Maybe because the ninja 400 riding position towards more to sport touring, where you sit inside the bike. That's why when you tuck in the bottom tank pushed against your stomach/chest area
@@jeeewhyyypheee most probably the case. Felt like my mid spine was folded right over the tank at a weird angle whereas the KTM felt much more natural…kind of thing you only realise when you actually go out and ride the bike in question.
Can i ask where you from? I'm asking this cuz ninja 400 is damn overexpensive where ktm 390 here in India is damn cheap In your nation i guess ktm is expensive than kawasaki
@@Cheezmonka tbh that swingarm on n400 needs to be changed for stability.. nd it would be costly.. but definitely n400 engine can be upgraded lot more,, while ktm single cylinder is already at limit.. it would become pretty unreliable eventually sieze
Exactly ... fixing lack of power runs into a wall really quick ... maybe a second a lap there ... brakes and suspension 5 seconds ... probably way more for a rider not afraid to use that edge grip. It gets old really fast working your butt off to catch up / pull away on the corners only to get monstered on the straight ... by a guy just twisting the throttle. Kwaka's still rule the small bike class.
@@Cheezmonka - Learning decent throttle control, corner entry and trail braking is a lot cheaper than an exhaust and power commander. Correct tyre pressure and suspension adjustment (the RC390 comes with fully adjustable wp suspension) is free. A bad setup and lack of ability cannot be overcome with a few bhp.
KTM is the better bike from the start. Quick shifter, adjustable suspension, dash and technology... all beat the outdated Ninja 400. Both bikes are good, but I do feel the KTM takes the edge.
As mentioned the aftermarket for the N400 is huge thanks to FIM and MotoAmerica and club racing. You can go nuts with 4 piston Brembo upgraded caliper and Braketech 6mm rotor and full suspension upgrades. Plus power upgrades if you really want to spend some money. Overbore TB, SuperBike heads, cams, overbore kits, ram air and GP bodywork.... Such a great little platform.
So...do a remap of the 390 for better throttle response and ur good? Brakes, chassis, body position etc is better than the 400 Everybody except the lady is just "I wanna feel faster". She sounds like somebody that would enjoy a miate over a mustang. Lightweight, good chassis, not too fast but better handling
I agree. The KTM is more complete then the Kawa. Saying the KTM needs more work is contradictive. It just needs an exhaust, air filter and remap. The gearbox/QS could become more smooth afther some miles.
Sounds like it, but... the cost of an exhaust + remap on the 390 is probably similar to the cost of upgrading the suspension and brakes on the Ninjette, so... pick your poison
At the end they didnt compare the 2 bikes. They said they would want to do all this work to the Kawa & wished the KT had more power. But those are the bikes, as they sit- not imaginary bikes. I think the lady summed it up well, as they sit she preferred the KT.
Sorry il take the KTM all the time! The machine is definitely ready to race. Get right company to mod it and I guess it will be one to get. I’ve ridden the bigger machines and KTM knows what they doing! Awesome review 🤓
It seems like it would be fun to learn to ride on either bike, and you could learn to ride faster on either. I like the way they both look. Edit: Thank you for testing both bikes on the same tires. I think this is a serious consideration when comparing similar bikes.
Just a suggestion on interview options. You could announce/state each of your guest riders full name at minimum, and preferably 5 seconds of their accolades. I want to learn more about each one of those riders, but I have no information. Additionally, I watch your videos often and appreciate them very much… I know exactly how much work it takes and appreciate all the wonderful information and efforts that you and your team put into it. You guys deserve all the success ‼️🍀🍪
Being a very experienced rider, and a track day guy, I recently bought a RC390.... to sit along side my R1. I think when you are picking for a 2nd or 3d bike as opposed to an only bike, priorities may change a lot. For a variety of good reasons, I leave my bikes stock. I rode a Ninja 400 but picked the RC for its chassis, suspension, ergonomics, tech, and good looks. When you have something like an R1 that you ride regularly, EVERYTHING 700cc and below feels pathetically slow, so several HP isn't such an issue.
I own a 2021 Ninja 400 and feel like it does win because of the not so “boring” power, and the aftermarket potential. I have a full exhaust on mine and it sounds/runs pretty nicely with a power commander. Hoping to get it on track this year if I can.
@@MarquisDeSang Feelings can be very deceptive. After doing some track days and encountering a fair amount of 390s now; I have definitely noticed that they really aren't quite able to keep pace. Particularly on the straights. I've never had a 390 overtake me on a straight; conversely I have passed many. All i have is a slip on, no velocity stacks, no full exhaust, no hiflow air filter, no ecu tune; nothing but a little Leovince slip on.
I sure wish KTM would put out a super light sport bike with their sweet 690 engine. Its 70-some hp is the point at which power crosses the threshold into "entertaining".
Seems simpler to buy the bike that has the better/more confidence inspiring chassis, suspension and brakes and then just address the one shortcoming which is the engine. You can always find more power
You can find more power on both bikes though. I would argue that you can find more power with the twin then the single. I have upgraded the soft suspension for a fairly reasonable price. $600 US for an Andriani race kit for the forks and $30 for gsxr 600 rear shock that drops right in. Now the bike feels like it is a proper sport bike.
Very close contest! If someone is looking for power then Kawasaki is the answer and if you're looking for Overall package ( in India) then KTM. Wins hand down by huge margin. But then KTM is single cylinder. I believe there's a KTM400 twin coming soon ( next year). The story will be different then. However I think both K's are winner here. In an entry level super sports category both are amongst best.
Feel like Kate was the only one judging it impartially for others and not just for herself. There's a lot of other things the KTM has that the Ninja doesn't have that regular riders will appreciate. I suspect the RC would have won it if were not a track comparison - I guess stay tuned for other comparisons. I ordered the new RC and really took a couple months going over my options. I think KTM got it right and it will be a huge departure from the reliability issues of 2015-16. I like that it is a different bike and has a personality all of it's own - and I feel like the 373 has definitely been refined over time to the point that it's a proven and reliable unit - just consider the sheer number of these engines on the roads in markets outside of North America.
Been using duke 390 since 2018. Always a monster to ride. No problem except early headlight software issue for me which got rectified in 20minutes in service centre.
@@yash9410503314 actually headlight was flickering like on and off. So they updated the software maybe . The problem was fully rectified. Never came back
The KTM is made in India. Localisation brings in cost benefits. The Kawasaki on the other hand is a CKD with a few parts locally sourced like the tyres.
@@dolanduk8419 no ..all KTM's across the world has Bad Reputation. Its not because of made in india . No European Brand can come close to Japanese when it comes to Reliability & Refinement.
Ngl I want the KTM even if the Kawasaki is adjudged better. Reckon I'd walk up to the KTM each day and be itching to go out for a rip whereas the Kawi doesn't move me at all. When it comes to machines I buy on emotion - there's nothing sensible about a motorcycle in the first place
@@TheAsheybabe89 😂 You get the spreadsheet out and work out which bike has best residuals, dollars per performance ratio and fuel efficiency then compare this to other vehicles and public transport options whilst factoring journey times, equipment needed, annual servicing and consumables plus gear allowing for weather types and only then decide on a) whether to buy a motorcycle and then b) which motorcycle agnostic of looks etc? You ride some economical machine? You didn't pick one you like?
I am sorry I am not familiar with such mods much but isnt ecu flashing gonna mess up the engine? Ktms engine is already high compression and suffers from heating issues that is what led them to upgrade the radiator little bit only real world testing would show how much it has improved and what abt the reliability of engine?
@@gamerslife4me938KTM runs hot because they run lean AFR for emissions. ECU flash will actually fix that and KTM' compression ratio is not that high. I am running 1 whole point higher than stock and haven't got any reliability issues.
That RC needs a pipe and an ECU flash. Mine has a pipe already, with a flash and KyN filter it will go to 51hp 😍. Gonna blow that Ninja 400 out of the competition. And sitting at less than 140kg it's gonna be a rocket
@@luislarasiria4362 A flash is pretty cheap if you have a local shop expect $200~ if you need to mail it out expect $300-400. Exhaust expect around $300 for a slip-on $600-1000 for a full system (technically illegal on the street but being in the USA with all the loud Harley boys I have never seen anyone get a ticket) Air Filter around $60 Note on the exhaust though being an entry level bike that will eventually be sold a lot of people will remove their after market exhausts and sell them on eBay or a local market to get some extra cash. So that $900 full system you may find for $500-600.
Too bad they didn't mention reliability much. I have 45k Kms (weekday commute, weekend ripping in the mountains) on my Ninja 400, and never has it given me trouble (engine, suspension, brakes, electronics). Just needed to upgrade my suspension, brakes (steel braided, radial master, pads), clutch (lining and spring) and there's plenty of not-so-expensive aftermarket options out there.
@@cranky1812 Not according to the largest KTM dealership in my area. The newer models may not be super unreliable like the pre-2017 Duke 390's, but they still haven't caught up to the Ninja. See my first-hand experience above at 45k Kms.
Strange with the same ninja 400 , the previous version of rc 390 won in your 2018 comparo!! There were no such concerns of power and your dyno graph of 2018 rc was smooth af and produced more hp
Dont quite understand why anyone would expect a thumper to keep up with a twin on track. That being said, cant wait for ktm to put that thumper in a 390 enduro R dual sport, where it belongs.
I have a 2020 krt abs 400 Ninja, like the bike Alot, only problem is they never brought in parts for the bike into South Africa, needed a new radiator and have to wait for one to be ordered from overseas.
U guys never experienced the feel ktm gives, i suggest u rip then if u got hand on it, and u will never forget it how it feel. Even z900 wont give it like ktm would give, but, hey, im just speaking of my opinion.
As much as I want to love the new rc390 it boils down to reliability. Hey KTM what have you done to put an end to all the sensor failures and issues with leaking seals? KTM…..”we made the parts cheaper to buy.” So yeah that’s not the answer I’m looking for. Hey Kawasaki are your bikes still reliable like the first one I bought in 1985 my 600r ninja that still runs great……..oh wait……answered my own question
KTM for the win. Rode a brand new kawa on track is really bad on suspension. no adjustments, way too soft. Power is nothing without control said someone really well.
💯 If you are starting out on track you want more feedback than outright power. Which I believe this was about. The egos of the others got in the way of what you really want when starting racing. As an ex Australian Superbike racer, who started out racing 250 production class bikes (which were quicker than both, thanks to a V twin two stroke engine) was possibly where I had the most fun as it was Honda vs Suzuki. 👍😎🇦🇺
@@brodavid9960 That’s just the very thing that makes these a perfect, modern day bike to develop your racing skills, which will ultimately make you a safer and faster rider in the first place. It will also make you a much better rider when you decide to step up. It actually makes me laugh when people talk about “not enough power”, as being an ex Australian Superbike racer (who started out on 250 production bikes), when my lap times (in the mid 90’s, with road legal tyres only) here people today talk up how quick they are on what was my home racetrack (Phillip Island) and I simply say if I was only on my 250, I’d lap an R1 ridden by a once in a while track day rider in between laps 4 and 5. Horses are only goodie you know how to use them.
Being a small CC it feels a bit odd to say everything is better on the KTM other then power being so since the Ninja 400 has more power it is better. It would make more sense to look into how easy you can learn on it.
Does anyone know which would be better on the road? I know this is a track review but I am looking to get my first bike and these were the two bikes I was deciding between.
Ninja 400 not even a question the suspension is tuned for the road and it has a more comfortable riding position. The RC390 is a true super sport like a CBR600RR or an R6 with your back hunched and a lot of weight on your wrists. If you want a faired bike the Ninja 400 hands down however add in nakeds and the Duke 390 and Svartpillen 401 put up much more of a fight versus the Ninja or Z400
Cheaper to invest in you than a bigger engine. One guy I met at the track went to see California Superbike School for 3 days. He told me he gained 8 second per lap. No engine will give you that.
They are pretty reliable. I covered 84,800 kms or 52,700 miles on my 2014 rc390. I only replaced my clutch plates and oil seal recently. Just do proper service with good quality oil and it'll run fine. But they are not as reliable compared to Japanese counterpart. I think they hv refined the engines even more.
I had always been discouraged from buying KTM for years, feeling the same way that both their street and mx lineup were too maintenance heavy along with their reputation for reliability issues. But I've put close to 20K miles (hard miles, it's the toy) on my 690 without any significant issues. Really the only issue was the clutch slave kept failing, but it's an easy fix and I'm using the oberon slave now, working so far *knock-on-wood.
Kate is a badass. 100% I'm hoping she'll grace us with her opinion on more bikes in the future. Now, if only your baby RSV4 had a baby. What would that be like?
The 390 KTM is known to over heat. Especially the RC390 over the naked version. KTM says they addressed the over heating issue, but I hear it's still a problem.
I've owned mine for about 5 years and it never got close to overheating. I've only done routine maintenance and it's been a charm. The fan kicks on super early and I think that just freaks people out.
RC390 owner here. Been running engine ice since day one and zero overheating issues or reliability problems. Stay clear of 2016 and prior models and you'll be fine. It's true the bike does runs a lot hotter than most but I've never had it reach overheating temperatures.
@@jamesbanksco agreed, only the older version have some real problem with their engine, but newer version they have improved it totally, and duke 390 fan just kick in earlier then most lightweight bike, no overheating issue here
I've had RC390, 790 Duke, 890 Duke R & now '21 V4 Tuono (non factory) for the Road. So I just got a Pair of RSV Tuono's (Gen1 & Gen2) for some track day thunder fun.
why they talking like aftermarket for the KTM doesn't exist? The company is not some obscure company on some unknown island give it 6 months they would have an aftermarket for it, and the NInja is already 4 years old I would be amazed if it did not have a huge aftermarket.
I just wanted to know the fastest lap times, I don't care how easy or hard it is for an unskilled rider to go fast on. Looking at the specs I would be considerably faster on the RC390 all day long as those extra KG's make a big difference to acceleration and trail braking into corners. Plus the RC390 has fully adjustable wp suspension which on it's own will be a game changer if you know how to dial it in. The KTM is slightly cheaper here in the UK so it's a no brainer. One is a genuine sports bike, the other is a commuter bike with a fairing and the Ninja tag it has no business to wear. I've beaten 600's and Ducati's around a track on a near stock versys 650 with touring tyres but it doesn't make the Versys a good track bike. Any decent rider will beat slow riders on anything. I'm interested in getting something different, I can tell a Ninja 400 isn't going to cut it without even riding it.
@@Federico740 The CBR is 60lbs heavier, that is a massive difference, it's also 6HP down on power despite having 5lbs more torque. Torque is better on the street but generally less important on the track where you can maintain your momentum.
The R3 is a good motorcycle, but its smaller engine gives it a power deficit that is just too much for it to be competitive against the Ninja 400 and RC 390 in stock form. From a quick internet search, stock Kawasaki 400's tend to dyno around 43hp, Ktm 390's around 40hp, and Yamaha 300's around 36hp (+/- 2hp). Back in 2018 when they tested the Ninja 400, RC 390 and CBR500R, the Motorcyclist staff mentioned that all three of these machines were significantly faster than the race-prepped R3's that were on the track. To quote the article: " No matter who was riding, any of the bikes in our trio would leave the R3 in the dust (though the Honda did have to work a little harder to do it), the poor Yammie simply was unable to keep up in a straight line."
FWIW, the reason that the R3 is competitive in Supersport 300 racing is due to the handicapping rules. The max engine speeds of each motorcycle type are limited to make them more or less equal on the track. This year, the R3 can run up to 13,300 rpm whereas the RC390 is limited to 11,150 rpm and the Ninja 400 to 10,350 rpm (about 2000rpm below stock redline).
@@morgan98801 I wonder if the Yamaha 300's, like Versys 300 the Honda (water cooled) 300's are a sweet spot in the international marketplace where max speed limits are lower (80kph, about 50mph in India, for example). Believe it or not, in many places, a 400cc motorcycle is inching up into the "large and powerful" category. Liquid cooled 300's are at the "Goldilocks Zone" of light, un-intimidating motorcycles with enough power to maintain highways speeds, even in the USA.
What are you guys on about? The R3 literally keeps pace with rc390 in acceleration and edges out in top speed. Its really a great bike and a great competitor.
In the previous 2018 comparison of both the bikes the ktm was winner ....But this time Kawasaki is the winner this was not a fair enough for the ktm as older version already won last time also the new generation ktm rc 390 is more refined n powerfull ugradrad too.....Shout out for #KTM
Ridden both. Bought the KTM. Hated how the Kawasaki's tank felt against my body in the tuck position...couldn't get comfortable on the bike.
Maybe because the ninja 400 riding position towards more to sport touring, where you sit inside the bike. That's why when you tuck in the bottom tank pushed against your stomach/chest area
@@jeeewhyyypheee most probably the case. Felt like my mid spine was folded right over the tank at a weird angle whereas the KTM felt much more natural…kind of thing you only realise when you actually go out and ride the bike in question.
Can i ask where you from?
I'm asking this cuz ninja 400 is damn overexpensive where ktm 390 here in India is damn cheap
In your nation i guess ktm is expensive than kawasaki
@@Chinemeni US?
I'm from AUS. KTM RC 390s and Ninja 400s retail around the same price new however 390s are cheaper than 400s on the used market.
Here in India.. The rc is HALF the cost of the ninja 400
Thats Great !
@@fehlrock What r u smoking? How is that great? That is the bloody disparity in the pricing!
not half the price. maybe 1.5 lack extra I think 😂
Well in Indonesia the price of KTM is very Expensive😂😭
@@madgunnerbomb Crack Cocaine ...
If you plan to use either for track purpose, just wanna say
Improving suspensions or brakes is much cheaper and safer than improving power
Is it really cheaper than a new pipe and a power commander? I always assumed that suspension upgrades would be spendy, but I haven't looked into it.
@@Cheezmonka tbh that swingarm on n400 needs to be changed for stability.. nd it would be costly.. but definitely n400 engine can be upgraded lot more,, while ktm single cylinder is already at limit.. it would become pretty unreliable eventually sieze
Exactly ... fixing lack of power runs into a wall really quick ... maybe a second a lap there ... brakes and suspension 5 seconds ... probably way more for a rider not afraid to use that edge grip. It gets old really fast working your butt off to catch up / pull away on the corners only to get monstered on the straight ... by a guy just twisting the throttle. Kwaka's still rule the small bike class.
Decat + muffler + tune, things i would do with any modern starved lean euro 4/5 bike anyways.
@@Cheezmonka - Learning decent throttle control, corner entry and trail braking is a lot cheaper than an exhaust and power commander. Correct tyre pressure and suspension adjustment (the RC390 comes with fully adjustable wp suspension) is free. A bad setup and lack of ability cannot be overcome with a few bhp.
This is an excellent side by side comparison. Please do more in this format!
This girl knows her stuff she would be a good bike reveiwer they should put her on.
KTM is the better bike from the start. Quick shifter, adjustable suspension, dash and technology... all beat the outdated Ninja 400. Both bikes are good, but I do feel the KTM takes the edge.
As mentioned the aftermarket for the N400 is huge thanks to FIM and MotoAmerica and club racing. You can go nuts with 4 piston Brembo upgraded caliper and Braketech 6mm rotor and full suspension upgrades. Plus power upgrades if you really want to spend some money. Overbore TB, SuperBike heads, cams, overbore kits, ram air and GP bodywork.... Such a great little platform.
How about lap time comparison?
So...do a remap of the 390 for better throttle response and ur good? Brakes, chassis, body position etc is better than the 400
Everybody except the lady is just "I wanna feel faster". She sounds like somebody that would enjoy a miate over a mustang. Lightweight, good chassis, not too fast but better handling
I agree. The KTM is more complete then the Kawa. Saying the KTM needs more work is contradictive. It just needs an exhaust, air filter and remap. The gearbox/QS could become more smooth afther some miles.
Sounds like it, but... the cost of an exhaust + remap on the 390 is probably similar to the cost of upgrading the suspension and brakes on the Ninjette, so... pick your poison
@@scaryhotharryscott lol, no. Suspension and brakes are expensive upgrades. RC just need a mid pipe and a piggy back ECU or a flash.
At the end they didnt compare the 2 bikes. They said they would want to do all this work to the Kawa & wished the KT had more power. But those are the bikes, as they sit- not imaginary bikes. I think the lady summed it up well, as they sit she preferred the KT.
Sorry il take the KTM all the time! The machine is definitely ready to race. Get right company to mod it and I guess it will be one to get. I’ve ridden the bigger machines and KTM knows what they doing! Awesome review 🤓
Got the 890 advR. It's a beast. Loved the brand
It seems like it would be fun to learn to ride on either bike, and you could learn to ride faster on either. I like the way they both look.
Edit: Thank you for testing both bikes on the same tires. I think this is a serious consideration when comparing similar bikes.
That was the questions I had for months.. And you guys just cleared my doubts. Thank you.
So stoked on this update these bikes are on my short list for getting in to sport.
Just a suggestion on interview options. You could announce/state each of your guest riders full name at minimum, and preferably 5 seconds of their accolades. I want to learn more about each one of those riders, but I have no information.
Additionally, I watch your videos often and appreciate them very much… I know exactly how much work it takes and appreciate all the wonderful information and efforts that you and your team put into it.
You guys deserve all the success ‼️🍀🍪
Being a very experienced rider, and a track day guy, I recently bought a RC390.... to sit along side my R1. I think when you are picking for a 2nd or 3d bike as opposed to an only bike, priorities may change a lot. For a variety of good reasons, I leave my bikes stock. I rode a Ninja 400 but picked the RC for its chassis, suspension, ergonomics, tech, and good looks. When you have something like an R1 that you ride regularly, EVERYTHING 700cc and below feels pathetically slow, so several HP isn't such an issue.
I own a 2021 Ninja 400 and feel like it does win because of the not so “boring” power, and the aftermarket potential. I have a full exhaust on mine and it sounds/runs pretty nicely with a power commander. Hoping to get it on track this year if I can.
I have the 400 and prefer the RC 390, it feel more powerful than the Ninja and the suspension is way better.
@@MarquisDeSang Feelings can be very deceptive. After doing some track days and encountering a fair amount of 390s now; I have definitely noticed that they really aren't quite able to keep pace. Particularly on the straights. I've never had a 390 overtake me on a straight; conversely I have passed many. All i have is a slip on, no velocity stacks, no full exhaust, no hiflow air filter, no ecu tune; nothing but a little Leovince slip on.
I sure wish KTM would put out a super light sport bike with their sweet 690 engine. Its 70-some hp is the point at which power crosses the threshold into "entertaining".
Get a Kramer with that engine!
The 690 is a little too agricultural for my taste, i want an RC890.
@@r3fotzirx Hear, hear!! Even better!
Seems simpler to buy the bike that has the better/more confidence inspiring chassis, suspension and brakes and then just address the one shortcoming which is the engine. You can always find more power
You can find more power on both bikes though. I would argue that you can find more power with the twin then the single. I have upgraded the soft suspension for a fairly reasonable price. $600 US for an Andriani race kit for the forks and $30 for gsxr 600 rear shock that drops right in. Now the bike feels like it is a proper sport bike.
Very close contest! If someone is looking for power then Kawasaki is the answer and if you're looking for Overall package ( in India) then KTM. Wins hand down by huge margin. But then KTM is single cylinder. I believe there's a KTM400 twin coming soon ( next year). The story will be different then. However I think both K's are winner here. In an entry level super sports category both are amongst best.
Being a single have it's own perks like faster acceleration
Feel like Kate was the only one judging it impartially for others and not just for herself.
There's a lot of other things the KTM has that the Ninja doesn't have that regular riders will appreciate. I suspect the RC would have won it if were not a track comparison - I guess stay tuned for other comparisons.
I ordered the new RC and really took a couple months going over my options. I think KTM got it right and it will be a huge departure from the reliability issues of 2015-16. I like that it is a different bike and has a personality all of it's own - and I feel like the 373 has definitely been refined over time to the point that it's a proven and reliable unit - just consider the sheer number of these engines on the roads in markets outside of North America.
I know it’s been a while since your comment but have you had any reliability issues with your rc?
@@nolzftw mine has been flawless over the past year!
Been using duke 390 since 2018. Always a monster to ride. No problem except early headlight software issue for me which got rectified in 20minutes in service centre.
What was the issue may I know ?
@@yash9410503314 actually headlight was flickering like on and off. So they updated the software maybe . The problem was fully rectified. Never came back
I will never get rid of my duke390 that thing will always be in my garage!
You can't really compare this two bike power wise. 373cc vs 399 cc? 26cc difference between this two. It really does make a big difference.
Why does the host sound so pretentious. I'd say the lady made the most sense. She was trying to think what would suit newer riders.
fr, i think she was the only one to mention the learning potential you could get on either bike.
You can really fix that flat spot on the power with a Aftermarket piggyback. I have one and it made a world of difference
Here in India, At the price of one Ninja 400 we can buy either 2 RC390s or 3 TVS Apache 310RR which is basically BMW G310RR or a 600cc naked.
In INDIA rc 390 cost 300000rs whereas ninja 400 cost 600000rs....hence ktm is more value here...even ninja 300 cost more than rc here
The KTM is made in India. Localisation brings in cost benefits. The Kawasaki on the other hand is a CKD with a few parts locally sourced like the tyres.
Yea this comparison isn't for the Indian Market. In India it'd be an easy win for ktm ig
The indian ktm have bad reputation for reliablity compared to austrian ktm
@@dolanduk8419 that is pretty obvious as only the low capacity/lower priced models are manufactured in India.
@@dolanduk8419 no ..all KTM's across the world has Bad Reputation. Its not because of made in india .
No European Brand can come close to Japanese when it comes to Reliability & Refinement.
Ngl I want the KTM even if the Kawasaki is adjudged better. Reckon I'd walk up to the KTM each day and be itching to go out for a rip whereas the Kawi doesn't move me at all. When it comes to machines I buy on emotion - there's nothing sensible about a motorcycle in the first place
I wouldnt disagree with you. Just bought a KTM 390 duke
@@aldrinneilrodrigues6727 been looking at it also.
Then there's the complete outsiders; Svartpilen and Vitpilen...
Sounds very feminine of you
@@TheAsheybabe89 bro wtf does that even mean
@@TheAsheybabe89 😂
You get the spreadsheet out and work out which bike has best residuals, dollars per performance ratio and fuel efficiency then compare this to other vehicles and public transport options whilst factoring journey times, equipment needed, annual servicing and consumables plus gear allowing for weather types and only then decide on a) whether to buy a motorcycle and then b) which motorcycle agnostic of looks etc?
You ride some economical machine?
You didn't pick one you like?
It was kool to see Rob Lowe racing motorcycles
Still glad I got a 2022 Ninja 400 KRT Edition for my second bike (after 3 months on my first one, a 650 cruiser, lol). 😀
RC needs a mid pipe and ECU flash or piggy back ECU.
If someone has budget then they can go for a standalone ECU and make RC a true rocket.
Exactly! And the didnt even mention this lol. About to do this to mi RC 390
I am sorry I am not familiar with such mods much but isnt ecu flashing gonna mess up the engine? Ktms engine is already high compression and suffers from heating issues that is what led them to upgrade the radiator little bit only real world testing would show how much it has improved and what abt the reliability of engine?
@@gamerslife4me938KTM runs hot because they run lean AFR for emissions. ECU flash will actually fix that and KTM' compression ratio is not that high. I am running 1 whole point higher than stock and haven't got any reliability issues.
That RC needs a pipe and an ECU flash. Mine has a pipe already, with a flash and KyN filter it will go to 51hp 😍. Gonna blow that Ninja 400 out of the competition. And sitting at less than 140kg it's gonna be a rocket
How much money do you have to spend to get that power?
Maybe on the flywheel?
More like 44hp on the rear wheel, but that's a decat to the mods you mentioned, or a full exhaust.
@@luislarasiria4362 A flash is pretty cheap if you have a local shop expect $200~ if you need to mail it out expect $300-400.
Exhaust expect around $300 for a slip-on $600-1000 for a full system (technically illegal on the street but being in the USA with all the loud Harley boys I have never seen anyone get a ticket)
Air Filter around $60
Note on the exhaust though being an entry level bike that will eventually be sold a lot of people will remove their after market exhausts and sell them on eBay or a local market to get some extra cash. So that $900 full system you may find for $500-600.
I don't like the way the KTM looks but I wish the Ninja had more colors. Either way I'm about to get a Ninja.
The ktm looks very cool.
Oh yeah. It's the bike I want.
Too bad they didn't mention reliability much. I have 45k Kms (weekday commute, weekend ripping in the mountains) on my Ninja 400, and never has it given me trouble (engine, suspension, brakes, electronics). Just needed to upgrade my suspension, brakes (steel braided, radial master, pads), clutch (lining and spring) and there's plenty of not-so-expensive aftermarket options out there.
Is ktm not reliable?
KTM is equally reliable.
@@boliciavincentcalebd.2741 It (RC) is not AS reliable as a Kawasaki Ninja.
@@cranky1812 Not according to the largest KTM dealership in my area. The newer models may not be super unreliable like the pre-2017 Duke 390's, but they still haven't caught up to the Ninja. See my first-hand experience above at 45k Kms.
@@isaacgandalf I own 2 heavily modified RC 390's (2016) and no issues. Both have done 30,000+ kms with rev limiter at 12,000rpm.
Great video as always !!
Have ridden both. For track days/street stock, KTM offers more. For racing, Ninja for the power and aftermarket.
Strange with the same ninja 400 , the previous version of rc 390 won in your 2018 comparo!! There were no such concerns of power and your dyno graph of 2018 rc was smooth af and produced more hp
euro 5
Ordered the KTM in January. Supposed to arrive in Feb. Delayed til May. Now delayed til July. How did you get that?
Dont quite understand why anyone would expect a thumper to keep up with a twin on track. That being said, cant wait for ktm to put that thumper in a 390 enduro R dual sport, where it belongs.
This was the video I needed, was confused to go with the new 390 or put more money on the Ninja
22:27 the lady makes a lot of sense
Ninja 400 is a great little bike. Thanks for the tips and opinions, enjoyed.
EBR 1190 spotted!
I have a 2020 krt abs 400 Ninja, like the bike Alot, only problem is they never brought in parts for the bike into South Africa, needed a new radiator and have to wait for one to be ordered from overseas.
Now Kawasaki will release the NINJA ZX4R! blow this KTM out of the competition.
EXACTLY! Return of a 4cyl RIPPER! Forget the ZX-25R. However...long live the CBR250, GSX-R250, FZR250, and ZXR250.
Kawasaki pattern for production of models bikes is stupid, wanna know why.
U guys never experienced the feel ktm gives, i suggest u rip then if u got hand on it, and u will never forget it how it feel. Even z900 wont give it like ktm would give, but, hey, im just speaking of my opinion.
@@mahyuddinrazali854 brother z900 is shit infront of duke 890r
Well I mean, it will be inline 4, it will not be on the same level as the other 400cc bigbike
I want a street review of the ktm, track is nice, but which one is better for a first bike
Nine inch nails respect ✊
hope soon they review China's CFmoto450sr side by side with RC390 and Ninja400
As much as I want to love the new rc390 it boils down to reliability. Hey KTM what have you done to put an end to all the sensor failures and issues with leaking seals? KTM…..”we made the parts cheaper to buy.” So yeah that’s not the answer I’m looking for. Hey Kawasaki are your bikes still reliable like the first one I bought in 1985 my 600r ninja that still runs great……..oh wait……answered my own question
KTM for the win. Rode a brand new kawa on track is really bad on suspension. no adjustments, way too soft. Power is nothing without control said someone really well.
What about the streets my man ???
Just imagine what would a dual cyl. Rc390 do to a ninja 400 ! Ktm are just power & torque beast .
I want a reshoot with the new ZX-4RR! Just how much better is that inline 4 with better stock parts than the Ninja 400?
Yeap. I can honestly say..being an owner of the KTM RC and having ridden the ninja 400. This is an accurate review of both bikes. Lol
All the way I agree with Kate. Her assessment of both bikes was spot on!
💯 If you are starting out on track you want more feedback than outright power. Which I believe this was about. The egos of the others got in the way of what you really want when starting racing. As an ex Australian Superbike racer, who started out racing 250 production class bikes (which were quicker than both, thanks to a V twin two stroke engine) was possibly where I had the most fun as it was Honda vs Suzuki. 👍😎🇦🇺
@@marcusgeorge1825 You are so right with your assessment of those gents
You forget one thing, these bikes don't have much power...
@@brodavid9960 That’s just the very thing that makes these a perfect, modern day bike to develop your racing skills, which will ultimately make you a safer and faster rider in the first place. It will also make you a much better rider when you decide to step up. It actually makes me laugh when people talk about “not enough power”, as being an ex Australian Superbike racer (who started out on 250 production bikes), when my lap times (in the mid 90’s, with road legal tyres only) here people today talk up how quick they are on what was my home racetrack (Phillip Island) and I simply say if I was only on my 250, I’d lap an R1 ridden by a once in a while track day rider in between laps 4 and 5. Horses are only goodie you know how to use them.
@@dukiemoto8676 I was actually thinking whilst watching that those gents need to go off camera and see who’s appendage was bigger… 😂
There are some rumors about a new zx400r … man that would be a dream
Being a small CC it feels a bit odd to say everything is better on the KTM other then power being so since the Ninja 400 has more power it is better. It would make more sense to look into how easy you can learn on it.
U made no sense
I'll take the advice from anyone with a Nine Inch Nails hat haha.
Does anyone know which would be better on the road? I know this is a track review but I am looking to get my first bike and these were the two bikes I was deciding between.
Ninja 400 not even a question the suspension is tuned for the road and it has a more comfortable riding position. The RC390 is a true super sport like a CBR600RR or an R6 with your back hunched and a lot of weight on your wrists.
If you want a faired bike the Ninja 400 hands down however add in nakeds and the Duke 390 and Svartpillen 401 put up much more of a fight versus the Ninja or Z400
Thanks
Lol imagine spending 30 grand on a Ducati, taking it to a track day, and seeing a ninja 400 blow past you like nothing
Cheaper to invest in you than a bigger engine. One guy I met at the track went to see California Superbike School for 3 days. He told me he gained 8 second per lap. No engine will give you that.
All fun and games until that KTM reliability comes and bites you 😈
They are pretty reliable. I covered 84,800 kms or 52,700 miles on my 2014 rc390. I only replaced my clutch plates and oil seal recently. Just do proper service with good quality oil and it'll run fine. But they are not as reliable compared to Japanese counterpart. I think they hv refined the engines even more.
I don't know about it i have never owned them considring all things in mind i straight away went for japanese.
I had always been discouraged from buying KTM for years, feeling the same way that both their street and mx lineup were too maintenance heavy along with their reputation for reliability issues. But I've put close to 20K miles (hard miles, it's the toy) on my 690 without any significant issues. Really the only issue was the clutch slave kept failing, but it's an easy fix and I'm using the oberon slave now, working so far *knock-on-wood.
@@dcfancomics1314 good point, thank you for sharing!
@@motocache6645 thank you for sharing, I’m sure as they keep evolving they’re gonna be less and less maintenance intensive
Team Green Approved 💚
Rc390 vs cbr500r vs ninja 400 vs cfmoto 450sr major comparison
Great perspective from the Council !
Cool! as an aside though, "segway" is not "segue"... it's a personal transport device.
I just got my ninja 400
"far superior engine than the R3" says the veteran racing rider. I'll take that to the bank.
what same price , in india u can buy almost 2 rc390(ex-showroom) at price of 400(onroad)
I'd like to see the KTM head to head against the New Ninja 250R. Or is it Ninja 25R?
Zx-25R i think?
@@HeyAddieImTojo Yeah that's it.
I'm 193cm tall about 6ft 4, which do you think would fit me better getting my learner's soon
bro the ktm is wayy better for tall ppl im 6`2 and it fits sooo good,,,,lemme know what first bike u get :)
You are allowed to have both? (I have a 2018 Ninja 400... but might get my gf a KTM).
Rossi Moore is kicking butt on his 390 in the States. MotoAmerica
Hey Kate taught my MSF course to get my licence a few years ago :) !!!
In India ktm 390 cost 3.4lacs on road and ninja cost almost 6 lacs on road.
So Ninja is good enough for extra 2.5 lacs.
Kate is many things but a lady isn’t one of them. Good stuff, Troy. Now I want a baby bike.
Kate is a badass. 100% I'm hoping she'll grace us with her opinion on more bikes in the future. Now, if only your baby RSV4 had a baby. What would that be like?
@@TroySiahaan She is a badass. No argument there. Imagine if my 660 had a baby though.
The 390 platform has been horribly unreliable. Wouldn't touch that thing with a ten foot pole.
The 390 KTM is known to over heat. Especially the RC390 over the naked version. KTM says they addressed the over heating issue, but I hear it's still a problem.
I've owned mine for about 5 years and it never got close to overheating. I've only done routine maintenance and it's been a charm. The fan kicks on super early and I think that just freaks people out.
RC390 owner here. Been running engine ice since day one and zero overheating issues or reliability problems. Stay clear of 2016 and prior models and you'll be fine. It's true the bike does runs a lot hotter than most but I've never had it reach overheating temperatures.
Facts. I've been eyeing them for so long but the 200 and 390 platform are horribly unreliable. The heat is unnerving too. They are fun to ride though.
@@jamesbanksco agreed, only the older version have some real problem with their engine, but newer version they have improved it totally, and duke 390 fan just kick in earlier then most lightweight bike, no overheating issue here
I've had RC390, 790 Duke, 890 Duke R & now '21 V4 Tuono (non factory) for the Road. So I just got a Pair of RSV Tuono's (Gen1 & Gen2) for some track day thunder fun.
_i wanna see an R3 stock-up against this two even tho it is down in cc/power._
This comparison has happened plenty of times and the 400 blows it out of the water every single time. No comparison in any part of the debate.
why they talking like aftermarket for the KTM doesn't exist? The company is not some obscure company on some unknown island give it 6 months they would have an aftermarket for it, and the NInja is already 4 years old I would be amazed if it did not have a huge aftermarket.
KTM has huge aftermarket, lol. I don't from where they got there information.
I just wanted to know the fastest lap times, I don't care how easy or hard it is for an unskilled rider to go fast on. Looking at the specs I would be considerably faster on the RC390 all day long as those extra KG's make a big difference to acceleration and trail braking into corners. Plus the RC390 has fully adjustable wp suspension which on it's own will be a game changer if you know how to dial it in.
The KTM is slightly cheaper here in the UK so it's a no brainer. One is a genuine sports bike, the other is a commuter bike with a fairing and the Ninja tag it has no business to wear.
I've beaten 600's and Ducati's around a track on a near stock versys 650 with touring tyres but it doesn't make the Versys a good track bike. Any decent rider will beat slow riders on anything. I'm interested in getting something different, I can tell a Ninja 400 isn't going to cut it without even riding it.
Was going to get the Ninja but got the 390Duke, I love kTm😁.
Frankly didn’t understand even great riders are unable to judge 🤦🏻
can't get over the fact that the ninja 400 cost over 9,000 NZD and doesn't even have inverted forks
Kawasaki ninja 400 Vs Yamaha R3 Vs KTM RC 390 race Whu is fast bike
The RC390 got left behind? Don’t tell that to the current champion in Junior Cup 🤔
good stuff
miss Burnsie.....
but Kate is a suitable replacement 😉
cbr 500r got some good upgrades, maybe it could do good on track now.
Too heavy.
@@r3fotzirx have you tried it?
@@Federico740
The CBR is 60lbs heavier, that is a massive difference, it's also 6HP down on power despite having 5lbs more torque.
Torque is better on the street but generally less important on the track where you can maintain your momentum.
@@shauns5278 ok 👍🏻. 6hp down ? It’s 48 hp if i am not mistaken
@@Federico740Review I saw had it at 42, still doesn't make up for the 60lbs that's absolutely massive.
guys who have never had a kawa400 say the kawa400 is better. The girl who has a kawa400 says that the ktm390 is better. who do we believe? LOL
Would have been nice to see an R3 in the mix.
A little underpowered no?
The R3 is a good motorcycle, but its smaller engine gives it a power deficit that is just too much for it to be competitive against the Ninja 400 and RC 390 in stock form. From a quick internet search, stock Kawasaki 400's tend to dyno around 43hp, Ktm 390's around 40hp, and Yamaha 300's around 36hp (+/- 2hp). Back in 2018 when they tested the Ninja 400, RC 390 and CBR500R, the Motorcyclist staff mentioned that all three of these machines were significantly faster than the race-prepped R3's that were on the track. To quote the article: " No matter who was riding, any of the bikes in our trio would leave the R3 in the dust (though the Honda did have to work a little harder to do it), the poor Yammie simply was unable to keep up in a straight line."
FWIW, the reason that the R3 is competitive in Supersport 300 racing is due to the handicapping rules. The max engine speeds of each motorcycle type are limited to make them more or less equal on the track. This year, the R3 can run up to 13,300 rpm whereas the RC390 is limited to 11,150 rpm and the Ninja 400 to 10,350 rpm (about 2000rpm below stock redline).
@@morgan98801 I wonder if the Yamaha 300's, like Versys 300 the Honda (water cooled) 300's are a sweet spot in the international marketplace where max speed limits are lower (80kph, about 50mph in India, for example). Believe it or not, in many places, a 400cc motorcycle is inching up into the "large and powerful" category. Liquid cooled 300's are at the "Goldilocks Zone" of light, un-intimidating motorcycles with enough power to maintain highways speeds, even in the USA.
What are you guys on about? The R3 literally keeps pace with rc390 in acceleration and edges out in top speed. Its really a great bike and a great competitor.
In the previous 2018 comparison of both the bikes the ktm was winner ....But this time Kawasaki is the winner this was not a fair enough for the ktm as older version already won last time also the new generation ktm rc 390 is more refined n powerfull ugradrad too.....Shout out for #KTM
Euro 5 did a lot if you remove all the emissions garbage the RC would put up a much better fight.
Use 46t rear sprocket instead of stock 45t in Ktm 390s for true power delivery in real life conditions... Nothing like ktm
The older RC390 looks so much cooler. What a shame. It's change for changes sake.
390💥
Cries in European where they don't make the Ninja 400 anymore.
Probably because they didn't sell too many. I don't see many sportbikes of any kind around here (BE). Naked bikes are much more numerous.
You'll get the ninja ZX4R don't worry
August buddy, kawa announced the ninja 400 2023 for august.
Old is gold old RC return public demand 😡
R3 is probably the better choice.
This guy is always bad with introducing mates. Lol
In india same rc390 have 43.1 bhp
So it's not that slow
Well!! then maybe take the engine out from Kawasaki and put it on RC390
These are beginner bikes, I’d take KTM over Kawa as a learning tool