The updated KTM 390 Duke that made its global debut a couple of weeks ago has now been launched in India, with prices starting at Rs 3.11 lakh, ex-showroom. Its smaller sibling, the 250 Duke also gets the updates, and costs Rs 2.39 lakh, ex-showroom. There are a host of changes to both the models for this year, most notably a new chassis and updated engines.
2023 KTM 390 Duke:
The MY2023 iteration of the most potent sub-400cc motorcycle in India gets a new engine, displacing 398.7cc and pumping out 44.8PS and 39Nm, up from 373.3cc, 43.5PS and 37Nm. To help the new engine breathe better, there’s a larger airbox. The frame is also new, with a different aluminium subframe accompanying it. Seat height is now 800mm with an optional 820mm seat. The suspension is now adjustable – the front forks for compression / rebound and the offset rear monoshock for rebound / preload.
On the electronics front, the new 390 Duke gets traction control with three ride modes: Track, Street and Rain, cornering ABS and supermoto ABS, a track screen and launch control. There’s a Type-C charging port as well.
2023 KTM 250 Duke:
KTM says the cylinder head and gearbox has been optimised, but no numbers are out as of now. It receives a bunch of upgrades from the 390 though, including the new chassis and the offset rear monoshock, the 800mm seat height (820mm seat optional), the larger airbox and the Type-C charging port.
The rivals of the KTM 390 Duke include the BMW G 310 R, the Triumph Speed 400 and the TVS Apache RTR 310. On the other hand, the rivals of the KTM 250 Duke comprise the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250 and the Honda CB300R.
