What is the news?
KTM India has introduced a new 350cc version of the Duke 390 at Rs 2.77 lakh. The downsized variant of the Duke 390 sits below the existing 399cc model, now dubbed the Duke 390 R. KTM hasn’t discontinued the more powerful 399cc variant; it is offered alongside the 350cc variant as a hardcore version of the Duke 390 series.
What engine does the new motorcycle use?
The new model incorporates a 349cc engine derived from the bigger 399cc engine. KTM has managed to downsize the engine by reducing the stroke from 64mm to 56.15mm while the bore remains unchanged at 89mm.
The new 350cc-powered Duke produces 40.9bhp and 33.5 N · m. These numbers are lower than the 399cc 390 Duke R, which makes 45.3bhp and 39Nm
Why has KTM launched a 350cc version of the 390 Duke?
The foremost reason for KTM to introduce a downsized version is to benefit from the new tax regulation for the sub-350cc motorcycle. By bringing down the displacement under 350cc, KTM has managed to place the motorcycle in the e lower 18 per cent GST bracket, reducing the overall asking price by Rs 62,000 compared to the 399cc Duke R variant.
What features does the 350cc 390 Duke get?
While the 350cc variant features a stripped-down engine, KTM has not stripped the motorcycle down as far as the equipment goes. The Duke 390 continues to offer 17-inch wheels, WP suspension, single disc brakes at both ends, switchable dual-channel ABS and a Bluetooth-enabled TFT display.
The 350cc variant comes with its refreshed colour option, while the nomenclature for the paint option remains unchanged from the 399cc variant; they offer a very distinct graphical treatment.
What is the KTM 390 Duke R, and how is it different from the new 350cc model?
The KTM 390 Duke R is the current generation of the Duke 390 that continues to be powered by a more powerful 399cc engine. While the engine remains the same as the 2026 Duke 390 globally, and no significant power upgrades or tech upgrades are seen, KTM has cleverly designated an R badge to the much more expensive 399cc version.
This new nomenclature clearly distinguishes between the now standard 350cc powered Duke 390 and the much more powerful and expensive Duke 390 R sitting at the top of the Duke 390 hierarchy.
