2017 KTM 390 Duke spotted testing

The KTM 390 Duke has been a revelation for Indian two-wheeler enthusiasts.  It offered great performance, top-spec cycle parts while not costing a bomb to own and run. Despite being the benchmark in the segment and the fact that its rivals haven’t been able to catch-up with the KTM 390 Duke in terms of performance and pricing, the Austrian bikemaker is working on an update. KTM had announced that it will be replacing the 390 Duke in 2017 and spy pictures of the upcoming bike have been posted on the internet. The 2017 KTM 390 Duke was spotted testing in Spain. 

The 2017 KTM 390 Duke will undergo cosmetic changes as figured out from the camouflaged test mule. The fuel tank has been redesigned with larger tank extensions while the centre panels also are more compact to expose the trellis frame further. The rear section is petite in comparison to the existing model with integrated taillight unit. Also instead of the underbelly exhaust, the 2017 KTM 390 Duke will feature a conventional exhaust muffler as seen on the updated RC 390 that was showcased at 2016 EICMA motorcycle show.

Among the main reasons to update the KTM 390 Duke is the need to compile to the stringent Euro 4 emission norms. KTM hasn’t divulged any details regarding the engine but expect the new powerplant to be more powerful while being more efficient than the existing motor. We can expect the power figures to be between 45 to 50PS. Among the few negatives of the KTM 390 Duke is the engine vibrations developed by the single-cylinder mill. It is rumoured that the 2017 KTM 390 Duke will feature a second balancer shaft in the cylinder head similar to the new KTM 690 Duke and this should help in reducing the vibes from the motor. Goodies like slipper clutch, ride-by-wire and ABS will be offered on the next generation KTM 390 Duke. We can expect the 2017 KTM 390 Duke to be showcased at the 2016 EICMA motorcycle show in Italy with a probable India launch by the first half of 2017. Pricing for the new KTM 390 Duke is expected to go up marginally with the new updates.