In the premium motorcycle segment of India, KTM continues to lead the charge with its high-performance bikes, and at the forefront are the KTM Duke 390 and KTM RC 390. These motorcycles are designed for enthusiasts who crave excitement with every ride, offering aggressive styling, powerful engines, and cutting-edge technology. While both bikes share the same base engine, they cater to different riding experiences: the Duke 390 is a naked streetfighter ideal for city roads and spirited rides, whereas the RC 390 is a fully faired machine built for track performance and high-speed precision. The 2025 models bring more advanced features, refined engine performance, and bold aesthetics, solidifying their position as the go-to bikes in this segment.
Design and Styling
Both the Duke 390 and RC 390 have distinct personalities shaped by their design.
- Duke 390: Known for its naked streetfighter appeal, it boasts sharp body lines, an aggressive LED headlamp, and an exposed trellis frame, reflecting its powerful performance ethos. The aggressive styling screams performance, even when stationary.
- RC 390: This is a fully faired track-focused machine, designed for high-speed agility and aerodynamic efficiency. It features a sleek body with low clip-on handlebars, split seats, and a refined projector headlamp. The RC’s aggressive riding posture is complemented by an aerodynamic fairing, giving it a more race-bred look.
Both motorcycles share bold graphics and signature KTM orange alloy wheels, yet each is designed for its own distinct audience—urban street warriors and track enthusiasts.
Engine and Performance
Both bikes are powered by the same 373.27cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine capable of producing 43.5 PS of power and 37 Nm of torque. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, these bikes offer seamless gear transitions thanks to the assist and slipper clutch and bi-directional Quickshifter+, ensuring smooth shifting and an exhilarating ride.
- Both bikes can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in under 6 seconds, offering mind-blowing performance in this segment.
- Throttle response is razor-sharp, and power delivery is smooth across the rev range, making each ride a thrill.
Whether commuting in traffic or pushing the limits on the highway or racetrack, these bikes deliver unmatched power and responsiveness.
Features and Technology
KTM has packed both the Duke 390 and RC 390 with cutting-edge technology, making them highly advanced in terms of electronics and rider aids. Some of the key features include:
- Full-Color TFT Digital Display with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling calls, music, and turn-by-turn navigation via the KTM My Ride app.
- Dual-Channel ABS with Cornering ABS, Traction Control, and Supermoto Mode, all of which provide enhanced safety during spirited rides or emergency situations.
- Ride-by-Wire Throttle and Quickshifter+ for seamless gear transitions.
- Updated ECU and Lightweight Wheels on the RC 390 for better track performance.
These technologies, which were once reserved for high-end bikes, now come standard on these KTM models, making them not just fast but smart and safe.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Although performance is the primary focus, both bikes still provide reasonable fuel economy. Riders can expect a mileage of around 25 to 30 kmpl under real-world conditions, depending on factors like traffic, road conditions, and throttle usage. This balance between performance and fuel efficiency ensures that you don’t have to compromise on your daily rides or long-distance commutes.
Safety and Braking System
Both the Duke 390 and RC 390 come with high-quality braking systems designed for precision and control:
- 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc brakes, sourced from ByBre (a Brembo subsidiary), provide excellent braking performance.
- Bosch Dual-Channel ABS with Cornering ABS ensures optimal braking performance during emergency stops or high-speed cornering.
- The Supermoto Mode allows the rear ABS to be disabled for controlled rear-wheel slides, adding a layer of fun for stunt enthusiasts.
These features make both motorcycles highly capable in terms of braking and safety.
Comfort and Riding Ergonomics
Both motorcycles are tuned for performance over comfort. However, their ergonomics are optimized for their respective uses:
- Duke 390: The upright stance and wide handlebars make it ideal for daily commuting and weekend rides. It offers a comfortable saddle, making it a practical choice for long urban commutes.
- RC 390: The forward-leaning posture, low clip-on handlebars, and rear-set footpegs cater to aggressive racing-style cornering and track usage, making it less suitable for relaxed, long-distance touring.
Both bikes come with WP Apex USD forks at the front and Monoshock suspension at the rear, offering firm handling and excellent control, especially in dynamic riding scenarios.
Price and Variants
KTM offers both the Duke 390 and RC 390 in a single fully-loaded variant with multiple color options. The ex-showroom prices are as follows:
Model | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) |
---|---|
Duke 390 | ₹3,11,000 |
RC 390 | ₹3,28,000 |
While the RC 390 is slightly more expensive due to its faired styling and additional components, both bikes provide excellent value for money in the premium performance segment.
Booking and Test Ride
Booking for the KTM Duke 390 and RC 390 can be done through KTM’s official website or via authorized dealerships. The booking amount typically ranges between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000. Test rides are available at most KTM showrooms across India. Delivery timelines may vary depending on location and color choice, but most cities offer a waiting period of around 15 to 20 days.
The KTM Duke 390 and RC 390 are truly a class apart in the premium motorcycle segment in India. Whether you’re a street rider or a track enthusiast, these bikes offer adrenaline-pumping performance, cutting-edge electronics, and advanced safety features. With their bold styling, robust build quality, and KTM’s reputation for delivering high-performance machines, both bikes provide exceptional value for their price. If you crave excitement and precision with every ride, KTM delivers in spades with the Duke 390 and RC 390.
FAQs
What is the key difference between the Duke 390 and RC 390?
The Duke 390 is a naked streetfighter designed for urban commuting and spirited rides, while the RC 390 is a fully faired track machine focused on high-speed agility and aerodynamic performance.
What is the price of the Duke 390 and RC 390?
The Duke 390 is priced around ₹3,11,000, and the RC 390 is priced around ₹3,28,000 (ex-showroom).
What is the fuel efficiency of the KTM Duke 390 and RC 390?
Both bikes offer a mileage of 25 to 30 kmpl under real-world conditions.
What are the safety features on the Duke 390 and RC 390?
Both bikes come with Dual-Channel ABS, Cornering ABS, Traction Control, and Supermoto Mode for enhanced safety.
How much does it cost to book a KTM Duke 390 or RC 390?
The booking amount typically ranges between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000, depending on the dealership.