Quick Analysis
KTM 160 DUKE
8.5 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 1390 SUPER DUKE R
24.5 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
||
| Cooling System | — | Liquid Cooled |
| Displacement | 164.2 cc | 1350 cc |
| Engine Type | Liquid Cooled, 4 stroke, Single Cylinder, SOHC, Internal Combustion Engine | 2 cylinder, 4 stroke, V 75° (EURO 5+) |
| Power | 19 Ps @ 9500 rpm | 140 kW (190 hp) @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 15.5 Nm at 7500 rpm | 145 Nm @ 8,000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
||
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 10.1 Ltrs | approx. 17.5 litres/3 I reserve |
| Mileage | 36 kmpl | 16.9 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
||
| Kerb Weight | 147 | approx. 200.5 kg |
| Seat Height | 815 mm | 834 mm |
Brakes & Suspension |
||
| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Bosch 9.3 MP (incl. cornering-ABS and Supermoto ABS) |
| Front Brake | Disc, Radial caliper | 2 x Brembo Stylema Monobloc four piston, radially mounted caliper, brake disc Ø 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | 138.2 | WP APEX-linkage shock |
| Rear Brake | Disc, Floating caliper | Brembo two piston, fixed caliper, brake disc Ø 240 mm |
| Rear Suspension | 160.98 | Compression (high and low speed), rebound, hydraulic preload |
Tyres & Wheels |
||
| Front Tyre | 110/70 - 17 | Michelin Power GP, 120/70 ZR 17, 200/55 ZR 17 |
| Rear Tyre | 140/60 - R17 | Michelin Power GP, 120/70 ZR 17, 200/55 ZR 17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Cast aluminium wheels 3.50 x 17"; 6.00 x 17" |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Cast aluminium wheels 3.50 x 17"; 6.00 x 17" |
Features & Technology |
||
| Headlight | LED HEADLAMP | — |
Other Specifications |
||
| Battery | 12 V 8 AH Maintenance free Exide/Amaron | 12V 11.2 Ah |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/atlantic-blue.webp | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/silver-matte.webp | — |
| Cluster | LCD Speedo | — |
| Color Options | Electronic Orange Silver Metallic Matte Atlantic Blue | Orange |
| Cons | Short gearing limits top speed: The bike’s gearing is tuned for quick acceleration, but this hurts its highway performance and top-end speed. Firm seat: Multiple users note that the seat is firm, which may lead to discomfort on longer trips. Basic instrument console: The LCD display is functional but lacks the premium feel of a color TFT screen. Price premium: It’s relatively expensive for its displacement, making it less value-focused compared to some rivals. Rear ABS not always active: While it has dual-channel ABS, the supermoto mode allows disabling rear ABS, which may be a safety concern for some. | High Running & Maintenance Cost: Premium components (tires, brakes, consumables) and insurance can be expensive, as noted in reviews. Prone to Rear Tyre Wear: In aggressive use (especially on a track or spirited riding), the rear Michelin Power GP rubber may wear out quickly. Windblast & Comfort: As a naked “beast,” it offers limited wind protection, which can make highway riding tiring or uncomfortable. High Seat Height: The seat height (834 mm) may not be ideal for shorter riders. Electronics / Reliability Quirks: Some users have reported occasional electronic gremlins, sensor issues, or clutch drag. Expensive Purchase Price: Given the power and components, it comes with a high price tag compared to some rivals. |
| Detailed Overview | The KTM 160 Duke marks a bold and refreshing entry into the lightweight naked streetfighter segment, bringing the unmistakable KTM DNA to a more accessible level while still offering thrilling performance. Designed as the perfect stepping stone for new riders and a fun city machine for experienced ones, the 160 Duke impresses with its aggressive styling, sharp body lines, split LED headlamp, and premium build that instantly makes it stand out from typical 150–160 cc motorcycles. Powering the bike is a new 164 cc liquid-cooled engine that produces around 19 PS, making it one of the most powerful machines in its category. The engine feels eager and responsive, with a punchy mid-range and refined fueling that make quick overtakes and spirited rides effortless. What truly elevates the riding experience is KTM’s focus on handling—the lightweight trellis frame, wide handlebars, and WP Apex suspension deliver excellent agility, allowing the bike to slice confidently through traffic while remaining exceptionally stable at high speeds. Even in crowded urban conditions, the improved heat management and smooth low-end torque ensure a comfortable and manageable ride. Braking is another strong point, with a large 320 mm front disc paired with dual-channel ABS and a supermoto mode for those who enjoy more dynamic control. The Duke 160 also brings a blend of modern features such as full LED lighting, a crisp digital LCD console, and slip-and-assist clutch, making daily riding easier and more engaging. While the bike excels in performance and handling, KTM has kept a few characteristics that reflect its sporty nature—the firm seat may not be ideal for long-distance touring, and the short gearing prioritizes acceleration over top-end highway cruising. The LCD display, though functional, doesn’t feel as premium as a TFT would, especially considering the bike’s price. Speaking of price, the 160 Duke sits on the premium side of the segment, but KTM balances it with superior engineering, high-quality components, and performance that is unmatched in the 160 cc space. For riders who want a motorcycle that looks sharp, rides aggressively, and feels like a scaled-down version of bigger Dukes, the 160 Duke offers a compelling package. It is perfect for college riders, daily commuters, and enthusiasts who want a fun, sporty machine that can handle both city streets and weekend fun rides without compromising on build quality or modern essentials. The KTM 160 Duke positions itself as a machine built not just for transportation but for pure riding enjoyment, embodying the signature attitude, styling, and performance edge that has made the Duke lineup iconic. Overall, it brings excitement, premium engineering, and a true streetfighter character to a segment that has long needed a fresh, performance-oriented option. | The KTM 1390 Super Duke R is the ultimate expression of KTM’s “Beast” philosophy — a high-performance naked streetfighter that pairs brutal V-twin power with razor-sharp handling and modern electronics. At its core is a 1,350 cc LC8 V-twin engine that churns out around **190 PS (approximately 188–190 bhp)** at 10,000 rpm and **145 Nm of torque** at 8,000 rpm, giving it an immense punch and a visceral, muscular character. The engine also makes use of a cam-shift (variable valve timing) system that enhances its performance spread, delivering strong torque low down and explosive power at high revs. Built on a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame, the 1390 Super Duke R is not only powerful but also impressively agile for its size. KTM pairs the frame with high-quality WP APEX suspension — a 48 mm USD front fork and a linkage monoshock at the back — to strike a balance between compliant ride quality and sporty precision. ([KTM][1]) Cornering ABS by Bosch, traction control (MTC), a slipper clutch, and a five-mode ride-mode system (Street, Sport, Rain, Track, Performance) give the rider confidence to explore the bike’s full potential. Braking is handled by forceful Brembo Stylema calipers (320 mm twin discs at the front, 240 mm at the rear), ensuring the Super Duke R can back up its power with excellent stopping authority. Visually, the Super Duke R is bold, aggressive, and unmistakable. The angular bodywork, sharp LED headlight with characteristic DRLs, new tank shrouds, and subtle winglets give it a predatory look that lives up to its nickname. The trellis frame is painted in KTM’s signature orange, providing both structural strength and stylistic flair, while the narrow tail section completes the streetfighter stance. Technology is a major strength. Its 5-inch TFT display is loaded with KTMConnect for smartphone pairing, and in Track mode it shows telemetry data such as lean angle, lap times, and G-forces. ([Bajaj Auto][3]) The electronics suite also includes wheelie control, launch control, anti-slide, and a quickshifter for seamless clutchless upshifts and downshifts, adding to the bike’s performance-focused edge. KTM even brings a “Demo Mode” for a limited period — allowing riders to try out all electronic aids in the first 1,500 km before choosing what to permanently enable. In terms of practicality, the Super Duke R is surprisingly usable on the street. Its seat height of **834 mm** and a kerb weight of about **200.5 kg** make it relatively manageable compared to more extreme superbikes. The fuel tank is 17.5 litres, offering a decent range for a performance beast. Despite its aggressive nature, it can be tuned via its various ride modes for more relaxed everyday use — though wind protection is limited due to its naked-bike design, and long highway stints may feel less comfortable than on touring bikes. In the Indian market, KTM prices the 1390 Super Duke R at ₹ 22.96 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a flagship naked bike with no shortage of performance or tech. However, its premium components and high-performance nature come at a cost: maintenance, tyres (Michelin Power GP), and high-spec brakes are all expensive, and potential buyers should be prepared for that. Overall, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R is not for the faint of heart — it’s a powerful, aggressive, and technically sophisticated machine built for riders who demand extreme performance, advanced electronics, and a visceral riding experience. For enthusiasts looking for a street-focused beast that delivers both in city traffic and on twisty roads, it stands out as one of the most capable and exhilarating naked bikes on the market today. |
| Expert Review | MotoAutiv Team | MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the engine capacity and power output of the KTM 160 Duke? A: It has a 164.2 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces about 19 PS at 9,500 rpm. Q: What is the torque figure of the 160 Duke? A: The peak torque is 15.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The bike has a fuel tank capacity of 10.1 litres. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance? A: The seat height is 815 mm, and the ground clearance is 174 mm. Q: What kind of brakes and ABS does it come with? A: It comes with a 320 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc, and has dual-channel ABS (with off-road ABS mode). Q: Does the 160 Duke have a modern instrument cluster and connectivity? A: Yes — it features a 5-inch LCD screen with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and KTM Connect app integration. Q: What is the kerb weight of the KTM 160 Duke? A: The kerb weight (unloaded weight) is around 147 kg. Q: What is the expected mileage of the 160 Duke? A: According to KTM, the mileage is around 37 km/l. Q: What is the price of the KTM 160 Duke? A: The ex-showroom price is approximately ₹ 1.85 lakh. Q: What features does it have to set it apart in the entry-level performance bike segment? A: It has premium features such as WP USD front forks, a trellis frame, off-road ABS mode, LED lighting, and a slipper & assist clutch. | Q: What engine powers the KTM 1390 Super Duke R? A: It is powered by a 1,350 cc liquid-cooled V-twin (LC8) engine. Q: What is its power and torque output? A: The engine produces 190 PS (140 kW) at 10,000 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. Q: What is the seat height and weight of the 1390 Super Duke R? A: The seat height is 834 mm, and the dry (or “without fuel”) weight is around 200.5 kg per KTM specifications. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity? A: The fuel tank can hold 17.5 litres. Q: What type of brakes and suspension does it use? A: It features twin 320 mm Brembo Stylema calipers at the front, a 240 mm Brembo disc at the rear, 48 mm WP APEX USD fork up front, and a WP APEX linkage monoshock at the rear. Q: What rider aids and electronics are included on this bike? A: The 1390 Super Duke R comes with lean-angle (cornering) ABS, cornering traction control (KTM calls it MTC), wheelie control, launch control, a bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control, and a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth (KTM Connect). Q: What riding modes are available? A: It offers 5 riding modes: Street, Sport, Rain, Track, and Performance (depending on the market version). Q: What is the ex-showroom price of the KTM 1390 Super Duke R in India? A: The Super Duke R is priced at ₹ 22.96 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. Q: What is the service interval for this model? A: According to KTM’s 1390 spec sheet, it has a long service interval—up to 15,000 km (depending on region/market). |
| Fuel System | — | Keihin EFI (Throttle body 60mm) |
| Price Variants | | 170545 | Standard | 2295800 |
| Pros | Rev-happy, fun engine: The 164 cc liquid-cooled engine produces about 19 PS and feels very lively, especially when pushed. Excellent handling: Lightweight trellis frame (147 kg) paired with good-quality WP suspension gives very agile and precise cornering. Premium braking setup: It comes with a large 320 mm front disc and dual-channel ABS + supermoto mode for confident and versatile braking. Modern, useful features: Full LED lighting, slip-and-assist clutch, digital LCD display, and optional Bluetooth connectivity via KTM Connect. Good low-end tractability: A large portion of torque is available at low RPMs, which makes it very manageable in city traffic. Improved heat management: Bigger radiator keeps engine heat under check, even in traffic-heavy conditions. | Massive Power & Torque: The 1,350cc LC-8 V-twin makes 190 PS (or ≈ 187 bhp) and 145 Nm of torque, delivering brutal acceleration and a very exciting powerband. Advanced Engine Technology: Uses variable valve timing (cam-shift) for a wider spread of performance, making the engine more flexible and usable across RPMs. Premium Brakes & Suspension: Equipped with Brembo Stylema calipers and high-quality WP Apex suspension, which gives excellent braking feel and handling. Modern Electronics Suite: Cornering ABS, cornering traction control (MTC), wheelie control, launch control, ride modes, quickshifter, and a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth make it very civilized for the performance it offers. Refined Ride for Its Power: Despite its raw power, reviewers note that the new 1390 feels easier to ride than earlier versions, thanks to improved ergonomics, electronics, and ride-height control. Long Service Interval: According to the spec sheet, the service interval is up to 15,000 km, which is very good for a high-performance bike. |
| Starter | — | Electric |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | 6 gears |
