Production-ready test mules of the next-generation KTM 390 Duke suggest that the bike launch is imminent. The new KTM 390 Duke is likely to launch in India by mid-2023. The bike has been spotted multiple times in India as well as abroad.
The 2023 version of the bike comes with all-new bodywork. While KTM has redesigned most panels, the tank area is the most visible change. The new tank extensions are more prominent and sharper than before.
The headlight design also appears to be new, along with new-design seats and mirrors. Furthermore, KTM has improved the touchpoints of the bike as well.
The switchgear is also revised with a new Red coloured switch on the left side. This could be a hazard light button. The brake levers are of the non-adjustable kind, which seems odd as the current generation bike gets adjustable ones. On one of the test mules, note that one of the levers is black while the other is finished in a brushed metal finish. It could also mean that these are for testing purposes, and the bike would come with a different set of levers at launch.
Other features like TFT display with Bluetooth, dual-channel ABS and the bi-directional quick-shifter will likely be carried over. Expect traction control and IMU to be made available as well.
It remains to be seen if KTM will bump up the engine capacity to 399cc. While the spy images don’t reveal this information, the engine appears to be different from the one doing duty on the KTM 390. First up, the test bike gets a larger radiator with two fans instead of the single one of the current bike. This could, however, be for the 390 Adventure series.
The dual fan setup could mean a requirement of higher cooling, which could in turn, imply a higher power output. Whether KTM has just given the same engine with a higher state of tune or a new larger displacement engine remains to be seen.
Also Read – 2023 KTM 390 Duke new-generation model spotted in India.