KTM Malaysia launched the new RC390 and Duke 890R at Sepang Circuit earlier this month.
While the two are updated versions of the earlier models, the swathe of updates have essentially made them completely new models.
The launch coincided with a rain-swept circuit but what better way to test the new updates to the 'Ready to Race' models.
The new Duke 890R is dubbed 'The Super Scalpel' on account of its lightning-fast steering geometry. The tubular steel chassis and adjustable WP APEX suspension is equally at home on twisty mountain roads as it is on the racetrack.
It is the most powerful parallel twin in the segment delivering 121 hp and 99 Nm of torque. Monoblock Brembo Stylema calipers on 320 mm discs on the front are allied with an adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder for superb stopping power.
Electronics are right on par with sportsbikes, with cornering ABS and cornering traction control equipped with a 6D lean angle sensor that not only detects the roll and pitch but also yaw.
Ride modes are comprehensive as well with Rain, Street and Sport modes and an optional Track mode ensures full customization. Additionally, nine levels of adjustable traction control slip, anti-wheelie on/off, and the additional throttle control setting add more adjustability.
Our track time shows the Super Scalpel to be just as advertised. As usual, the engine and chassis are super sharp and need sharp reflexes to fully utilize, lest you cut yourself.
Traction control works overtime on a wet circuit, but still allows a bit of slide out of corners. The brakes are superb which allows you to brake hard in wet/damp conditions. Despite the sharp geometry of the chassis, the Duke 890R is stable and trustworthy.
The Duke 890R comes in a matt hue called 'Atlantic Blue' reminiscent of the KTM RC16 MotoGP racer and retails for RM75,800.
The RC390 is the most visibly updated of the two. The little SuperSport sees almost every panel being redesigned via computational fluid dynamics to increase the overall size and optimize aerodynamics to achieve a higher top speeds. The redesign yields better wind protection benefits and ergonomics while also directing hot airflow away from the rider. A larger fuel tank increases fuel range.
Another focus was on weight saving. An all-new wheel design accounts for a 3.4 kg unsprung weight saving while the new ByBre braking system saves 960 grams. The new frame yields a 1.5 kg saving.
Its forks are fully adjustable open cartridge WP APEX upside-down front forks up front and a WP APEX rear shock absorber on the rear with pre-load adjustment and adjustable rebound.
The powerplant is a EURO5 compliant liquid-cooled DOHC 4 valve single producing 32 kW and 37 Nm of torque. A new airbox design and new engine mapping increases torque and overall rideability from the previous design.
The RC390 boasts a selection of rider aids usually only available on bigger motorcycles, namely Supermoto ABS, cornering ABS, cornering traction control and an optional quickshifter. KTM My Ride is also now available due to the new TFT color display.
On track, the RC390 displays a similar personality to the previous RC390. Stable and assured in the turns while providing adequate power.
The most surprising aspect was the top speed. Even though drive was compromised due to the wet conditions it still manages to achieve a higher top speed than the outgoing model. Brakes are sharp as ever and the electronics hardly intervene.
The RC390 is available in two colours, both which reflect their MotoGP teams; an Orange of the Tech 3 team and the Atlantic Blue of the Red Bull team and retails for RM33,900.
As usual, KTM PowerParts are available to personalize both the Duke 890R and RC390 while a range of KTM PowerWear ensures the rider is just as sharp-looking.
