KTM RC 390 2018 vs. KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

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Overview - KTM RC 390 2018 vs KTM 690 Duke 2012

The KTM RC 390 2018 and the KTM 690 Duke 2012 are both powerful motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.

Starting with the technical specifications, the KTM RC 390 2018 has a bore of 89 mm and a stroke of 60 mm, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a larger bore of 102 mm and a stroke of 84.5 mm. This means that the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a larger engine capacity, with a displacement of 690 ccm compared to the 373.2 ccm of the KTM RC 390 2018. As a result, the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a higher engine power of 70 HP and torque of 70 Nm, compared to the 44 HP and 35 Nm of the KTM RC 390 2018.

In terms of compression ratio, both motorcycles have similar ratios, with the KTM RC 390 2018 having a ratio of 12.5 and the KTM 690 Duke 2012 having a ratio of 12.6.

Both motorcycles have a single cylinder engine and utilize DOHC (KTM RC 390 2018) and rocker arm, OHC (KTM 690 Duke 2012) valve systems.

KTM RC 390 2018

KTM RC 390 2018

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and use WP suspension components.

The chassis of both motorcycles is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular frame type.

Both motorcycles have four-piston front brakes with radial technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM RC 390 2018 has a front tire width of 110 mm and a rear tire width of 150 mm, with both tires having a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1340 mm and the seat height is 820 mm. The fuel tank capacity is 10 liters.

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

On the other hand, the KTM 690 Duke 2012 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 160 mm, also with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is longer at 1466 mm and the seat height is slightly higher at 835 mm. The fuel tank capacity is larger at 14 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM RC 390 2018 is described as a World Championship-ready racing machine, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a high-performance motorcycle. On the other hand, the KTM 690 Duke 2012 is praised for its speed, smoothness, precise and manageable chassis, and agility.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The KTM RC 390 2018 is said to make the rider realize that they may not become a gifted ring rider, indicating that it may require a certain level of skill to fully harness its capabilities. The KTM 690 Duke 2012 is mentioned to take some getting used to when driving bends in the road, suggesting that it may require some adjustment for optimal handling in such conditions.

In conclusion, the KTM RC 390 2018 and the KTM 690 Duke 2012 are both impressive motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The KTM RC 390 2018 is a World Championship-ready racing machine, while the KTM 690 Duke 2012 offers speed, smoothness, and agility. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.

Technical Specifications KTM RC 390 2018 compared to KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM RC 390 2018
KTM 690 Duke 2012

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore89 mmBore102 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke84.5 mm
Engine powerEngine power44 HPEngine power70 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,500 rpm
TorqueTorque35 NmTorque70 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,250 rpmRpm at Torque5,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio12.6
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeAntihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders1Cylinders1
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesRocker arm, OHC
DisplacementDisplacement373.2 ccmDisplacement690 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 width110 mmFront tyre width120 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 width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,340 mmWheelbase1,466 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height820 mmSeat Height835 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity10 lFuel Tank Capacity14 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyA2License compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

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.

KTM 690 Duke 2012

KTM 690 Duke 2012

More than a decade after its launch, the KTM 690 Duke remains a fascinating bike with its own character. The attempt to turn the rebellious Duke into a bike with more mass appeal has proven to be a successful strategy. The combination of an outstanding LC4 engine, direct handling and good value for money continues to make it an attractive option for riders looking for something special. Although newer twin-cylinder models are superior in terms of smooth running and comfort, the 690 Duke offers an immediacy and character that only a large single-cylinder can deliver. As a used motorbike, it has proven to be surprisingly stable in value and durable - provided you pay attention to regular maintenance.

Outstanding LC4 single-cylinder engine with a unique character

Outstanding power-to-weight ratio (2.29 kg/HP)

Direct, precise handling in all riding situations

Good value stability and surprising longevity

Disengageable ABS and effective anti-hopping clutch

Low fuel consumption (3.5-4 litres/100 km)

Suspension without adjustability with limited reserves

Mediocre shifting precision, especially at higher mileages

Alternator as a potential weak point at higher mileages

Clutch play needs to be adjusted more frequently

"Whipping" chain at very low speeds in the partial load range

Slight vibrations at higher speeds (especially before 2016)

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

There are a few key differences between a KTM RC 390 2018 and a KTM 690 Duke 2012. It takes less time to sell a KTM 690 Duke with 50 days compared to 148 days for the KTM RC 390. Since model year 2014 1000PS.de editors have written 20 reviews for the KTM RC 390 and 29 reviews for the KTM 690 Duke since model year 2008. The first review for the KTM RC 390 was published on 11/4/2013 and now has more than 23,900 views. This compares to more than 14,800 views for the first review on KTM 690 Duke published on 9/28/2007.

Price KTM RC 390

Model year
Current average market prices

Price KTM 690 Duke

Model year
Current average market prices

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