After much rumour and speculation, KTM introduced its pint-sized Duke to India.
The 390 comes across as a thought-out competent motorcycle, a stand-alone piece from its bigger siblings. It takes aim at riders who may be new to riding, but not the idea of performance.
The performance starts with the class-leading power coming from a 373cc single cylinder powerplant. Below 7, 000rpm the power is relatively docile, perfectly suited for new riders. From There power climbs quickly and steadily to the redline, just past the 10, 000 mark, providing 25foot-pound of claimed torque at 7, 250rpm and 43ponies at 9, 500rpm to tame as their skills develop.
Pros
Massive power
Amazing mid range and top end grunt
Standard ABS by Bosch
WP Suspension with 10 position preload adjustment
Light and Nimble for better maneuverability
Cons
Heat dissipation from the engine targets the legs and face
Seats arent comfy especially if you’d do long distances
Service parts are expensive
Uncomfortable brake/clutch levers
Tricky gear ratio especially 1st and 2nd(Not really a Con but will take you awhile to master)
What impressed me the most about the 390 is how much fun I have with a bike that, for all intents and purposes, is a beginners bike. The light weight, quick-revving, torquey engine, makes zipping around town a blast. For new riders, I found the 390 to be a very capable machine
Verdict
In all situations, the Duke performs admirably, providing spirited performance, from a package suitable for those still tacklingthe art of how to ride a motorcycle.
The KTM Duke 390 is a beginner’s bike but is surely not meant for all the beginners, its aimed at riders who like wild, alternative-style and loud orange paint.
It impresses on multiple levels. It looks great and performs great, given the fact that it costs 2.3L INR on road.
With a couple of mods on seats, brake/clutch levers, radiator fan. This bike is just unbeatable while compared to its rivals.