KTM Australia has confirmed a March release date for its incoming RC 390 2022, which benefits from significant technology and performance upgrades to match its refreshed design.
Earlier this month, INFO MOTO published leaked images that gave away the RC 390’s new look, however, it is now revealed that the 2022 bike’s upgrades are more than skin deep.
The updated RC 390 should be faster than its predecessor thanks to considerable weight savings and a boost to torque, while upgraded suspension and braking systems, and high-end electronics, should considerably enhance its sporting credentials.
Motivating the bike is a tweaked version of the Austrian brand’s 373cc single-cylinder engine, generating 32kW and 37Nm. That translates to a 2Nm torque boost, thanks in part to a revised airbox and engine mapping.
Distinguishing the new KTM RC 390 from its key rivals, like the Yamaha YZF-R3, is an advanced electronics suite with lean-angle-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS, while an up/down quickshifter will be available as an option.
Ride settings can now be toggled via new switchgear borrowed from the RC 390’s larger-capacity stablemates, and riding data is now shown on a TFT instrument display.
KTM engineers have managed to shave off at least five kilograms thanks in part to new wheels, while the Bybre brakes and frame have also gone under the knife. Without fuel, the new RC 390 tips the scales at 155 kilograms.
The bike also gains fully adjustable WP Apex upside-down forks, and a WP Apex rear monoshock, that should translate to improved cornering stability and overall handling.
In a recent press release, KTM promotes the RC 390’s track potential with updated ergonomics to allow ‘more fluid rider movement’, and notes that its new bodywork can now be quickly swapped for ‘race-ready panels’.
The new styling package sees elements inspired by KTM’s MotoGP racebikes, with a more angular front end, a sharper tail section and sporty orange and blue graphics.
It also sees a single LED headlight unit in favour of the dual lamp setup of the current bike, while the fuel tank is larger and can now hold up to 13.7 litres.
Local pricing has yet to be confirmed, however, INFO MOTO expects the new KTM RC 390 to continue to compete with the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 400 ($8096 rideaway) and the Yamaha YZF-R3 ($8149 rideaway).
The KTM RC 390 is the brand’s only road-going superports model that is sold in Australia, with the recently revealed RC 8C a track-only prospect, and reportedly sold out.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
