KTM 690 Duke 2018 vs. KTM RC 390 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

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Overview - KTM 690 Duke 2018 vs KTM RC 390 2018

The KTM 690 Duke 2018 and the KTM RC 390 2018 are both impressive motorcycles, but they have distinct differences that make them suitable for different riding styles and preferences.

Starting with the technical specifications, the KTM 690 Duke 2018 boasts a larger engine displacement of 690cc compared to the KTM RC 390's 373.2cc. This results in a significant difference in engine power, with the Duke producing 73 horsepower compared to the RC 390's 44 horsepower. The Duke also has a higher torque of 70 Nm compared to the RC 390's 35 Nm. Both bikes have a single-cylinder engine configuration and utilize DOHC and OHC valve systems respectively.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks from WP, providing excellent handling and stability. The chassis of both bikes is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type, ensuring durability and rigidity.

KTM 690 Duke 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2018

When it comes to braking, both bikes are equipped with four-piston front brakes with radial technology, offering strong stopping power and precise control.

In terms of tire dimensions, the Duke has a wider front tire width of 120mm compared to the RC 390's 110mm. The Duke also has a larger rear tire width of 160mm compared to the RC 390's 150mm. Both bikes have 17-inch front and rear tire diameters.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Duke has a longer wheelbase of 1466mm compared to the RC 390's 1340mm. The Duke also has a higher seat height of 835mm compared to the RC 390's 820mm. The Duke has a larger fuel tank capacity of 14 liters compared to the RC 390's 10 liters.

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each bike. The KTM 690 Duke 2018 is known for its powerful engine, making it suitable for everyday use and providing ample power for various riding situations. It also comes with many technical aids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience. The Duke is highly maneuverable, allowing riders to navigate through tight spaces and corners with ease. Additionally, it offers a smooth running engine, providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

On the other hand, the KTM RC 390 2018 is designed for those seeking a racing machine. It offers a World Championship-ready performance, making it a popular choice for those who want to experience the thrill of track riding. However, this may not be suitable for riders who do not have aspirations of becoming professional racers.

One weakness of the KTM 690 Duke 2018 is that some riders may not consider it a "real" single-cylinder Duke, possibly due to its larger engine displacement. On the other hand, a weakness of the KTM RC 390 2018 is the realization that it may not be the ideal bike for riders who do not have the talent or desire to pursue professional racing.

In conclusion, the KTM 690 Duke 2018 and the KTM RC 390 2018 are both exceptional motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Duke is a powerful and versatile naked bike suitable for everyday use, while the RC 390 is a high-performance supersport bike designed for racing enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.

Technical Specifications KTM 690 Duke 2018 compared to KTM RC 390 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2018
KTM RC 390 2018

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore102 mmBore89 mm
Engine powerEngine power73 HPEngine power44 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpm
TorqueTorque70 NmTorque35 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque5,500 rpmRpm at Torque7,250 rpm
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders1Cylinders1
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
ValvesValvesRocker arm, OHCValvesDOHC
DisplacementDisplacement690 ccmDisplacement373.2 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
BrandBrandWPBrandWP

Suspension Rear

BrandBrandWPBrandWP

Chassis

FrameFrameChromium-molybdenumFrameChromium-molybdenum
Frame typeFrame typeTubularFrame typeTubular

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountFixed caliper
TechnologyTechnologyradialTechnologyradial

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 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 width160 mmRear tyre width150 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,466 mmWheelbase1,340 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height820 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity14 lFuel Tank Capacity10 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA2

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

KTM 690 Duke 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2018

Considering where the KTM Duke family once started, the 690 Duke is an incredible step forward. The engine is extremely refined and at the same time husky for a street-legal single-cylinder. Despite all the technology on board, it is still a very light motorbike and can almost be called a toy (in a good sense). Only its seating position divides opinions, because with the Duke 4 in 2012, the former supermotos became an almost tame naked bike with a front-wheel-oriented seating position. The advantage: everyday life and long tours should not be a problem on the current Duke.

powerful engine

suitable for everyday use

many technical aids

manoeuvrable

smooth running

For some, not a "real" single-cylinder Duke

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

If you can afford to pay around 8,500 euros (Germany) or just under 9,000 euros (Austria) for the RC390 R and then have around 11,000 flakes left over for the SSP 300 kit, you will get world championship-ready racing goods. "Ready to Race", the name says it all, really. In this case, "Ready to win the World Championship" would almost be more accurate, because the parts kit is actually so complete and complies with the FIM regulations. KTM is doing everything it can to accommodate all those who are considering a serious entry into the racing world, especially of course all the young hopefuls out there. KTM Customer Racing, I pull my helmet! Bravo!

Never before has it been easier to get hold of a World Championship-ready racing machine.

The realisation that I will probably not become a gifted ring rider.

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price KTM 690 Duke vs KTM RC 390

There are a few key differences between a KTM 690 Duke 2018 and a KTM RC 390 2018. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 14. It takes less time to sell a KTM 690 Duke with 82 days compared to 148 days for a KTM RC 390. Since model year 2008 1000PS.de editors have written 29 reviews for the KTM 690 Duke and 20 reviews for the KTM RC 390 since model year 2014. The first review for the KTM 690 Duke was published on 9/28/2007 and now has more than 14,800 views. This compares to more than 23,900 views for the first review on KTM RC 390 published on 11/4/2013.

Price KTM 690 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM RC 390

Model year
Current average market prices

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