KTM 390 Duke: First Ride Review

Introduction

This is the new KTM 390 Duke. It is the standard 350cc model, and is Rs. 62,000 more affordable than the 390 Duke R, which continues to be powered by the bigger 399cc powerplant. The former exists because of the recent GST reforms in India, which puts under-350cc bikes in the 18 per cent taxation category, down from the previous 28 per cent. Bajaj wanted to make the most of the new tax slab. It was hence quite prompt to introduce 350cc iterations of the 390 Duke and Adventure range in India.

For the uninitiated, this motorcycle is identical to the 399cc Duke R, except for the downsized engine. Therefore, this review will essentially focus on what the revised engine feels like and whether it makes sense to put your money on this new 390 Duke standard.