices through wind for better aerodynamics.
KTM’s signature orange frame, bold color schemes, and that distinctive LED headlight setup make it look like a baby superbike.
They’ve redesigned the fuel tank too. It’s bigger and shaped better for gripping with your knees during spirited riding. And the mirrors, tail section, and sleek tail light — they all shout racebike.
Engine
Under the hood (well, fairings), you’ve got a 373cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that cranks out 43.5 horsepower and 37 Nm of torque. That’s a lot for a bike this light. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, which means smoother downshifts and less rear-wheel hop if you brake hard into a corner.
Plus, with ride-by-wire tech, the throttle response is super crisp. You twist your wrist, and the power is right there. Weighing around 172 kg fully fueled, the RC 390 is quick off the line and nimble in the corners — a proper pocket rocket.
Handling
Let’s talk corners. The RC 390 is fitted with WP Apex upside-down forks up front and a WP monoshock in the rear. Translation? It handles bumps well but stays stiff enough for aggressive lean angles.
Braking is solid too. It’s got a big 320mm front disc with a radial-mounted caliper and a 230mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is standard, and with Supermoto mode, you can turn off rear ABS — perfect for backing it in on track days.
Features
Here’s where it punches above its weight. The 5-inch TFT display looks slick and gives you everything from gear position to fuel economy. With Bluetooth connectivity and the KTM My Ride app, you can even control your music and calls from the dash.
It also comes with Quickshifter+, which lets you shift up or down without the clutch. This feature is rare in this class and makes both daily commutes and spirited rides way more fun.
You also get adjustable levers, cornering ABS, and riding modes — features usually found on bikes twice the price.
Comfort
For a track-focused bike, the RC 390 is surprisingly usable. The seat’s more comfortable than before, the bars are better placed, and the windscreen gives decent protection. You won’t hate your wrists or back after a city ride.
Fuel efficiency is pretty good too — around 28–32 km/l depending on how throttle-happy you are. With a 13.7-liter tank, that means decent range for weekend rides or even short tours.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 373cc, liquid-cooled, single |
| Power | 43.5 hp |
| Torque | 37 Nm |
| Weight (Kerb) | ~172 kg |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
| Suspension (Front) | WP Apex USD forks |
| Suspension (Rear) | WP monoshock |
| Brakes | 320mm Front, 230mm Rear Disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel with Supermoto |
| Mileage | 28–32 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.7 liters |
| Display | 5-inch TFT with Bluetooth |
| Special Features | Quickshifter+, Ride-by-wire |
If you want a bike that blurs the lines between a weekend track machine and an everyday street sportbike, the KTM RC 390 is hard to beat.
It delivers adrenaline without blowing your budget, tech without the complexity, and performance without the bulk. Simply put, it’s the sportbike that punches well above its class.
FAQs
Is the KTM RC 390 good for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly with advanced features and light handling.
Does the RC 390 have a quickshifter?
Yes, it comes with KTM Quickshifter+ for clutchless shifting.
What’s the mileage of the RC 390?
You can expect around 28–32 km/l, depending on riding style.
Is the RC 390 comfortable for long rides?
It’s better than before, but still leans toward sporty ergonomics.
Can you use RC 390 for daily commuting?
Yes, it’s practical enough for everyday use with decent comfort.
