Photo Gallery: KTM Duke 390

The design of the Duke 390 is identical to the Duke 200. KTM has made minor changes to the colour scheme to differentiate it from its younger sibling. The Duke 390 features orange coloured wheels and trellis frame. The graphics are different and that's about it. The naked styling looks very attractive and this KTM is sure to attract glares on the road.

The tech-laden console comes from the Duke 200. It's easy to read but the tachometer is a bit small. The all digital instrumentation carries various data including distance to empty, distance to service, two trip meters, average fuel consumption, etc. A hidden ABS switch off button is also offered.

The wide handlebars and the upright sitting position makes the Duke 390 a very comfortable motorcycle as far as ergonomics are concerned. But the pillion seat is small and the cushioning is on the harder side.

The Duke 390's powertrain is an insane one. The 373.2cc, single-cylinder engine uses high-tech components like NIKASIL coating for the cylinder, forged piston and diamond like coating for the cam. This results in an engine which is extremely light, weighing only 36 kgs.

The motor really comes in its own post 5000 RPM and pulls with noteworthy ferocity till its 10,500 RPM redline. It's not as frantic as its younger sibling thanks to the taller gearing. Low end response is good but the engine heats quite a bit in city conditions when you mostly remain in first gear. The Duke 390 returns a good mileage of 25-30 km/l.

KTM has used the best bit of hardware on the Duke 390. The bike uses WP made upside down forks and monoshock suspension. It uses a trellis frame and an aluminum swing arm. Thus the underpinnings are rock solid in transmitting all that power smoothly on the roads.

Handling is nimble and the Duke 390 is very agile around corners. It remains firmly composed around the tightest of bends. High speed stability is excellent but wind blast is significant post 140 km/hr.

The tyres are the real gem in the package. The Metzeler tyres offer super grip and keep the Duke 390 firmly glued to the tarmac at all speeds. The grip levels are so superior, that in wet conditions you feel you are riding in the dry.

The Duke 390 is offered with ABS as standard and braking performance is simply excellent. The front uses four pot radial calliper while the rear uses a single pot calliper. The brake lines are steel braided and the tyres aid in supreme stopping power.

The ride quality on the Duke 390 is on the stiffer side. The suspension is pliant over good roads but over bad roads, the bumps filter through to the rider. Thus riding on broken tarmac and potholes can be tiring.

The Duke 390 is available across KTM showrooms across India. The waiting period is a maximum of 90 days and the booking amount is Rs. 30,000/-.