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**B7ACKTHORN** · 07-12-2018, 08:27 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by QuadrupleagentZ View Post

Hey,
I just wanted to know does the ngk iridium spark plug really helps with the low end of the bike?

I’m getting mixed reviews all over the net some say it helps a lot in low rpms while some say it’ll ruin your engine

And what’s the correct gap for it 9mm or 8mm?

A spark plug will never ruin an engine. A spark plug either dies or fires inconsistently as it ages. The NGK LKAR8AI9 is the recommended one for the Duke series, with the right length. NGK or non-NGK the difference hasn't been big for me, personally. Though, a high compression engine can use a good spark, as a good spark plug provides good spark which helps burn the mixture efficiently, which means crisper performance.

One thing to note though, most riders get confused a spark plug replacement would increase their top speed et cetera, unfortunately that's not the case. All it does it help the bike fire up easily and cleanly, so one might observe quick cold cranking, and crisper throttle action.

So, there you go. I'd definitely suggest you get your spark plug changed to NGK.

Cheers!
VJ

**s1d** · 07-13-2018, 05:07 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by QuadrupleagentZ View Post

Hey,
I just wanted to know does the ngk iridium spark plug really helps with the low end of the bike?

I’m getting mixed reviews all over the net some say it helps a lot in low rpms while some say it’ll ruin your engine

And what’s the correct gap for it 9mm or 8mm?

Don't expect miracles with a plug change. There maybe a slight improvement in throttle response/idling/fe or u might not feel anything at all.
Using a wrong plug can cause catastrophic damage. For example wrong heat range/or worse wrong size which might end up causing the piston to smash it.
So stick to oem or equivalent which is usually specified by the manufacturer.
The plug which I posted, is the correct spec for the ktm 200/390s and shouldn't cause any issues.
The ktms used to come with a Bosch plug with a gap of 0.8mm iirc (remember is 0.8 not 8mm). The part no was vr5ne
Later in 2015 they started coming with a gap of 0.9mm, with the part no. Vr5neu
Either one suits just fine.
The ngk comes with a gap of 0.9mm and since it is a iridium plug don't go about trying to adjust the gap.. You will probably damage the tip/electrode. Just open the pack and plonk it in.

**petrolhead28** · 07-16-2018, 12:03 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Posting from NGK website:

Heat Range
The term Heat Range refers to the speed with which a plug can transfer heat from the combustion chamber to the engine head. Whether the plug is to be installed in a boat, lawnmower or race car, it has been found the optimum combustion chamber temperature for gasoline engines is between 500°C–850°C. Within that range it is cool enough to avoid pre-ignition and plug tip overheating (which can cause engine damage), while still hot enough to burn off combustion deposits that cause fouling.

The spark plug design determines its ability to remove heat from the combustion chamber. The primary method used to do this is by altering the internal length of the core nose. In addition, the alloy compositions in the electrodes can be changed. This means you may not be able to visually tell a difference between heat ranges.

- When a spark plug is referred to as a “cold plug”, it is one that transfers heat rapidly from the firing tip into the engine head, keeping the firing tip cooler.

- A “hot plug” has a much slower rate of heat transfer, which keeps the firing tip hotter.

An unaltered engine will run within the optimum operating range straight from the manufacturer, but if you make modifications such as adding a turbo or supercharger, increasing compression, timing changes, use of alternate fuels, or sustained use of nitrous oxide, these can alter the plug tip temperature, necessitating a colder plug.

A good rule of thumb: use one heat range colder for every 75–100hp added.

In identical spark plug types, the difference from one full heat range to the next is the ability to remove 70°C to 100°C from the combustion chamber.

The heat range numbering system used by spark plug manufacturers is not universal.

For example, a 10 heat range in Champion is not the same as a 10 heat range in NGK nor the same in Autolite.

Some manufacturers numbering systems are opposite the other - for Champion, Autolite and Bosch, the higher the number, the hotter the plug. For NGK, Denso and Pulstar, the higher the number, the colder the plug.

It is not recommended that you make spark plug changes at the same time as another engine modification, such as injection, carburetion or timing changes. Performing too many modifications or tune-ups at once will lead to misleading and inaccurate conclusions if any issues occur (an exception would be when the alternate plugs came as part of a single pre-calibrated upgrade kit).

When making spark plug heat range changes, it is better to err on the side of too cold a plug. Running too cold a plug can only cause it to foul out, whereas running too hot a plug can cause severe engine damage.

**s1d** · 07-16-2018, 04:31 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by petrolhead28 View Post

Posting from NGK.

Glad your picking up info from right sources. Don't fall for random quacks on the internet. Always verify the information from a reliable source such as a oem/manufacturer and use a bit of common sense. And when in doubt stick to stock..unless u r ok experimenting/taking a risk.
So,are u going in with the ngk ir plug?

**petrolhead28** · 07-16-2018, 05:33 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by s1d View Post

Glad your picking up info from right sources. Don't fall for random quacks on the internet. Always verify the information from a reliable source such as a oem/manufacturer and use a bit of common sense. And when in doubt stick to stock..unless u r ok experimenting/taking a risk.
So,are u going in with the ngk ir plug?

Of course. My plug got delivered on Saturday and I will be going for first servicing tomorrow or day after. Will get the plug and coolant changed then.

**Tarmac_Shark** · 07-18-2018, 11:45 AM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Hello All,

Got my new RC 390 just yesterday. First sports bike experience. Been doing track days lately and realized the importance of the sports bike ergonomics. Once i had decided wanted a sports bike there was no other option apart from the RC. One of most well equipped bike at its price, best performance, cheap to run and most of all dedicated riding position. If you are going the sport bike way then might as well go all the way.

I have barely done any mileage, still getting used to the rawness of the biking coming from the TNT300, but loving it. Cant wait to finish my run in and take to the track.

In my short rides i have realized the RC makes all sort of sounds, just have to get used to it. But the front end makes a thud sound whenever i go over bigger bumps. Will have to listen more carefully and isolate the sound. Any suggestions on what it could be.

Cheers.

**mushy_mus** · 07-22-2018, 01:01 AM

Re: KTM RC 390 Speedo meter loosened. How to tight it?

Originally posted by Jinumathers View Post

My KTM RC 390 Speedo meter set became loosen and it is shaky. While riding, it makes noise. How to tighten the speedo meter?
What are all the tools required?

I'd like to know how did you tighten it. I have the same issue with my bike.. 2017 rc390

----consecutive posts auto-merged-----

The speedometer on my 2017 rc390 is a lil shaky. Moves up and down when shaken with the bare hand.
Id like to know how to tighten it

**Tarmac_Shark** · 07-23-2018, 11:09 AM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Hey Guys, Facing an issue on my week old 2017 RC 390. After about 200 kms on the odo the bike suddenly started feeling very rough below 4000 rpm. Initially was very smooth (relatively speaking) but all of sudden became very rough. A lot of vibes and jerkiness from the engine. Feels better post 4K rpm. Anyone faced this? Going to get the oil changed soon. Hopefully the SVC should be able to sort it out.

**B7ACKTHORN** · 07-24-2018, 10:11 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by Tarmac_Shark View Post

Hey Guys, Facing an issue on my week old 2017 RC 390. After about 200 kms on the odo the bike suddenly started feeling very rough below 4000 rpm. Initially was very smooth (relatively speaking) but all of sudden became very rough. A lot of vibes and jerkiness from the engine. Feels better post 4K rpm. Anyone faced this? Going to get the oil changed soon. Hopefully the SVC should be able to sort it out.

A new engine will almost always be harsher which is why manufacturers recommend an early oil change, it also varies from vehicle to vehicle. Nonetheless, you can replace your oil with Motul 7100 which is the preferred choice for the ASCs. You can also purchase your own oil as long as the grade reads 15w50 and Motul, which they'd happily oblige.

At approximately 5k kms is when an engine's performance lifecycle begins. Timely oil change and service metrics will help improve performance of bring the best out of the motorcycle. Nothing to worry about, go ahead with your timely service schedule and things will improve. Do keep your observations posted. Ride safe!

Cheers!
VJ

**s1d** · 07-24-2018, 11:19 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by Tarmac_Shark View Post

Hey Guys, Facing an issue on my week old 2017 RC 390. After about 200 kms on the odo the bike suddenly started feeling very rough below 4000 rpm. Initially was very smooth (relatively speaking) but all of sudden became very rough. A lot of vibes and jerkiness from the engine. Feels better post 4K rpm. Anyone faced this? Going to get the oil changed soon. Hopefully the SVC should be able to sort it out.

did you fuel up from a different pump than your usual one ? was there a change in weather, like cool to hot (or change in riding timings) ? is your chain clean and well lubed ?

**Tarmac_Shark** · 07-25-2018, 10:03 AM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by s1d View Post

did you fuel up from a different pump than your usual one ? was there a change in weather, like cool to hot (or change in riding timings) ? is your chain clean and well lubed ?

Originally posted by B7ACKTHORN View Post

A new engine will almost always be harsher which is why manufacturers recommend an early oil change, it also varies from vehicle to vehicle. Nonetheless, you can replace your oil with Motul 7100 which is the preferred choice for the ASCs. You can also purchase your own oil as long as the grade reads 15w50 and Motul, which they'd happily oblige.

At approximately 5k kms is when an engine's performance lifecycle begins. Timely oil change and service metrics will help improve performance of bring the best out of the motorcycle. Nothing to worry about, go ahead with your timely service schedule and things will improve. Do keep your observations posted. Ride safe!

Cheers!
VJ

Went for a pre first service oil change, vibes have reduced considerably.
Following things helped:-
1) Oil change, the old was in decent condition but i always change the oil on a new bike around the 500 kms
2) Chain cleaning, tubing and adjustment
3) The drain pipe has a clamp which if it is touching the fairing can cause high frequency noise. Clamp was positioned such that it is not in contact with the fairing

Engine is still not the happiest under 4K but i have learnt that it is largely because it runs lean at low rpms, can be sorted by using different maps. Will be tried later. Right now just riding as much as i can to finish the run in.
I have a track day planned in August planning to install some protective accessories before that. Any options for engine covers?

**B7ACKTHORN** · 07-25-2018, 09:49 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by Tarmac_Shark View Post

Went for a pre first service oil change, vibes have reduced considerably.
Following things helped:-
1) Oil change, the old was in decent condition but i always change the oil on a new bike around the 500 kms
2) Chain cleaning, tubing and adjustment
3) The drain pipe has a clamp which if it is touching the fairing can cause high frequency noise. Clamp was positioned such that it is not in contact with the fairing

Engine is still not the happiest under 4K but i have learnt that it is largely because it runs lean at low rpms, can be sorted by using different maps. Will be tried later. Right now just riding as much as i can to finish the run in.
I have a track day planned in August planning to install some protective accessories before that. Any options for engine covers?

The bike by default isn't happier with revs running low from 4k range, it's just the bike's nature is that it require to be in the powerband to extract maximum juice, though torque is plenty available down the range. As I iterated, first service does reduce the vibes associated with the run-in period. You have PowerTronics piggyback ECU with custom maps and pre set maps to soften the jerkiness and improves the low RPM driveability.

As such I am not sure of anyone making clutch and magneto covers in India, though we have crash bobbins. Brands such as EvoTech, R&G offer precision engineered, clutch, magneto covers, radiator guards and a whole lot more for the Duke series. Probably you can get in touch with these folks

https://www.motogarage.in/p/rg-frame-sliders_22/

Product not found!

https://bikegear.in/rg-aero-crash-protectors-for-yamaha-yzf-r3-part-cp0379bl-wh-online-india

They should help you procure your requirements.

Cheers!
VJ

**Rahul.V.** · 07-29-2018, 04:25 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Hey guys,
I've done around 18k kms on 2016 RC 390.
Off late the brakes have become worse, it's almost like back brakes doesn't have a bite. The brakes on Activa feels powerful.
So was thinking of getting brake pads changed.
Any inputs regarding which to go for?
And one of my relative is coming from US in a week or so, so was thinking to get EBC brake pads.

**B7ACKTHORN** · 07-29-2018, 11:29 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by Rahul.V. View Post

Hey guys,
I've done around 18k kms on 2016 RC 390.
Off late the brakes have become worse, it's almost like back brakes doesn't have a bite. The brakes on Activa feels powerful.
So was thinking of getting brake pads changed.
Any inputs regarding which to go for?
And one of my relative is coming from US in a week or so, so was thinking to get EBC brake pads.

EBC is a good choice. They have Semi Sintered and fully sintered, with the price difference between both is just peanuts. I'd strongly recommend you get the EBC HH Sintered pads. To your current dilemma, check the pad wear indicator and opt for a thorough system bleed. When the system is bled properly, it offers good feedback. Start off with inspecting your brake pads for wear, bleed the system thoroughly and it should help. Keep your observations posted.

Cheers!
VJ

**Rahul.V.** · 07-30-2018, 09:36 PM

Re: KTM RC 390 Ownership Experience

Originally posted by B7ACKTHORN View Post

EBC is a good choice. They have Semi Sintered and fully sintered, with the price difference between both is just peanuts. I'd strongly recommend you get the EBC HH Sintered pads. To your current dilemma, check the pad wear indicator and opt for a thorough system bleed. When the system is bled properly, it offers good feedback. Start off with inspecting your brake pads for wear, bleed the system thoroughly and it should help. Keep your observations posted.

Cheers!
VJ

Thanks for the suggestion.
Aren't EBC's squeaky and wear out the rotors soon?
And is the current RC 390 pads sintered and are they a direct fit?
The mileage of the bike has become worse, I'm getting 13kmpl. Any help guys?
Also I've pushed the stock tyres till 18k Kms, any suggestions on which to go for?

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