The KTM RC390 has been the benchmark for affordable performance for the best part of its production years. But with the launch of the new Apache RR310, has TVS pranced ahead in the segment?
The TVS Apache RR310 has been heavily updated for the model year 2021. The motorcycle gets a few cosmetic updates, and the manufacturer now offers an option to choose between the new Race or the Dynamic kit, over the standard bells and whistles.
The updated model continues its rivalry with the 2020 KTM RC390. Now we know the new range of KTM RC motorcycles is expected to be showcased anytime now; however, the official launch is still a few months away. We suspect the global unveiling will take place sometime in the month of September and the India launch is most likely slated for the month of November 2021. Until then, KTM India will continue with the current-gen RC390 and the supersport will gradually phase off the showroom floors as the new one arrives.
Engine
Both the motorcycles have a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, and the displacement ranges between 300-400cc. The Apache RR310 is the one with a smaller capacity engine and a lower power output. TVS has equipped the motorcycle with a number of riding modes that further chops down the power out, which is very favourable for less experienced riders. The KTM misses out on multiple rider modes and all the power is available at the twist of the throttle. Both the motorcycles get a six-speed transmission and there is a slipper-clutch on offer as well. The RC390 gets a two-way quick shifter that the RR310 misses out on.
| 2021 TVS Apache RR310 | 2020 KTM RC390 | |
| Engine displacement | 312cc Single-cylinder, Liquid-cooled | 373cc Single-cylinder, Liquid-cooled |
| Power | 33.5bhp at 9,700rpm | 42bhp at 9,500rpm |
| Torque | 27.3Nm at 7,700rpm | 35Nm at 7,250rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with slipper-clutch | 6-speed with slipper-clutch |
With the 2021 update, the Apache RR310 has been upgraded with a dynamic rev-limiter. This system keeps the engine RPM in check and cuts off throttle input if the engine oil hasn’t reached its optimum operating temperature.
Cycle parts
This year’s update brings along KYB fully-adjustable front upside-down forks on the TVS Apache RR310. Also, the rear mono-shock unit is adjustable for pre-load and rebound. These adjustable suspensions on the Apache RR310 are a segment first.
The KTM RC390 gets WP sourced up-side-down forks and a rear mono-shock that can be adjusted for pre-load only. The clutch and the brake lever on the RC390 are adjustable giving that extra bit of fine-tuning option in terms of ergonomic comfort.
| 2021 TVS Apache RR310 | 2020 KTM RC390 | |
| Front Suspension | KYB full-adjustable up-side-down forks | WP upside-down forks |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-shock, pre-load and rebound adjust | Mono-shock |
| Front Brakes | 300mm disc, radially mounted callipers | 320mm disc radially mounted Bybre callipers |
| Rear Brakes | 240mm disc | 230mm disc |
| Weight | 174kg (kerb) | 170kg (dry) |
The braking hardware includes a disc brake setup on either end on both these motorcycles. The Apache RR310 and the RC390 both get a radially mounted calliper in the front. The RC390 gets the upper hand in the front rotor size, while the RR310 has a larger rear rotor.
The 2021 Apache RR310’s optional Race kit includes more aggressive clip-on handle bar’s and higher-set footpegs with a knurled pattern. That permits the rider to achieve an aggressive rider’s triangle which is more suited for track-riding.
Features
As mentioned above, the Apache RR310 gets riding modes – Rain, Urban, Sport and Track. The Sport and Track offer the maximum power output, while the Rain and Urban bring the power down to 25.5bhp.
The 2021 TVS Apache RR310’s instrument cluster has been updated and the unit now stores important documents onboard. The motorcycle also features connected tech, that pairs with the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth and allows access over a few features. On the flip side, the current-gen KTM RC390 gets the same dashboard layout and the instrument cluster unit that debuted with the first generation 200 Duke back in 2012. KTM has not yet updated the dashboard of the RC390 in almost nine years. The motorcycle also misses out on features such as a Super-Moto ABS and connected tech that its cousin, the 2020 390 Duke comes with.
Pricing
The Apache RR310 has been priced very aggressively, at Rs 2.60 lakh (ex-showroom). The company also offers optional accessories and cosmetic changes at a nominal price. The current generation KTM RC390 is priced at Rs 2.77 lakh (ex-showroom). For more money, KTM is offering a power-packed machine; however, with next to no features. The 2021 Apache RR310 happens to be the more value for money proposition in this comparo.
There is also the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja 300 on sale that is priced at Rs 3.18 lakh. For some more money, buyers can get themselves a motorcycle with a parallel-twin engine and premium brand association. While the design is dated, Kawasaki has been updating the colour scheme routinely.
Also Read:
2022 KTM RC125 specifications leaked
2021 TVS Apache RR310 launched at Rs 2.60 lakh
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