KTM 250 Duke

The KTM 250 Duke is one of the most popular models in the country and stands out with its superlative performance and attractive design. 

How is the design? 

The KTM 250 Duke looks better in person and the headlamp and bodywork contribute towards scaling up its appeal greatly. The bike is smaller and lighter in its latest iteration, while coming with sharp body edges and a more premium look. The steel tank is also a nice touch while the design template also incorporates a longer seat for the rider. There is a new extension for the tank which enables sufficient space to slide ahead and also come back a little. 

How is the performance? 

The KTM 250 Duke comes with a 248.8 cc engine that makes 30 PS and 24 Nm of maximum torque. The engine offers better refinement and higher torque than the earlier version and is silent mostly between 4,000-8,000 RPM. This ensures higher smoothness overall for the ride. The bike revs smoothly till the red line and power delivery is also smooth enough. This engine can also maintain speeds and can be pushed without feeling out of breath. Roll-on acceleration takes care of riding at slower speeds without the need to get into down-shifting. The slipper clutch also lowers overall clutch-based efforts considerably. 

How does the KTM 250 Duke ride?

The KTM 250 Duke offers better ride quality and comes with added suspension reinforcements and a new open cartridge fork in front. There is also a capable monoshock at the rear. The bike can take bumps and potholes better this time and it retains control over various surfaces as well. Ride and handling have considerably improved while the MRF tyres do a good job although grip levels could have been better as well. The motorcycle also feels responsive overall and its cornering abilities are also great. The bike comes with good braking and the 300mm disc in front comes from the KTM 200 Duke. However, brake force access is not always easy to come by. 

How comfortable is the KTM 250 Duke?

The KTM 250 Duke offers reasonable comfort levels while riding. The bike offers a good seating position and the ergonomics are otherwise quite decent. 

Tech

The KTM 250 Duke comes with a digital instrument cluster with daytime running lights, a speedometer, tachometer, stand alarm, fuel gauge, digital trip meter, low oil or fuel indicator, and electric start. 

How’s the mileage? 

The KTM 250 Duke offers fuel economy of approximately 30 kmpl on city roads and 35 kmpl at highway speeds. 

Does the KTM 250 Duke offer good value for money? 

The KTM 250 Duke offers decent value for buyers in the segment. It comes with great performance, a smooth and responsive engine and good features as well. The motorcycle is one of the best options at this price point and carries immense brand value at the same time. 

How is the after sales service? 

The service intervals for the KTM 250 Duke are 1,000 kilometres, 5,000 kilometres, and 9,500 kilometres. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The KTM 250 Duke takes on the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Bajaj Dominar 250, and the Yamaha FZ25. 

Verdict (Is it Value for Money)

The KTM 250 Duke offers a value proposition for most buyers in its category. It come with the style, power, and features that buyers automatically expect from the brand, muscling out many of its rivals with ease and offering an otherwise fun and sporty ride for both shorter and longer distances. It should continue its successful run in the Indian market for quite some time to come.