[youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3K4vajv658 540 375]
KTM will be launching the RC 200 and RC 390 bikes in India on the 9th of September and around the same time, the global launch of these bikes will also happen. Based on the Duke models, the RC series has been highly awaited in the country and is likely to be a huge success. The RC 200 will easily outsell the RC 390 as it will be cheaper by around Rs. 75,000/-, appealing to those who want an attractive looking motorcycle but don’t crave for too much power. The RC 200 and RC 390 are manufactured at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan plant, alongside the Duke 200 and Duke 390. The company also produces the Duke 125 in India and exports it the world over and thus the RC 125 will also be made in India for the world.
The RC bikes use the same engine as the Duke models but slight revision in gearing will help these full faired motorcycles become track focussed. There are multiple changes to the bikes including revisions to the suspension, chassis, tank and steering (the bikes use clip-ons instead of a handlebar for a sportier riding position). KTM has just released a video which shows the RC 390 in action, the bike does look stellar as it corners hard on the road as well as the track.
While pricing details remain unknown at the moment, multiple dealers suggest the RC 200 will touch Rs. 2 lakhs while the RC 390 will retail around the Rs. 2.75 lakh mark (on-road, Mumbai). Bookings are open across all KTM showrooms in India and deliveries will commence by the end of September. The booking amount is Rs. 30,000/- and only one colour is offered for each of the RC bikes, limiting choice but making it easier for Bajaj Auto to manage inventory. KTM will launch a new colour for the Duke 390 later this year.
KTM is also running a competition for its European customers, giving them a chance to win a RC 390, the video for the same is hilarious.
[youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asJ3lqHkvVU 540 375]