KTM 390 Duke 2021 vs. Yamaha MT-03 2019

KTM 390 Duke 2021

KTM 390 Duke 2021

Yamaha MT-03 2019

Yamaha MT-03 2019

Loading...

Overview - KTM 390 Duke 2021 vs Yamaha MT-03 2019

The KTM 390 Duke 2021 and the Yamaha MT-03 2019 are both popular naked bikes in their respective model years. While they have some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 is equipped with a single-cylinder engine that delivers 44 horsepower and 35 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-03 2019 features a twin-cylinder engine with slightly lower power output at 42 horsepower and 29.6 Nm of torque. Both bikes have liquid cooling systems, ensuring optimal engine performance.

In terms of suspension, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 comes with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front, providing excellent stability and control. The Yamaha MT-03 2019, on the other hand, features a telescopic fork. While both suspension systems offer a comfortable ride, the KTM 390 Duke's upside-down fork may provide slightly better handling.

When it comes to the chassis, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 utilizes a chromium-molybdenum frame, which is known for its strength and lightweight properties. In contrast, the Yamaha MT-03 2019 features a steel frame. Although both frames offer sufficient rigidity, the chromium-molybdenum frame of the KTM 390 Duke may contribute to its agile handling.

KTM 390 Duke 2021

KTM 390 Duke 2021

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with a single disk brake at the front, providing reliable stopping power. The KTM 390 Duke 2021 has a larger brake disk diameter at 320 mm compared to the Yamaha MT-03 2019's 298 mm. This may result in slightly better braking performance for the KTM 390 Duke.

Both bikes are equipped with ABS, which is an advanced rider assistance system that enhances safety by preventing wheel lock-up during braking.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 has a front tire width of 110 mm and a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Yamaha MT-03 2019 has a slightly narrower rear tire width at 140 mm. Both bikes have a wheelbase of around 1367-1380 mm, providing stability and maneuverability. The seat height of the KTM 390 Duke is 830 mm, while the Yamaha MT-03 has a lower seat height of 780 mm. This makes the Yamaha MT-03 more suitable for shorter riders.

When it comes to fuel tank capacity, the Yamaha MT-03 2019 has a slightly larger capacity at 14 liters compared to the KTM 390 Duke 2021's 13.4 liters. However, both bikes offer sufficient fuel capacity for long rides.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 is known for its typical Duke ergonomics, which are suitable for taller riders. It also offers extremely agile handling, thanks to its lightweight construction. The sporty engine and modern TFT display with smartphone connectivity are additional advantages. The Supermoto mode and optional quickshifter enhance the riding experience. Adjustable hand levers and a top price-performance ratio for an A2 motorbike are also notable strengths.

Yamaha MT-03 2019

Yamaha MT-03 2019

On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-03 2019 is praised for its well-controllable power and low seat height, making it easy to ride. It also has a low fuel consumption and an easy-to-read LCD display. The aggressive look of the bike adds to its appeal.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 has a chassis that is tuned a little too soft, which may affect the bike's stability in certain situations. Some riders also find the pressure point of the brakes to be a little spongy.

The Yamaha MT-03 2019, on the other hand, has a sharp knee angle that may be uncomfortable for taller riders. The chassis is also considered softer compared to other Yamaha MT models, which may affect the bike's handling. Additionally, some riders find the Yamaha MT-03 to be lacking in emotional appeal compared to other bikes in its class.

In conclusion, both the KTM 390 Duke 2021 and the Yamaha MT-03 2019 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM 390 Duke offers a more powerful engine, superior handling, and a modern display with smartphone connectivity. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-03 provides a lower seat height, easy controllability, and an aggressive look. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications KTM 390 Duke 2021 compared to Yamaha MT-03 2019

KTM 390 Duke 2021
Yamaha MT-03 2019

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore89 mmBore68 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke44.1 mm
Engine powerEngine power44 HPEngine power42 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power10,750 rpm
TorqueTorque35 NmTorque29.6 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,250 rpmRpm at Torque9,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.6 Compression Ratio11.2
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders1Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement373.2 ccmDisplacement321 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork
DiameterDiameter43 mmDiameter41 mm
TravelTravel142 mmTravel130 mm

Suspension Rear

TravelTravel150 mmTravel125 mm

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameSteel
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTwin Tube

Brakes Front

TypeTypeSingle diskTypeSingle disk
DiameterDiameter320 mmDiameter298 mm

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter230 mmDiameter220 mm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABSAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width110 mmFront tyre width110 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width150 mmRear tyre width140 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height70 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,367 mmWheelbase1,380 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height830 mmSeat Height780 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity13.4 lFuel Tank Capacity14 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyA2License compliancyA2

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 390 Duke 2021

KTM 390 Duke 2021

The KTM 390 Duke is a "real" Duke. The trademark: Extremely agile handling that makes for powerful riding fun. The flyweight 390 can be precisely controlled with its narrow waist and wide handlebars and feels most at home in tight corners. Especially with the Supermoto mode, it is a fun machine without equal. Unfortunately, only the brakes and suspension of the 390 cannot maintain the same, very high performance level as on the 125 Duke or 890 Duke. They feel a bit spongy and not optimally tuned, especially when the rider weighs in a bit more. The equipment is otherwise tip-top, especially when you consider the price of the 390 Duke. In terms of riding pleasure/euros, it outperforms most, including its Duke sisters.

Typical Duke ergonomics that are also suitable for taller riders

Extremely agile handling thanks to flyweight and narrow waist

Sporty engine with great handling

Modern TFT display with smartphone connectivity

Supermoto mode is a pleasure

Quickshifter (optional) works perfectly

Adjustable hand levers

Top price-performance ratio for A2 motorbike.

Chassis tuned a little too soft

pressure point of the brakes a little spongy

Yamaha MT-03 2019

Yamaha MT-03 2019

The MT-03 remains Yamaha's most accessible and pragmatic Hyper Naked in the segment. It scores with its low seat height, the easily controllable power of the two-cylinder and at the same time offers enough comfort for commuters. What it may lack in sportiness, it makes up for in comfort, making it perfect for people looking for a well-functioning motorbike with a brutal look. However, you shouldn't be too big, and you shouldn't aspire to keep up with the other models in the MT range at the angle - because that's not what it was designed for. The 2020 model year is thus a coherent update that is sure to make its buyers happy.

Well controllable power

Low seat height

Easy to ride

Low consumption

Easy to read LC display

Aggressive look

Sharp knee angle for tall people

Soft chassis compared to other Yamaha MT models

Not the most emotional motorbike

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 390 Duke vs Yamaha MT-03

There are a few key differences between a KTM 390 Duke 2021 and a Yamaha MT-03 2019. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 15. It takes less time to sell a KTM 390 Duke with 82 days compared to 89 days for a Yamaha MT-03. Since model year 2013 1000PS.de editors have written 33 reviews for the KTM 390 Duke and 8 reviews for the Yamaha MT-03 since model year 2006. The first review for the KTM 390 Duke was published on 12/11/2012 and now has more than 26,300 views. This compares to more than 109,900 views for the first review on Yamaha MT-03 published on 15/12/2005.

Price KTM 390 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Yamaha MT-03

Model year
Current average market prices

Alternative Comparisons

1000PS Partner

LOUISContinental MotorradreifenSchuberthMotorex AGcalimoto GmbH