The test mule of the next-gen RC 390 from the house of KTM has been spied testing for the very first time. And if the draped looks are anything to go by, the upcoming generation has been able to successfully strike a perfect balance between form and functionality. It is important to know that the current generation of RC 390 was launched in India just eight months back and with the not-so-positive response from the buyers, it seems that KTM is all set to replace the current model with its next generation soon in the future.
The mule spotted testing here is the international-spec version as it features adjustable USD forks at the front. The engine seems to be the same unit that will power the upcoming KTM 390 Duke with a 399cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled configuration. The frame used in the development mule is also similar to the one on the series of next-Gen Duke featuring the offset monoshock suspensions aligned with the swingarm’s axis at the back.
Along with RC 390, its younger sibling RC 125 was also spotted with both bikes featuring the design which is now aligned with the design lineage of the Austrian bikemaker. The trellis frame, projector headlamp, and the similar design of the alloys as seen on the currently-selling variant are other striking details on the test mule. The focus of the KTM on optimising riding position is also apparent as the bike featured slider-mounted foot pegs although the tail lamp seems to be the same as that of the current model.
The testbed bikes of both RC 390 and RS 125 are in the initial stage of development which means they are unlikely to debut in the market before 2024 ends. It will be interesting to witness how prospective buyers will ultimately react to both these models once they are launched in international markets before finally making their way to Indian shores.
