TVS Apache RR310 vs KTM RC390: Comparison Test Review

Looks

There's absolutely no competition here. The Apache RR310 is the better-looking bike. 

It looks to be the right size, has the right curves, and with a big chest and a sharp tail, I'd understand if you end up ogling at it. The RC, on the other hand, looks like an anaemic ramp model that could do with braces. 

But, it has a good fashion sense. The bike's paint scheme, and the choice of stickers make the design look current even though it's almost half a decade old. 

The quality though – at least when it comes to the bodywork and other in-your-face parts – doesn't feel all that current. The fit and finish, the quality of plastic, and the attention to detail is certainly better on the TVS.

That's still you look under the Apache's flashy clothes. Not that the RR310 isn't a quality piece underneath, but most of the metal work, welds, as well as the etching is better executed on the RC390. The latter leaves you with the impression of a better-engineered product.

Instrumentation and Seating

Here again, the RR310 has the upper hand. 

The IP or instrumentation on both bikes is completely digital, and equally crowded. Besides the usual fare of an odo, trip, time, fuel and engine temperature readouts, the bikes also display info on fuel consumption, and the journey undertaken. The TVS, additionally, also throws up readouts on 0-60kmph times and top speed.

What's more, displays on both motorcycles are equally difficult to read at a glance. And, the buttons to access the menu are similarly challenging to use with the gloves on. Talk about trying to outdo each other!

But, the Apache does gain brownie points for having a roomier, more comfortable, and a less taxing seating triangle. It has a taller handlebar setup compared to the RC, and the footpegs are both lower and less rearset. The handlebar width is narrower too. 

So, even though the distance between the handlebars and the seat is similar on both bikes, one doesn't have to reach as far as on the KTM, to grab the Apache's bars. And, the TVS has a softer seat. 

That's only for the rider, mind. Because when it comes to pillion comfort, I’d much rather endure an address from Trump; yes, it will be painful, pointless, and pathetic, but at least it will be entertaining.

Performance and Handling

Finally, a header where the KTM has an upper hand. Well, that's how it looks on paper, at least, given the RC's higher displacement, a higher power output, and lesser weight.

Not much changes on the road. The RC390 is clearly faster, especially towards the top of the rev range. It also revs quicker and cleaner. And surprisingly, it is the more refined of the two bikes here.

The Apache isn't slow, just slower than the RC. And, its throttle response is good, just not as good as the KTM. But then, TVS uses a conventional throttle cable while the RC gets modern ride-by-wire tech. The KTM also gets a slipper clutch and the option to turn off ABS for some hooniganism.

When ridden flat-out, the Apache is quick, and stable, and more than willing to make full-throttle lane changes. It’s just that the RC is quicker. But, for a change, the KTM can’t better the Apache in straight-line stability or quick lane changes; we’d have to call a draw on this one.

For sheer dynamic prowess though, the RC takes the win. It turns quicker, leans deeper, grips harder, and makes you feel like a ninja (not the green one) on two wheels. It's also the one with sharper teeth. The power, the feel, and the progression of the brakes are perceptibly better on the KTM. The RR310, on the other hand, has a slightly soggier feel to its brakes. 

As far as the RR310’s cornering abilities go, it is a natural. It doesn't have to be rushed or manhandled around bends, even when making quick direction changes. And, unlike the KTM, neither does it feel twitchy, or too aggressive or eager to cause problems for the rider.

It turns into bends effortlessly, communicates well on what the chassis and tyres are up to, and even when it runs out of cornering clearance, it doesn't skip or weave about. It just remains solid, and stays true to its line. It's clearly better suited to the road, especially when you consider that mid-corner bumps don't upset it as much as they upset the RC.

In fact, the truly impressive thing about the RR's suspension setup is the way it delivers the ride and handling balance. Most bikes that handle well – like the RC in this test – make for machines with detestable ride quality.

Not the Apache. Its ride is absorbent, almost plush, and it rarely kicks up its hind or crashes its front into sharp-edged bumps. This bodes well for city commuting as well on the TVS.

The RC, meanwhile, doesn't enjoy the city setting much. It doesn't like slow moving traffic. And, it despises bumpy city roads. So, as if in retaliation, it cooks the rider’s inner thighs with its engine heat; yes, even motorcycles can be vindictive.

The RR310 is a monk in that regard. Such is its resolve, it refuses to even warm the rider's legs no matter what; be it bumper-to-bumper traffic, high ambient temperatures, or the lack of proper riding pants, the RR forgives all. And, with the less aggressive seating ergonomics, the softer seat, and a more comfortable ride quality, the Apache is a runaway hit as a commuter, specifically when it comes to supersport bikes. In terms of fuel efficiency, the RR 310 returns 28kmpl, whereas the RC390 returns 22kmpl (customer claimed).

Verdict

The RC390 has been the default affordable supersport to buy for the longest time. Challengers have come, tried, and failed at displacing the Austrian from its perch. 

Yes, the KTM can be a pain to ride in the city. And, it can roast your thighs on a hot day. But, the moment the road opens or begins twisting; you can't help but love the RC. It is so pure and focused; it is still godsent for the hardcore cornering junkies on a budget.

The Apache RR310 is less intense. It's still very capable and a lot of fun, mind. In fact, it will do everything the RC does, just in a calmer and less polarising way.

Sure, it will lose a few bike lengths when ridden flat-out on a long straight. And, it will run out of lean sooner than the KTM. But, unless you are on a racetrack, the difference isn't significant enough to matter, at least to the public at large.

But, the difference in everyday riding comfort is quite telling. As is the difference in pricing and fuel economy of the two bikes. Also, let's not forget the rider's leg. And, on all these counts, the Apache beats the RC, making it a better buy overall. Not to mention, the clear winner in this test.

And, there's also the trivial matter of the RR310 being the better looker. But then, we aren't so shallow as to choose someone based on their looks alone now, are we?

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi

Final Scores

Specifications