Sharper, More Feature-packed KTM 390 Duke Spotted Testing

We already know what the next-gen KTM 250 and 125 Duke will look like. And it was just a matter of time before the Austrian bikemaker was seen testing the larger 390 Duke with similar updates. The 2022 390 Duke that has been spied testing overseas features similar design and mechanical updates as the 250 Duke. So you have more aggressive styling, premium hardware, and a few extra features. Here’s a closer look:

Just like the 250, the 390 Duke takes inspiration from the 890 Duke and the 1290 SuperDuke R. The overall styling with the revised bodywork is noticeably sharper than before. What’s a bit odd, though, is the left-hand side tank shroud. It comes with what looks like a recess that could be purposed to direct hot air away from the rider. However, this design element is absent on the right-hand side panel, which is quite unusual. The reasoning for this asymmetrical design element will be clear once the bike is revealed.

Other than this, the bike gets new radiator covers, a shorter rear fender, a sleeker LED tail lamp, and new rearview mirrors. A pair of handguards are likely to be part of the standard equipment as well.

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The new cast swingarm gives way for a side-mounted monoshock. Just like the 250 Duke, the 390 seems to be sporting an underbelly exhaust which appears to be rerouted for better ground clearance. 

The bike's hardware updates are quite significant as well. The trellis sub-frame is now a sleeker composite unit and the 5-spoke alloys are the same ones from the RC range, which should help shave some weight. The swingarm too has been completely redesigned and it looks a lot nicer now. 

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The redesigned engine casing suggests new internals which could mean one of two things: better refinement or improved performance figures. The current-gen model puts out 45PS and 37Nm.

The 2022 KTM 390 Duke is set to be unveiled early next year with an expected launch timeline of mid-2022. Considering the updates, we expect a substantial price hike.   

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