KTM 390 Duke vs KTM RC 390

Verdict

The KTM 390 Duke wins this comparison clearly, 66.6 points to 56.7.

The gap of 9.9 points is built mostly in engine and performance, where the 390 Duke takes 14.5 points out of the RC 390. Scores are computed within each bike's class from published spec data; the full formula is on the methodology page.

On the road the 390 Duke is the quicker machine: 45 hp and 39 Nm moving 165 kg, against 44 hp and 37 Nm moving 172 kg for the RC 390. That is 0.27 hp per kilo playing 0.26.

The 390 Duke costs €6,299, which leaves €600 in your pocket against the RC 390 at €6,899. Service intervals run 10,000 km on the 390 Duke and 10,000 km on the RC 390.

Frequently asked

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

The KTM 390 Duke. It carries 0.27 hp per kilo (45 hp, 165 kg wet) against 0.26 hp per kilo for the KTM RC 390 (44 hp, 172 kg).

Is the KTM 390 Duke cheaper than the KTM RC 390?

The KTM 390 Duke is cheaper at €6,299 list, €600 less than the KTM RC 390 at €6,899.

Which is better for shorter riders?

The KTM 390 Duke. Its 820 mm seat is 15 mm lower than the KTM RC 390, and at 165 kg it is the easier bike to manage at a stop.

Which has better technology, the 390 Duke or the RC 390?

The KTM 390 Duke, which scores 8.3 of 10 tech points with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity. The KTM RC 390 counters with cornering ABS, a TFT dash, traction control and phone connectivity.

Which goes further on a tank?

The KTM 390 Duke: 429 km from its 15 litre tank at the claimed consumption, against 403 km for the KTM RC 390.

Which bike wins overall?

The KTM 390 Duke, scoring 66.6 of 100 against 56.7 on our within-class points system. The full breakdown and formula are public on the methodology page.