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Head to head

KTM 990 Duke vs KTM 390 Duke

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The KTM 990 Duke and KTM 390 Duke are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The KTM 390 Duke undercuts the KTM 990 Duke by about $6,600, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the KTM 990 Duke leads on power with 123 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

KTM 990 Duke
Our pick
8.3

KTM

KTM 990 Duke
KTM 390 Duke
8.0

KTM

KTM 390 Duke

The verdict

The KTM 990 Duke edges it overall at 8.3/10, but the KTM 390 Duke wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

KTM 390 Duke

A2-legal, 44 hp, forgiving to learn on.

Most exciting

KTM 990 Duke

123 hp and 0.65 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

KTM 390 Duke

Our 8/10 at $5,899, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

KTM 390 Duke

168 kg with an 820 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

KTM 990 Duke

Our top score in this matchup at 8.3/10.

Price & rating
Price$12,499$5,899
KickTheStand score8.3 / 108 / 10
Performance
Engine947cc twin399cc single
Power123 hp44 hp
Torque103 Nm39 Nm
Power-to-weight0.65 hp/kg0.26 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension43mm WP Apex USD fork43mm WP Apex USD fork
Rear suspensionWP Apex monoshockWP Apex monoshock
Front brakesDual 300mm discs, radial 4-pistonSingle 320mm disc, radial 4-piston
Rear brakesSingle 240mm discSingle 240mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight188 kg168 kg
Seat height825 mm820 mm
Fuel capacity14.8 L15 L
Suitability
ClassNakedNaked
A2 licenceNoYes
Good for beginnersNoYes
Best forsport, track, commutingcommuting, sport, learning

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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KTM 990 Duke vs KTM 390 Duke: your questions answered

Which is faster, the KTM 990 Duke or the KTM 390 Duke?

The KTM 990 Duke makes the most power at 123 hp and 103 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the KTM 990 Duke or the KTM 390 Duke?

The KTM 390 Duke is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $5,899.

Which is lighter, the KTM 990 Duke or the KTM 390 Duke?

The KTM 390 Duke is the lightest at 168 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the KTM 990 Duke or the KTM 390 Duke?

For a new rider we'd point to the KTM 390 Duke: A2-legal, 44 hp and 168 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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