Next-gen KTM 250 Duke: What we know so far?

KTM is in the process of giving a major overhaul to its Duke series, as suggested by the recent spy images doing rounds on the internet. And the clearest pictures amongst these spotted bikes are that of the next-generation 250 Duke. While the launch of the new quarter-litre naked might still be some time away, there are some details we have already managed to decipher from the spy shots.

Fresh styling

The test mule of the 250 Duke was wearing unfinished body panels but the shape of its headlamp cowl and fuel tank extensions indicated a design overhaul. With the new lines and creases running across the body work, it looks inspired by its bigger siblings to some extent. The shape of the knuckle guards was also different from the existing ones in KTM’s accessory bin. To make things spicier, KTM will also introduce new colour options and graphics.

Added features

As opposed to the full-LED headlamp in the existing Duke, the spotted test mule was equipped with a halogen setup. However, demoting to a conventional lighting setup is unlikely and this might have been just for testing purpose. Another interesting element was a new larger console that could either be an LCD unit borrowed from the 250 Adventure or the full-colour TFT dash that comes in the 390 Duke and Adventure siblings. 

Revised hardware

Specifying the fact that this will be a major upgrade is the revised hardware package. While it will continue to be based on the split-type trellis frame, there are more crossbeams evident in the main frame that are likely to enhance its strength and rigidity. Meanwhile, the sub-frame is also a more compact and sleeker unit allowing for the accommodation of the new off-set monoshock. Even the swingarm features a new wavy design. 

Looking at the new engine crank case, it’s also confirmed that its 248.8cc, liquid-cooled mill has gone under the knife. The changes might result in more refinement, slightly more performance and better cooling. 

Pricing and launch

There’s no clarity on these two aspects, as of now. But the long list of updates hints at a hefty price hike. The existing iteration of the KTM 250 Duke retails at Rs 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). And it’s still in the testing phase, so an official announcement around early-2022 seems logical.

Spy Images: RideApart