Intermot 2016: KTM to display 2017 Duke and 800 Adventure range

KTM, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, has been slightly ahead of the curve when it comes to rolling out the Euro-IV updates that increasingly feature fat exhausts, weight gain and sometimes a slight drop in power. But KTM has two motorcycles that everyone is waiting for. These will debut at Intermot in Cologne, or at EICMA in Milan as 2017 models. These are the all-new 2017 390 Duke (and its smaller cousins) and the brand-new line of the KTM's 800 twins, a line likely to be born with the KTM 800 Adventure.

2017 KTM 390 Duke

As we are sure you have read absolutely everywhere by now, KTM is working towards replacing the current KTM 390 Duke that is on sale in India and all of KTM's global markets. This model is set to be revealed anytime now with sales likely to start around March 2017 in various markets. Like the current Duke models, the new 2017 model will also be manufactured by Bajaj Auto in Chakan.

KTM will replace the current model fully and the most striking change, naturally, is the design. The spyshots reveal a sleeker form that imbibes from the SuperDuke 1290 design from the tank extensions to the exposed trellis in the middle and the sharp little tail. Also, there is a completely new set of meters and reshaped, LED headlights.

A new Euro-IV engine is clear from the enormous exhaust on all the test mules. While many are expecting a power increase, we are going to be more realistic. The KTM might see a modest 1-2PS increase at best, which offsets the gain in weight from the Euro-IV equipment. However, we do expect dramatically improved refinement as well as rideability.

Chassis details are unknown at this time, but rumours say a new headstock and perhaps new steering geometry might calm the Duke down a little bit and make it feel more grown-up overall. Expect other derivative, including the RC as well as the oft-rumoured Adventure, to also follow the Duke into the market, and all three should be on sale by the middle of the 2019, our estimate.

2017 KTM Adventure range

KTM is expected to roll out Euro-IV engines and a hefty styling update to its adventure line. The changes start with the new twin headlamp unit which is expected to be LED powered as well as mark Kiska Design turning a corner in KTM design language. The test mules show a less aggressive design, and the bikes might appear smaller which is always helpful for new riders.

2017 KTM 800

Image source: Motorcycle

The new KTM 800cc twin is expected to show up before the year is over. Little is known but we know from KTM, ages ago, that the ability to manufacture this twin in a place like India was at least considered if not implemented. We expect KTM to start with an Adventure model or a Duke, and one of the two - but let's hope for both - should be at Intermot or EICMA 2016.