New KTM Duke Twin-cylinder Bike Spied Testing Again

• New twin platform to replace the 690 single-cylinder engine
• Likely to produce around 60-70bhp
• Global launch expected in 2027

A test prototype of the upcoming middle-weight KTM Duke, powered by a new twin-cylinder engine, has been spied testing yet again in Europe. Now, contrary to popular reports, our sources suggest that the upcoming sub-500cc parallel-twin motor doesn’t power this test mule, but a bigger middle-weight engine platform.

Before we elaborate on this new platform, let’s take a look at the test mule. The bike looks like an early-stage prototype with barely any bodywork and unfinished chassis components. The overall proportions of the bike appear larger than the current sub-500cc bikes and even the engine looks bigger. The test mule is equipped with a single disc setup at the front with in-house WP-branded brakes and suspension.

Now, coming back to the platform, the upcoming sub-500cc twin is exclusively being developed by Bajaj-KTM in India, and the project was fired-up recently. The test mule seen here is being developed by KTM Austria, and has been under development even before Bajaj Auto took ownership of KTM AG. According to our sources, this particular platform will bridge the gap between the 390 lineup and the 790 range.

This new platform, as we see it, is likely to replace the existing single-cylinder KTM 690 range globally. We say this because it has become increasingly difficult for older, large-capacity, single-cylinder engines to comply with the ever-tightening emission norms.

The new twin-cylinder platform will not only comply with future emissions norms, but also benefit from engine refinement and the characteristic feel of a parallel-twin engine. It is expected to produce around 60-70bhp, if not more. Whether it will be called a 690 or a 790 will be revealed closer to its market launch.

KTM could possibly be targeting the middleweight 650–750cc segment, and this new platform will spawn the Duke, RC, and Adventure range of middleweight bikes to take on the likes of the Kawasaki Versys 650, Triumph Trident 660, and the Ninja 650. The bikes based on this platform are likely to be launched next year globally. However, these are unlikely to make their way to our shores, as we will get the sub-500cc motorcycles that are being developed by Bajaj Auto and KTM.

Image Source