The next generation Duke 390 has a lot to live up to with the current generation model being a cult of sorts and certainly, KTM has done much of its work to keep the legacy going. By design, the Duke 390 witnesses an evolutionary change in styling with a sharper frame that continues to take the minimal route. The fuel tank has been completely redesigned and gets longer extensions overlapping the USD front forks. The headlight cluster is new sports split setup to incorporate the multi-beam lights.
The outgoing Duke 390 has been a 'bang for the buck' motorcycle
The frame has been tweaked on the 2017 KTM Duke 390 with the rear section being a bit shorter, while the LED tail light is integrated under the pillion seat. Furthermore, the new Duke 390 sports all-new switchgear as well as an all-digital instrument console that is likely to take inspiration from the new Duke 690. There will also be adjustable levers, DRLs and LED indicators. From the 2016 model year, KTM upgraded its Duke range to a side-mounted exhaust and the same will be carried over on the next generation version as well.
In terms of power, the singe-cylinder engine will be retained on the next generation KTM Duke 390, albeit with significant changes including improved power and torque output along with Ride-by-Wire. Reports also suggest that the new engine will get a second counter-balancer shaft like the updated Duke 690, which will help in reducing vibrations from the motor, while the ECU will also receive significant updates. An improved cooling system is also said to be in place on the new Duke 390.
Moving further, the 2017 Duke 390 will continue to use the best hardware in place including a WP sourced monoshock suspension setup, disc brakes at the front and rear with ABS and slipper clutch (introduced recently on the current version). The fantastic Metzeler tyres will continue to remain the contact point between the bike and tarmac.
The KTM Duke 390 celebrates a cult status of sorts in the Indian performance biking scene and despite new competition coming in, while also being a favoured option in global markets. The bike continues to be one of the most saleable motorcycles in the country and the 2017 version is expected to improve the same further, while making it an unmatched offering in terms of hardware.
Expect a price escalation of around 20,000-25,000 on the new Duke 390, while an official unveil is expected at the 2016 EICMA Show in Milan later this year, going by KTM's tradition of revealing products at the annual event. Surely, there's lots to look forward to from the Austrian offering next year as the updates will be carried over to the RC 390 as well. Expect to see a host of spy shots in the following months.