TVS Apache RR 310 vs KTM 390 Duke: Race or Street

TVS Motor has launched its flagship motorcycle, the Apache RR 310. The fully-faired bike directly competes against the likes of the KTM RC 390 among others. But, if having a fairing isn’t really a deciding factor for you, the KTM 390 Duke makes for a compelling alternative. But which of the two should you really go for?

Pricing

TVS has priced the Apache RR 310 at Rs 2.05 lakhs (ex-showroom) while the KTM 390 Duke costs Rs 2.29 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). So, the streetfighter is more expensive but it also comes with a globally renowned name on its radiator shroud.

Features

The KTM 390 Duke also sports a long list of features. It gets full-LED split headlamp, a colour TFT LCD instrument console that connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and a comprehensive rider aid package that includes dual channel ABS along with a ‘supermoto mode’, ride-by-wire, and a slipper clutch.

The TVS Apache RR 310 gets dual channel ABS as well, but it misses out on ride-by-wire and a slipper clutch. It also doesn’t get a colour TFT display. But, it has full LED lighting with dual projectors for headlamps. The RR 310’s display might not have colour, but in terms of information it has everything the KTM throws up and then some.

Some of the common readouts include engine temperature, fuel level, speed, gear indicator, clock, odometer, side stand indicator and a tachometer. Additionally, the TVS gets a lap timer, a 0-60kmph acceleration timer and a top speed recorder.

Cycle parts

Both bikes use a trellis frame along with a bolt-able sub-frame. And both use similar suspension layout as well, featuring inverted front forks and a rear preload adjustable monoshock. The kit for TVS comes from KYB while the Duke uses WP parts.

Stopping power on the Apache RR 310 comes from a 300mm front disc and a 240mm disc at the rear. The KTM 390 Duke though gets a larger 320mm front rotor and a smaller rear disc measuring 230mm in diameter.

Engine  

As for the powertrain, the KTM uses a larger, more powerful engine. Its 373cc single produces an impressive 43bhp and 37Nm of torque. It is mated to a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch. The Apache RR 310 also comes with a six-speed gearbox, but one that promises less false neutrals. It is mated to a 313cc single cylinder engine and it comes with a rated output of 34bhp and 27Nm.

On the road

Now, we might have ridden both bikes, but we haven’t ridden the two of them, back to back, and in the same environment. Therefore, it would be a little premature to say which is better. But, that plan is on the cards in the weeks to come. So stay tuned.