2022 KTM RC390: RACE-BRED PERFORMANCE.
Introducing the 2022 KTM RC390…
The 2022 KTM RC 390 is a high-performance Supersports machine with its roots firmly planted on the race track. Featuring an impressive technology package, as well as race-derived styling, handling characteristics, and addictive power delivery, the KTM RC 390 is a real-world racer with undoubted pedigree.
2022 KTM RC390 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
THE 2022 KTM RC RANGE BRINGS KTM RACE DNA TO THE STREET
Highly anticipated and eagerly awaited by KTM RC fans the world over, the all-new 2022 KTM RC range is ready to roll out of pit lane and line up on the starting grid.
The KTM RC range has been a staple Supersport model in the KTM lineup for a number of years, filling the Sportsbike gap in the KTM lineup. Now boasting Grand Prix-inspired design, a true race-derived chassis, and high-end electronics previously unseen in the small displacement Supersport segment, the new generation RC range charges out of pitlane with real-world, race-winning intentions.
The most immediately obvious update across the board is the Grand Prix-inspired styling, which sees almost every panel being redesigned, boasting race-inspired lines and two new colorways which clearly define the sporty character of these motorcycles.
This redesign has also been purposely done to increase the overall size of the RC range, not only to give it a striking visual presence but also to optimize aerodynamics due to higher top speeds, thanks in part to a computational fluid dynamics design process.
This new design has also optimized wind and weather protection, with enhanced heat management by using a combination of inner and outer body panels to direct airflow away from the rider.
The rear bodywork has been reduced as much as possible for a more aggressive profile, but also to show off as much of the redesigned steel trellis subframe as possible.
As true sports bikes, special care has been taken in improving overall ergonomics. The knee area is now ergonomically developed to allow for easier, more fluid rider movement, being as narrow as possible with the largest possible contact area.
An all-new two-part cockpit and windscreen holder makes use of a cast aluminum upper area and a lower composite part that secures the headlight, while a larger fuel tank has been added for improved day-to-day riding, comfort, and fuel range.
The new bodywork is easily removable, with a reduced number of screws being used as well as a redesigned mounting system. This makes swapping out the street-legal bodywork for race-ready panels more practical. However, the most notable updates to the KTM RC range can be found underneath the new bodywork.
The 2022 KTM RC range was developed with a focus on weight saving, with extensive savings made throughout the chassis. An all-new wheel design accounts for a 3.4 kg unsprung weight saving over the previous generation, while the new ByBre braking system saves an impressive 960 grams. The frame too, has undergone the knife with a 1.5 kg saving.
The suspension has also undergone a major refresh, with adjustable open cartridge WP APEX upside-down front forks up front, which feature 30 clicks of compression adjustment on the left, and 30 clicks for rebound on the right.
The range topping KTM RC 390 is fitted with a WP APEX rear shock absorber which offers pre-load adjustment and 5 clicks rebound settings.
The KTM RC 125 features WP APEX open cartridge front fork with a completely new sportier factory setting, and a new WP APEX shock absorber with split piston functionality.
Every model in the KTM RC range is powered by a EURO5 state-of-the-art, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine with twin overhead camshafts, four valves, and electronic fuel injection. For 2022, the KTM RC range delivers more torque compared to previous models thanks to a new airbox design. The KTM RC 390 has also received a new engine mapping for increased torque and overall rideability.
From an electronic standpoint, the new generation KTM RC range sets the benchmark for the small displacement Supersport segment, with the KTM RC 390 boasting a selection of rider aids usually only available on bigger motorcycles, namely SUPERMOTO ABS, Lean angle sensitive Cornering ABS and Cornering MTC, and the optional Quickshifter+.
KTM MY RIDE can now also be added to the KTM RC 125 and KTM RC 390, thanks to new TFT color display, which allows riders to access important information at a glance, with the added flexibility of being able to tailor the display to show what they want to see. The display also automatically adapts its brightness to ambient light.
As a package, the 2022 KTM RC lineup promises to bring more READY TO RACE to the realm of Supersport with real, race-bred ability and technology to match.
The new generation KTM RC range will be available in dealers March 2022.
2022 KTM RC390 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Engine & Exhaust
Cooling
Improved airflow throughout the engine allows the KTM RC 390 to run cooler, giving it the optimal performance temperature needed to hit the apex, lap after lap.
Engine
The 2022 KTM RC 390 uses the proven 373 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine to maximum effect. Revised engine mapping, improved torque figures, and smoother, hard-hitting power delivery means this state-of-the-art powerplant churns out unmatched performance.
Performance
Thanks to a larger airbox, increased torque, and ultra-slick throttle response, the KTM RC 390 rockets off the line and into pole position. A new Ride-by-Wire system also means it steps onto the podium with more precise engine mapping, traction control, and the added benefit of optional Quickshifter+.
Cylinder Head
Four valves, double-overhead cams and, ultra-hard carbon-coated cam levers mean the cylinder head on the KTM RC 390 produces more power but retains its legendary reliability.
Exhaust
Taking its design cues from the MotoGP™ RC16, the exhaust of the KTM RC 390 boasts stainless steel headers with an aluminum muffler, which not only look the part but give the KTM RC 390 a distinct, throaty rumble as it charges through the gears and onto the redline.
Slipper Clutch
Preventing the rear wheel from locking up under hard deceleration, the slipper clutch opens up when the engine back-torque becomes too high, but it also closes with the force of the clutch springs when you get onto the throttle. This stops unwanted rear wheel chatter and ensures maximum control – while also allowing the clutch lever to be actuated with hardly any pressure at all.
Chassis
Wheels
An all-new bionic wheel design features fewer spokes and open hubs, which not only greatly improves handling characteristics, but most importantly, saves a massive 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg) of rotating unsprung mass. This means quicker turn-in on the track and improved durability on the street, making the KTM RC 390 an all-out apex-clipping master.
Frame
A new, ultra-lightweight frame design saves 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg) over the previous generation, making use of a trellis frame and bolt-on subframe, which also gives the 2022 KTM RC 390 improved high-speed stability and increased rider feel. The result? Faster lap times.
Suspension
The 2022 KTM RC 390 makes use of a completely new suspension setup, giving it real race-bike credibility with unmatched suspension specifications in the sub-400 cc superpsports segment.
Front Fork
Boasting a 43 mm WP APEX open cartridge, adjustable upside-down front fork with 30 clicks for compression and 30 clicks for rebound settings, the KTM RC 390 not only shares proper sportsbike technology with bigger bikes, but it also handles like them too. New axle clamps and a hollow axle save weight up front too.
Rear Shock Absorber
Tuning your KTM RC 390 to be the perfect track day tool is easy, thanks to a new rebound and preload adjustable split-piston WP APEX shock absorber taking care of things in the rear.
Brakes
Reigning in a charging KTM RC 390 comes courtesy of radially mounted 4-piston-fixed BYBRE caliper combined with a 320 mm brake disc upfront and a one-piston fixed caliper with 230 mm disc brake setup on the rear wheel. Not only do these provide the best possible deceleration, they save 960 grams of weight and can be fully exploited thanks to state-of-the-art ABS technology. An adjustable front brake lever completes the package.
Ergonomics
Footlevers
Folding foot levers prevent unwanted breakage in the event of a fall and also ensure the bike stays on-line and undisturbed should you scrape the pegs at big lean angles.
Handlebars
Designed on the track to chase down lap times and give riders their perfect setup, these clip-on handlebars feature 10 mm of height adjustment, so when the race is over they can be raised for more relaxed, everyday applications.
Seat
The all-new KTM RC 390 seat features an improved profile for seamless, unrestricted rider movement, but also has thicker, ergonomically-shaped foam for better comfort. A grippy, hard-wearing outer material has been added to improve grip in all weather conditions.
Rider Contact
The KTM RC 390 boasts a rider-centric layout, designed to give riders maximum contact with the bike, without restricting their movement. The knee area is ergonomically developed to be as narrow as possible with the largest possible contact area for optimum control when on the edge.
Footpegs
New lightweight footpegs feature the optimal geometry to keep you firmly planted when cranked over, deep into the corners.
Bodywork & Graphics
Mirrors
New foldable mirrors are wider to have a broader visual range, but are also sharper to provide improved aerodynamics. They’re also more practical, folding in for a narrower profile when maneuvering the RC 390 through tight spacing or parking.
MotoGP™ Inspired
Taking its lead from the pinnacle of 2-wheeled racing, the KTM RC 390 echoes the design of the KTM RC16 racer in both styling, ergonomics and Factory Racing-inspired color options.
Bodywork
Completely redesigned, race-inspired bodywork provides class-leading wind protection and a higher top speed thanks to optimized aerodynamics created by using CFD (Computational Flow Dynamics) simulations.
Screen & LED Headlight
The undeniable “face” of KTM Supersports, the KTM RC 390 boasts an aerodynamic screen for ultimate wind protection, neatly incorporating into an all-new LED headlight with LED Daylight Running Lights (DRL) and integrated indicators for optimal visibility.
Fuel Tank
A new, larger 3.6 gallon (13.7 liter) fuel tank is inspired by the KTM Moto3 race bike, and provides the best-in-class fuel capacity. This, combined with the KTM RC 390’s low fuel consumption, means you can go further, faster, for longer.
Software & Electronics
LED Lightning
An all-new LED headlight illuminates the way forward on the KTM RC 390. Providing a very wide beam, complete with daylight running lights, guarantees optimum visibility and a distinctive look that matches the rest of the KTM model range. A sharp LED taillight completes the look.
TFT Display & Switchgear
An all-new TFT dashboard lets you see all the important information you need at a glance, or allows you to customize what you want to see via intuitive switchgear. The ambient light adaptive sensor also means the display adjusts to changing light conditions automatically, so that you maintain perfect visibility, day or night.
MTC
Complete confidence at any angle, Motorcycle Traction Control reacts in a matter of milliseconds if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the riding situation. MTC reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention at the throttle valves, reducing slippage to optimum proportions. This means riders can enjoy the full power of the KTM RC 390 under all circumstances, on track and on the road.
Cornering ABS
The KTM RC 390 is equipped with Cornering ABS to ensure maximum braking performance under all conditions. This allows riders to use the full power of the BYBRE brakes when navigating a corner by taking the lean angle of the motorcycle into account, reducing the chance of locking up a wheel mid-corner.
Supermoto ABS Mode
The KTM RC 390 can let it all hang out, thanks to SUPERMOTO ABS. This mode allows the rider more freedom when it comes to hard braking, without compromising on safety. This is done by deactivating ABS functionality on the rear wheel which allows the rider to slide the rear into a corner. At the same time, rear wheel lift up detection is also disabled allowing the rear wheel to lift up, but keeping brake pressure on the front until an excessive front wheel slip is detected, at which point ABS will intervene. This also means the rider can apply more brake pressure when cornering or trail braking.
QUICKSHIFTER+
Shift like a pro with the KTM RC 390 and KTM’s optional QUICKSHIFTER +, allowing you to gear up or down without using the clutch lever. This means quicker shift times, improved rear wheel traction, smoother acceleration and the distinct racetrack sound. This works by cutting the ignition at the moment the shift lever moves up or down, unloading the gearbox, and making it possible for you to switch one gear up without closing the throttle.
KTM MY RIDE
Thanks to the all-new TFT display, the KTM RC 390 can connect to KTM MY RIDE, which allows riders to connect their smartphone via the KTM MY RIDE app, giving them access to their music library and incoming calls without taking their hands off the grips.
2022 KTM RC390 – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
Transmission 6-speed
Cooling Liquid cooled
Power in KW 32kW
Starter Electric starter
Stroke 60mm
Bore 89mm
Clutch PASC™ antihopping clutch, mechanically operated
Displacement 373cm³
EMS Bosch EMS with RBW
Design 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
Lubrication Wet sump
Chassis
ABS Bosch 9.1MP Two Channel ABS (Supermoto ABS)
Front brake disc diameter 320mm
Rear brake disc diameter 230mm
Chain 520 X-Ring
Frame design Steel trellis frame, powder coated
Front suspension WP APEX 43
Rear suspension WP APEX – Monoshock
Steering head angle 66.5°
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
