ktm rc390 for "experienced" rider?

[JKBC]

The rear shock may be bad but its being over exaggerated by fast riders, you can ride the stock bike plenty fast.

Thank you.

Re: 690 Duke
'At an U.S. MSRP of $8,999' it may not be within the budget of the starter of this thread but certainly it is one bad-ass big single. How about a RC 690?...that would have the speed and power to actually justify dual front discs/RC8 front end...and I see the people at TST Industries could probably make such a conversion with quality parts and at a reasonable price. < just sayin', but you'd need to know it would sell.

2014 KTM 690 Duke: MD Ride Review « MotorcycleDaily.com ? Motorcycle News, Editorials, Product Reviews and Bike Reviews

 

[Diploman]

I have a 2015 Duke. If you are interested in track or competition, the RC is your bike. Very focussed. For everything else - urban traffic, errands around town, back roads, day trips, light touring, highway jaunts, hauling luggage or a pillion, even light off-road, whatever you want - the Duke can do it. Very versatile. The windscreen issue is easily handled: I have an MRA Vario screen on my bike. On the freeway it takes the 75mph windblast completely off my torso, without producing turbulence around the helmet. I would say that if you like the 390 engine and chassis:
Get the RC if you want to race;
Get the Duke if your priorities are elsewhere.