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All-new 2020 KTM 390 Duke starts testing, could debut later this year

Written by Parichay Malvankar

Well, what can we say. This is a surprise. While we all are still waiting for the KTM 390 Adventure, and also the new RC 390 was spotted a few months back, nobody expected that the already radical KTM 390 Duke was due for a model change. And first spyshots have emerged online of the all-new motorcycle which could be announced as a 2020 model. Since the prototype is already on the streets and in running condition, one can expect that KTM might showcase the 2020 390 Duke at the EICMA show later this year in Milan.

From the spyshots, we can note that the LED headlamp remains the same. But this could be a temporary fix just so that people do not get to know all about the changes. Most definitely, the headlamp will be an all LED unit, but will have a new shape. Other changes which one can notice includes a new fuel tank, new split seat design, new LED tail lamp which is now mounted on the rear mudguard along with the LED turn indicators. The full digital LCD speedo console seems to remain the same. Even the switchgear and the current side-slung exhaust seems to be carrier over.

What is interesting is the all-new chassis which is exposed. KTM seems to have developed a new chassis for the 2020 390 Duke. The rear subframe also looks different and even the aluminium swing arm has been worked upon. Alloy wheels however remain the same. Another noticeable change is the exhaust system. Since this is a 2020 model, the bike will be worked to meet the upcoming emission norms. The exhaust pipe does look different in comparison. Have a detailed look on the mechanicals, and one can easily spot the differences compared to the current KTM 390 Duke on sale.

KTM 390 Duke currently has a 373.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, fuel-injected petrol motor which produces 42.91 HP of power and 37 Nm of torque. It is rumoured that the new bike might get revisions to the cylinder head and other engine components which will not only make the bike more efficient, but even the performance output might be enhanced. Some say that the 2020 KTM 390 Duke might also shred some weight. Expect changes to the suspension & brakes as well. Since the latest rival, the Honda CB300R comes with ABS + IMU, expect KTM to have some party trick up its sleeve as well.

For 2020, we do not expect KTM to hike prices by a big margin for the 390 Duke. It has been the benchmark ever since its launch here in India, and even in the world. And we’re sure KTM will like to continue their strong product positioning with this bike.

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