2023 KTM 390 Duke: What we know so far

The next-generation KTM 390 Duke was recently spotted in India during its pre-production test runs. The spy photographs revealed several details about the motorcycle and here we tell you everything that we know so far about the next-gen KTM 390 Adventure.

Styling

The spy images show that the design of the next-gen KTM 390 Duke is a noticeable step-up over the current model. The styling cues on the upcoming model, which clearly draw inspiration from the new 1290 Super Duke R, will include a new shape for the headlight, a more muscular fuel tank, and lighter alloy wheels. These alloy wheels look similar to the units available on the latest iteration of the RC 390 and 390 Adventure. Another noticeable change is the swingarm on the next-gen 390 Duke which features an all-new design and is accompanied by an off-set rear monoshock.

We expect KTM to revise the colour palette and graphics on the new model. The details are unavailable yet but we won’t be surprised to see KTM Factory Racing Blue on the next-gen model. This paint option is already available on the 2022 RC 390 and 2022 390 Adventure.

Hardware

The suspension setup will be revised too and the next-gen 390 Duke, as mentioned above, will use a new design for the swingarm and an asymmetrically mounted rear monoshock. The shock absorption duties at the front would be handled by upside-down front forks. That said, the international-spec model will most likely receive adjustable front forks while the India-bound version will feature non-adjustable units – a strategy that we have already seen on the 2022 RC 390 and 2022 390 Adventure. The braking setup will retain single discs on both wheels.

Features

The next-gen model will retain features such as full-LED lighting and a Bluetooth-enabled instrument cluster from the current 390 Duke. It will also carry forward the dual-channel ABS setup and a quickshifter. However, we may see improvements in the form of cornering ABS and lean-sensitive traction control system on the next-generation model.

Engine

The mechanical specifications are not likely to change as the motorcycle already complies with the BS6 emission norms. Thus, the next-gen 390 Duke will retain the 373.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor. Linked to a six-speed gearbox, the engine is tuned to produce 42.9bhp at 9,000rpm and 37Nm of peak torque at 7,000rpm on the existing model. We expect to see new engine maps and a bigger airbox similar to the unit on the RC 390.

Expected Launch Details

The motorcycle is currently undergoing pre-production test runs and it is unlikely to debut this year. We expect KTM to unveil the motorcycle towards the end of this year while the launch may happen in 2023. The added features and equipment will push the prices higher and the next-gen 390 Duke will retail at a higher ex-showroom tag than the current model.

Spy Image Source