KTM 390 Duke: Variants Explained

KTM India recently launched the new 390 Duke with a 349cc engine to avail the benefits of the new GST slab, which puts bikes under 350cc in the 18 per cent bracket. This will be sold alongside the older 399cc version of the bike, which carries the ‘R’ suffix now. Well, the downsizing of the engine brings along a host of other changes too, and here’s a quick look at them.

Performance

The new standard 390 Duke’s engine has a shorter stroke and that has resulted in a mild drop in performance numbers. It produces 40.9bhp and 33.5Nm. The higher-spec R version, with its 399cc motor, churns out 45.3bhp and 39Nm. In the real world, the differences will be felt in terms of acceleration and top speed.

Dimensions and Kerb Weight

With a kerb weight of 168kg, the new 390 Duke standard is just 0.3kg lighter than the R. However, where the former is significantly more accessible now is in regard to seat height. The 349cc iteration boasts a saddle height of 800mm, which is 20mm lower than the R. The lower-spec 390 Duke also gets a 0.5-litre smaller fuel tank with the capacity standing at 14.5 litres.

Colours

Both variants of the 390 Duke are available in 3 colour options, but with different combinations of shades. The more premium R version gets an orange frame and bolder paint schemes, while the standard model gets more understated colours and a black chassis. Two colour variants of the R even get orange wheels, which makes them look even more vibrant.

Prices

The real benefit of buying the downsized 349cc KTM 390 Duke standard will be on the pricing front; it is Rs. 62,000 more affordable at Rs. 2.77 lakh. The 390 Duke R, meanwhile, costs Rs. 3.38 lakh (both prices are ex-showroom).