2022 KTM RC 390 Updates Overview | Major changes!

Описание: Exciting news out of KTM with the RC 390 updated for 2022, in a move that’s sure to turn some heads. The new styling is RC16 MotoGP inspired, with the bodywork and sub-frame all updated for aerodynamics, as well as in directing heat away from the rider for better dispersion overall.

In another boon for owners when it comes to DIY work on the bike, as well as helping keep servicing costs low, the new fairings features less screws and fixtures, making for easier removal and replacement, while the knee area has been narrowed, with KTM promising a more intuitive feel on the bike and greater contact patch in this area. Fuel capacity has also been increased to 13.7 L, marking a significant capacity increase over the previous 9.5 L tank and as a result a much greater range between fill-ups.

That sub-frame and accompanying bodywork have also been slimmed down, there’s a nod to the more mundane everyday use so many of these bikes do, with the pillion seat now running thicker foam for much better comfort when two-up.

Other chassis updates include to the frame, which is all new, the wheels and in suspension updates, with this RC 390 update significantly more than just a restyle.

On the RC390 new WP Apex split function open cartridge forks are fitted, with 30 clicks of compression found on the left fork, and 30 clicks of rebound on the right fork. That’s matched to a WP Apex shock, which offers both preload and five click rebound adjustability, making this the highest spec suspension offering in the category off the top of my head.

The new wheels are an impressive change too, with a designed running fewer spokes and open hubs to reduce weight, while also being stronger according to KTM. Impressively the new wheels apparently shed 3.4 kilograms, which is a lot of weight, especially on an unsprung item. Tyres will be a 110 by 70, 17 inch front and 150 by 60, 17 inch on the rear.

The class leading brake setup also continues with a four-piston ByBre caliper on 320 mm rotor, while the rear runs a 230 mm rear rotor and single-piston caliper, with the brake setup renowned for exceptional power and bite on a small machine. KTM are promising the system also saves almost a kilogram over that on the outgoing RC 390 too, while SuperMoto ABS is standard.

That’s a Bosch 9.1 MP unit, which includes cornering ABS thanks to a lean angle sensor, with Supermoto ABS described as deactivated on the rear to allow slides and rear lockups, as well as disabling rear wheel lift detection. It’s not specifically stated in the release I’ve got but I’m assuming that’s a switchable mode available, as there’s definitely the ABS sensor fitted to the rear wheel. It’s also worth noting both brake and clutch lever are adjustable.

Powering the RC 390 is the existing liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke, however there’s been updates here too. A 40 per cent larger airbox for starters, with the engine Euro5 compliant and featuring completely new engine mapping according to KTM, with an up and down quickshifter now standard, in a pretty exciting addition, if one that plays into the track centric updates.

The exhaust is likewise all new, with stainless steel headers and an aluminium silencer, saving further weight.

Also taking advantage of the IMU is the traction control system, which now features cornering functionality, with other standard features including a slipper clutch, TFT display, LED lights including DRLs and an eye catching new screen. Also updated are the rider seat, and foldable mirrors, not to mention the taillight.

Also of note is the seat height increasing slightly, from 820 mm to 824 mm in total, while it also looks like we’re losing about 20 mm of ground clearance, despite no change in the claimed suspension travel, with 120 at the front and 150 mm at the rear.

For those on the short side of things, that taller seat height may be somewhat of a barrier to entry if they are looking for something they can get two feet down flat on, but this is an exceptionally light machine at 164 kg fully fueled.

Footage by Luca Piffaretti, images by pics Marco Campelli, courtesy of KTM.

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