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The bike maintains its composure even on the tightest of corners
Riding Dynamics – Sitting taut on its updated chassis and advanced suspension setup, the 2017 Duke 390 carries forward the handling prowess of the earlier generation. In fact, it handles even better than before due to the new suspension hardware sourced from WP which includes open-cartridge upside down forks and a 10-step adjustable monoshock, deployed at the front and rear respectively. The ride quality remains a bit choppy as the suspension has been tuned to be on the stiffer side. Even with the immense ground clearance, it won’t handle broken roads well but dismisses smaller undulations with aplomb. The motorcycle holds its line really well through the corners (the wheelbase has been reduced by 10 mm) and the front end could be adjusted for height in the future to give just the right amount of feedback. Still, spirited riding or hard cornering on the Duke 390 needs experienced hands as the motorcycle is very responsive to rider inputs.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/36308993505/[/flickr]
320 mm disc brake provides superb stopping ability, and then some!
The handling characteristics leave behind some established Japanese players
Despite coming equipped with a dual-channel ABS, weak brakes on the earlier Duke 390 were a fly in the ointment. Thankfully, the updated Duke is equipped with a massive 320 mm front disc and larger master cylinder to provide immense stopping power. Braking hardware on the rear wheel remains unchanged which leaves a room for improvement. However, for now, the strong bite and great feedback from the front brakes make up for it. By default, ABS is set to monitor both the wheels but can be disabled completely or only for the rear wheel for some sliding fun! Metzeler Sportec M5 tyres now get a lower speed rating (‘H’ which is 210 km/hr) but there was no difference felt in grip levels even when pushed hard on the track.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/35473573334/[/flickr]
Even in its new iteration, fun character of the Duke 390 hasn’t changed
Verdict – The KTM Duke 390 redefined performance standards in our country with its unmatched price-to-performance ratio. When it was launched in 2013, its immense value for money factor made all the Japanese offerings look terribly overpriced. Due to this reason, it was lapped up in huge numbers. The 2017 Duke 390, isn’t the same as before, as it loses its affordable tag with the new sticker price. However, this generation brings along a lot of improvements on both mechanical and aesthetic fronts which makes the price hike totally worth it. The motorcycle still remains unbeatable in its performance and, with the added electronics and imposing stance, is much more desirable than before. Till the Beamer hits our shores, there’s nothing even remotely hampering the Duke 390’success. A well-deserved one at that as the value it brings to the table is unmatched!
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/33456227745/[/flickr]
Bright orange hand guards help identify the 2017 Duke 390 from a mile
What’s Cool
* Looks much better with top-notch paint and plastic quality
* Explosive performance, crazy acceleration and much better NVH levels
* Comfortable seats, surefooted handling and strong brakes
* That 5.0-inch colour TFT instrument cluster is to die for!
* Improved tank range is good for touring
* Feature-loaded, offers great value for the price
What’s Not So Cool
* Heating issue is still persistent despite a new radiator
* Though improved, fuelling is slightly choppy at low RPMs
* Taller stance not suited to short riders
* Concerns regarding long-term reliability of advanced electronics
Alternatives: Benelli TNT 300
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/33456224025/[/flickr]
Mirrors are positioned wider to provide a better field of view
2017 KTM Duke 390 Specifications
* Engine: 373.2cc, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke, Single-Cylinder
* Power: 43.5 HP @ 9000 RPM
* Torque: 37 Nm @ 7000 RPM
* Transmission: 6-speed with slipper clutch
* 0-100 km/hr: 5.78 seconds
* Top Speed: 165 km/hr
* Fuel Consumption: 22-28 km/l
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Frame: Split Trellis
* Suspension: 43 mm WP Open-Cartridge USD Forks (Front), WP Monoshock (Rear)
* Tyres: 110/70/17 (Front), 150/60/17 (Rear), Metzeler Sportec M5
* Brakes: 320 mm Disc (Front), 230 mm Disc (Rear), ABS
2017 KTM Duke 390 Dimensions
* Length x Width x Height: 2026 mm x 836 mm x 1267 mm
* Wheelbase: 1357 mm
* Ground Clearance: 185 mm
* Seat Height: 830 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.4-litres
* Kerb Weight: 163 kgs
[wp-review id=”190278″]
