Ktm 390 duke vs rc 390: unmasking the pros and cons of two powerhouse bikes

What To Know

  • In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 and compare their performance, features, and pricing.
  • The 390 Duke has a top speed of 115 mph, while the RC 390 has a top speed of 120 mph.
  • The 390 Duke is a better choice for riders who want a comfortable and versatile bike that can be used for commuting, touring, and occasional track riding.

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are two of the most popular motorcycles in their respective segments. Both bikes share the same engine and chassis, but they have different bodywork and ergonomics. This makes them ideal for different types of riders.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 and compare their performance, features, and pricing. We’ll also help you decide which bike is right for you.

Performance

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both powered by a 373cc single-cylinder engine that produces 43 horsepower and 35 ft-lb of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission.

The 390 Duke has a top speed of 115 mph, while the RC 390 has a top speed of 120 mph. The 390 Duke is also slightly faster than the RC 390 in acceleration.

Features

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 come with a variety of features, including:

  • ABS
  • Traction control
  • Ride-by-wire throttle
  • TFT display
  • LED lighting

The 390 Duke also comes with a slipper clutch, which helps to prevent the rear wheel from locking up under hard braking.

Ergonomics

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 have different ergonomics. The 390 Duke has an upright riding position that is comfortable for long rides. The RC 390 has a more aggressive riding position that is better suited for track riding.

Pricing

The KTM 390 Duke has a starting price of $4,999. The RC 390 has a starting price of $5,499.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both great motorcycles. The 390 Duke is a better choice for riders who want a comfortable and versatile bike that can be used for commuting, touring, and occasional track riding. The RC 390 is a better choice for riders who want a more aggressive bike that is better suited for track riding.

Engine

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both use the same 373cc single-cylinder engine. This engine produces 43 horsepower and 35 ft-lb of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission.

The 390 Duke has a slightly different engine tune than the RC 390. The 390 Duke’s engine is tuned for more low-end torque, while the RC 390’s engine is tuned for more top-end power.

Suspension

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both use WP suspension. The 390 Duke has a 43mm upside-down fork and a monoshock rear suspension. The RC 390 has a 43mm upside-down fork and a linkage-type rear suspension.

The 390 Duke’s suspension is set up for a more comfortable ride, while the RC 390’s suspension is set up for more aggressive riding.

Brakes

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both use Brembo brakes. The 390 Duke has a single 320mm front brake disc and a single 230mm rear brake disc. The RC 390 has a dual 320mm front brake disc and a single 230mm rear brake disc.

The 390 Duke’s brakes are adequate for most riding conditions, but the RC 390’s brakes are better suited for track riding.

Tires

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both use Metzeler tires. The 390 Duke has a 110/70-17 front tire and a 150/60-17 rear tire. The RC 390 has a 110/70-17 front tire and a 150/60-17 rear tire.

The 390 Duke’s tires are a good choice for all-around riding, while the RC 390’s tires are better suited for track riding.

Weight

The KTM 390 Duke weighs 329 pounds wet, while the RC 390 weighs 317 pounds wet. The RC 390 is slightly lighter than the 390 Duke, which makes it more agile and easier to handle.

Dimensions

The KTM 390 Duke has a wheelbase of 54.3 inches, a seat height of 32.5 inches, and a ground clearance of 6.7 inches. The RC 390 has a wheelbase of 53.1 inches, a seat height of 32.7 inches, and a ground clearance of 6.3 inches.

The RC 390 is slightly smaller than the 390 Duke, which makes it more maneuverable in tight spaces.

Fuel Economy

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both have a fuel tank capacity of 3.6 gallons. The 390 Duke gets an average of 50 mpg, while the RC 390 gets an average of 45 mpg.

The 390 Duke has a slightly better fuel economy than the RC 390, which makes it more economical to operate.

Warranty

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both come with a 2-year warranty. The warranty covers all parts and labor, except for wear and tear items.

Final Thoughts

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both great motorcycles. The 390 Duke is a better choice for riders who want a comfortable and versatile bike that can be used for commuting, touring, and occasional track riding. The RC 390 is a better choice for riders who want a more aggressive bike that is better suited for track riding.

Answers to Your Questions

What is the difference between the KTM 390 Duke and RC 390?

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both powered by the same 373cc single-cylinder engine, but they have different bodywork and ergonomics. The 390 Duke has an upright riding position that is comfortable for long rides, while the RC 390 has a more aggressive riding position that is better suited for track riding.

Which bike is faster, the KTM 390 Duke or RC 390?

The RC 390 is slightly faster than the 390 Duke in acceleration and top speed. The RC 390 has a top speed of 120 mph, while the 390 Duke has a top speed of 115 mph.

Which bike is better for track riding, the KTM 390 Duke or RC 390?

The RC 390 is better suited for track riding than the 390 Duke. The RC 390 has a more aggressive riding position, better brakes, and more aerodynamic bodywork.