KTM, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, has surprised the global market with the launch of three new models in its popular Duke series. The new 125 Duke, 250 Duke, and 390 Duke are set to hit the showrooms in the coming weeks, with India being the first market to receive them. The new Dukes feature a fresh design, improved performance, and advanced technology.
New 125 Duke: A Beginner-Friendly Streetfighter
The new 125 Duke is the smallest and most affordable model in the Duke lineup. It is aimed at young and novice riders who want to experience the thrill of riding a KTM bike. The new 125 Duke shares the same edgy and aggressive styling as its bigger siblings, with a sleek LED headlight, sharp tank covers, and lightweight five-spoke alloy wheels. The bike also gets a full-color TFT display and ABS modes, including supermoto mode that allows the rider to switch off the rear ABS.
The new 125 Duke is powered by a 124.9cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that produces 14.7 horsepower and 11 Newton-meters (about 7.7 pound-feet) of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox that delivers smooth and responsive power delivery. The bike also features a revised trellis frame that is slimmer and more athletic, as well as a redesigned swingarm that enhances stability and handling. The suspension system consists of a 43-millimeter inverted fork from WP at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear.
New 390 Duke: A Sporty And Sophisticated Naked Bike
The new 390 Duke is the flagship model in the Duke series and the most anticipated one among motorcycle enthusiasts. The new 390 Duke has undergone a major makeover, with a new color scheme, more pronounced bodywork, and updated cycle parts. The bike adopts a vibrant blue hue that is inspired by the larger 1290 Super Duke R, giving it a dynamic and aggressive character. The front end features a sleeker LED headlight design that sheds the plastic shrouds of the current model.
The new 390 Duke also boasts of some impressive features and technology that make it stand out from the crowd. It is expected to include an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that enables features such as traction control and cornering ABS, enhancing both safety and performance. The bike also comes with adjustable suspension at both ends, allowing riders to customize their ride according to their preferences and riding conditions. The bike is powered by a 373cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that delivers 43 horsepower and 37 Newton-meters (about 27 pound-feet) of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox that also features a slipper clutch for smoother downshifts.
New 250 Duke: A Balanced And Versatile Naked Bike
The new 250 Duke is the middleweight model in the Duke series and the one that offers a balanced and versatile riding experience. The new 250 Duke follows the same design language as the other two models, with a sharp and sporty look that attracts attention on the road. The bike also gets a full-color TFT display and ABS modes, including supermoto mode that lets the rider have some fun with the rear wheel.
The new 250 Duke is powered by a 248cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine that produces 30 horsepower and 24 Newton-meters (about 17 pound-feet) of torque. The engine is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox that provides smooth and linear power delivery. The bike also features a revised trellis frame that improves rigidity and agility, as well as a redesigned swingarm that enhances stability and handling. The suspension system comprises of a 43-millimeter inverted fork from WP at the front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear.
The new KTM Dukes are set to take the global market by storm with their fresh design, improved performance, and advanced technology. These bikes are manufactured by Bajaj in India and then exported to markets worldwide. However, Indian riders are in for a special treat, as they will be the first to experience these cutting-edge motorcycles, with the release expected to hit Indian showrooms next month.