2017 KTM 390 Duke: FIRST LOOK
Rennie Scaysbrook | November 8, 2016
Just like big bro 1290 – imagine riding one of these to school at 16-years-old?!
Two years after it was released in the U.S., the KTM 390 Duke will get a revamp from the boys and girls in Mattighofen, Austria.
The 390 has proven hugely successful thanks to its user friendly engine and sharp and aggressive styling, so it’s a formula KTM isn’t messing with too much. The engine remains the same 373cc single-cylinder four-stroke, but it now comes with a Ride-by-Wire throttle, slipper clutch, and the tank capacity has been increased to 3.5-gal.
There’s a new 43mm WP fork, new brakes created in conjunction with Brembo (they’re called Bybre (as in By Brembo, which is a subsidiary company) with a larger 320mm disc, and the frame has come in for a nip and tuck with the subframe now exposed under the new seat and passenger perch.
Much of the change has gone into the aesthetics to keep it looking sharp and appealing to younger riders out there. Up front is a new LED headlight and the dash is a similar TFT-display unit found on the larger capacity Dukes and Adventure models. The new 390 will also have the option of the KTM MY RIDE system that pairs your phone to the bike via Bluetooth to control incoming calls via the dash.
2017 KTM 390 Duke Key Points
- Powerful single cylinder, 4-stroke, 373.2 cc DOHC engine, electronic fuel injection, 3-way catalytic converter and balancer shaft, slipper clutch and now with Ride-By-Wire for a smoother and more refined response.
- New ultralight trellis frame now features a bolt-on rear subframe in contrasting colors.
- New top quality 43 mm open-cartridge front forks by WP Suspension for excellent response and stability.
- New powerful brake system developed in cooperation with Brembo features a larger, 320 mm front brake disc for increased stopping power and feel.
- New sharp aggressive styling runs from the front to the rear for a look that is pure DUKE.
- New LED headlight and LED daytime running lights.
- New multifunctional dashboard with full-color TFT display is bright and clear.
- New optional dealer-installed KTM MY RIDE allows for Bluetooth connection to control incoming calls and audio player through the TFT display.
- New adjustable levers allow for proper reach to accommodate a variety of hand sizes.
- New larger steel tank steel tank increases the 390 DUKE’s fuel capacity to 3.5 gallons.
- New revised rider and passenger seats for improved ergonomics and style.
- New side-mounted exhaust system for increased cornering clearance and style.
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