2017 KTM Duke 390: Sharp, Aggressive Styling Intensified
Built on all-new platform, Euro 4 compliant engine, highlights include ride-by-wire, LED lamps and DRL, smartphone tethering, and riding modes.
At the EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan (Italy) last week, KTM took the wraps off the all-new 2017-model year Duke 390. Assembled by Bajaj Auto, the new bike will enter into production shortly and is scheduled to go on sale in global markets by January next year. India is one among the select markets to receive the bike at the earliest according to sources.
The Duke 390 is always close to my heart not simply because it is one of the best sportbike that is affordable, but also its user-friendly experience that can even keep beginners in confidence, without compromising its sturdy performance. It’s styling is yet another trait I love the most, which is now aggressively intensified with the 2017 update. New design elements such as the bifurcated LED headlamp with DRL, larger tank structure, tweaked rear sub-frame, and bigger brake discs (320mm) pep-up the visual fanfare, while the all-digital color TFT instrument cluster adds a premium feel to the bike.
In fact, the motorcycle’s structural geometry has been revised, which works well for the new styling approach. This includes a new trellis frame with bolt-on subframe, newer open-cartridge forks for improved response and stability, a 10mm shorter wheelbase and slight rake, slightly taller ride height, and a higher seat. A full-sized, side-mounted exhaust is also a new addition, partly contributing to the additional 10 kgs of kerb weight.
KTM Duke 390’s primary rival would be the upcoming BMW Motorrad G310R
Power is sourced from the same 373cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine generating more or less same power rating of 44 PS and 37 Nm of torque (up by 2 Nm) as the out-going model, the new 390 Duke also boasts ride-by-wire technology and a slipper clutch to its 6-speed gearbox. The Bosch dual-channel ABS and rear mono-shock suspension has been retained as well. The new bike is Euro 4 compliant, making it market-ready for the EU region which is to enforce new emission norms from 2017 onwards.
Also Read: Kawasaki Ninja 300 KRT Racing Team Edition Now @ INR 3.61 Lakhs
Once launched in India by early next year, the new 390 Duke will take on the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 300, Honda CBR 250R, and Benelli TnT 300. But intense heat is expected against the upcoming BMW Motorrad G310R, which is also expected to go on sale around the same time as the new 390 Duke.
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