KTM is likely to launch the new RC 390 by the end of June 2021. Its unofficial bookings have also started across select dealerships for a token amount ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000, depending on the dealership.
It's the first time the when the bike will receive any substantial updates since its launch in 2013. While there are still some days left in its launch, thanks to the numerous spy shots we already have a lot of information about the changes the new RC 390 has received. The most prominent updates being the less aggressive front fairing, new headlamp, improved ergonomics & comfort, and altered sub-frame. New features like a colour TFT display, new matte orange colour, and a quick shifter could also be part of the update. Click here to read more about it here.
While the engine of this powerful beast likely to remain the same 373cc liquid-cooled unit rated at 43.5PS/36Nm, the brand could slightly retune the power delivery for a more direct feel.
All these aforementioned updates will surely make it more expensive than the current-gen RC 390, which retails at Rs 2.60 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Expect the new RC 390 to be priced at around Rs 2.70 lakh (ex-showroom).
On its arrival, the new KTM RC 390 will resume its rivalry with the TVS Apache RR 310 and Kawasaki Ninja 300, which are priced at Rs 2.49 lakh and Rs 3.18 lakh, respectively. Despite being less expensive than the RC 390, the TVS Apache RR 310 comes with many premium features such as four riding modes, Glide Through Technology PLUS (GTTP), hazard lamp, a full TFT-colour screen with turn-by-turn navigation assist, phone calls access, post-ride analytics, gear shift assist indicator, vehicle health information, vehicle status, and overview. However, in terms of performance, it is underpowered (34PS/27.3Nm) than the Austrian offering. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 is much more expensive than the KTM and doesn't get any major update from its BS4 iteration.