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The 2017 KTM RC 390 and 2017 KTM RC 250 were unveiled in October of the 2017. There have been numerous significant upgrades implemented, including Ride-by-Wire, a slipper clutch, and a chassis, to name a few. The 2017 KTM RC 390 is an excellent option for track days and weekend trips on mountain roads, costing RM29,800 (base price with GST back in 2017.

The appearance has just been modified with new side exhausts, colour schemes, and body panels. Nothing else is significant. For those who live in places with enormous speed bumps, this new exhaust configuration does provide higher ground clearance, so they shouldn't have to worry too much about owning this baby.

The new RC 390 is more suited for track riding than daily commutes since the seating ergonomics have been tuned for a more super sport riding stance. A wider and somewhat higher handlebar, which we found to be excellent for flipping into endless curves and weaving in and out of congested traffic, enhances the aggressive attitude.

Nonetheless, it’s not exactly the best handlebar positioning for either road or track riding purposes but it is adequate so that it performs fairly well in both riding scenarios. As the riding ergonomics is leaning more towards the trackside, the RC 390 is perfect for beginner riders who want to try track riding but requires a few modifications and setups for more advanced riders.

Surprisingly, the chassis performs admirably in all riding circumstances. In general, it provides a fairly smooth ride with very little vibrations that will start to bother most riders after a few kilometers. Getting it up to highway speeds (and beyond) when paired with a 373cc, single-cylinder Euro4 engine is nothing short of astounding

Its 44hp 373cc engine does have a significant flaw, though. Although its radiator has been upgraded for better cooling performance, the cooling fan linked to it is so loud that it can drown out the sound of the engine when it is idle. Another problem with the RC390 is how much heat it produces; you'll definitely feel the heat climbing up your legs, especially at stoplights. The answer? Ride quickly and forcefully.

The RC 390 can achieve high speeds of about 170 km/h, but once the engine reaches its RPM limit, a cut-off will reduce the bike's power and you will feel a surge of weight pulling you back. For the first time, the experience will be rather abrupt and take you by surprise, but it will also teach you that this bike doesn't need to be pushed to its limits, especially when riding on the track. This little one really glows like a diamond in the corners.

The front WP Suspension 43mm inverted front forks, which have the same diameter as KTM's sole superbike, the RC 8, have been primed with racing DNA. Some would argue that it's a little bit on the softer side because it's been set more for scenarios on the road, but the compression and rebound rates are well enough when turning.

Unfortunately, they aren't completely adjustable, thus lighter riders who weigh approximately 70 kg (and less) will benefit more from the existing configuration. It syncs up quite well with the bike's overall power delivery across the full RPM range, which is wonderful news. Ride-by-Wire technology that is excellent at regulating throttle responses also helps with this. Power delivery is uninterrupted and not too sudden.

Additional upgrades to the braking system include a larger 320mm front disc, a ByBre radial four-piston caliper, and dual-channel ABS. For further versatility, adjustable brake and clutch levers are included as standard. The braking sensation and feedback are also excellent. Hard braking is one of the things that really thrill us while riding the RC 390 because not many entry-level sport bikes can provide the same feeling.

Heavy braking from high speeds causes no drama for the front end on a bike that weighs just 147 kg dry, but it does tend to make the rear end quite light. If you apply more force to the brakes, the back tire will lift off the ground, but it is common for track riders, and the RC 390 checks that box with a smile.

However, the rear brake of this vehicle has a significant flaw. We discovered that it was quite soft and nearly worthless under severe braking, so we had to adjust our braking technique and weight distribution to somewhat subdue the beast before entering turns. It is not a good idea to completely disregard the rear brake because it can aid in better stopping performance. In this specific circumstance, stabilizing the bike by moving your body weight to the back end might be somewhat helpful.

Finding the proper weight balance will help greatly in optimizing the bike's braking performance, but it does take a lot of experience. Dual channel ABS is included as standard equipment for road riding and performs excellently. While riding, it's rarely perceptible, but it will be useful when called upon.

For a better riding experience on the track, a third, hidden button on the dash lets you disable all of the ABS. This button was present on the previous model. When the ABS is turned off, the bike will remind you by stating "Not Legal!" therefore only use this method on the racetrack and not on public roads.

A fantastic aspect of the RC 390 package is the slipper clutch. It effectively reduces wheel hop and prevents rear wheel lockups. It adds to the RC 390's enjoyment on the track and in the city once again. It also contributes to enhancing overall safety when combined with the bike's ABS system, ensuring that rookie riders won't be excessively scared by the bike's performance.

Overall, 2017 KTM RC 390 is a type of bike we wouldn't want to ride it every day of the week. Although the cost is reasonable for track days and weekend excursions up mountain roads, a trip to and from the office following a long day at the office will only make you feel worse. If you have a solid core and sufficient knowledge and experience riding using your lower body, all of this may be avoided. Since new riders often place all of their weight on their arms, the strain and load will exhaust you quickly, and you'll undoubtedly experience aches and pains the following morning after a day of riding.

As a step up from the 250s before moving on to super sport and superbike, the 2017 KTM RC 390 is a solid option to test out on the track. When combined with the proper riding expertise, the RC 390 will, in our opinion, make you a better rider.

SPECS:

Claimed power: 32kW[44hp]@9500rpm
Claimed torque: 35Nm[25.8ft-lbs]@7500rpm
Wet weight: 147kg
Fuel capacity: 10L

Engine: Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke, 89 x 60mm bore x stroke, 373.2cc, 12.5:1 compression, six-speed gearbox, Bosch EFI and engine management system, 46mm throttle-body, RbW
Clutch: PASC mechanical slipper clutch
Gearbox: Six-speed gearbox

Chassis: Steel trellis frame, bolt-on rear sub-frame
Seat height: 820mm, Wheelbase: 1340±15mm
Steering head angle: 66.5, Trail: 88mm

Suspension: 43mm WP USD forks, no adjustment, 125mm travel, WP shock absorber with stepped preload adjustment, 150mm travel

Brakes: Bosch 9MB Two Channel ABS, Single front four-piston, radial-mounted caliper, 320mm rotor, single-piston rear floating-pin caliper, 230mm rotor

Wheels & tires: Cast aluminum, ten-spoke wheels, 3.00 x 17in, 4.00 x 17in, Metzeler Sportec M5, 110/70 – 17, 150/60 – 17

Instruments: TFT multi-function display

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As we have this model for quite sometimes, we taken down the price so you can enjoy this magnificent motorcycle. A rare scene this days and steal most eyes on the road! Reach our specialist to get to know more about this model or you can visit our showroom to see this beauty by yourself!