The KTM Duke 390 is the motorcycle that biking enthusiasts are waiting for with a bated breath.
The naked sportsbike has won accolades from the international media for its performance. The Duke 390's 373.2cc single cylinder fuel injected engine packs in a punchy 43 bhp, which is massive by Indian compact sportsbike standards. The good news is that the engine is frugal enough to return around 35 kmpl.
Add to that a lightweight chassis and a six-speed gear box, the Duke 390 easily sets the performance benchmark. Here is a spyshot of the KTM Duke 390 which was spotted testing near Akurdi, Pune, by one of our readers.
As you can see from the spyshot, the Duke 390 would easily pass as a Duke 200 for an untrained eye. The differences are that the 390 gets new body decals, Metzler rubbers and comes fitted with ABS brakes.
The motorcycle will be made at Bajaj's Chakan plant near Pune for both the domestic and international markets. Heavy localization will enable KTM to price the bike competitively and we expect the price tag to be in the vicinity of Rs. 2 lakhs.
The Duke 200 has managed to garner a wide fan base in India for its sprightly performance and affordability. The Duke 390 is expected to stretch the envelope even further.
KTM has announced that the Duke 390 will be launched in mid-2013 which means it is approaching the launch date very fast.
