TVS Apache RR 310 vs KTM RC 390: Which Sport Bike Wins in 2026?

If you’re shopping for a full-faired sportbike under ₹3.5 lakh in India, two names always land on the shortlist: the TVS Apache RR 310 and the KTM RC 390. Both are track-capable, both are made in the same Bajaj-TVS-adjacent ecosystem of Indian performance engineering, and both have loyal fan followings that argue endlessly on forums about which one is “the real deal.”

This guide breaks down the price, engine performance, handling, features, mileage, and ownership experience of both motorcycles so you can make a confident decision — whether you’re chasing lap times or just want a good-looking bike for your daily commute with weekend track days thrown in.

Quick Verdict

• Choose the KTM RC 390 if outright power, top speed, and razor-sharp handling matter most to you.
• Choose the TVS Apache RR 310 if you want better fuel economy, a more relaxed and practical riding position, and a lower price tag without giving up too much performance.

Now let’s get into the details.

Price Comparison

Ex-showroom prices for both motorcycles vary by city, variant, and ongoing offers, so always check with your local dealer for the latest figure. As a general guide:

Motorcycle	Approximate Ex-Showroom Price
TVS Apache RR 310	₹2.62 lakh onwards
KTM RC 390	₹3.33 lakh onwards

The Apache RR 310 typically undercuts the RC 390 by roughly ₹60,000–₹70,000 at the base variant level, which is a meaningful gap for first-time big-bike buyers. TVS also offers a Built To Order (BTO) program that lets you add adjustable KYB suspension and a race kit, which narrows the price gap somewhat if you go all-in on customization.

Engine and Performance

This is where the two bikes diverge the most.

Spec	TVS Apache RR 310	KTM RC 390
Engine	312.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled	373.27cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power	~38 PS @ 9,800 rpm	~43.5 PS @ 9,000 rpm
Torque	~29 Nm	~37 Nm
Claimed Mileage	~34 kmpl	~29 kmpl

The KTM RC 390’s larger engine gives it a clear edge in outright power and torque, translating to quicker acceleration and a higher top speed — it’s the more aggressive, track-focused machine of the two. The Apache RR 310, developed with input from BMW Motorrad, trades a bit of outright grunt for a smoother, more linear power delivery that many riders find easier to live with in daily traffic. It also sips less fuel, which matters if the bike is going to double as your everyday ride and not just a weekend toy.

If your priority is raw performance and bragging rights on twisty roads, the RC 390 wins. If you want a motor that’s friendly enough for a daily commute but still has real bite when you want it, the Apache RR 310 makes a strong case.

Handling, Brakes, and Chassis

Both motorcycles use a split trellis frame with upside-down (USD) forks up front and a monoshock at the rear — a shared architecture that keeps both bikes competitive in terms of cornering ability.

• The KTM RC 390 uses a larger front disc and lighter disc brakes overall, which reduces unsprung mass and makes the bike feel more flickable through corners. Its lighter kerb weight also helps here.
• The TVS Apache RR 310 counters with a slightly larger rear disc and — through the BTO program — fully adjustable front and rear suspension, letting serious riders fine-tune the setup for track days.

In stock trim, the RC 390 generally feels sportier and more planted at speed, while the Apache RR 310 offers a slightly more upright, forgiving ergonomic package that’s kinder on your wrists during long rides.

Features and Technology

Both bikes come loaded with tech that used to be reserved for far more expensive motorcycles:

• Ride-by-wire throttle on both
• Full-color TFT instrument clusters with Bluetooth connectivity on both
• Dual-channel ABS as standard
• The Apache RR 310 adds navigation assist, call/SMS alerts, and a quickshifter on higher variants
• The RC 390 offers cornering ABS, traction control, and a quickshifter on its higher trims, plus (on recent updates) adaptive features that push it further upmarket

If in-dash connectivity and app integration matter to you, TVS has generally been aggressive about packing features into the Apache RR 310 at a lower price point. KTM, on the other hand, leans into premium rider-aid electronics that suit spirited or track riding.

Build Quality and Everyday Usability

Owners frequently note that the Apache RR 310 feels more accommodating for daily use — a marginally roomier seat, a less committed riding stance, and better low-speed manners in city traffic. The RC 390, true to its racing DNA, rewards you more on open roads and track days but can feel a bit more demanding in stop-and-go traffic.

Fit and finish on both bikes has improved significantly over the years, and both are backed by wide dealer networks across India, so after-sales service and parts availability shouldn’t be a major concern with either.

TVS Apache RR 310 vs KTM RC 390: Pros and Cons

TVS Apache RR 310

Pros:

• Lower price
• Better fuel efficiency
• More relaxed, practical ergonomics
• Feature-rich TFT dash with navigation
• BTO customization for adjustable suspension

Cons:

• Less outright power and torque
• Slightly heavier than the RC 390

KTM RC 390

Pros:

• Stronger engine performance and top speed
• Sharper, more track-focused handling
• Lighter kerb weight
• Advanced rider-aid electronics on top trims

Cons:

• Higher price
• Lower fuel economy
• More aggressive ergonomics, less relaxed for daily commuting

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the TVS Apache RR 310 or the KTM RC 390? The KTM RC 390 is faster in a straight line thanks to its larger 373cc engine, which produces more power and torque than the Apache RR 310’s 312cc motor.

Which bike gives better mileage? The TVS Apache RR 310 is the more fuel-efficient of the two, with a claimed mileage that’s noticeably higher than the RC 390’s.

Is the Apache RR 310 a good daily commuter? Yes. Its more relaxed ergonomics, better mileage, and linear power delivery make it more suited to daily traffic riding than the track-focused RC 390.

Which bike is better for track days? The KTM RC 390 tends to be the sharper tool for the track thanks to its lighter weight, stronger motor, and more aggressive geometry, though the Apache RR 310’s BTO adjustable suspension can close the gap for serious track riders.

Which one should a first-time big-bike buyer choose? If you’re new to performance motorcycles and want something less intimidating with lower running costs, the Apache RR 310 is the friendlier choice. If you want to grow into a punchier, race-bred machine, the RC 390 is worth the extra investment.

Final Word

There’s no universally “better” bike here — only the one that’s better for you. The KTM RC 390 is the enthusiast’s pick for outright performance and track credibility, while the TVS Apache RR 310 is the smarter, more practical choice for riders who want performance without sacrificing everyday comfort and running costs.

Whichever you choose, take both out for a test ride before signing the cheque — spec sheets tell only half the story, and seat time will tell you the rest.

Prices, specifications, and features mentioned are approximate and subject to change. Please confirm the latest on-road pricing and variant details with your nearest TVS or KTM dealership before making a purchase decision.