Pre-Ride Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle

PreRide Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle

Introduction – why the PreRide Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle matters

A quick inspection before every outing keeps you safer and preserves the RC 390's nimble performance. This PreRide Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle is tuned to the RC's street-sport character: light chassis, single-cylinder engine, and a maintenance-friendly chain drive. Read the short checks below and make them routine before you roll out.

Quick 60-Second Pre-Ride Checklist for the motorcycle listed in PreRide Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle

• Master switch on & lights functioning: headlight, brake light, turn signals.
• Check tire pressure and a visual look for damage or low tread depth.
• Brake lever and pedal feel – no sponginess; both engage smoothly.
• Chain tension and visible lubrication; no stiff links.
• Oil sight glass or dipstick quick check for normal level.
• Coolant reservoir level visible and secure cap.
• Throttle returns smoothly; clutch lever has free play and a positive catch.
• Mirrors, kickstand up, riding gear on – ready to go.

Tires and Wheels – tailored to the street-sport RC 390

The 2015 KTM RC 390 is a lightweight street bike that rewards precise tire condition. Proper pressure affects handling and cornering confidence more here than on heavier machines.

• Check pressure cold. Use the PSI rating on the tire or the sticker on the frame as your target value.
• Scan tread for uneven wear, embedded objects, or sidewall cuts. The RC's narrow sport tires reveal small defects quickly.
• Spin each wheel to listen for bearings — a rumble or roughness means service is needed before long trips.

Brakes – feel is everything

Braking on the RC 390 is immediate; detect problems early by feeling the controls.

• Squeeze the front lever and press the rear pedal to confirm firm resistance without sponginess.
• Look at pad thickness through the caliper openings – replace pads before they get near the backing plate.
• Check the brake fluid reservoirs for level and clarity. Cloudy or low fluid requires attention.
• Test braking at low speed in a safe area to verify stopping power and ABS function if equipped.

Chain & Drivetrain – the RC 390's primary power link

As a chain-driven sportbike, the RC 390 demands regular visual care to avoid sudden issues on the road.

• Measure chain slack in the middle of the swingarm travel; it should have a small amount of free play but not be loose enough to slap the swingarm.
• Look for stiff links or heavy rust. Rotate the wheel to inspect the entire length.
• Apply a suitable chain lube to the inside of the chain after cleaning; a lightly lubricated chain reduces wear and drivetrain noise.
• Check sprocket teeth for hooked or worn profiles; replace worn sprockets with the chain to protect drivetrain life.

Fluids – quick checks that prevent breakdowns

Keeping fluids in the right range maintains engine health and consistent braking performance on the RC 390.

• Engine oil – use the sight glass or dipstick to confirm the level is within the normal range; top off if slightly low.
• Coolant – glance at the translucent overflow bottle for a visible mark – it should sit between the min/max marks when cool.
• Brake fluid – ensure reservoirs are topped to the indicated level and caps are secure to prevent contamination.

Controls and Lights – responsiveness and visibility

Controls must operate cleanly; lights keep you visible to others on the road.

• Twist the throttle and release to confirm snap-back to idle without sticking.
• Pull the clutch lever through its travel to feel for smooth engagement and correct free play.
• Operate headlights, high beam, brake light and turn signals; have a passenger or use a reflective surface to confirm activation.
• Inspect cables for fraying, kinks, or excessive wear at routing points.

Suspension and General Condition – quick visual and touch inspection

Suspension issues are easy to spot with a few simple moves and a quick look at seals.

• Press down on the front forks and rear to feel for smooth travel. Listen for clunks or roughness.
• Check fork seals for oily residue — any seepage should be addressed before a long ride.
• Examine the shock for leaks or sag. Lightly push on the rear to ensure rebound is controlled.
• Walk around the bike to confirm fasteners, fairing mounts, and radiator guards are secure and not rubbing anything.

Final Safety Check Before Riding – last-second items

• Ensure the kickstand is fully up and locked before you move off.
• Adjust and secure mirrors so you have a clear view behind without moving your head excessively.
• Confirm helmet, gloves, jacket, and footwear are on and buckled; ensure any luggage is fastened.
• Take a single short roll and re-check brake feel and steering free play before merging with traffic.

Conclusion – make the PreRide Checklist for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle a habit

Consistent, focused checks protect you and keep the RC 390 performing the way KTM intended. Spend a minute on the 60-second list and a few more minutes on the detailed items whenever you can. Routine maintenance and pre-ride awareness pay off with safer, more enjoyable miles on your 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Tires for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Shop Brakes for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Shop Chain and Sprockets for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Shop Oil and Fluids for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Shop Suspension Parts for a 2015 KTM RC 390 Motorcycle.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.