Though a higher-spec sport touring 1290 Super Duke is on the way ( the 1290 Super Duke GT) there’s no word on when it will arrive in North America. KTM’s naked range remains largely unchanged for 2021, with most of the models carrying over from 2020 with no updates to speak of.
For those looking for a thrill-inducing ride with a smaller displacement and a lower price tag, this is a worthy choice. Though there’s nothing new for 2021, the RC 390 is still one of the sharpest small-capacity motorcycles on the market. The engine produces a modest 41 horsepower and 26 lb-ft of torque. Underneath those angular fairings, the 2021 RC 390 features a 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine-the very same unit that powers the 390 Duke and 390 Adventure. For years, the KTM RC 390 has been known as a sharp and sophisticated entry-level sports machine that delivers moderate power in a fully-faired and fully-realized sport bike package. It hasn’t received any updates, but that’s no bad thing. The KTM RC 390 is available once again in 2021, but it’s very much the same as it was last year. No doubt there will be a little more shuffling as the months fall off the calendar and models that were expected in late 2020 make an appearance further into the new year, but here’s what to expect from KTM in 2021. So, without further ado, here’s the story so far. With new Euro5 rules coming into play, a lot of KTMs models will need some tinkering in the engine department, with the likes of the 790 transitioning into a new 890 configuration in some markets. There are a few brand new models, plenty of updates, and one or two surprises that we’re still waiting on. Fortunately, KTM is on the ball, with an updated website and a comprehensive list of what we can expect for 2021. 2020 was a trying year for most manufacturers, with trade shows canceled, grand unveilings put on hold, and release schedules thrown out of the window. Austrian brand KTM has put together an impressive line-up for 2021.