Quick Analysis
Harley Davidson Fat Boy
14.5 pts
Unweighted: 10 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 390 DUKE
12.5 pts
Unweighted: 9 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Air-cooled | Liquid cooling with radiator |
| Displacement | 1,923 cc | 398.63 cc |
| Engine Type | Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 Custom | Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine |
| Power | 103 HP / 77 kW @ 5020 rpm | 33.8 kW @ 8500 rpm |
| Torque | 168 Nm @ 3000 rpm | 39 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.9 litres | 15 L |
| Mileage | 18.18 Kmpl | 30 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 315 | 168.3 |
| Seat Height | 675 | 820 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS with SUPERMOTO mode |
| Front Brake | Disc | 320 mm Disc with Radially mounted calliper |
| Front Suspension | Dual-bending valve 49 mm telescopic with aluminum fork triple clamps, dual rate spring | 5-click Compression & Rebound adjustable, Open Cartridge, WP APEX USD forks, 43mm diameter |
| Rear Brake | Disc | 240 mm Disc with Floating calliper |
| Rear Suspension | Hidden, free piston, coil-over monoshock; 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustment | Adjustable WP APEX Monoshock, 5-step Rebound damping, 10-step preload adjustable |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 160/60 R18 | 110/70 - ZR17 |
| Rear Tyre | 240/40 R18 | 150/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Cast aluminum (Lakester) | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | Full Split LED Headlamp |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | — | 12 V, 8 AH MF battery |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Blue.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM-390-Duke-Electric-orange.webp |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Grey.avif | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/KTM390DukeBlack_Booking.webp |
| Bike Image 3 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Whiskey-fire.avif | — |
| Cluster | Analog with LCD | 5" TFT dash display |
| Color Options | Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Blue Burst | #1E4D8C Whiskey Fire / Vivid Black | #7A2D1B, #0F0F10 | GUN METAL GREY | #4A4F55, #FF6600 ELECTRONIC ORANGE | #FF6600 ATLANTIC BLUE | #2F5D7C, #FF6600 |
| Cons | The Weight Is Impossible to Ignore – Parking, reversing, or making tight U-turns requires more effort than on most motorcycles. The bike feels considerably lighter once moving, but the weight is always present at low speeds. Not a Motorcycle That Enjoys Tight Corners – The Fat Boy is happiest on flowing roads. When the road becomes tight and twisty, its size and geometry become more noticeable. Wind Hits You Directly at Highway Speeds – Without a fairing or windscreen, long highway rides can become tiring because the rider takes the full force of the wind. Can Feel Warm in Traffic – Sitting in slow-moving traffic on a hot day makes the large V-twin's heat more noticeable around the legs. Passenger Comfort Is Average – The stock setup feels more focused on the rider. For frequent two-up riding, many owners look at accessory seats and backrests. Not Built Around Practicality – There is no meaningful storage space, and carrying luggage usually requires additional accessories. Running Costs Are Higher Than Average – Tyres, servicing, insurance, and genuine accessories can all add up compared to smaller motorcycles. Requires Some Experience to Get the Best Out of It – The combination of weight, engine size, and physical dimensions can feel intimidating for riders who are new to large-capacity cruisers. Floorboards Touch Down Earlier Than You Might Expect – Riders who push harder through corners will eventually find the limits of the cruiser-style setup. | Firm (harsh) ride: The suspension can feel stiff over potholes or uneven surfaces, which may be tiring for long rides. Limited wind protection: Being a naked bike, you feel a lot of wind at highway speeds, making long-distance touring less comfortable. Engine heat: In slow or stop-go traffic, the radiator fan can dump hot air toward the rider’s legs, which many find uncomfortable. Seat comfort: The stock seat can feel firm and less comfortable for long rides; also, pillion comfort is limited. Vibration: Some riders report noticeable vibrations in certain RPM ranges, especially between ~4,500–6,000 rpm. Reliability concerns: There are occasional reports of reliability issues or quality control, especially in older models. |
| Detailed Overview | Even among Harley-Davidson’s own motorcycles, the Fat Boy has always been difficult to mistake for anything else. The solid-disc Lakester wheels, broad fuel tank, chunky tyres, and low stance give it a silhouette that looks substantial from every angle. While many cruisers rely on chrome and visual complexity to create an impression, the Fat Boy’s design is built around simple, oversized elements that have remained part of its identity for decades. The motorcycle is based on Harley-Davidson’s Softail platform, which uses a hidden rear suspension arrangement beneath the seat area. From the side, the frame still resembles the rigid hardtail cruisers that inspired it, but underneath there is a modern monoshock setup responsible for absorbing road imperfections. The front suspension uses telescopic forks designed to support the motorcycle’s considerable weight while maintaining stability over varying road surfaces. A 1,923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine sits prominently in the center of the motorcycle. Rather than encouraging riders to explore the upper reaches of the rev range, the engine develops much of its performance lower down, which influences how the Fat Boy behaves in everyday riding. The motorcycle can accelerate with relatively little throttle input, and the six-speed gearbox allows the engine to remain relaxed during highway travel. The large displacement and V-twin configuration are also major contributors to the motorcycle’s mechanical character and riding feel. Dimensionally, the Fat Boy is a substantial machine. Wide tyres at both ends, a long wheelbase, and a low seat height all contribute to its proportions. The low seating position places the rider close to the ground, while forward-mounted foot controls create the stretched riding posture commonly associated with large American cruisers. Combined with the wide handlebar, the rider’s position is very different from what would be experienced on a roadster or sport motorcycle. The Lakester wheels remain one of the defining visual features of the Fat Boy. Unlike conventional alloy wheels, their solid-disc-inspired design creates a unique appearance that has become closely associated with the model over the years. Alongside the broad tyres and muscular bodywork, these wheels play a significant role in shaping the motorcycle’s overall identity. Technology is present, although it is integrated more discreetly than on Harley-Davidson’s touring motorcycles. Modern versions include selectable riding modes, traction control, and ABS, with certain markets also receiving cornering-sensitive rider-assistance systems. Instead of a large touchscreen display, the Fat Boy uses a compact instrument setup focused primarily on essential riding information. An 18.9-litre fuel tank sits above the engine and forms one of the largest visual elements of the motorcycle. Lighting throughout the motorcycle uses LED technology, while the overall design remains intentionally uncluttered. There are few body panels, minimal visual distractions, and a clear emphasis on exposing the mechanical components that define the motorcycle. The Fat Boy’s specifications reveal a motorcycle shaped around traditional cruiser principles: a large-capacity V-twin engine, long-wheelbase chassis, low seating position, and substantial physical presence. Although modern electronics and engineering have been incorporated over time, the underlying layout remains closely tied to the formula that has defined the model for decades. | The KTM 390 Duke is built with a layout that focuses on keeping the bike compact while still offering strong performance for its size. It uses a 399cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces around 45–46 bhp and close to 39 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and comes with a slipper clutch and a quickshifter, which help make gear changes smoother in both city traffic and faster riding conditions. The throttle is controlled electronically through a ride-by-wire system, which adjusts how the engine responds to inputs. The bike is based on a steel trellis frame that works along with a lightweight subframe to keep the structure balanced. With a kerb weight of around 168 kg, it remains relatively light, which affects how easily it moves in traffic and how quickly it responds to steering inputs. The fuel tank capacity is about 15 litres, and the seat height is close to 800 mm, making it manageable for a wide range of riders. The riding position is upright with a slight forward lean, supported by a wide handlebar. Suspension is handled by WP Apex units, with upside-down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Both ends are adjustable, allowing changes based on riding conditions. The bike runs on alloy wheels with wide tyres, which influence grip and stability during cornering as well as everyday riding. The setup is designed to maintain control without making the ride feel too soft. Braking is managed by a single disc at the front and a disc at the rear, supported by dual-channel ABS. The system also includes cornering ABS, which adjusts braking force based on the bike’s lean angle. These systems work automatically and are meant to provide stability in different riding situations without requiring constant input from the rider. The electronics package includes a TFT display that shows speed, fuel level, ride modes and other basic information. It also supports smartphone connectivity and allows the rider to switch between different riding modes, which change throttle response and system intervention levels. Features like traction control are also included, reflecting the level of technology now available in this segment. The design follows a sharp and compact naked bike style, with minimal body panels and exposed elements around the frame and engine. The tank, panels and overall proportions give it a tight and focused appearance. While many bikes in this category try to balance multiple roles, the 390 Duke’s setup keeps things centered around a specific type of riding, and that focus is visible in how its engine, chassis and features are put together. |
| Expert Review | The Fat Boy has always been a motorcycle that prioritizes presence as much as performance. Even by cruiser standards, it feels substantial, whether you're looking at it parked or riding it down the road. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine suits the character of the bike perfectly, producing the kind of effortless torque that allows you to ride without constantly thinking about gear selection or engine speed. What stands out most is how planted the motorcycle feels once it's moving. The wide tyres, long wheelbase, and considerable weight create a sense of stability that encourages a relaxed riding style rather than an aggressive one. At the same time, those same traits mean the Fat Boy asks for a bit more effort in slow-speed situations and doesn't feel particularly eager when the road becomes tight and technical. The riding experience is less about chasing performance figures and more about the way the motorcycle delivers its power, carries its weight, and settles into a steady rhythm on open roads. Modern electronics have improved safety and usability, but they remain secondary to the traditional cruiser character that continues to define the Fat Boy., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | In a segment where most motorcycles are expected to manage daily commuting along with occasional highway use, the KTM 390 Duke takes a slightly different direction. Its 399cc single-cylinder engine produces around 45–46 bhp and close to 39 Nm of torque, placing it among the more performance-focused options in its category. At the same time, changes in the latest version have made the power delivery smoother at lower speeds, which helps in typical city traffic conditions. The lightweight chassis and compact design make it easier to handle in tight spaces, something that suits Indian roads where traffic and road conditions can vary a lot. It also includes features like ride modes, traction control and a TFT display, reflecting how buyer expectations in this segment have evolved over time. In the broader context, the bike shows how the Indian market is gradually moving towards motorcycles that combine everyday usability with a stronger focus on performance and technology., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What type of motorcycle is the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy? A: The Fat Boy is classified as a heavyweight cruiser motorcycle, designed around relaxed riding ergonomics, a large V-twin engine, and long-distance road comfort. Q: Which engine powers the Fat Boy? A: The latest model uses the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Q: Is the Fat Boy suitable for long-distance rides? A: Yes. The relaxed ergonomics and torque-rich engine make it capable of covering long distances, although many owners add touring accessories for greater comfort. Q: What is the seat height of the Fat Boy? A: The seat height is approximately 675 mm, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. Q: Does the Fat Boy have cruise control? A: Availability depends on market and model year. Some versions include cruise control, while others may offer it as an accessory. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Fat Boy? A: The motorcycle is equipped with an 18.9-litre fuel tank. Q: Does the Fat Boy have riding modes? A: Yes. Modern versions include selectable riding modes and electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: Is the Fat Boy comfortable for a passenger? A: Occasional two-up riding is possible, but the stock setup is more rider-focused than dedicated touring motorcycles. Q: How is the Fat Boy different from the Breakout? A: The Fat Boy focuses on a broad, muscular cruiser character with solid-disc wheels, while the Breakout adopts a stretched custom-cruiser design with a much wider rear tyre. Q: Does the Fat Boy have traction control and ABS? A: Yes. Modern versions include ABS, traction control, and other rider-assistance technologies. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 315 kg in running condition, depending on market specification. Q: Is the Fat Boy beginner-friendly? A: The low seat height helps with accessibility, but the weight, engine size, and overall dimensions make it better suited to riders with some experience. Q: Does the Fat Boy support smartphone connectivity? A: The Fat Boy uses a relatively simple instrumentation setup compared to Harley's touring models, so smartphone integration is limited. Q: What body type does the Fat Boy belong to? A: It is categorized as a cruiser motorcycle, specifically a heavyweight cruiser designed around comfort, torque delivery, and road presence. | Q: What engine does the KTM 390 Duke have? A: It uses a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. Q: What is the displacement, power & torque of the 390 Duke? A: The displacement is about 398.6 cc. In the newer versions, it produces around 46 PS at 8,500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and weight of the 390 Duke? A: The seat height is 800 mm (or optionally 820 mm) depending on the version. The kerb weight is about 168.3 kg per KTM’s specification. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity and what is the mileage like? A: The fuel tank capacity is 15 litres in many versions. According to some sources, real-world fuel efficiency is around 25–30 km/l, depending on riding style. Q: What brakes and suspension does it use? A: It comes with WP APEX 43 mm upside-down front forks and a WP APEX monoshock at the rear. For brakes, there is a 320 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, with a radially mounted caliper up front. Q: What is the ground clearance of the 390 Duke? A: The ground clearance is around 183 mm according to KTM India specifications. Q: What is the seat configuration and ergonomics like? A: It has a two-part seat design, with a slightly aggressive but comfortable rider position thanks to its upright handlebars. There’s also a “Supermoto mode” which lets you limit ABS intervention to the front brake, great for sliding control. Q: Does the 390 Duke come with smartphone connectivity? A: Yes, some variants support KTM MY RIDE via the 5-inch TFT dash, allowing for calls, music, and navigation integration. |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | STD | 2803000 | Standard | 339002 |
| Pros | Instantly Recognizable Design – Few motorcycles are as easy to identify from a distance as the Fat Boy. The solid-disc wheels, wide stance, and muscular proportions give it a presence that stands out even among other cruisers. Torque-Rich Engine Character – The Milwaukee-Eight 117 doesn't need to be revved hard to make progress. A small twist of the throttle is usually enough to get the bike moving with very little effort. Relaxed Riding Position – The low seat, wide handlebar, and stretched-out foot controls create a laid-back riding posture that suits cruising and long hours in the saddle. Feels Stable on Open Roads – Once the bike is moving, its weight starts working in its favour. It feels planted at highway speeds and doesn't get unsettled easily. High-Quality Finish – From the paintwork to the chrome detailing and metal components, the overall fit and finish reflects the premium nature of the motorcycle. Low Seat Height Helps at Stops – Despite being a large motorcycle, the low seat makes it easier for many riders to place both feet firmly on the ground. Modern Electronics Without Changing the Character – Features such as ABS, traction control, and riding modes work in the background without taking away from the traditional cruiser feel. Comfortable Engine for Cruising – The engine settles into a relaxed rhythm at highway speeds and rarely feels stressed during normal riding. | Excellent performance for its class: The 390 Duke’s single-cylinder engine delivers punchy acceleration and strong mid-range performance. Lightweight & nimble: With a relatively low kerb/wet weight, its chassis is very agile, making it easy to flick through corners and manoeuvre in traffic. Advanced electronics suite: Comes equipped with ride modes, traction control (MTC), cornering ABS, supermoto ABS, quickshifter, and a modern TFT display. Adjustable suspension: The front and rear suspension are adjustable (WP APEX), allowing riders to tune the setup depending on road conditions or riding style. Sharp styling & design: Features such as an exposed steel trellis frame, LED headlight, and aggressive design make it visually striking. Good build quality: Reviews note improved fit and finish on newer models, giving a premium feel. Decent fuel efficiency: Compared to its performance, it offers reasonable fuel efficiency for sporty riding. |
| Starter | Electric | Self Start Only |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
