TVS Motor Company has recently launched its flagship faired performance motorcycle, the TVS Apache RR 310. Its chief competitor in the segment is the KTM RC 390.
The TVS Apache RR 310 is essentially a production version of the TVS Akula 310 concept which the company showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo. While the design of the motorcycle is undoubtedly sporty, the riding ergonomics are forgiving when compared to the RC 390. The KTM on the other hand, compensates its shortcomings with dollops of power. Let’s see how they fare against each other on paper.
| Specifications | TVS Apache RR 310 | 2017 KTM RC 390 |
| Engine | 312.2 cc single cylinder DOHC engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection | 373.2 cc single cylinder engine with liquid cooling, Ride-by-wire and fuel injection |
| Maximum Power | 34 PS at 9,700 rpm | 43.5 PS at 9,000 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 27.3 Nm at 7,700 rpm | 36 Nm at 7,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with negative back-rack gears (for quicker shifting and preventing false neutral) | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm Kayaba upside down cartridge fork | 43 mm WP upside down front fork |
| Rear Suspension | Kayaba Mono tube floating piston gas assisted shock absorber | WP monoshock |
| Front Brake | 300 mm petal disc with ABS and RLP | 320 mm disc with ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm petal disc with ABS and RLP | 230 mm disc with ABS |
| Front Tyre Size | 110/70-R17 M/C 54H Tubeless Michelin Street Sport | 110-section Metzeler Sportec M5 |
| Rear Tyre Size | 150/60-R17 M/C 66H Tubeless Michelin Street Sport | 150-section Metzeler Sportec M5 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 litres | 10 litres |
| Weight | 169.5 kg, kerb | 147 kg, dry |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 820 mm |
While the RC 390 makes 9.5 PS and 8.7 Nm more with its 61 cc bigger engine, the RR 310 makes up with its linear power delivery. This would be appreciated by rookie riders who are learning to ride on the track. While the two motorcycles feature top-spec cycle parts, the RR 310 gets 1-litre bigger tank, which theoretically translates to more riding range. However, the bike is heavier than the RC 390, and hence the latter enjoys excellent power to weight ratio.
Also Read: India-made 2017 KTM RC390 unveiled for the US market
The RR 310 has 10 mm lower seat height, which makes it comfortable for shorter riders. The overall ergonomics of the RR 310 make it suitable for both daily riding and track taming, while the KTM is ideal as a secondary bike for weekend fun. At INR 2,31,097, the RC 390 is approximately INR 26,000 more expensive than the RR 310 (costs INR 2,05,000, both ex-showroom). While the RC 390 has ample power, the RR 310 gets killer looks, LED lighting system, and a rider-friendly dynamics.
