KTM did quite a number on the Indian biking fraternity by launching the Duke 250 out of the blue. It is quite interesting that the KTM Duke 250 is a viable option for the Indian market, but the RC250 isn’t; but more on that later. We are here to compare the Duke 390 and the Duke 250 and see what is different.1. Meter Console:
Yes, it was quite the downer when the Duke 250 being an all new bike did not get the new Duke 390 console. The reason stated by KTM is to keep the price down to make it an attractive package for the customers. Yet, the addition of the console might have actually driven the Duke 200 owners to really consider upgrading to the Duke 250.2. Tyres:
The KTM Duke 250 comes with MRF tyres as compared to Metzelers on the Duke 390. The MRFs are good tyres, but with the extra power available on the Duke 250 and the need for extra grip in the corners and for stopping, the Metzelers or maybe even Michelin might have been a good option here. Even Pirelli could have had been considered since the size of tyres being used for the Duke 250 are available with the said manufacturers. But the reason stated by KTM is the cost factor and also that MRFs are capable enough to handle the bike and rider’s needs.3. Anti lock Braking System (ABS):
With ABS to become mandatory the following year, or in 2019, it is a step backwards for KTM to not provide ABS on the Duke 250, even as an option. When asked KTM about this, their reply suggested of them not being sure about the law being passed in time, and hence they went ahead with the non-ABS version of the bike for now. But that is a major differentiator between the Duke 390 and the Duke 250.4. Brakes:
The rear brakes being the same across the Duke range, the 250 though gets the smaller 300mm front discs as compared to the 320mm on the Duke 390. The stopping power required for the Duke 250 should suffice from the 300mm discs as the 30PS of power is quite tamable on those brakes. The Duke 390 on the other hand has 43.5PS of power and is in need of the extra 20mm of discs.5. Paint Scheme:
Even though the new Duke 250 and the Duke 390 are based on the same platform which is an inspiration from the Superduke 1290, the paint scheme of both the bikes is a difference, along with the colour options on offer. The Duke 390 is available in a single colour scheme while the Duke 250 is also available in an all-white colour scheme along with the flagship KTM Orange.These are the 5 differences when the Duke 250 is pitched along with the Duke 390. We will keep updating this list as and when we find more differences between the two bikes since they are built on the same platform. Riding impressions of the Dukes will give us some more ideas about the two new bikes, so stay tuned!
By: Pratik Patole
