KTM Duke range getting a makeover

KTM has hit a homerun with its light, affordable and peppy KTM Duke range, which are manufactured at Bajaj Auto’s plant in Pune. The KTM 125 Duke is exported to international markets, and is popular with beginners and those learning to ride a bike. The KTM 200 Duke and the KTM 390 Duke, on the other hand, have captured the compact performance space in India and other markets such as Europe and the UK.

After close to four years of existence, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer is working on an updated version of the KTM Duke range. Recently, the 2016 KTM Duke test mules were caught in Europe which show the new model has received significant changes.

The refreshed KTM Duke in the spy pictures sports a new rear subframe, which was bolt-on to the test bike, but we can expect it to be welded in the production model. It is speculated that the new subframe would improve the KTM’s crash resistance which would be another safety measure for newbies and learners. Other visible changes include a new number rear fender and number plate hanger design and repositioned rear turn indicators.

Another important change on the 2016 KTM Duke is the improved riding position for rider comfort, with altered positioning of the rider’s footpegs. But, the surprising addition is of a conventional side exhaust which replaces the usual underbelly unit seen on the current KTM Duke range. Though, it’s not clear if KTM engineers are testing various combinations on the bike or whether the Austrian company is actually considering heading the conventional way.

We are not expecting any major surprises on the powertrain front. The 2016 KTM Duke is said to be unveiled at the EICMA show in 2015, and would go on sale by early 2016.

Source: MCN