The KTM 390 Tourer was spotted testing alongside the 1290 Super Duke based tourer as well as a Duke 125 based tourer with the launch expected in 2016.
Despite the numerous speculations, the KTM Duke 390 based Adventure motorcycle was a no show this year with the company negating reports of developing such a motorcycle anytime soon. However, the Austrian manufacturer has certain other plans in mind and has commenced testing an all-new tourer motorcycle based on the Duke 390 motorcycle. The new tourer was spotted testing in Spain alongside the touring versions of the Super Duke 1290 as well as the Duke 125 motorcycles.
Unfortunately though only the Super Duke 1290 could be photographed, while details on the Duke 390 and 125 based tourer were witnessed by the photographers. Both the new tourers feature revised rider rear-sets, different sub-frame and different indicators. The 390 also featured a side-mounted exhaust as opposed to the underbelly unit seen on the street-fighter and full faired models. While KTM did state earlier that the Duke platform was good for nakeds and sport bikes, it now seems to have come around that problem with some alterations.
In terms of power, we expect the 373cc single-cylinder engine to continue performing its duty on the tourer version as well, while the design will be inspired from the bigger tourers in the manufacturer’s lineup. Coming to the Super Duke 1290 based tourer, the test mule spotted received an extended pillion seat, windscreen, new headlight cluster and a raised handlebar providing an upright seating position. Power is expected to come from the same 1301cc engine as on the Super Duke, while gear ratios could be reworked for the touring machine.
With the Duke 390 based tourer being developed, KTM will finally offer the much awaited mean touring machine to riders on a budget. While the automaker has confirmed that no such product is scheduled for launch next year, KTM is most likely to introduce the motorcycle in 2016. Keeping up with tradition, an EICMA unveil can also be expected from the Austrian manufacturer. With the Duke 390 already produced at the KTM-Bajaj facility in Pune, the tourer has a very good chance of being sold in the country and will be a one-of-its-kind offering in the segment.
Source – Visor Down