KTM 390 series launched with a new 349cc heart

KTM India has quietly launched the new 390 Duke and Adventure with a new 349cc engine. These bikes will sit below the existing 398cc models in KTM India's range and will benefit from the new GST revisions. Meanwhile, KTM will also retain the bigger 398cc mill for those who want more umph. Here's all you need to know about them:

What's changed on the new 390 series?

To benefit from the revised GST rates, the new bikes are equipped with a 349cc LC4C engine, with a shorter 56.1mm stroke compared to the 64mm stroke as before. The engine produces 41bhp at 8700rpm and 33.5Nm at 7000rpm. It's mated to the same six-speed gearbox as before, with a factory-fitted bi-directional quickshifter. Other than the engine, the new bikes are mechanically identical to their bigger 398cc counterparts, with the same adjustable WP Apex suspension front and back, the same braking hardware and the same electronics package.

The Hooligan lives on

KTM has also not betrayed the enthusiasts, as alongside launching a new 349cc range, it has also retained the bigger 398cc engine. The original 390 Duke will now be renamed the 390 Duke R. It will be powered by the same 398cc mill producing 45.5bhp at 8000rpm and 39Nm of torque at 6500rpm. The rest remains unchanged, from suspension hardware to braking and even the electronic suite.

There is good news for adventure lovers too, as KTM India will also retain the Adventure X, S and R variants, along with the Enduro models, with the bigger 398cc engine, albeit at a premium over the base 349cc Adventure.

Prices

Here's the detailed breakdown of the prices of the new bikes:

Which one is for you?

The new 349cc range makes more sense for someone looking for a more affordable entry into the KTM 390 lineup, while still retaining most of the performance, hardware and features.

On the other hand, the 398cc bikes are clearly aimed at enthusiasts who want that extra grunt and are willing to pay a premium for the additional performance.