News/ Industry/ KTM To Launch 390 Duke | What We Know So Far?

KTM To Launch 390 Duke | What We Know So Far?

India's most cherished enthusiasts' bike, Duke 390, is set to get a major update and is set to launch later this year. KTM 390 Duke has been under development for a long time, and we've seen multiple spy pictures of the bike around the internet. The spy shots also hint at the rigorous testing ongoing by Bajaj Auto. While the test mule is camouflaged, and the Bajaj Auto is tight-lipped about any specifications, here is everything we anticipate and know so far about the upcoming Duke 390. 

The stance remain identical to the current Duke. However Austrian maker has incorporated subtle changes to keep it different from the outgoing version. The chassis is a significant change in the upcoming Duke, as it is heavily inspired by Duke 890. The design clues seem to be heavily taken from 1290 Super Duke. The fuel tank is now longer and sharper than before. The front facia is updated with an LED headlight unit with boomerang-style split DRLs. The tail section is also redesigned new T-shaped tail light. The handlebar and seat setup position has also been reworked to offer a more relaxed and upright riding stance. 

There are significant changes in the hardware, as it gets a new gullwing-type swingarm, underbelly exhaust,  new suspension setup and wheels and brakes borrowed from its race-ready 390. The rear monoshock suspension has an offset positioning that may offer preload and rebound adjustable. Another significant major change is the TFT screen, which is bigger and better. Not just better resolution, but the display colours would be more vibrant. It will also get updated electronics with two riding modes- sports and urban.

The engine is also expected to be the new 399cc that could have a bump in peak power and torque numbers. The updated Duke 390 is expected to get a twin-fan radiator setup, which could be a major relief as the bike gets extremely hot in jam-stuck traffic. Most probably, KTM  will unveil the new gen Duke at EICMA 2023, and post the auto show, it is expected to launch in India. We suspect the new Duke 390 to be around Rs 3.10-3.20 lakhs(ex-showroom)

TopGear Magazine February 2024