Epic clash of the titans: ktm 390 duke vs rc 390 – who will emerge victorious?

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are two of the most popular motorcycles in their respective categories. Both bikes offer a thrilling riding experience, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we will compare the KTM 390 Duke vs RC 390 to help you decide which bike is right for you.

Engine and Performance

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both powered by the same 373cc single-cylinder engine. However, the engine is tuned differently in each bike. The Duke’s engine produces 43 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque, while the RC’s engine produces 44 horsepower and 28 lb-ft of torque.

The Duke’s engine is more powerful and torquey at low RPMs, making it easier to ride in city traffic. The RC’s engine is more powerful and torquey at high RPMs, making it faster on the track.

Handling

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 have different handling characteristics. The Duke is a naked bike, which means that it has a more upright riding position and a wider handlebar. This gives the Duke better stability and handling at low speeds.

The RC is a sports bike, which means that it has a more aggressive riding position and a narrower handlebar. This gives the RC better aerodynamics and handling at high speeds.

Braking

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both have excellent braking performance. The Duke has a single 320mm front brake disc and a single 230mm rear brake disc. The RC has a dual 320mm front brake discs and a single 230mm rear brake disc.

The RC’s dual front brake discs give it better stopping power than the Duke. However, the Duke’s single rear brake disc is more powerful than the RC’s single rear brake disc.

Suspension

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 have different suspension systems. The Duke has a 43mm upside-down front fork and a monoshock rear shock. The RC has a 43mm upside-down front fork and a monoshock rear shock with a linkage.

The Duke’s suspension is more comfortable and compliant than the RC’s suspension. The RC’s suspension is more sporty and stiffer, giving it better handling at high speeds.

Features

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 both come with a variety of features. The Duke comes with a digital instrument cluster, a slipper clutch, and a ride-by-wire throttle. The RC comes with a digital instrument cluster, a slipper clutch, a ride-by-wire throttle, and a quickshifter.

The RC’s quickshifter is a nice feature, but it is not necessary for most riders. The Duke’s slipper clutch is a more important feature, as it helps to prevent the rear wheel from locking up under hard braking.

Price

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both priced similarly. The Duke has a starting price of $4,999, while the RC has a starting price of $5,499.

The RC is more expensive than the Duke, but it comes with a few more features. If you are looking for a bike that is more comfortable and compliant, the Duke is a better choice. If you are looking for a bike that is faster and more sporty, the RC is a better choice.

Which Bike is Right for You?

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both excellent motorcycles. However, they are different bikes that are designed for different purposes. The Duke is a better choice for riders who want a comfortable and compliant bike that is easy to ride in city traffic. The RC is a better choice for riders who want a fast and sporty bike that is better suited for track riding.

Final Verdict

The KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 are both excellent motorcycles. The Duke is a better choice for riders who want a comfortable and compliant bike that is easy to ride in city traffic. The RC is a better choice for riders who want a fast and sporty bike that is better suited for track riding.

Basics You Wanted To Know

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

A: The KTM 390 Duke is a naked bike, while the RC 390 is a sports bike. The Duke has a more upright riding position and a wider handlebar, while the RC has a more aggressive riding position and a narrower handlebar. The Duke is also more comfortable and compliant than the RC, while the RC is faster and more sporty.

Q: Which bike is better for city riding?

A: The KTM 390 Duke is better for city riding because it is more comfortable and compliant. It also has a more upright riding position and a wider handlebar, which makes it easier to maneuver in traffic.

Q: Which bike is better for track riding?

A: The KTM RC 390 is better for track riding because it is faster and more sporty. It also has a more aggressive riding position and a narrower handlebar, which gives it better aerodynamics and handling at high speeds.