KTM 250 Duke ABS – What else can you buy

KTM has finally introduced ABS in the 250 Duke which now makes the company’s whole line-up compliant with the upcoming safety norm. The infusion of dual-channel ABS has raised its price by Rs 14,000 and now the bike costs Rs 1.94 lakhs (ex-showroom). The KTM 250 Duke ABS is positioned between its 200cc and 390cc siblings and there’s no other similarly styled rival around this price range. However, there are a few different type of motorcycles which can be considered. 

If you want your ride to be a fully-faired sportsbike, you can either choose TVS’ flagship, the Apache RR 310 or the more affordable and easy-going Honda CBR250R. Priced at Rs 2.17 lakhs, the TVS Apache RR 310 has a combative styling and is powered by a BMW-sourced 312.2cc, liquid-cooled motor that makes 33bhp and 27.3Nm. On the other hand, the Honda CBR250R can be bought for Rs 1.95 lakhs and it is more of a touring machine. Its 249.6cc, liquid-cooled engine churns out 25.7bhp and 22.9Nm. 

Moving on, there’s a trio of Royal Enfield bikes at a price similar to that of the 250 Duke ABS. The Royal Enfield Classic 500 and Thunderbird 500 are modern classic motorcycles while the Thunderbird 500X gets a more modern touch. They are priced at Rs 1.87 lakhs, Rs 1.90 lakhs and Rs 1.98 lakhs, respectively. Powering the bikes is a common 499cc, air-cooled motor that is good for 27.2bhp and 41.3Nm. 

You can also opt for a cruiser from the UM line-up – Renegade Commando, Renegade Classic and Renegade Mojave. Differentiated by looks, the three motorcycles are powered by the same 279.5cc, liquid-cooled mill that produces 24.8bhp and 23Nm. Meanwhile, if touring is on your agenda but in a profoundly modern way, go for the Mahindra Mojo XT300 which costs 1.83 lakhs. Boasting of a quirky styling, it is propelled by a 295cc, liquid-cooled engine that pumps out 26.45bhp and 30Nm of torque. 

(all prices are ex-showroom)