KTM 390 Duke Test - Small Price, Big Features

The KTM 390 Duke is fitted with a single-cylinder engine producing 45 hp at 8500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 7000 rpm. That sounds fairly decent on paper, but the devil, as always, is in the detail. Martin Bauer, one of our experienced test riders, notes that the single in this small displacement fails to impress. The usable rev range is limited to roughly 2000 rpm above the mid-range window, and even then, in typical single-cylinder fashion, things don't really pick up further up top. Power delivery is inconsistent, pointing to a less-than-ideal engine setup. Zonko also confirms that the limited rev range and the harsh power delivery on upshifts dampen the riding pleasure. Despite these limitations, the engine offers a certain agility and sportiness that could well appeal to young, adventurous riders.

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During this test we rode a total of 10 bikes in direct comparison, even though the bikes were spread across different displacement classes. Nevertheless, we rated all the bikes using the same scoring scheme. The categories in the test protocol include aspects such as engine comfort and throttle response, revviness of the engine, grunt, engine power, gearbox, quickshifter, clutch, traction control regulation, traction control adjustability, switch quality and control logic. In addition, aspects such as stability, handling, precision, chassis quality and adjustment range, brake feel and brake performance were rated. Each test rider submitted their individual rating, which was then combined into an average value for each category and ultimately into an overall rating. The best bike in each category was rated "1", the worst bike in the category "10". For our readers these tables are interesting for two reasons. On the one hand, you can see in which areas individual bikes are above average and in which areas they are below average - always bearing in mind that the price and displacement classes vary greatly. On the other hand, you can click through all the reports and results here and compare your favorites directly with one another - regardless of price or displacement class.

The gearbox of the KTM 390 Duke is fitted with a quickshifter that in theory should allow seamless gear changes. In practice, however, upshifting is often accompanied by hard jolts, which both Zonko and Marek find annoying. While the blipper works well on downshifts and rolls smoothly into corners, the quickshifter disappoints on upshifts. Marek adds that the gearing isn't ideal for city traffic, as the engine becomes too flat in the higher gears at low rpm. This makes it harder to use the full rev range and requires more frequent shifting, which detracts from riding comfort.

The KTM 390 Duke scores with a wealth of electronic rider aids that are impressive for a bike in this class. These include cornering ABS, lean-angle-sensitive traction control and various riding modes such as Street, Rain and Sport. NastyNils praises the rider aids, which made it impossible for him to rattle the bike, even during extreme maneuvers on a wet road. These rider aids contribute significantly to rider safety and confidence, making the KTM 390 Duke a stable companion in everyday city traffic as well as on spirited rides. On the other hand, these rider aids can also be adjusted in many ways so you can pull off small stunts right away.

The ergonomics of the KTM 390 Duke are polarizing. Many riders describe the riding position as unusual and uncomfortable. Zonko finds the front-heavy stance disruptive and ill-suited to his riding style. Marek points out that taller riders have to tilt their head down to see the dashboard, which can become uncomfortable on longer rides. The bike feels compact and light, which could be an advantage for younger and smaller riders. Stunt rider Kurt Rubik, on the other hand, sees an advantage in the riding position for stunts and describes the Duke 390 as the ideal bike for wheelies and other tricks.

The chassis of the KTM 390 Duke is adjustable and offers adjustment options both at the front and rear. Martin Bauer praises the stability and good feedback of the chassis, although it's tuned on the firmer side and bumps come through more strongly. NastyNils appreciates the agile and playful handling, which really shines in city traffic and on twisty roads. Marek describes the handling as very easy, allowing him to throw the bike into corners effortlessly. The WP suspension contributes to the Duke's sportiness and agility, although it might feel a bit cramped for taller riders. Overall, the 390 Duke is a very playful fun bike. It appeals to riders who enjoy having fun in the saddle. This comes somewhat at the expense of comfort, which could also make beginners a bit nervous. Fact is: the Duke's design matches the bike's riding performance perfectly!

The brakes of the KTM 390 Duke are rated differently by the test riders. While NastyNils describes the braking performance as strong and reliable, Marek notes that the quality of the brake calipers isn't optimal. However, the ABS tuning and overall braking performance deserve positive mention, as they provide a high level of safety. Zonko reports good control and stability even during extreme braking maneuvers, making the Duke a reliable partner when it comes to brakes.

The KTM 390 Duke is a bike that can polarize. Its strengths lie in the extensive electronics package, the agile handling and its ability to serve as a fun bike for young riders. The firm riding position and the inconsistent engine tuning could, however, be off-putting for experienced riders. Nevertheless, the KTM 390 Duke offers plenty of riding pleasure, especially in an urban environment and on spirited rides. Its playful nature and good equipment make it an interesting candidate in the 2024 nakedbike segment. Anyone looking for a light, agile and technologically advanced bike suited to stunts and short rides will certainly enjoy the KTM 390 Duke. Overall, a clear rule applied to the Duke: the younger the riders and the greater their longing for wheelies, the more popular the 390 Duke was. Riders with more experience found the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 to be the better alternative!

The HJC RPHA 71 Carbon kept a cool head during this test. The helmet won over the 1000PS crew with its pleasantly neutral aerodynamics, which ensures fatigue-free riding even on longer stretches. Also worth highlighting is the effective ventilation and reliable heat dissipation on hot days. The carbon model not only looks super classy, it's also noticeably lighter than the base version of the RPHA 71. The visor mechanism with the additional sun visor works flawlessly. The fit is comfortable, and the shape covers a broad spectrum within the 1000PS editorial team - all of our editors felt comfortable wearing it! We give it our recommendation.

Link: https://hjchelmets.eu/products/rpha-71-carbon-solid

For this test, our riding gear partner IXS kitted us out with products from the current Sport collection. Our 1000PS editorial team has trusted the Swiss brand for more than 10 years now. Besides the build quality, what we like about IXS is that they always work with high-quality materials and an excellent fit. Even editors whose build doesn't fit the norm always find a well-fitting outfit thanks to the availability of long and short sizes. With advanced features such as airbag systems and electronically controlled membranes, they aim to offer the highest level of safety and comfort. We really like it!

Link: https://ixs.com/moto-sports-2024

Riding a bike in the Bucklige Welt offers an exceptionally appealing experience, underscored by the picturesque landscape of this region of Lower Austria. Characterized by gentle hills, sprawling meadows and idyllic little villages, the Bucklige Welt is the perfect terrain for motorcycle enthusiasts who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while also seeking twisty road riding pleasure. The varied routes lead through forested areas and past historic sights, turning every tour into a journey through the country's culture and history. Riding is especially rewarding in spring and autumn, when the landscape is bathed in a spectacular play of colors that stirs the senses and leaves unforgettable impressions. This makes the Bucklige Welt an insider tip for bikers seeking the authentic and original.