Hope you guys enjoy this First Ride! If you like this bike AT ALL make sure to check out the new post I did with it here! Put a ton of time into it and I want to know what you guys think about it: bit.ly/RC390BLog
Hi Chase, sup fam. I am the senior executive Engineer - electronics at chakhan plant where these bikes are manufactured and assembled and I'd like to point out a few things. 1. Both the eyes light up together. You need to push the HIGH BEAM button on , or put it on high beam and then press the passing light. 2. The pseudo red light is absolutely not the shifter or the redline. The bike has a break-in setup stock so to avoid any possible piston/cylinder/timing chain damage the shifter comes up early so that the rider is not revving up too much, after 600 miles this goes away. 3. This bike comes with a mixture of mineral plus semi synthetic motor oil as stock so you need to change it after 1000 kilometres or 600 miles. When you change it is highly advised that you change your oil filters too because all the chips and nicks from the break in of the motor are removed. Also you move on to a fully synthetic oil something like motion 300v after that. 4. You hear the fan coming in soon because the stock break in setting has a lower threshold for the temperature and the stock oil doesn't do any good for the heat dissipation. Also it is advised to change to something like ice cool coolant. (The blue one) 5. You said the suspension on this is spongy. Yes because it is supposed to be. This bike comes with an adjustable suspension with 10 point setup so you can change to a hard setup for the track or a very soft setup for touring if you like. It also has full preload setup too. 6. This bike is known for its top end but you said this bike doesn't have a good top end. That is because it is still break-in locked. Once you complete the first 600-1000 miles the bike basically gets unlocked and you can revv it to higher revs and the top end improves with it. 7. You can ride this bike as an advanced rider too. All the rider aids can be switched off from the dash.
I miss seeing you on camera, you always made me laugh and you and chase are great together on screen. Hopefully the two of you come up with a new c2w segment that get the 2 of you back on camera together
Hi Heather! I thought I could also advise you to push Chase to try the KTM 690 DUKE R. Single cylinder screaming FUN! It's been a while that I'm advising this bike. Believe me: a single cylinder that big is the funniest thing ever! One word: TORQUE! Hopefully you read this comment
As a Riding Instructor and also a bike enthusiast, I've owned bikes like a 07 CBR 1000RR, K6 GSX-R 750, then the KTM RC 390. Man, this bike does have a punch, joined a track day and the bike didn't dissapoint. The torque is impressive, good cornering speed since it is light. I really enjoyed the bike, now I own a Ninja 400. But to compare the Ninja to the KTM, I am more impressed with the RC, and I believe it may also depend on the preference of each of us as a rider. Always a fan of your vids Chase. Love every review of the bikes.
I know I am one of the people that keep asking for the KTM reviews. Really hoping you can get your hands on the Duke 390 and the Duke 790.. that 790 though OHMYGEEEERWD!!!
Hey TheBraps, I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! ;-)
Zalonka they used to... As in the 2015 editions... KTM did fix them and there hasn't been any buzz around blown head gaskets for this model (2017/2018)
I remember watching this video 2-3 times a month for like 2 years and always dreaming I could have this bike and now I have one sitting in my garage.. ❤️ I asked God for it so many times he finally said “Alright dude, here you go”!😂😂
I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! :-)
sirico I feel the same way. They make imo the best commuter bikes period. A 1000cc in traffic is boring as all hell, a small displacement bike in traffic is fun.
This is the only modern small displacement bike with decent cycle parts, the others are much more simple in that aspect. They deserve the “beginner” name every bit.
Well they are. I had a ninja 300 for 15000 miles. It was SUPER FUN!!! Yet the way all this small displacement bikes bars are and foot pegs they really are beginner bikes. I would also say most of these need some adjustable levers. Then you have a solid small displacement bike! I would go with the previous gen RC390 for the underslung exhaust. I like these small bikes though. I rode my ninja 300 on The Dragon and tore it up!!!! SO MUCH FUN! For anyone buying a small displacement bike the first thing I would recommend is changing the brake pads ASAP get some EBC pads (standard pads on all these bikes are crap). Also get some new tires! Rosso II's are made in these small sizes and they are way better than any of the rubber these companies give you for these things. It will completely change how the bike handles.
Being an owner of a 2015 ktm rc390, you did an on point review of that thing! Just loved it! Just a couple of info for people out there 1. the rear suspension is adjustable, to your own need, just like the way you want weather it is hard or soft 2. Mine has a good engine braking XD but in 2017 one there is slipper clutch which eliminates engine braking 3. Fast as F***. Trust me you'll enjoy this thing 4. Some companies has come up with aftermarket ECU for this thing and with *Slipper clutch*. Yeah you saw that right :D 5. It's got ride by wire throttle, which mine doesn't have, makes the throttle alot more crisp and nice!
This is an absolutely fantastic video man. I started this video because I’m looking into this exact bike as a beginner and I couldn’t have found better advice anywhere else. Thank you a ton!
You can set the shift light at what rpm you prefer, that's why it came on so early. I also don't get why almost everyone says 300-500cc beginner bikes are 'meh' on the highway, a top speed a little over 100mph should be enough. Agreed, you have to shift down etc. but I don't think they lack power. In Europe, people with A1 licenses ride on the highway on a 125cc, they are definitely 'meh'.
Prior to 1000km or 620miles, it’s set to come on at 6500 and can’t be changed until 1000km or 620miles has been reached. That’s how it is on my 390 Duke, at least.
You're probably right, I used to have a duke 125 but never bothered to change the shift light until after the run in period as I thought it was useful.
Great first ride ^^ got to show it to my sister as she wants a sports bike, but since we live in europe thats the only one she'll be allowed to ride. And for all the americans that read this, skip the beginner bikes if you want a sports bike and just get the 600 or 1000 and get one of the old restrictor plates from europe, more exactly germany. Almost every 600 or 1000 cc sportsbike up to 2016 got restrictor plates to around 50 and 100 hp so you can just order one of those and put it onto your bike, until you are comfortable with it and then take it off again, or put the next power restrictor on to your bike.
You can set it at what rpm you prefer yourself. It actually has 2 shift lights you can set at different rpms; a solid red one that comes on first and a flashing red one.
you might notice this before the video is over but the shift light is adjustable so your barely winding it out i got my 390 beginning of march and i love it
Great video. Love the footage from the camera chase car layered into the video. Shows how a person of similar stature will look on the bike while in motion. Great if someone likes a bike, but is afraid they'll look too tall for a specific machine. Could you please have a First Ride on a current generation Yamaha Vmax? It is a dream bike of mine and I would love to see it reviewed in your style and level of quality. I think you would have a lot of fun with it. Love and appreciate all the work you put into your videos and how you keep looking for new ways to improve :)
Chase the engine brake situation was probably because of the slipper clutch and the soft suspension is cause it was adjusted towards the softer end. It has a 10 step adjustability. Great video man. Was waiting to hear your view on a bike we in Nepal are familiar with. Cheers
Chase, in older moderls the light turned on both at the same time but in a study during 2016-17, they found that two light at the same time on in a motorcycle with rouded bulb in the night can be confused with a car much far than it is. Thanks for the review, I has a RC390 for about 2 year and I love it...a lot. I only changed because I had the posibility to change for my actual Ducati Monster but I still miss my RC390 (called Toothless ;))
Now ride the Duke 390 for a back to back comparison. Talking to the KTM Canada rep at a dealer, this bike wasn't aimed at the "True Beginner." At least here in North America, It's aimed at riders coming over from the dirt world, or looking for an recreational track bike.
Hey JBL, I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! ;-)
Is there a difference between the 2017, 2018, 2019 models of the KTMRC 390? Aesthetically they look identical but is there any kind of a difference mechanically? I’m looking to buy one and there’s a big difference in price between the three different year models. Thanks
@@BKallday503 I sold it after like year. It’s a cool bike and it was fun to ride but it’s also pretty small. I sold it after taking a few longer trips and realized i needed something with cargo capacity
I think with a sprocket swap and an exhaust youd probably even get more acceleration out of it. My only complaint is it's a little buzzy at the bars, but being a single that's pretty normal. I love the way it looks though, and I wish they'd do a RC690 with a similar fairing set
I have thought about this for some time, and what I'd really like to see, is a downsized version of the RC8. Imagine a KTM RC6 with perhaps 800cc V Twin engine and around 100-120hp - and the spaceship feel of the RC8, superlight weight, aggressive yet minimalist styling.. I think it would sit really well, and offer an alternative to all the 600cc bikes that have felt the same for years.
Stigma or not, I feel it's more fun and rewarding in the long run to start on a 'beginner' bike. My first bike was a 98 750 honda shadow and I had the toughest time turning it. Not until I bought my friends' 11 kawasaki ninja 250 did I grab a hold of being able to turn well on a bike. What surprised me was after riding that little ninja, I had better control over the honda shadow too. I bet you could learn a lot faster on a 390 and feel right at home on a bigger bike afterward.
Gtknoob the slipper clutch should only activate upon over rev during downshift. I think it felt lacking just because it’s a 373 cc single cylinder engine.
I just found you on youtube and i was looking for an idea of what should be my first bike. I think i just found it . The great thing is im in atlanta and i would love to get it
I am from India and own first generation RC390 2014 model. You can change the speedometer settings and set it in KMPH or MPH. You can also switch off ABS on this bike and red light to upshift can be changed by setting a new rpm limit. All this can be adjusted from tachometer options. Currently KTM in tie up bajaj is manufacturing these bikes in India and shipping across the globe. The one you are riding is euro 4 compliant and power is more linear. Try getting your hands on first generation n exp the madness.
I owned one of these for less than a year. You can most definitely change the red rev limit light. I believe they set it that low for engine break in reasons. I really liked it, but traded it in because I feared the ktm's reliability. Fans ran constantly, lots of vibrations (not always a bad thing), mushy suspension, started to smoke after the first valve check/adjustment.
Hie chase... The rpm has been limited that's why shift light is coming up early.. After first service the limit gets off so you can rev the engine to its fullest. Just to save engine. Much-love from India.
i have the rc390 2015 model and it feels like it has a lot of engine breaking and i mean a lot, I've been riding for 2 years and just come up from a 125 and I'm from england and it takes a while to get a leader bike when you're under 24! very very fun bike. my top speed on mine was 105mph on a slight down hill but I've had 100 fairly easily on a straight :D love your videos chase!
When your favorite motovlogger reviews the bike you own you HAVE to watch it endless number of time. 🤣 And no the bars are not more aggressive than R6. R6 has narrower and much lower clip ons😊😊 The biggest con from my 1 year of ownership is the vibration on footpegs, my feet get numb after riding for a few hours. Other one being the short shifting and that nasty revv limiter which kicks in at 9.5k-10k which you begin to notice more on track. So far happy with the choice I made.😊
On the rc 390 you can actually increase the limit on the rev limiter so for example if it redlines as standard in first gear at 7000rpm you can increase it to say 9000 rpm.
was doing research about this bike as well... looking for commute bike to/from work... 18 miles one direction in heavy traffic during la rush hour.... bang for buck you can't seem to go wrong with it.....
If I were a young guy or gal, I wouldn't like my bike to be called a beginner bike. It sounds like sort of a put down. Even though the smaller displacement bikes are usually a beginner bike, it just doesn't sound nice. Just sayin'...
I completely agree with you. I kinda view them as sports cars like the Toyota GT86 and Mazda Miata/MX5. No one would call them beginner sportscars just because they are small and cheap and not as powerful as something like an M3 or Audi TTRS. They are what they are, cheap fun sportscars that allow you to have a different kind of fun. It's exactly the same with these small displacement bikes, they are often extremely flickable and you can kinda throw them around in traffic and not worry too much. Try doing that on a 600 and you will end in a fucked up situation lol. Supermotos managed to acquire this spot where they are seen as hooligan bikes and funbikes, more than beginner bikes. I feel like small cc bikes occupy the same slot.
Hey chase. I’m an incoming new rider and I’ve had my eye on the 2018 version of the Kawasaki ninja 650. I know you’ve dont the older version but this one comes with more updated safety tech and abs comes standard. The way the style of the bike is built came out pretty awesome as well. Do you think you could feature it sometime in your future videos? Thanks for all that you do. I trust your first rides more than I do with anyone else I find on youtube
What's up with the turn signals coming out of the fairings? The RC 390's 2017 that I've seen and the one I personally own have them integrated in the rear view mirrors.
I will never underatand how you do those 3rd person perspective view. Is someone on a car accompanying you or are you using some sort of camera? But damn, those look legit
You can set rpms. It may be in break in mode where youre limited to like 8k, I set mine to 10,000 the indicator comes on and 12 red lines. In that case the engine breaking gets better.
Was it yourself who asked me about the 390 de-cat pipe and standard silencer? I have a vid of it to post soon, won't post it on youtube, but will post it on my facebook page for you! :-)
Just remembered it was about my camera angle not showing the dash, I will be posting that viewer feedback video in a bit on my Facebook page for you! :-)
Well Indians think of this bike as a liter bike lol. They say it has way too much power, which js true for many riders in India tbh. Don't take me wrong, but I've seen atlesst 20 crash videos of the duke 390 and literally all came from India.
Do you think that if I bought this as my first bike and kept it for like at least 5 years, would I get bored of it quickly and want a faster bike? I want a bike that would last me for a long long time, and I like this one, but Im afraid that I would get bored after some time and wanted to upgrade.
KTM only in Orange? Nope. I have a black and white DUKE 690. You can get an all black super duke too. Hope to see you test some more KTMs. The new 790 Duke??
I’m a new rider and I’m looking to buy this exact bike. That being said, hearing the exhaust doesn’t sound too great. What exhaust would/could you recommend to replace to give it a much deeper sound?
I’m trying to decide between the ktm rc390 and the R3. I haven’t ridden in several years I want something to commute with but still not get bored. Which would you recommend if not these two any other suggestions would be appreciated. I live in the city and don’t have to do much hwy riding.
Hope you guys enjoy this First Ride! If you like this bike AT ALL make sure to check out the new post I did with it here! Put a ton of time into it and I want to know what you guys think about it: bit.ly/RC390BLog
chaseontwowheels great video it was, please make first ride impressions of 2017 duke 390 also.
samarth dobhal yessssss ktm duke 390 2017 model looks sooo good😍
Nitin Mehta you so lucky you have rc
Great review...but...When are we getting ARS videos?
Bmw g310r next?
Hi Chase, sup fam. I am the senior executive Engineer - electronics at chakhan plant where these bikes are manufactured and assembled and I'd like to point out a few things.
1. Both the eyes light up together. You need to push the HIGH BEAM button on , or put it on high beam and then press the passing light.
2. The pseudo red light is absolutely not the shifter or the redline. The bike has a break-in setup stock so to avoid any possible piston/cylinder/timing chain damage the shifter comes up early so that the rider is not revving up too much, after 600 miles this goes away.
3. This bike comes with a mixture of mineral plus semi synthetic motor oil as stock so you need to change it after 1000 kilometres or 600 miles. When you change it is highly advised that you change your oil filters too because all the chips and nicks from the break in of the motor are removed. Also you move on to a fully synthetic oil something like motion 300v after that.
4. You hear the fan coming in soon because the stock break in setting has a lower threshold for the temperature and the stock oil doesn't do any good for the heat dissipation. Also it is advised to change to something like ice cool coolant. (The blue one)
5. You said the suspension on this is spongy. Yes because it is supposed to be. This bike comes with an adjustable suspension with 10 point setup so you can change to a hard setup for the track or a very soft setup for touring if you like. It also has full preload setup too.
6. This bike is known for its top end but you said this bike doesn't have a good top end. That is because it is still break-in locked. Once you complete the first 600-1000 miles the bike basically gets unlocked and you can revv it to higher revs and the top end improves with it.
7. You can ride this bike as an advanced rider too. All the rider aids can be switched off from the dash.
There are wayy too many things to mention apart from these
'Anjaana' 'Mimi' Can you guys plz do something better about Quality Control over there?
like how ? with high compression ratio engine , comes lower reliability.
What about the launch of rc 250 in india
sree surendran that will come but don’t quote me on that. Presently we are working on duke 790 that will be launched next year.
I love being a part of the first rides now. off camera, exactly where I want to be. :)
Operation get Heather in a First Ride video starts now!
I miss seeing you on camera, you always made me laugh and you and chase are great together on screen. Hopefully the two of you come up with a new c2w segment that get the 2 of you back on camera together
Hi Heather! I thought I could also advise you to push Chase to try the KTM 690 DUKE R. Single cylinder screaming FUN! It's been a while that I'm advising this bike. Believe me: a single cylinder that big is the funniest thing ever! One word: TORQUE!
Hopefully you read this comment
Mrs.C2W you need to get with a real man.
As a Riding Instructor and also a bike enthusiast, I've owned bikes like a 07 CBR 1000RR, K6 GSX-R 750, then the KTM RC 390. Man, this bike does have a punch, joined a track day and the bike didn't dissapoint. The torque is impressive, good cornering speed since it is light. I really enjoyed the bike, now I own a Ninja 400. But to compare the Ninja to the KTM, I am more impressed with the RC, and I believe it may also depend on the preference of each of us as a rider. Always a fan of your vids Chase. Love every review of the bikes.
I know I am one of the people that keep asking for the KTM reviews. Really hoping you can get your hands on the Duke 390 and the Duke 790.. that 790 though OHMYGEEEERWD!!!
Hey TheBraps, I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! ;-)
390 DUKE PLEASEEEEEE
My Mrs. got her RC 390 in May 2017 and rode 10.000km the first year. She loves it.
I have the KTM RC 390 2016 and it is my first bike. Definitely love it!!
Ayeeee the reason why I started watching your channel. Stuck around for the fuck ups on wrecked bike rebuild and ROCKS
I own a 2017 ktm rc390 and love it! The kph can be changed to mph. The brakes are by brembo. The bike has so many features.
Has it been reliable?
Dre Dilla ktm bikes are relaible, but not on long trips
@@yousefdeeb01 lol
If you could get your hands on a BMW G310R for a first ride that would be awesome :)
YES!
I judge the awesomeness of a bike by how many Muppet laughs I hear from you. this must be a fuuuun bike.
I need a giggle meter I think for first rides. That way it's easily trackable data.
lmfao
rc390 is hell of a fun bike but it also suffers from a head gasket problem.... they blow out often.
Zalonka they used to... As in the 2015 editions... KTM did fix them and there hasn't been any buzz around blown head gaskets for this model (2017/2018)
Glad to see your videos are being monetised!! Love the cinematic shots, you do such a good job of them
I remember watching this video 2-3 times a month for like 2 years and always dreaming I could have this bike and now I have one sitting in my garage.. ❤️ I asked God for it so many times he finally said “Alright dude, here you go”!😂😂
Duke 390 2017 next!!!!!!
benznoel ferrao I second that
Yes please
I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! :-)
Hippo-Drones thanks for the info bro😊
Hippo-Drones I have seen some of your videos they're great👍
Love small displacement bikes, Kinda wish we could move away from "beginner" bikes as a term.
sirico I feel the same way. They make imo the best commuter bikes period. A 1000cc in traffic is boring as all hell, a small displacement bike in traffic is fun.
So get both.
This is the only modern small displacement bike with decent cycle parts, the others are much more simple in that aspect. They deserve the “beginner” name every bit.
ScrewCaptain27 the Ninja 400 is not as bad as the R3 or GSXR300.
Well they are. I had a ninja 300 for 15000 miles. It was SUPER FUN!!! Yet the way all this small displacement bikes bars are and foot pegs they really are beginner bikes. I would also say most of these need some adjustable levers. Then you have a solid small displacement bike! I would go with the previous gen RC390 for the underslung exhaust.
I like these small bikes though. I rode my ninja 300 on The Dragon and tore it up!!!! SO MUCH FUN!
For anyone buying a small displacement bike the first thing I would recommend is changing the brake pads ASAP get some EBC pads (standard pads on all these bikes are crap). Also get some new tires! Rosso II's are made in these small sizes and they are way better than any of the rubber these companies give you for these things. It will completely change how the bike handles.
Being an owner of a 2015 ktm rc390, you did an on point review of that thing!
Just loved it!
Just a couple of info for people out there
1. the rear suspension is adjustable, to your own need, just like the way you want weather it is hard or soft
2. Mine has a good engine braking XD but in 2017 one there is slipper clutch which eliminates engine braking
3. Fast as F***. Trust me you'll enjoy this thing
4. Some companies has come up with aftermarket ECU for this thing and with *Slipper clutch*. Yeah you saw that right :D
5. It's got ride by wire throttle, which mine doesn't have, makes the throttle alot more crisp and nice!
This is an absolutely fantastic video man. I started this video because I’m looking into this exact bike as a beginner and I couldn’t have found better advice anywhere else. Thank you a ton!
it crazy because i was just watching rc390 vids and then post notifications for my favorite youtuber pop up with this video
Your laughter said it all ! It’s a must buy beginner bike 🏍
You can set the shift light at what rpm you prefer, that's why it came on so early. I also don't get why almost everyone says 300-500cc beginner bikes are 'meh' on the highway, a top speed a little over 100mph should be enough. Agreed, you have to shift down etc. but I don't think they lack power. In Europe, people with A1 licenses ride on the highway on a 125cc, they are definitely 'meh'.
Prior to 1000km or 620miles, it’s set to come on at 6500 and can’t be changed until 1000km or 620miles has been reached. That’s how it is on my 390 Duke, at least.
You're probably right, I used to have a duke 125 but never bothered to change the shift light until after the run in period as I thought it was useful.
Great first ride ^^ got to show it to my sister as she wants a sports bike, but since we live in europe thats the only one she'll be allowed to ride. And for all the americans that read this, skip the beginner bikes if you want a sports bike and just get the 600 or 1000 and get one of the old restrictor plates from europe, more exactly germany. Almost every 600 or 1000 cc sportsbike up to 2016 got restrictor plates to around 50 and 100 hp so you can just order one of those and put it onto your bike, until you are comfortable with it and then take it off again, or put the next power restrictor on to your bike.
After your sv650 video, I know longer respect your opinion but I still watch the videos for the bikes.
You got up to over 100 mph there (1 mile = 1.6 km ) I am impressed that it got up to speed so fast and seemed so solid on the highway
Shiftlight goes on really early because the first service has probably not been done. It is adjusted up after the run-in.
You can set it at what rpm you prefer yourself. It actually has 2 shift lights you can set at different rpms; a solid red one that comes on first and a flashing red one.
Chase, I don't know why exactly, but it's nice to know you're the kind of guy that would stop what he's doing and talk to a stranger for 10 minutes.
you might notice this before the video is over but the shift light is adjustable so your barely winding it out i got my 390 beginning of march and i love it
One of my co-workers has one of these, I got to test ride it
. I'm buying one this fall I think.
does it have slipper clutch??
yes sir it does
thanks
Great video. Love the footage from the camera chase car layered into the video. Shows how a person of similar stature will look on the bike while in motion. Great if someone likes a bike, but is afraid they'll look too tall for a specific machine.
Could you please have a First Ride on a current generation Yamaha Vmax? It is a dream bike of mine and I would love to see it reviewed in your style and level of quality. I think you would have a lot of fun with it.
Love and appreciate all the work you put into your videos and how you keep looking for new ways to improve :)
Chase the engine brake situation was probably because of the slipper clutch and the soft suspension is cause it was adjusted towards the softer end. It has a 10 step adjustability. Great video man. Was waiting to hear your view on a bike we in Nepal are familiar with. Cheers
I’ve been looking into these for a while now, and your vid helped me go ahead and pull the trigger on getting one. Thanks
Solid production and content as always, Chase. You never disappoint! Have a blessed day brother!
I have been waiting for this! you know I really like your first videos!! They are so informative
Back in my day a small displacement bike was the good old RGV 250 what a weapon.
Find one ride one
the new way to record this vids is on pointttt
Chase, in older moderls the light turned on both at the same time but in a study during 2016-17, they found that two light at the same time on in a motorcycle with rouded bulb in the night can be confused with a car much far than it is. Thanks for the review, I has a RC390 for about 2 year and I love it...a lot. I only changed because I had the posibility to change for my actual Ducati Monster but I still miss my RC390 (called Toothless ;))
I was legit watching your superduke review yesterday thinking of getting a KTM
hmmmm coincidence
yes queen!
Now ride the Duke 390 for a back to back comparison. Talking to the KTM Canada rep at a dealer, this bike wasn't aimed at the "True Beginner." At least here in North America, It's aimed at riders coming over from the dirt world, or looking for an recreational track bike.
Ive been waiting ages to see you ride this bike
Love the cinematics mostly the reason i come to first ride videos. 👌
Thanks man, it's a lot of hard work and i'm glad it's appreciated!
I have a 2016 ktm rc 390 I love riding mountain roads with it!
you took me from cbr300r to ninja300 to r3 to this 😂
love ur vids
Can you do the duke 390 2017 or 2018?
Hey JBL, I have the 390 Duke, have made a video of it after 3000 miles as a review as well as a few vids on mods (LeoVince exhaust and de-cat etc). Not pushing my channel on you but if you'd find it interesting feel free to check them out! ;-)
Is there a difference between the 2017, 2018, 2019 models of the KTMRC 390? Aesthetically they look identical but is there any kind of a difference mechanically? I’m looking to buy one and there’s a big difference in price between the three different year models. Thanks
I bought the 2018 model as my first bike and I'm loving every minute and every mile!
what would you say 4 years later about the bike?
@@BKallday503 I sold it after like year. It’s a cool bike and it was fun to ride but it’s also pretty small. I sold it after taking a few longer trips and realized i needed something with cargo capacity
I think with a sprocket swap and an exhaust youd probably even get more acceleration out of it. My only complaint is it's a little buzzy at the bars, but being a single that's pretty normal. I love the way it looks though, and I wish they'd do a RC690 with a similar fairing set
BuhLakeh yes, they need to make that
I have thought about this for some time, and what I'd really like to see, is a downsized version of the RC8. Imagine a KTM RC6 with perhaps 800cc V Twin engine and around 100-120hp - and the spaceship feel of the RC8, superlight weight, aggressive yet minimalist styling.. I think it would sit really well, and offer an alternative to all the 600cc bikes that have felt the same for years.
Love this video!! I appreciate your honest reviews and giving credit where credit is due.
Stigma or not, I feel it's more fun and rewarding in the long run to start on a 'beginner' bike. My first bike was a 98 750 honda shadow and I had the toughest time turning it. Not until I bought my friends' 11 kawasaki ninja 250 did I grab a hold of being able to turn well on a bike. What surprised me was after riding that little ninja, I had better control over the honda shadow too. I bet you could learn a lot faster on a 390 and feel right at home on a bigger bike afterward.
I think the less engine braking is because it has a slipper clutch 💁🏻♂️😌
Gtknoob the slipper clutch should only activate upon over rev during downshift. I think it felt lacking just because it’s a 373 cc single cylinder engine.
They need to bring back the RC8R. That thing was an animal in it's final production year of 2015, it was making more power than a brand new 2018 R1.
I'm almost ready for my first big-boy street bike (ending licence restrictions), but I think this might be on my list for my first track bike.
It would be amazing at it.
FINALLY!!! thanks chase for the review of the KTM RC390
Nice, love your first ride vids. Can you do mv agustas for upcoming first ride please?😁
I just found you on youtube and i was looking for an idea of what should be my first bike. I think i just found it . The great thing is im in atlanta and i would love to get it
Love the camera work on this video! Great vid as always!
I have wanted this review for a year now. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Glad I could get it done for you good sir.
I like that the quality of your videos/cinematics is increasing.
I m from india and i m gonna start riding in few months as i turned 18 loves your video and i wants to buy a ktm 390 thanks for the review of it 😘
I am from India and own first generation RC390 2014 model. You can change the speedometer settings and set it in KMPH or MPH. You can also switch off ABS on this bike and red light to upshift can be changed by setting a new rpm limit. All this can be adjusted from tachometer options.
Currently KTM in tie up bajaj is manufacturing these bikes in India and shipping across the globe.
The one you are riding is euro 4 compliant and power is more linear. Try getting your hands on first generation n exp the madness.
Been waiting awhile for this first ride - now i'll patiently wait for a yamaha bolt first ride :)
I personally think this was so much more fun to watch because of the speedo. I'm used to reading speed and distance in kilometers.
I owned one of these for less than a year. You can most definitely change the red rev limit light. I believe they set it that low for engine break in reasons. I really liked it, but traded it in because I feared the ktm's reliability. Fans ran constantly, lots of vibrations (not always a bad thing), mushy suspension, started to smoke after the first valve check/adjustment.
Hie chase...
The rpm has been limited that's why shift light is coming up early.. After first service the limit gets off so you can rev the engine to its fullest.
Just to save engine.
Much-love from India.
Great video sir. Does the bike have steel braided brake lines? Also is the front brake squishy?
i have the rc390 2015 model and it feels like it has a lot of engine breaking and i mean a lot, I've been riding for 2 years and just come up from a 125 and I'm from england and it takes a while to get a leader bike when you're under 24! very very fun bike. my top speed on mine was 105mph on a slight down hill but I've had 100 fairly easily on a straight :D love your videos chase!
16:18 You can turn off the ABS on the RC 390 as well :)
Was just at that Mountain Motorsports two weeks ago picking up my Fz 07.
When your favorite motovlogger reviews the bike you own you HAVE to watch it endless number of time. 🤣
And no the bars are not more aggressive than R6. R6 has narrower and much lower clip ons😊😊
The biggest con from my 1 year of ownership is the vibration on footpegs, my feet get numb after riding for a few hours.
Other one being the short shifting and that nasty revv limiter which kicks in at 9.5k-10k which you begin to notice more on track.
So far happy with the choice I made.😊
This bike is way more fun than any 1000cc bike. I am 41 now and love to ride those.
On the rc 390 you can actually increase the limit on the rev limiter so for example if it redlines as standard in first gear at 7000rpm you can increase it to say 9000 rpm.
was doing research about this bike as well... looking for commute bike to/from work... 18 miles one direction in heavy traffic during la rush hour.... bang for buck you can't seem to go wrong with it.....
If I were a young guy or gal, I wouldn't like my bike to be called a beginner bike. It sounds like sort of a put down. Even though the smaller displacement bikes are usually a beginner bike, it just doesn't sound nice. Just sayin'...
I sort of agree. But you'd need to revamp what everyone and their mom calls them... any suggestions?
Mrs.C2W
Smaller displacement motorcycle, or perhaps economical sport bike.
Beginner friendly is what I like to call them.
I completely agree with you. I kinda view them as sports cars like the Toyota GT86 and Mazda Miata/MX5. No one would call them beginner sportscars just because they are small and cheap and not as powerful as something like an M3 or Audi TTRS. They are what they are, cheap fun sportscars that allow you to have a different kind of fun. It's exactly the same with these small displacement bikes, they are often extremely flickable and you can kinda throw them around in traffic and not worry too much. Try doing that on a 600 and you will end in a fucked up situation lol.
Supermotos managed to acquire this spot where they are seen as hooligan bikes and funbikes, more than beginner bikes. I feel like small cc bikes occupy the same slot.
Hey chase. I’m an incoming new rider and I’ve had my eye on the 2018 version of the Kawasaki ninja 650. I know you’ve dont the older version but this one comes with more updated safety tech and abs comes standard. The way the style of the bike is built came out pretty awesome as well. Do you think you could feature it sometime in your future videos? Thanks for all that you do. I trust your first rides more than I do with anyone else I find on youtube
What's up with the turn signals coming out of the fairings? The RC 390's 2017 that I've seen and the one I personally own have them integrated in the rear view mirrors.
KTM 790 Duke, please!
side profile looks great. Not really a fan of that front headlight though. It reminds me of an adv bike. Great review!
finally! a review from chase... thanks man!
Chase , you must try the Duke 390 2017 or 2018. I love mine. I think you will too. Same engine as the rc390 though.
You had more fun than this than the ninja 400?
Personally I think this is a great position for a begginer bike if you plan on riding something such as a Daytona afterwards
Husqvarna 701 supermoto?
I will never underatand how you do those 3rd person perspective view. Is someone on a car accompanying you or are you using some sort of camera? But damn, those look legit
thanks mannnnn! was waiting for review on the ktmsssss
Wow , you reviewing the RC !!
Love your reviews man. I had to break down and get me a FZ09
excellent choice my friend, good luck keeping that front wheel down :) and ride safe!
Chase we get led indicators in india that's definitely a cherry on top ☺️
You can set rpms. It may be in break in mode where youre limited to like 8k, I set mine to 10,000 the indicator comes on and 12 red lines. In that case the engine breaking gets better.
KTM run a RC390 Cup race series, they are pretty cool bikes!
Hippo-Drones agree with u bro n by the way am a subscriber of yours....!
Was it yourself who asked me about the 390 de-cat pipe and standard silencer? I have a vid of it to post soon, won't post it on youtube, but will post it on my facebook page for you! :-)
Just remembered it was about my camera angle not showing the dash, I will be posting that viewer feedback video in a bit on my Facebook page for you! :-)
I own one of this and goood damn it is freking awesome bike
Btw we Indians get mirror mounted turn signals which looks far better than this one.
Mate of mine had one and it was unreliable as fuck and the build quality was shit.
Well Indians think of this bike as a liter bike lol. They say it has way too much power, which js true for many riders in India tbh. Don't take me wrong, but I've seen atlesst 20 crash videos of the duke 390 and literally all came from India.
Dinara yup there are morons. And yeah they think its a a liter bike
curious I'm from Russia dude. The roads aren't the best here either
Do you think that if I bought this as my first bike and kept it for like at least 5 years, would I get bored of it quickly and want a faster bike? I want a bike that would last me for a long long time, and I like this one, but Im afraid that I would get bored after some time and wanted to upgrade.
I have my own KTM 390 Duke, yet I keep rewatching this video for the RC390...whhhyyyy??? I think I want it
KTM only in Orange? Nope. I have a black and white DUKE 690. You can get an all black super duke too. Hope to see you test some more KTMs. The new 790 Duke??
that’s a sweet victory gunner i so want one.
About dam time u rode that bike finally!
I own one of these. Great bike!
I’m a new rider and I’m looking to buy this exact bike. That being said, hearing the exhaust doesn’t sound too great. What exhaust would/could you recommend to replace to give it a much deeper sound?
YES! I'd been waiting for this video!
ty!
I’m trying to decide between the ktm rc390 and the R3. I haven’t ridden in several years I want something to commute with but still not get bored. Which would you recommend if not these two any other suggestions would be appreciated. I live in the city and don’t have to do much hwy riding.
when you were on the highway at one point you were going 166 kph which means you were @ ~103 mph. So yeah the little RC390 will move when it has to.
U should also try the duke 390 that is also a fun motorcycle
You've got some editing skills... Liked your vlog ❤