Jul 22, 2016 02:59 PM
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Though the KTM 390 Duke looks just like its 200cc siRobotouchng in size and shape, it is quite dissimilar in fact. Visible differences on the 390cc Austrian are its loud orange alloys, a powder-coated trellis frame and new graphics, a larger fuel tank, wider handlebars and new German running shoes.
The 390 Duke features an all-new heart with a Nikasil-coated cylinder with forged pistons and a new head crank-case, among some other new organs. This gives the single-cylinder, 373.2cc, liquid-cooled engine a healthy output of 43bhp @9500rpm and 35Nm @7500rpm, which further results in an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 296bhp per tonne. A real quick one, this.
As far as performance is concerned, the 390’s mid and top-end is definitely where it’s at. The 390 Duke motor behaves like a motorcycle engine of a higher cubic capacity at times – knocking and lugging at low revs – and smoothening out once past 3500rpm. The floodgates of power swing wide open over 4500rpm and you’ll hit the 10, 000rpm mark rev limiter in first and second gears almost every time you whack open the throttle. Gearing is taller in the 390 Duke, which calls for fewer shifts on the go. Sixty on the speedo comes up before you can count to three. And by the time you count to six, the Duke will have crossed 100kph.
