KTM 390 Duke to be launched on June 25

OD Newsdesk Updated: June 19, 2013, 08:15 PM IST

2013 KTM 390 Duke

We've known for some time that the KTM 390 Duke would hit Indian markets in June. Now, it appears we have a proper date. A teaser image of the Duke 390, which says 'Soon to be launched', appeared on the company's Indian website last week. We've now received an invite for the launch event in Pune on the 25th of June.

The 390 Duke will come with a 373 cc liquid-cooled, fuel injected engine that pumps out 44PS and 35Nm of torque. Sharing similarities with its fraternal 200 Duke, the 390 weighs only 139 kg. The power to weight ratio (316Ps/tonne) is what makes the 390 a real hotshot, quite likely putting it in the same acceleration envelope as much larger bikes. It shares the looks of the 200 with a few distinguishing characteristics like a frame and wheels painted in the trademark KTM orange and a stickier set of Metzeler Sportec M5 tyres. Then, of course, there's the sticker saying '390'.

The 390 Duke comes with an all-new gearbox to handle the extra power and torque. The gearbox is specifically designed to distribute power more evenly and should make for a calmer riding motorcycle compared to its rather frantic little brother. The Metzeler tyres are a perfect addition to transfer all this power to the asphalt, and claim to offer better grip in both wet and dry conditions. ABS will also be stock on the 390.

The KTM 390 Duke could be priced between Rs 2 and 2.5 lakh, as the production has been greatly localised. Most parts of the bike are sourced from India and this will give Bajaj and KTM attractive cost benefits. Both, sales and service will be taken care of by Bajaj. The 390 Duke will be built in India and exported to all KTM markets globally.

Here is our KTM 390 Duke first ride

Here is our story on the KTM 390 Duke's chassis, suspension and tyre changes from the 200

Everything you needed to know about the KTM 390 Duke's engine is here

The 390 Duke's Nikasil-plated engine bore explained here

See how the KTM 390 Duke compares to the Ninja 300 in specs