2021 KTM RC 390, 200 And 125 Images Leaked, Launch Soon

The images which are likely to be of the Euro-spec models feature an adjustable front suspension and ContiRoad sport-touring tyres

• The RC 390 gets an all-new design and a TFT console with Bluetooth connectivity.
• Other changes include fairing integrated turn indicators, new alloy wheels, and a new subframe.
• Features a new exhaust and larger cooling fans for the radiator. 
• The engine’s likely to remain unchanged for all three models 

After numerous spy shots, the first proper images of the KTM RC 125, 200, and 390 have been leaked and there’s a lot to talk about, from the bike’s all-new design to its feature list and updated hardware. So we’ll try and simplify it as much as possible. 

All-new Design

The most obvious change, visually, is the overall design. You have a slimmer fairing, a new headlamp assembly, tailpiece, grab rails, and even new minimalistic alloy wheels. Essentially, the same test mule, but wrapped in KTM’s livery which makes it look more appealing in our eyes. 

The fairing, which houses the new Duke-like headlight, looks a bit disproportionate, but gets some cool new details such as the integrated turn indicators and a carbon-fibre finish. The windscreen appears to be slightly taller for better wind protection. While the seat is still a split unit, it seems to be finished in suede. It also looks flatter and better padded. 

Feature List 

A Bluetooth-enabled TFT console is a given in the new RC 390. It’s likely to be picked right off the Duke 390, so we could expect to see similar features such as turn-by-turn navigation, call/message alerts along with media playback. Expect minor UI tweaks to steer clear of any bugs and make it more user friendly. The headlight is likely to be a full-LED unit with LED turn indicators and an LED tail light.

The more affordable RC 125 and RC 200 are likely to get a conventional headlight and an LCD display, similar to the 250 Adventure. 

Adjustable Suspension?

The bikes seen in the images, especially the RC 390, is probably a Euro-spec model. It features an adjustable front suspension which is unlikely to make its way to India, unless KTM decides to right its wrongs. A similar setup was seen when the first images of the 390 Adventure were leaked. Unfortunately, KTM decided to cut costs and offer a non-adjustable fork for the India-spec model. The rear will probably be the same preload-adjustable monoshock.

The rubber seen in the images seems to be Continental ContiRoad sport-touring tyres. However, given the import restrictions in India, we think the 2021 RC’s in India are likely to come shod with MRF’s instead. 

Hardware Updates

The new sub-frame is a bolt-on unit that would make repairs easier and more affordable. The new 5-spoke alloys are likely to help shed some weight while the new exhaust and its routing position may offer better ground clearance. The bike's rider's triangle seems to be a bit more relaxed as well thanks to the new top triple-clamp and clip-on handlebars, which seem to be positioned higher than the current-gen model. 

Better Performance?

We doubt it, but it is possible. The 2021 RCs are likely to be powered by the same 124.7cc, 199.5cc and 373.3cc engines, however, KTM could extract a bit more performance from the engine with the new exhaust. Also adding to this theory is the new radiator which seems to have a curved design for better cooling and what looks like twin cooling fans, just like the ones on the Adventure range. 

Apart from this, the 390 is likely to get the same mechanical bi-directional quickshifter, like the current-gen 390 Adventure and 390 Duke. 

KTM’s put in a lot of work on the RC range, but we’ll only be able to give our two cents on how the bike rides once we get our hands on them. So stay tuned to BikeDekho for more updates.

Image Courtesy: Yadu Kanakkaparambil