2021 KTM RC 390 vs TVS Apache RR 310: Photo Comparison

Now that it has been overhauled, how does the new RC 390 fare against the RR 310, visually?

After the Yamaha YZF-R3 was spotted, now it’s time for the 2021 KTM RC 390’s latest pictures to make the headlines. The Austrian supersport is expected to launch soon. So, we pit it against its arch-nemesis, TVS Apache RR 310. Here’s how the two compare visually: 

Having gone under the knife, the 2021 KTM RC 390 now has a brand new design. The revised fascia now gets an LED headlight with DRLs flanked by massive LED turn indicators. It also gets a carbon fibre finish, and the windscreen seems to be a bit larger than before. On the other hand, the TVS Apache RR 310 gets a much sharper and likeable front profile. It gets split headlights with LED units. 

The 2021 KTM RC 390 looks a bit too docile. With the revised rider triangle, the bike now appears a bit roomier than before. Meanwhile, the Apache RR310’s bulky bodywork works in its favour. 

KTM will likely power the latest iteration of the RC 390 with the same 373.3cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor. The output figures also aren’t expected to see massive changes (the 2020 model makes 43.5PS and 36Nm). However, the bike gets a new side-mounted exhaust. In contrast, the Hosur-based supersports gets a 312cc single-cylinder motor making 34PS and 27.3Nm. A six-speed gearbox is standard. 

Now, to the features. The Austrian steed now gets a TFT display. Considering it’s borrowed from the 390 Duke, expect Bluetooth connectivity and other provisions like turn-by-turn navigation, call/message alerts, and media playback. There should be a bi-directional quickshifter as well. TVS has been a step ahead and equipped the Apache RR 310’s instrument console with a lap timer, live fuel efficiency, and riding modes. 

While the leaked images show the RC 390 sprung on an adjustable USD fork and a monoshock, it’s unlikely that the India-spec model will have the adjustability feature. TVS has suspended the RR 310 on a gold-finished USD fork and a monoshock setup. 

Anchoring the two bikes are single discs at both ends with dual-channel ABS. However, the 2021 KTM RC 390 seems to have a larger and lighter front disc. 

The leaked images show that KTM has shod the 2021 RC 390 with Continental ContiRoad sport-touring tyres. In contrast, the TVS Apache RR 310 currently has Michelin Road 5 rubber. 

Expect KTM to price the 2021 RC 390 at upwards of Rs 2.70 lakh. On the other hand, the current-gen TVS Apache RR 310 costs Rs 2.54 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom Delhi).