Quick Analysis
Bajaj Dominar 250
9.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 890 DUKE R
17.5 pts
Unweighted: 11 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid‑cooled | Liquid cooled with water/oil heat exchanger |
| Displacement | 248.77 cc | 889 cc |
| Engine Type | Single Cylinder, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valve, Twin Spark, FI | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin |
| Power | 19.85 kW (27 PS) @ 8,500 rpm | 89 kW @ 9250 rpm |
| Torque | 23.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | 99 Nm @ 7750 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 L | 14 L |
| Mileage | 35.03 Kmpl | 21 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 180 | 180 |
| Seat Height | 800 | 834 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual Channel ABS |
| Front Brake | 300 mm Disc with Abs | 2 x Brembo Stylema Monobloc four piston, radially mounted caliper - 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | USD telescopic fork, 43 mm | WP APEX 43 |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc with Abs | Brembo single-piston floating calliper, brake disc - 240mm |
| Rear Suspension | Nitrox mono-shock, 110 mm travel | WP APEX - Monoshock |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 100/80–17 Tubeless | 120/70 - ZR17 |
| Rear Tyre | 130/70–17 Tubeless | 180/55 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | Full‑LED with AHO | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V, 8 Ah VRLA | 12V / 10AH |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Citrus.avif | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Red-7.avif | — |
| Cluster | Digital LCD w/ turn-by-turn navigation | — |
| Color Options | Canyon Red | #B32025 Sparkling Black | #1C1C1C Citrus Rush | #C7D300 | Atlantic Blue | #2F5D7C, #FF6600 |
| Cons | Heavier Than Most Rivals – The motorcycle's kerb weight is noticeably higher than many competing 250cc motorcycles, which can affect low-speed manoeuvrability. Engine Feels More Relaxed Than Sporty – While refined, the engine focuses on smoothness and usability rather than aggressive acceleration and high-rev excitement. Weight Noticeable in City Traffic – Frequent stop-and-go traffic and tight parking situations may require more effort compared to lighter motorcycles. Limited Fuel Tank Capacity for Touring – Although suitable for highway rides, the 13-litre fuel tank is smaller than what some touring-oriented riders may prefer. Feature Updates Have Been Gradual – Some competitors offer more advanced electronics, riding modes, or traction control systems depending on the price range. Pillion Comfort Could Be Better on Long Trips – The rear seat is adequate for daily use, but some passengers may prefer additional cushioning for extended journeys. Not as Agile as Lightweight Street Bikes – The motorcycle prioritizes stability and comfort, which means it can feel less nimble than lighter sport-oriented alternatives. Maintenance Costs Higher Than Entry-Level Commuters – Routine maintenance and consumables are generally more expensive than those of smaller-capacity commuter motorcycles. | High seat height: 834 mm seat height may not be ideal for shorter riders. Limited wind protection: As a naked bike, there’s minimal fairing, so windblast can be fatiguing on fast highway rides. Premium running costs: High-performance parts (tires, brakes) and maintenance could be expensive. Potential reliability concerns: Some users report cam wear or top-end issues over time. Ergonomics trade-off: Sporty, aggressive ergonomics may be tiring over very long rides. Price: Being a high-spec naked bike, its cost is on the higher side, which might limit its appeal to more performance-focused buyers. |
| Detailed Overview | Positioned as a sports tourer in the 250cc motorcycle segment, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to accommodate both daily commuting and long-distance riding requirements. Drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the Dominar 400, the motorcycle combines touring-oriented ergonomics, premium hardware, and a liquid-cooled engine within a package intended for riders seeking versatility. Its design emphasizes stability, comfort, and practicality while incorporating features commonly associated with larger-capacity touring motorcycles. The Dominar 250 features a muscular and substantial appearance characterized by a sculpted fuel tank, split-seat layout, exposed perimeter frame, and LED lighting system. The front end incorporates a compact windscreen positioned above the LED headlamp, helping direct airflow around the rider during highway journeys. Sharp body panels and minimalistic graphics contribute to a modern design, while the overall proportions create a larger visual presence compared to many motorcycles in the quarter-litre category. The motorcycle’s styling reflects its touring-oriented purpose without adopting the aggressive ergonomics of a dedicated sport bike. Powering the Dominar 250 is a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine produces approximately 27 PS of power and 23.5 Nm of torque. Liquid cooling assists in maintaining stable operating temperatures during prolonged rides and varying weather conditions, while fuel injection helps ensure consistent throttle response and fuel delivery. The engine is tuned to provide a broad spread of usable power, making it suitable for city commuting, highway cruising, and overtaking manoeuvres. A six-speed transmission allows riders to utilize the available performance efficiently across different riding situations. The motorcycle is built around a perimeter frame chassis that contributes to structural rigidity and handling stability. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock suspension setup. This combination is designed to absorb road imperfections while maintaining composure over varying surfaces. The suspension tuning focuses on balancing comfort and control, enabling the motorcycle to manage both urban roads and extended highway journeys. The relatively long wheelbase further contributes to stability, particularly at higher speeds. Braking performance is provided by disc brakes at both ends, supported by dual-channel ABS as standard. The anti-lock braking system helps prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking situations and assists riders in maintaining control on different road surfaces. The motorcycle also features an assist and slipper clutch, which reduces clutch lever effort and improves stability during rapid downshifts. The Dominar 250 incorporates several modern features aimed at improving rider convenience. A fully digital instrument cluster displays speed, fuel level, trip information, gear position indication, and other ride-related data. A secondary display mounted near the fuel tank provides additional information and navigation-related functions. Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation support are available on recent versions, allowing smartphone integration for enhanced functionality. LED lighting is used throughout the motorcycle, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. Rider comfort remains a key aspect of the motorcycle’s design. The upright riding position, wide handlebar, and centrally positioned footpegs create an ergonomic layout suitable for longer journeys. The seat height of approximately 800 mm accommodates a wide range of riders, while the split-seat arrangement provides adequate space for both rider and passenger. A 13-litre fuel tank further supports touring duties by offering a practical riding range between refuelling stops. With its liquid-cooled 248.77cc engine, premium suspension components, dual-channel ABS, navigation features, and touring-friendly ergonomics, the Bajaj Dominar 250 combines performance, comfort, and practicality in a package tailored to riders seeking a versatile 250cc sports tourer. | The KTM 890 Duke R is built with a focus on keeping the motorcycle compact and responsive, and this is reflected in how its components are arranged. It uses an 889cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 121 bhp and 99 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and includes a quickshifter and slipper clutch, which help reduce effort during gear changes. The throttle is controlled through a ride-by-wire system, which adjusts the engine response based on input. The bike is supported by a steel trellis frame that keeps the structure rigid while helping manage weight. With a kerb weight of around 180 kg, it remains relatively light for its category. The seat height is approximately 834 mm, and the 14-litre fuel tank is shaped to fit into the riding position without adding too much bulk. The riding stance is slightly forward-leaning, with wide handlebars that provide control during turns. Suspension duties are handled by WP Apex components. The front uses upside-down forks, while the rear gets a monoshock setup. Both ends are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound, allowing changes based on road conditions. The bike runs on alloy wheels fitted with wide tyres, which influence grip and stability during riding. Braking is managed by twin discs at the front and a single disc at the rear. The system includes dual-channel ABS, along with features like cornering ABS and traction control, which help maintain balance under braking and while riding on different surfaces. These systems work automatically in the background. The electronics package includes a TFT display that shows ride modes, system settings and other basic information. It also supports features like cruise control and smartphone connectivity. The design follows a naked layout with minimal bodywork and exposed mechanical parts, keeping the overall structure simple and focused on its intended use. |
| Expert Review | Built around a 248.77cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, the Bajaj Dominar 250 is designed to balance everyday usability with long-distance touring capability. The engine delivers smooth and predictable performance, with a strong emphasis on refinement and accessible power delivery rather than outright sportiness. Its perimeter frame, upside-down front forks, and rear monoshock contribute to stable handling and confident highway manners, while the upright riding position and well-cushioned seat support rider comfort during extended journeys. Dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and a digital instrument cluster with navigation support add modern functionality, while the motorcycle's touring-friendly design allows riders to comfortably cover longer distances. The relatively high kerb weight provides stability at speed but can feel noticeable in congested traffic and low-speed manoeuvres. Overall, the Dominar 250 combines touring-oriented comfort, premium hardware, and practical performance within the 250cc sports tourer segment., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team | In a market where most premium motorcycles are either fully faired superbikes or relaxed cruisers, the KTM 890 Duke R takes a different route by focusing on a lighter, more aggressive naked format. Its parallel-twin engine and compact design make it feel more suited to riders who prefer sharp handling and quick responses rather than straight-line speed alone. In India, where road conditions and traffic can vary a lot, this kind of setup makes sense for those who want performance but still need some level of control in tighter spaces. At the same time, its positioning places it in a niche where buyers are already familiar with high-performance machines and are looking for something that offers a different riding feel. It also reflects how the premium segment in India is slowly expanding beyond traditional choices, with more riders exploring motorcycles that focus on handling and rider engagement rather than just engine size., 4.3, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle is powered by a 248.77cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Bajaj Dominar 250 suitable for touring? A: Yes. The comfortable ergonomics, stable chassis, windshield, and refined engine make it suitable for long-distance highway touring. Q: What mileage does the Dominar 250 deliver? A: Most owners report real-world fuel efficiency between 30–38 kmpl, depending on riding conditions, speed, and maintenance. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Dominar 250? A: The motorcycle comes with a 13-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have dual-channel ABS? A: Yes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard equipment. Q: What is the seat height of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: The seat height is approximately 800 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Is the Dominar 250 beginner-friendly? A: Riders with some basic riding experience can adapt to it comfortably, although the motorcycle's weight may require some familiarisation for complete beginners. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have Bluetooth connectivity and navigation? A: Yes. Recent versions offer Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation through the digital console. Q: What is the top speed of the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: Under suitable conditions, the motorcycle can achieve approximately 130–140 km/h, depending on rider weight, weather, and road conditions. Q: How is the Dominar 250 different from the Dominar 400? A: The Dominar 250 uses a smaller engine, produces less power, and is generally more accessible for everyday riding, while the Dominar 400 offers stronger performance and higher touring capability. Q: Does the Dominar 250 have a slipper clutch? A: Yes. The motorcycle features an assist and slipper clutch, which helps reduce clutch effort and improves stability during downshifts. Q: Is the Dominar 250 comfortable for a pillion rider? A: Yes. The spacious rear seat and supportive grab rails provide reasonable comfort for passengers on daily rides and occasional tours. Q: What type of motorcycle is the Bajaj Dominar 250? A: It is classified as a sports tourer motorcycle, combining touring comfort with everyday practicality and performance. Q: Are spare parts and service support easily available? A: Yes. Bajaj's extensive service network across India generally ensures good parts availability and maintenance support. Q: Does the Dominar 250 use the same engine as the KTM 250 Duke? A: The engine is derived from the same KTM-Bajaj platform but is tuned differently to suit the Dominar 250's touring-oriented character and riding dynamics. | Q: What engine does the KTM 890 Duke R have? A: It is powered by an 889 cc parallel twin (LC8c) engine with a bore/stroke of 90.7 mm × 68.8 mm. Q: What are the power and torque figures of KTM 890 Duke R? A: The engine produces about 121 PS (89 kW) at 9,250 rpm and 99 Nm of torque at 7,750 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and weight of KTM 890 Duke R? A: The seat height is 834 mm, and its dry weight is approximately 166 kg (some sources list around 180 kg as “ready to ride”). Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and mileage of KTM 890 Duke R? A: The fuel tank capacity is around 14 litres. The claimed fuel consumption is about 4.74 L/100 km for some variants. Q: What kind of brakes and suspension does the 890 Duke R use? A: It comes with WP APEX 43 mm upside-down front forks and a WP APEX mono-shock at the rear. For brakes, it uses Brembo Stylema calipers with dual 320 mm discs in the front, and a 240 mm disc at the rear. Q: What electronics and rider aids are available in KTM 890 Duke R? A: The 890 Duke R has a modern electronics suite including ride-by-wire, multiple ride modes (Street, Sport, Track, Rain, and Rider), cornering ABS (Bosch 9.1 MP), lean-angle traction control (MTC), Supermoto ABS, and a PASC anti-hopping clutch. Q: What is the frame type and chassis design of KTM 890 Duke R? A: The frame is a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis that uses the engine as a stressed member, which helps reduce weight while providing stiffness and agility. Q: What is the expected first service interval or maintenance requirement? A: While KTM’s official manual should be consulted, many users suggest being careful with break-in; some reports mention limiting revs and usage before first major service / oil change. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 181460 | Standard |1450000 |
| Pros | Refined and Smooth Engine – The 248.77cc liquid-cooled engine offers smooth power delivery with good refinement levels, making it comfortable for both city rides and long-distance touring. Comfortable Highway Cruising – The motorcycle maintains stability at highway speeds and allows relaxed cruising without feeling strained. Touring-Friendly Riding Position – The upright ergonomics, wide handlebar, and spacious seat provide comfort during extended rides and daily commuting alike. Premium Hardware Package – Features such as upside-down front forks, LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, and a perimeter frame add to the motorcycle's overall equipment list. Confident High-Speed Stability – The chassis and weight distribution help the Dominar 250 remain planted on highways and open roads. Good Ride Quality – The suspension setup absorbs most road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure over rough surfaces. Modern Digital Features – A digital instrument console and secondary tank-mounted display provide access to essential ride information, navigation support, and smartphone connectivity. Suitable for Touring Accessories – The motorcycle's design accommodates luggage mounts and touring accessories more easily than many motorcycles in the segment. | Strong, high-revving engine: The 889 cc parallel-twin makes 121 PS at 9,250 rpm and 99 Nm of torque. Great electronics package: Includes lean-angle traction control, cornering ABS (Bosch 9.1 MP), Supermoto ABS mode, multiple ride modes (Street, Sport, Rain, Track), and optional Track mode. Premium suspension & brakes: Fully adjustable WP APEX 43 mm fork and monoshock, plus Brembo Stylema calipers on 320 mm twin front discs. Agile chassis: The steel trellis frame (engine as a stressed member) gives it a stiff yet flickable character, very suited for spirited riding. Good fuel efficiency for its performance: The spec sheet shows about 4.74 L/100 km fuel consumption. Light weight relative to its power: With a dry weight around 166 kg, it's quite light for a high-performance “R” naked bike, which helps handling and responsiveness. Distinctive and aggressive styling: Sharp design, LED lighting, orange frame, and muscular tank extensions make it visually striking. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual (w/ slipper clutch) | 6 Speed Manual |
