First Impression On KTM RC200 and RC390

The Twin Little Beast

RC200 (Left) and RC390 (Right)

I’ve been waiting for a long time to ride these beasts after I missed the first test ride event few months back. So, when I receive a call from my brother about this event I said this is it!!! Back to the motorcycle, they’re almost the same. Both are equipped with premium components like the USD fork, digital display with RPM alert, WP suspension, 4 pistons brake calipers from Bybre to stop them, and much more.

Side stand down means you're not ready to race

The first words you'll see, when you turn it on. 

RC200's Heart.

RC390's Heart.

230 mm rear disc brake from Bybre

The Sportec M5 from Metzeller

Another things that I like is their integrated pillion seat which make them look like a race bike also their integrated blinkers on the side mirror. Just like their cousin (KTM Duke), they’re using steel trellis frame but it has been modified to fit the supersport look. Their 820mm seat height makes a short guy like me can ride them easily, even they’re not heavy like the others said. Compared to the Ninja 250 FI, still they’re much lighter and more compact too. The differences between the RC200 and RC390 are the displacement, gear ratio, and the weight. The 390 power feel much better between mid to high rpm, while the 200 playing on the low rpm. Lucky me, during the ride I manage to find the traffic so I can test their agility. The result is they’re very agile, thanks to their new frame, shorter tail, and the shorter wheelbase too combined with the good suspension from WP.

The combination of light trellis frame and WP suspension that provides great agility.

The things that I don’t like is only the weird design of their front section which makes them look like an angry duck or more like Darth Vader from Star Wars (No Offense).

The integrated blinkers and pillion seat.

The "Duck Face".

Anyway, it’s just my personal opinion, but if someone asked would you buy one? I’ll say yes. They’ll be a good match for any beginner rider who wants a sportbike that isn’t too powerful, and for a track day because they’re Ready To Race! For any Jakartans that wants to buy it, I suggest to buy the RC200 if you’re gonna use it for daily use. Why? Because the RC390 engine can’t stay for a long time if you get caught by the heavy jam, soon it will be overheat. But, if you look for a bike for weekend ride or for track day go for the RC390.

Here are some other pictures:

One of the participant.

The "insane" Road Captain.

The other participant.

Become a sweeper.

A narcissistic participant. :P

Getting caught by the traffic.

On the small road.

Chasing my brother.

With my brother.

The other riders: Gabriel a.k.a Gabby, Bung Fikky, Andana, and Andre.
Special thanks to Mr. Yopie from KTM Indonesia, Mr. Alex from 2wheelies ID, and Ms. Ingrid from Xtrem1st for giving me a chance to ride them.

Review: OGK Kabuto FF-5V Helmet

It’s been almost 6 month since I bought my FF5V Helmet from OGK Kabuto to replace my old Shark S700 Helmet, and I use it everyday, everytime whether it is sunny or raining. So, I’ll make my own review about it.

INTRODUCTION

FF-5V is the highest model full face helmet from OGK Helmet, it was made to replace its predecessor the FF-5. The FF-5V provides comfort and safety through a lightweight and strong Advanced Composite Technology (A.C.T) shell material, with CoolMax interior, and Top Air Ventilation System (T.A.V.S) that gives a superb air circulation.

SHIELD AND VISIBILITY

The FF-5V provides a really wide visibility from top to bottom, and side to side view. I just need to turn my head a bit to check is there anyone behind me that I can’t see on the mirror. And this is where the Wake Stabilizer works. No buffeting or shaking at high speed. It has a SAF quick change shield system which make shield changing much faster and easier. To open and close the shield, just push the small black knob on the left side of the shield. Also it helps to ensure that the face shield stays closed while speeding.

VENTING AND NOISE

The FF-5V has three air intakes (one chin vent, two top vents), and two exhaust ports (top position). The T.A.V.S are awesome, you can start to feel the wind even with a half-opened top vents. For the exhaust ports I have no idea if it’s really working or not but I’m not complaining.

For the noise, I will say it’s quiet. No whistling sound when I rush above 100 km/h with fully opened vents although there are low frequency rumbling sound that still acceptable, but I haven’t tried more than that.

CONCLUSION

For a top class helmet that cost below US$ 600, FF-5V is one of the best. It has so many features that works great that can’t be found at any other helmet on its class.

When I meet my FF-5V for the first time. It was accompanied by the other two big japanese brands.

Side by side with my old Shark S700 Scott Redding Edition.

When I bought it Gold Iridium Face Shield.

Get caught by the storm on the way back. :'(