KTM 390 Duke 2021 vs. KTM 690 SMC R 2019

The KTM 390 Duke 2021 and the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 are both popular models from KTM, but they have some key differences in terms of specifications and strengths.

The KTM 390 Duke 2021 is a naked bike with a 373.2ccm engine that produces 44 HP of power and 35 Nm of torque. It has a single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection. The front suspension is an Upside-Down telescopic fork from WP with a travel of 142 mm, while the rear suspension is a direct mount shock from WP with a travel of 150 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes are single disk with a diameter of 320 mm and four pistons, using radial technology. The bike features ABS as an advanced rider assistance system. It has a front tire width of 110 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, and a rear tire width of 150 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1367 mm and the seat height is 830 mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 149 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 13.4 liters.

KTM 390 Duke 2021

On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 is a supermoto bike with a larger 690ccm engine that produces 75 HP of power and 73.5 Nm of torque. It also has a single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection. The front suspension is an Upside-Down telescopic fork from WP with a travel of 215 mm, while the rear suspension is a deflection mount shock from WP with a travel of 240 mm. The frame is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular design. The front brakes are single disk with a diameter of 300 mm and four pistons, using radial technology. The bike features ABS, riding modes, and ride by wire as advanced rider assistance systems. It has a front tire width of 120 mm and a diameter of 17 inches, and a rear tire width of 160 mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1470 mm and the seat height is 890 mm. The dry weight of the bike with ABS is 147 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 13.5 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 offers typical Duke ergonomics that are suitable for taller riders. It has extremely agile handling thanks to its flyweight and narrow waist. The sporty engine provides great handling and it also has a modern TFT display with smartphone connectivity. The Supermoto mode is a pleasure to use and the optional quickshifter works perfectly. The hand levers are adjustable and it offers a top price-performance ratio for an A2 motorbike.

On the other hand, the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 has a powerful single-cylinder engine with 74 HP, making it a fun and playful machine. It also has a high-quality electronics package, including a quickshifter as standard. It is considered a real statement at bikertreffen.

KTM 690 SMC R 2019

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 390 Duke 2021 has a chassis that is tuned a little too soft and the pressure point of the brakes can be a little spongy. The KTM 690 SMC R 2019 is only conditionally suitable for long-distance travel and its speedometer unit is very spartan.

In conclusion, the KTM 390 Duke 2021 and the KTM 690 SMC R 2019 are both impressive bikes with their own strengths and weaknesses. The 390 Duke offers a more agile and affordable option, while the 690 SMC R provides a more powerful and fun riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use of the bike.