KTM Duke390 2025 Review

 **2025 KTM Duke 390 Review: The Return of the Streetfighter King**

After a nine-year absence from the Team-BHP review forums, the KTM Duke 390 returns with its 2024 iteration, ready to reclaim its crown as the preeminent streetfighter in the Indian motorcycling scene. Since its first launch in 2013, the Duke 390 has been a segment-defining motorcycle, offering unmatched performance, aggressive design, and accessible pricing. Now, KTM has upped the ante with a comprehensive overhaul, promising an even more thrilling and sophisticated riding experience. 

**Design and Styling: Sharper, Leaner, Meaner**

The 2024 Duke 390 makes a striking first impression. KTM’s design language is unmistakable – the motorcycle looks leaner and sharper than ever. The angular new LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank extensions, and exposed trellis frame all give it an aggressive, futuristic stance. The new two-piece seat sits lower, giving the bike a crouched, ready-to-pounce profile. KTM offers bold new colour schemes and graphics, ensuring the Duke remains one of the most visually arresting motorcycles in its class.

**Ergonomics and Comfort: Tailored for Performance**

KTM has revised the ergonomics for 2024, making the Duke 390 more accessible to a wider range of riders. The seat height is now slightly lower at 800mm, which, combined with a narrower seat design, makes it easier for shorter riders to plant their feet. The handlebars are wider and more upright, striking a balance between sporty aggression and all-day rideability. The new split seats are well-padded and offer improved comfort, both for the rider and pillion.

**Engine and Performance: Evolved Powerhouse**

At the heart of the 2024 Duke 390 is an all-new 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing a class-leading 45 PS and 39 Nm of torque. This is a notable jump from the outgoing model, and the result is instantly noticeable on the throttle. The engine feels more refined, with a smoother power delivery throughout the rev range. KTM has worked extensively on NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels, leading to a more polished and less buzzy riding experience.

The six-speed gearbox is slick, and KTM’s Quickshifter+ (standard on the 2024 model) provides seamless clutchless upshifts and downshifts. The slipper clutch further aids in aggressive downshifting, particularly useful for spirited riding.

**Chassis and Handling: Sharpened Dynamics**

KTM has always prided itself on delivering razor-sharp handling, and the new Duke 390 is no exception. The lightweight trellis frame is now paired with a new aluminum subframe, improving rigidity and reducing overall weight. The wheelbase is slightly longer, providing more stability at high speeds without sacrificing the bike’s famed agility.

The suspension setup is a highlight: the front gets a 43mm WP Apex USD fork with adjustable compression and rebound, while the rear monoshock is preload and rebound adjustable. This allows riders to fine-tune the suspension for their weight and riding style – a feature rarely seen in this segment.

On the road, the Duke 390 feels light on its feet, flicking confidently from corner to corner. The improved suspension soaks up most road imperfections while maintaining superb composure during aggressive riding. The new Michelin Road 5 tyres offer excellent grip, further inspiring confidence.

**Braking and Safety: Top-Tier Equipment**

Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, both from ByBre, with dual-channel ABS (switchable to Supermoto mode) as standard. The bite and progression from the brakes are excellent, and the bike comes to a stop with authority. Supermoto ABS allows the rider to disable rear ABS for controlled slides, adding to the fun on track days or twisty roads.

The 2024 Duke 390 also features an updated electronics suite, including cornering ABS, traction control, and multiple ride modes (Street, Rain, and Track). These features, once reserved for much more expensive motorcycles, make the Duke 390 one of the most technologically advanced bikes in its class.

**Instrumentation and Features: Packed to the Brim**

The 2024 Duke 390 gets a new 5-inch full-colour TFT display, which is crisp, bright, and easy to read. The user interface is intuitive, and the switchgear is tactile and well-finished. Bluetooth connectivity allows for turn-by-turn navigation, call and message alerts, and music controls – features that are genuinely useful in daily riding.

Lighting is all-LED, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators. The bike also comes with a standard USB charging port, adjustable levers, and a side-stand engine cut-off for added safety.

**Ride Experience: Everyday Thrills**

On the road, the new Duke 390 is nothing short of exhilarating. The engine’s punchy mid-range and strong top-end rush make highway overtakes effortless, while the tractable low-end ensures city commutes are equally enjoyable. The refined engine and improved ergonomics mean the bike is no longer just a weekend toy – it’s genuinely comfortable for daily use and longer rides alike.

Heat management has seen significant improvements, with redesigned radiator shrouds and optimized coolant flow keeping engine temperatures in check, even in heavy traffic.

**Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs**

While performance is the Duke’s focus, KTM claims improved fuel efficiency thanks to better combustion and electronic management. Real-world figures hover around 27-30 km/l, depending on riding style. Service intervals have been extended, and KTM’s extensive dealer network ensures peace of mind for ownership and maintenance.

**Pricing and Competition**

Priced at Rs. 3.11 lakh (ex-showroom), the 2024 Duke 390 faces competition from the TVS Apache RR 310, BMW G 310 R, Honda CB300R, and the upcoming Triumph Speed 400. While each rival offers unique strengths, none can quite match the Duke’s blend of performance, technology, and dynamic prowess.

**Verdict: The King is Back**

The 2024 KTM Duke 390 is not just a facelift – it’s a comprehensive evolution of a modern legend. With sharper design, a more powerful and refined engine, sophisticated electronics, and improved comfort, the new Duke 390 sets new benchmarks for the segment. Whether you’re a city commuter, a weekend canyon carver, or an occasional track enthusiast, the Duke 390 delivers thrills and versatility in equal measure. KTM has listened to rider feedback and addressed previous shortcomings, making this the most complete and compelling Duke 390 yet. 

If you’re in the market for a premium, high-performance streetfighter, the 2024 KTM Duke 390 remains the undisputed king of the hill.

Exhaust Note 👇👇