Aprilia RS 457 vs KTM RC 390: Battle Of Performance

KTMs single-handedly changed the canvas of performance bikes in India which in turn helped us enthusiasts experience uninhibited performance without having to execute a heist. 

The KTM RC 390 is one such motorcycle that showed how quick and affordable, fully-faired motorcycles can be. Yes, the current-gen RC will cost you around ₹ 4 lakh (on-road), but it’s still affordable compared to other competitors in the market.

Speaking of competition, Aprilia upturned this sole proposition with the introduction of the new RS 457. What looks like a mini-RS 660, the Aprilia RS 457 is built and manufactured in India, just like the KTM RC 390. The former also promises to deliver performances that will blow your mind. But how good is it? Moreover, is it worth that extra price tag?

Engine

Although the current-gen KTM RC 390 continues with the same 373cc engine that debuted with the 1st-gen Duke 390, KTM updated certain engine components to make it more daily-use friendly without compromising its performance. With a larger airbox and a revised exhaust layout, the RC 390’s power might have remained unchanged, but torque increased by 1 Nm. As for its daily basis usage, the engine doesn’t heat up like it used to before, thanks to the curved radiator set-up that it gains from the 390 Adventure.

Unlike the rapid performance delivery in the single-cylinder KTM, the Aprilia RS 457 will be more refined due to its parallel-twin engine set-up. Moreover, its bigger engine capacity also gives it better outright power, which is surprisingly made at lower rpm and should help the Italian’s case with quicker acceleration of the line. The other big advantage that Aprilia has over the KTM is in the torque department which should make the RS 457 feel more tractable. 

Features

Both the bikes get a colour TFT instrument cluster, but the display layout available with the Aprilia RS 457 looks much more premium compared to the RC 390. Aside from that, the RS 457 also gets three ride modes and two levels of traction control. The KTM RC 390 sounded premium and unique in the competition with its feature-list, especially with the Bosch 9.1 MP IMU-aided electronics. But when compared to the Aprilia RS 457, it does seem to fall slightly short. However, the RC 390 has an ace up its sleeve and that’s cornering ABS, which can be very crucial in a sticky situation. 

Underpinning 

Both the Aprilia and KTM are on par when it comes to suspension and brakes. However, the Aprilia RS 457 gets that slight edge with a preload adjustable option in its front suspension set-up. The KTM RC 390 just gets a preload adjustable function with its rear monoshock suspension. 

The Aprilia also gets a 10mm bigger rear disc brake, and switchable ABS is available in both motorcycles, Moreover, the twin-spar aluminum frame is a unique aspect in this segment available with the RS 457. While the KTM’s tubular split-trellis frame with a lighter bolt-on subframe set-up has certainly helped its case to become more agile than before allowing you to take that Moto-GP-esque cornering stance. 

The Aprilia RS 457 also rides on TVS Eurogrip Protorq Extreme tyres which was exclusively developed in collaboration between both the brands. These are H-rated tires, just like the Metzeler options available with the RC 390. 

The overall dimension of the KTM RC 390 has remained unchanged from before. However, the bike has shed significant weight, especially in the unsprung mass department. This can be observed from the new lightweight, bionic wheel design and disc brake. With fluids, the RC 390 is still 3 kg lighter than before and this has been achieved despite a slightly bigger fuel tank. The RS 457 is not that far behind in terms of weight-saving measures, in fact, despite nestling a parallel-twin engine it just weighs 3 kg more. Coupled with that, the RS 457 will also be more accessible for short riders because of its lower seat height. Whereas in the RC 390, you will be tip-toeing a bit. 

Price

The KTM RC 390 is a VFM offering for the kind of performance and experience it offers. The Aprilia RS 457 does live up to its premium price tag and it is a wholesome package. However, with a better dealership network and and low service cost, the RC 390 will be easy to live with on a daily basis. The Aprilia RS 457 with its parallel-twin cylinder is a unique proposition in the segment and is a great value when compared to the Yamaha R3. Although the price difference will divide buyers, however, a thrilling ride is guaranteed in both these machines.