OK, when we say the 400cc supersport class is back, we are stretching things a little. The days of 0.4-litre four-cylinder rockets are gone, so don’t expect any mini-superbikes with top spec components and exotic materials here. But with the new KTM RC390, don’t resign yourself to the image of cheapo-budget commuter bikes either.
This is no humdrum commuter – the RC390 is a mini track weapon.
We’ll have a full test of the bike soon, but for now the important facts are:
- 147kg wet weight (claimed)
- 44hp (claimed)
- 110/70-17 front tyre and 150/60-17 rear
Forty-four horsepower might be a chunk down on the claimed 59hp of a Honda VFR400 NC30, but with a 50kg weight advantage, the RC390 will be long gone before the Honda gets into its stride. But this isn’t about whether the RC is better than an NC30 – the old 400s will always have their fans and rightly so. But for someone who wants an ultra-lightweight modern sports bike, the RC390 is a cracking option and a nice change to big power and the weight that goes with it.
If you’re unconvinced, have a look at this video of the RC390 on track and tell us you’re not excited…