Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 vs. KTM RC 390 2018

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

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Overview - Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 vs KTM RC 390 2018

The Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 and the KTM RC 390 2018 are both supersport motorcycles that offer thrilling performance and sporty aesthetics. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 is equipped with a 321cc engine that delivers 42 horsepower and 29.6 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM RC 390 2018 features a larger 373.2cc engine that produces 44 horsepower and 35 Nm of torque. While the Yamaha YZF-R3 has a twin-cylinder engine, the KTM RC 390 has a single-cylinder engine.

The Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 has a bore and stroke of 68mm and 44.1mm respectively, while the KTM RC 390 2018 has a larger bore and stroke of 89mm and 60mm. This difference in engine dimensions contributes to the KTM RC 390's slightly higher power output.

Both motorcycles feature a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valve configuration with four valves per cylinder, ensuring efficient intake and exhaust flow. The Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 has a compression ratio of 11.2, while the KTM RC 390 2018 has a higher compression ratio of 12.5. This higher compression ratio in the KTM RC 390 contributes to its increased power output.

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles are equipped with upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 features Kayaba suspension, while the KTM RC 390 2018 is equipped with WP suspension. Both suspension systems provide excellent handling and stability, allowing for precise cornering and control.

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles have single disc brakes at the front. The Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 has a front tire width of 110mm and a rear tire width of 140mm, while the KTM RC 390 2018 has a slightly wider rear tire width of 150mm. This wider rear tire in the KTM RC 390 contributes to improved traction and stability.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 has a wheelbase of 1380mm, while the KTM RC 390 2018 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1340mm. The seat height of the Yamaha YZF-R3 is 780mm, whereas the KTM RC 390 has a higher seat height of 820mm. The Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 has a kerb weight (with ABS) of 169kg, while the KTM RC 390 2018 is lighter, weighing 147kg (with ABS).

In terms of fuel tank capacity, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 can hold 14 liters of fuel, while the KTM RC 390 2018 has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 10 liters.

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 is praised for its high-revving engine, providing sufficient power for everyday use and racetracks. It is also known for its stable handling and suitability for long distances. On the other hand, the KTM RC 390 2018 is lauded for its World Championship-ready racing machine status, making it an attractive option for aspiring racers.

However, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 does have some weaknesses, including poor throttle response at low revs and a lack of feedback in the brake lever. Additionally, some riders may find the knee angle too acute for their comfort.

The KTM RC 390 2018, on the other hand, has the weakness of potentially disappointing riders who realize they may not have the natural talent to become skilled racers.

In conclusion, the Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 and the KTM RC 390 2018 are both impressive supersport motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha YZF-R3 offers a balanced combination of power and comfort, while the KTM RC 390 provides a more aggressive and race-oriented experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the motorcycle.

Technical Specifications Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 compared to KTM RC 390 2018

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019
KTM RC 390 2018

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore68 mmBore89 mm
StrokeStroke44.1 mmStroke60 mm
Engine powerEngine power42 HPEngine power44 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power10,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque29.6 NmTorque35 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque9,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,250 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio11.2 Compression Ratio12.5
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders1
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
DisplacementDisplacement321 ccmDisplacement373.2 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
BrandBrandKayabaBrandWP

Chassis

Frame typeFrame typeTwin TubeFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

TypeTypeSingle diskTypeSingle disk

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width110 mmFront tyre width110 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width140 mmRear tyre width150 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height70 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,380 mmWheelbase1,340 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height780 mmSeat Height820 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)169 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)147 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity10 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyA2License compliancyA2

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

Yamaha YZF-R3 2019

With the new YZF-R3, Yamaha has taken the very good basis of the first generation and successfully developed it further. It now appears not only visually more mature, but also noticeably more competent at high speeds. When you ride the R3 at the limit, you quickly feel why Yamaha has set up its own Cup on it, as even the standard model gives a safe feeling at high speed. Nevertheless, there is room for improvement, especially in everyday use, when the rough response at low revs and the poor feedback from the brake lever lead to some moments of frustration during the ride.

High-revving engine

sufficient power for everyday use and compact racetracks

good basis for racetrack conversions

stable handling

suitable for long distances

poor throttle response at low revs

not enough feedback in brake lever

knee angle might be too acute for some riders

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

If you can afford to pay around 8,500 euros (Germany) or just under 9,000 euros (Austria) for the RC390 R and then have around 11,000 flakes left over for the SSP 300 kit, you will get world championship-ready racing goods. "Ready to Race", the name says it all, really. In this case, "Ready to win the World Championship" would almost be more accurate, because the parts kit is actually so complete and complies with the FIM regulations. KTM is doing everything it can to accommodate all those who are considering a serious entry into the racing world, especially of course all the young hopefuls out there. KTM Customer Racing, I pull my helmet! Bravo!

Never before has it been easier to get hold of a World Championship-ready racing machine.

The realisation that I will probably not become a gifted ring rider.

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Yamaha YZF-R3 vs KTM RC 390

There are a few key differences between a Yamaha YZF-R3 2019 and a KTM RC 390 2018. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 4. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha YZF-R3 with 99 days compared to 148 days for a KTM RC 390. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 11 reviews for the Yamaha YZF-R3 and 20 reviews for the KTM RC 390 since model year 2014. The first review for the Yamaha YZF-R3 was published on 17/10/2014 and now has more than 53,600 views. This compares to more than 23,900 views for the first review on KTM RC 390 published on 04/11/2013.

Price Yamaha YZF-R3

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM RC 390

Model year
Current average market prices

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