Here's How to Race a $20,000 KTM RC390 R in the USA

In case you haven’t noticed, the Supersport 300 class is heating up, and perhaps most interestingly with virtually zero machines with a 300cc displacement…but that is a subject for another time.

This has put pressure on KTM to remain at the pointy end of business in the small-displacement category, which has lead the Austrian company to the release of a homologation special for the 300cc class. As such, say hello to the 2018 KTM RC390 R sport bike.

A street legal motorcycle, the KTM RC390 R aims to sharpen the points where the entry-level KTM RC390 is a bit dull, namely by using better suspension and new intake trumpets that widen the powerband, but also with a new triple clamp, clip-ons, and levers.

With an MSRP of $8,499 for the RC390 R, the “ready to race” model commands a $3,000 premium over its lower-spec sibling. Of course, if you are really serious about your racing, you will want KTM’s Supersport 300 race kit as well, which will set you back another $11,000.

That’s right, for nearly $20,000, you can race in the “affordable” 300cc race class with KTM.

To be fair, for that money KTM does provide you with an extensive racing kit, with the crown jewel being a full titanium exhaust from Akrapovic.

A race ECU is also included in the SSP300 Race Kit, as is an STM slipper clutch, quickshifter, race wiring harness, spare wheels, an improved cooling system, different rear sprockets, and a few internal engine pieces.

Availability on the Supersport 300 Race Kit will be limited, and go on a first-come, first-served basis at US dealers. It is only compatible with KTM RC390 machines from 2017 and onward.

Also worth a note, word on the street is that only 500 units of the 2018 KTM RC390 R will be made available worldwide.