KTM RC390 gets 2017 update

2017 KTM RC390 gets ride-by-wire, a new clutch, and more

The 2017 KTM RC 390 gets some upgrades trickled down from the Cup Racebike version. KTM’s new Euro4 homologated sport bike hits the street this year with the 2017 Duke 390, KTM’s naked roadster counterpart. While the new baby Duke gets a full suite of all-new features, the RC 390 retains most of its original character with only a handful of updates.

The new RC 390 receives an anti-hopping power-assist slipper clutch (PASC), new ride-by-wire throttle, and side-mounted exhaust. The bike is built around a steel trellis frame and powered by a liquid-cooled 373.2 cc thumper mated to a 6-speed gearbox. It is rated to make 43.5 PS at 9,500 rpm with 35 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. Care of the new fuel delivery system, the ride-by-wire throttle should be smoother and more responsive with better efficiency.

The ergonomics on the sport bike are revised with a new seat, brake levers, adjustable clutch lever, and wider side mirrors. The front brake disc is a tad larger at 320 mm, while the rear disc remains 230 mm. The 2017 RC 390 rides on non-adjustable 43 mm WP inverted front forks and a WP rear mono shock with adjustable preload — rolling on 17-inch wheels and grippy Metzeler Sported M7 rubber. ABS comes standard.

For its gauges, the 2017 KTM RC 390 gets a black-and-white multi-function LCD screen. Its seat height measures at 820 mm, ground clearance at 178.5 mm, and fuel capacity at 10 L. The bike weighs 147 kg dry, and dons new graphics and a belly pan.