The KTM 390 Duke changed the 300-400cc streetfighter game in 2014, and nearly a decade later, it still offers an excellent blend of punchy power, modern features, and edgy looks. But 2023 marks the sixth year of the current-generation Duke and it has received no major updates in between. That’s about to change though, as the Austrian giant is readying an overhauled 390 Duke for the next model year, which has now been spied in a production-ready avatar. Here’s the lowdown.
The New KTM 390 Duke Has A Sharper, Edgier Design
One look at the spy shots, and the new Duke looks a lot brawnier than before. Up top, there’s an all-new fascia, inspired by KTM’s flagship 1290 Super Duke, complete with a slimmer fender. This is flanked by sharper-than-ever tank shrouds that extend beyond the forks and even feature small aerodynamic cutouts. A similar remodel takes place outback, courtesy of a new aluminum subframe (instead of the trellis) as well as a new T-shaped LED. You can also spot the new five-spoke wheels–the same as the new RC 390.
Design aside, a closer look reveals the Duke’s new TFT instrument cluster. It’s not the rectangular unit on the current model, but KTM’s new unit (seen on the 2023 890 Adventure) that has a refreshed layout for better visibility. Expect this display to boast smartphone connectivity, traction control, ride modes, and a bi-directional quickshifter, all as standard.
The New KTM 390 Duke Has A Refreshed Engine
With KTM’s 450cc plans scrapped, it’s safe to assume the Duke will continue with its single-cylinder engine. Not without some notable tweaks, however. For starters, we can spot a new header that exits out to an under-belly exhaust, unlike the current side-mounted unit. In addition, the engine cases are all-new, which is a subtle hint at an increase in its cubic capacity. It probably won’t cross the 400cc mark, but a bigger engine means more refinement and possibly more horsepower. For reference, the current Duke has 43 ponies which is less than its arch-rival, the Kawasaki Z400.
As for underpinnings, the new model rides on WP Apex upside-down forks and a now-offset monoshock, paired with the RC 390-derived brakes and wheels. These, coupled with the new asymmetric swingarm, should mean even sharper riding dynamics for the already swift naked. We don’t expect its 330-pound dry weight to change by much, however.
The New KTM 390 Duke Will Debut Soon
Since the spy shots show a near-ready motorcycle, the new 390 Duke’s launch seems imminent. As always, it’ll first hit Indian and European markets, followed by America, likely by late 2023. And once here, expect it to breach the $6,000 mark, as it has a $5,899 MSRP as we speak. This is already $500 more than the Kawasaki Z400.