Upcoming KTM 390 Duke spotted again!

- Recently spotted in its probable factory colours

- Gets completely revamped design

- Could feature the same 373cc engine

A few days ago, we came across some spy shots of the upcoming KTM 390 Duke, painted in the Austrian brand's standard colours of blue and orange. Now, another test mule, though in camouflage, has been spotted. The latest spy shot reveals a few closer details of the bike. 

KTM is set to drastically change the 390 Duke’s design. While it will carry on the streetfighter cues, its bodywork is new and much more aggressive than the current model. Moreover, it seems to take inspiration from the larger 1290 Super Duke. So, the headlight unit is wider, the fuel tank extensions are sharper and longer, and the rear subframe is completely new. The side-slung exhaust will make way for an underbelly unit. 

That said, we expect KTM to use the same 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine in the next generation 390 Duke. In its current setup, the bike produces 42.9bhp at 9,000rpm and a peak torque of 37Nm and the engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox. The upcoming model may use the same power figures but experience a slight difference in the tuning. Even the gear ratio could be altered for a smoother drive overall, while the quickshifter and slipper clutch might remain untouched.

Another noteworthy change for the new Duke would be its hardware setup. While the WP USD front forks are likely to be retained, the rear shock is now offset, as seen in this image. Moreover, we expect the braking setup to be borrowed from the current-gen RC 390 as it gets a larger and lighter front and rear disc brake mounted on the new bionic alloys. The latter is also lighter than before. 

Meanwhile, the feature list is likely to comprise full LED illumination, and a TFT dash with smartphone connectivity and the necessary readouts. The rider aids could include switchable ABS, traction control, and cornering ABS as well. 

Currently, KTM retails the 390 Duke at Rs. 2,97,475 (ex-showroom, Delhi). But with all the aforementioned changes, it could cross the Rs. 3.2 lakh price tag. Once launched, it will rival the BMW G 310 R, Honda CB300R, QJ Motor SRK 400, and Bajaj Dominar 400. 

Source: iamabikerdotcom