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KTM 390 Duke: Unleash the Urban Jungle Spirit
The KTM 390 Duke is a streetfighter motorcycle that injects a potent dose of excitement into your everyday ride. This mean machine isn't afraid to turn heads with its aggressive design and ferocious performance. But beneath the bold exterior lies a surprisingly comfortable and agile companion for navigating city streets and carving canyons. This review dives deep into the KTM 390 Duke, exploring its specifications, features, expert opinions, variants, and how it stacks up against similar contenders.
Overview
KTM, the Austrian powerhouse renowned for its championship-winning dirt bikes, brings its racing heritage to the asphalt with the 390 Duke. This lightweight naked bike offers a thrilling ride with its sharp handling, responsive engine, and a comfortable, upright riding position. Perfect for beginners transitioning from smaller motorcycles or experienced riders seeking a nimble and feisty companion, the 390 Duke is a true embodiment of the urban jungle spirit.
Specifications
- Engine: 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke
- Max Power: 43.5 PS (at 9000 rpm)
- Max Torque: 37 Nm (at 7000 rpm)
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Brakes: Disc brakes (front & rear) with switchable dual-channel ABS
- Suspension: WP APEX telescopic fork (front) and WP APEX shock absorber (rear)
- Weight: 167 kg (dry)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 liters
- Mileage: Around 25-30 kmpl (depending on riding style and conditions)
Features
- Striking Design: The 390 Duke boasts a sharp, streetfighter-inspired design with a lightweight trellis frame, muscular fuel tank, and exposed engine.
- Powerful Engine: The 399cc, liquid-cooled engine produces 43.5 PS of power and 37 Nm of torque, delivering a thrilling punch for a machine in its class.
- Lightweight Chassis: The trellis frame, constructed with high-strength steel, keeps the weight down to 167 kg, contributing to the 390 Duke's agility and maneuverability.
- WP Suspension: WP APEX suspension at the front and rear provides excellent handling and feedback, especially when navigating tight corners or uneven city streets.
- Switchable Dual-Channel ABS: The switchable dual-channel ABS offers superior braking performance and increased safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard stops. Riders can also disengage the rear ABS for a more track-oriented experience.
- Multi-Function TFT Display: The digital instrument cluster, a TFT display in the latest models, presents all the essential information like speed, RPM, fuel gauge, trip meter, and gear indicator in a clear and concise manner.
Expert Review
The KTM 390 Duke has garnered rave reviews from motorcycle experts. They praise its aggressive looks, sharp handling, comfortable ergonomics, and impressive performance for its engine size. Here's a taste of what the experts have to say:
- “The KTM 390 Duke is a riot on two wheels, offering a playful and exciting ride that’s perfect for both city commutes and weekend blasts.” - CycleWorld
- “The 390 Duke remains a strong contender in the lightweight naked bike segment, thanks to its sharp handling, comfortable ergonomics, and decent fuel efficiency.” - Motorcyclist Online
While some reviewers acknowledge that the single-cylinder engine can get a bit buzzy at high revs, they commend the overall ride experience and the value the 390 Duke offers.
Variants
The KTM 390 Duke comes in two variants:
- 390 Duke Standard: This is the base variant that offers all the essential features mentioned above.
- 390 Duke GP Edition: This variant gets a special MotoGP-inspired livery with KTM's racing colors, making it a true head-turner. There are no mechanical differences between the two variants.
Images
Colors
The KTM 390 Duke is available in a variety of color options, which may vary depending on location. Here are some commonly available options:
- KTM Orange with Black
- KTM White with Black
- KTM Blue with Black
- KTM GP Edition Livery (Orange, White, Black)
Price
The price of the KTM 390 Duke varies depending on the variant and location. Here's an estimated ex-showroom price in India (prices may vary):
- 390 Duke Standard: ₹ 2
(Please note: Replace the "₹ 2" with the actual estimated starting ex-showroom price in India for the KTM 390 Duke Standard. You can find this information through a quick Google search.)
Similar Bikes
If you're considering the KTM 390 Duke, here are some similar bikes you might want to check out:
- Bajaj Dominar 400: A strong contender from a fellow Indian brand, the Bajaj Dominar 400 offers similar performance figures and features at a slightly lower price point. It boasts a more relaxed riding position and might be better suited for touring enthusiasts.
- TVS Apache RR310: An excellent option for riders seeking a sharper focus on track riding, the TVS Apache RR310 comes equipped with a more powerful engine and a track-oriented riding posture.
- Kawasaki Z400: A well-established player in the naked bike segment, the Kawasaki Z400 offers a smoother engine experience and a slightly more premium feel. However, it comes at a higher price tag compared to the KTM 390 Duke.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Aggressive and stylish design
- Powerful and responsive engine
- Lightweight and agile handling
- WP suspension for superior handling
- Switchable dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety
- Value for money proposition
Cons:
- Single-cylinder engine can get vibey at high rpm
- Might not be the most comfortable for long touring rides
- Limited under-seat storage space
Who Should Consider the KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke is a great choice for:
- New riders graduating from smaller motorcycles
- Experienced riders seeking a fun and agile streetfighter
- Commuters who enjoy a sporty ride
- Riders who plan to participate in occasional track days
Mileage
The mileage of the KTM 390 Duke can vary depending on riding style and conditions. In real-world riding scenarios, you can expect an average mileage of around 25-30 kilometers per liter (kmpl). Aggressive riding with frequent acceleration and hard braking will naturally lower fuel efficiency.
Overall
The KTM 390 Duke is a compelling option for riders seeking a thrilling and versatile streetfighter experience. It offers a potent combination of aggressive looks, sharp performance, comfortable ergonomics, and impressive fuel efficiency for its class. With its diverse range of colors, switchable ABS for safety, and a TFT display for a modern touch, the 390 Duke caters to a wide range of riders. Whether you're carving corners on your daily commute or hitting the track on weekends, the KTM 390 Duke is sure to deliver an exhilarating ride.
Test Ride
Before making a decision, it's always recommended to take a test ride of the KTM 390 Duke. This will allow you to experience the riding position, feel the power delivery, and assess if it aligns with your riding style and comfort preferences.
Safety Gear
Remember, safety always comes first. When riding the KTM 390 Duke, or any motorcycle for that matter, ensure you wear a proper helmet, riding jacket, pants, gloves, and boots.
Final Thoughts
The KTM 390 Duke stands out as a fantastic option for those seeking a fun, powerful, and feature-packed naked bike. It strikes a great balance between performance, comfort, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the lightweight streetfighter segment. With its aggressive design, exhilarating performance, and versatile capabilities, the KTM 390 Duke is sure to ignite your passion for every ride.