Nov 29, 2014 07:13 PM
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(Updated Nov 29, 2014 09:24 PM)
I must first confess something first. My review may be biased and will be running high on emotions. But that's the DUKE effect!
Don't blame me:)
As a person people say I am risk averse, stingy in nature and non decisive. (Keep this in mind as you read on)I had a honda CB trigger which again is a very nice commuter bike purchased by me with the thought it would be a perfect city / touring bike.
During my trip to coorg me and a friend of mine took a duke 200 and my trigger for a 2 day trip.
What a wonderful trip it was. This is when I was formally introduced to MR DUKE!
My first few KMs experience weren't too great as I was sliding all around the road not used to the handling.
Post 5-10Kms I really fell in love with it. Acceleration was phenomenal. I had to buy the Duke now. especially after seeing my Trigger struggling at top ends.
I came back and tested the 390. well craaaazzzzyyyy is what I called my first ride.
The brain stops functioning and your heart takes over control(Which should not happen to anyone). accelerate more n more until you sense the fear of what you are doing. Insanity ain't it?:)
Caution: But with this bike it can always be a recipe for a disaster:(
My friends and family were like "You would never buy this bike. its so expensive and you are too price conscious. non-decisive guy!
But the fact was I sold my Trigger and bought my Duke 390 within 3 weeks of my coorg trip.
Awesome isn't it?
Well then, Why the 390? Well this is why?
- Its the only bike on road at this price that boast of such a performance. I mean common
such accelerations? Aweeee.Awesome!
Its so stable even at top speeds of 145-150 range. Not sure many bikes in its range can boast of that.
Value is money: Such a wonderful engine, ABS, Metz tyres for 2lakhs+. No kidding. but it is true. Quality of the product is awesome. no cheap stuff.
And for once thanks to Hamara Bajaj;)
- People say its poor in traffic. Are you serious guys? Its cuts through em. Yes if you are stuck in traffic. you are in for
the heating sensation of the engine(But you should get used to it in no time)
It takes corners with ease. Rides through gravel, rains or any other terrain.its perfect with traction and stability.
The goody riders excuse me for this point but. its a perfect bike for rash riding;)
It gives its best during traffic maneuvers!
City rides could get a mileage of 23-28KMPL(Worst / Best) and Highways 30-33 KMPL.
Every day I take the bike out I learn and enjoy at least one thing new. Wonder how many bikes could make you feel that way.
Like my friend used to say " You cant tame it dear. it has its own way. you need to learn it:)
And he was right it would teach you the way.
Safest bike around. You cant fall from unless you are a jackass from the Gemini circus. Its super safe even for a novice.
A first gear pickup feeling of the old RX100 in 4 stroke? Yes that's the duke.
It does have its pain. .(And so does even a creation of GOD)
Engine heat up during traffic
Higher maintenance cost
Uncomfortable pillion seat for your GF's butt.
I would have preferred a bigger tank capacity for touring.
Spare parts are expensive
Even duke rider accessories have gone through the roof thanks to the duke cultism and demand(Me contributing to it too)
Don't think of buying this bike to show off to your next door or GF or any other #$@&. You will be disappointed.
But if you love riding, racing unconditionally. . this is it sir.
I must also add during the running in of the bike I was so engrossed into many of my long touring rides. so much so I completely forgot the surrounding, people around or anything. riding is such a pleasure to me and the DUKE 390 realizes it for me!
Before closing, I would like to add say "Not only will you love the bike in the city. you will love it even more touring and racing".
RIDE SAFE and keep the riding spirit alive!
Now get of your butt and get riding .:)
Cheers!
Prakash
