Ride-By-Wire and aluminium exhaust were added on the European spec KTM RC 390 in order to adhere to the stringent European emissions, which are not yet applicable in India yet.
KTM pulled in quite the surprise when it revealed the 2016 RC 390 at the EICMA Motorcycle show last month much to the drool of the Austrian automaker’s fans all across the globe. With features like Ride-By-Wire (RbW) system, aluminium exhaust, bigger brakes, adjustable levers and a slipper clutch among other sophisticated bits, it was perceived that the made-in-India model that is exported overseas will get the new tech when it goes on sale in the country. However, it is now confirmed that the India-spec model will come void of most of these upgrades.
KTM dealerships across the country suggest that the 2016 RC 390 set to go on sale in India in a few weeks will only get the slipper clutch as part of the upgrade, missing the Ride-By-Wire and aluminium exhaust altogether. The reason stated for the same is the cost advantage on the RC and Duke motorcycles which make it the most sought after choices in the segment with an impeccable power-to-cost ratio. Further, the RbW and side mounted aluminium exhaust were additions made in order to comply with Europe’s stringent Euro 4 emission norms.
Considering India is still a good time away from Euro 4 norms, KTM does not see any reason to introduce the additional technology on the domestic version and the same would’ve only increased the asking price on the model. It isn’t clear if the India spec 2016 RC 390 will also miss out on the new and larger rear view mirrors, adjustable levers and bigger 320 mm (previously 300 mm) disc brake doing duty up front, now sourced from Brembo.
Mechanically, the KTM RC 390 continues to draw power from a 373.2cc single-cylinder motor tuned for 43.5 PS and 35 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The WP suspension is carried over and so are the Metzeler tyres. In terms of performance, the RC 390 is capable of hitting the 0-100 km/hr mark in 5.6 seconds while a top speed of 179 km/hr is achievable. There are no cosmetic upgrades either on the 2016 edition. A marginal price hike is expected on the full-faired Austrian when it goes on sale.
