KTM 490 Duke in the works; likely to produce around 60bhp!

- KTM 490 Duke and RC 490 in the pipeline

- Likely to be powered by 497cc, parallel-twin motor derived from the 250 Duke.

- Could be unveiled at the 2020 EICMA

KTM’s product portfolio was leaked recently, revealing the Austrian brand’s plans for the future. Apart from the 2020 RC 390 and the 490 Adventure, the documents also feature a 490 Duke and RC 490.

While reports suggest that the KTM 490 range will come powered by a 500cc, parallel-twin engine, we did our own bit of analysis and zeroed down to a more precise number. Given the way KTM develops their single and twin cylinder motors, we expect the 490 Duke and RC 490 to use a 497cc engine based on the KTM 250 Duke’s engine.

Based on the relatively high specific output of KTM engines, we expect the new 490 to produce around 60bhp of peak power. And since it will use similar engine parts as the 250 Duke including pistons, rings, valves and possibly connecting rods, KTM would benefit from higher economies of scales and therefore price the 490 Duke and RC 490 aggressively.

KTM is likely to produce the 490 Duke and RC 490 in India and globally unveil the motorcycle at the 2020 EICMA. If showcased then, the 490 range will make its way to India sometime in 2021.