Upcoming KTM 390 Duke - ZigWheels Free Advice

The KTM 390 Duke is a special bike for Indian bikers. When the first generation motorcycle made its debut, we finally had a bike that not only upscaled the performance envelope but also it didn’t cost a fortune to own. KTM recently launched the updated 390 Adventure, and the 2022 KTM RC 390 is being prepped for its India debut; the Austrian brand has focused its attention on the 2023 390 Duke. We have already seen some pics of the test mule internationally, and the bike is expected to be unveiled later this year globally. So here’s the ZigWheels Free Advice to KTM on the upcoming 390 Duke. But before we get to the advice aspect, here's a quick refresher about the details of the new 390 Duke based on the spy pics.

What we know so far

Style

• Same headlight as the 390 Duke.
• Styling similar to the 890 Duke as you can see on the tank extensions.
• New subframe makes the rear look tighter and compact.
• All LED lighting and a TFT screen.

Engine

• Not much details are available but the engine case is different.
• A2 licensing norms for Europe, means the power and torque figures could be similar to its predecessor (45PS, 37Nm).
• KTM might retune the engine for better tractability and refinement.

Updated Foundations

• New subframe and redesigned trellis frame.
• Lighter components to drop some pounds.

New goodies

• The 2023 390 Duke could get traction control and riding modes.
• Navigation and more connected features on the TFT screen.
• Cornering ABS as seen on its siblings.

For more in-depth information of the specifications, features and other aspects of the motorcycle, check out our spy shot analysis here.

ZigWheels Free Advice

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Please, KTM, give us desi bikers adjustable suspension. If TVS can do the same with the Apache RTR 200 4V, we don’t see any reason for you to skip it. One of the main reasons for the KTM 390 Duke’s popularity was that it introduced many segment-first features and it’s high time that it brings forth some innovation.

More importantly, the price. The new KTM RC 390 is supposed to be launched at Rs 3.14 lakh, that’s Rs 37,000 more than the older model. No wonder KTM sales have suffered due to this revised pricing strategy in the recent past. KTM products are also facing more competition in the form of the BMW G 310 R and the Honda CB300R. Yes, both these motorcycles don’t have outright fire power to match the Duke, but they are pretty much similar in terms of kit and premiumness.

If we take the new RC 390’s price into consideration, the 2023 KTM 390 Duke could retail easily above Rs 3 lakh (ex-showroom), and that’s almost as expensive as the Royal Enfield 650 Twins. I agree that the 390 Duke will offer better performance and more features, but KTM was known for its competitive pricing. So please, KTM, don’t be so greedy.