KTM enthusiasts in India are eagerly waiting for the launch of the updated 2016 RC 390, which was showcased at the 2015 EICMA show in Milan in November. The India launch o the vehicle is expected in January 2016. However, there is some bad news.
A report in Zigwheels indicates the India specific model will be available with just a slipper clutch. The aluminum exhaust and the ride-by-wire technology will be limited to the European market. According to KTM officials, the new aluminium exhaust was added to meet the stringent Euro 4 emission norms. The current underbelly exhaust system is in compliance to the emission norms of India and changing it will invite a significant hike in price, which KTM does not intend to do. The ride-by-wire technology, which will result in smoother and refined power delivery to the motorcycle, also seems to be excluded in the India-specific model.
The motorcycle will come with disconnectable ABS system, which will help the promising rider to hone their race riding skills. The front disc brakes are bigger now with 320mm diameter and, brake and clutch levers are also adjustable.
The 2016 RC 390 carries over the same 373.2cc single cylinder, liquid cooled engine that generates 43.4bhp at 9,500rpm and 35Nm torque at 7,250 mated to a six-speed transmission. The 2016 model will be slightly premium buy compared to the current model.