KTM 390 Duke: Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2018

The 390 Duke secured 107 points to claim the title, winning over 20 new bikes launched this year.

The most-illustrious Indian Motorcycle of the Year award (IMOTY) for 2018 has been announced. This year also marks the tenth anniversary for the award, which recognizes the best motorcycle newly launched in the Indian bike market every year. The jury for 2018 IMOTY consisted of 15 renowned auto journalists representing eight automotive publications in the country.

Also Read: 2017 KTM Duke 390: Sharp, Aggressive Styling Intensified

The 2017 KTM 390 Duke was voted the winner of IMOTY 2018. It won over all 11 other models that were short-listed for the final round, including  Hero Glamour 125, Yamaha FZ25, Suzuki Intruder 150, Bajaj Pulsar NS 160, Benelli 302R, Bajaj Dominar 400, Harley-Davidson Street Rod, Triumph Bonneville Bobber, Triumph Street Triple RS, MV Agusta Brutale 800 and Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin. The KTM 390 Duke scored 107 points to top the list, followed by Yamaha FZ25 with 77 points and Triumph Street Triple with 68 points.

The jury voted the motorcycles based on various factors including tag price and value for money attribute, styling, comfort, performance, fuel economy, practicality, safety, technical innovation, and their suitability for Indian riding conditions.

Why KTM 390 Duke?

Launched with a price tag of INR 2.36 Lakhs (Ex-showroom price), the KTM 390 Duke took the local bike market by storm! The new design and visual appeal of the the bike was way cooler than earlier, with revised structural geometry and improved engineering. This is a bike that can be (or wants to be) aggressively ridden, thanks to class-leading ride and handling traits. The single-pot 373 cc engine is well-refined and responsive. It comes loaded with superior technology and fancy features too, including TFT LCD instrument display with Bluetooth connectivity and dual-channel ABS.

Also Read: 2016 Best New Bikes Of The Year