KTM 125 Duke

How is the design of the KTM 125 Duke?

The KTM 125 Duke looks stylish and unlike other regular 125 cc motorcycles. It is a suitably sized naked street motorcycle with the same dimensions as the elder sibling, namely the KTM 200 Duke. The 125 Duke sports almost the same appearance like the 200 Duke since 95% of components are also identical. The chassis, wheels, suspension setup, body panels and instrument cluster are shared with the KTM 200 Duke. In global markets, the 125 Duke comes with a modern styling template inclusive of the 390 Duke inspired design touches and full LED headlight, in the Indian market, the old model is still offered for keeping prices competitive. The design looks sharp and sporty enough although the overall design has a dated feel to it from a global market perspective and in terms of overall road presence. The 125 decals on the fuel tank are the key differentiator for this baby KTM Duke model as compared to the KTM 200 Duke.

How does the KTM 125 Duke ride?

This is the first 125 cc bike that comes with 43 mm upside down forks and preload adjustable monoshock courtesy of WP and also disc rotors for both the wheels that are gripped by Brembo’s brand made in India, namely ByBre (By Brembo). There is single channel ABS as standard too. This level of equipment automatically ensures superior riding quality and experiences which are akin to a few 155-160 top-end premium commuter bikes in the Indian market. The premium parts are all there and the riding dynamics are top-notch. You will want to spend more time riding this bike. Hence, the KTM 125 Duke gets top billing in terms of overall ride quality.

How comfortable is the KTM 125 Duke?

The KTM 125 Duke offers superlative fit and finish and the premium feel extends to the handlebar, switchgear and also the seat material and finish. The perch of the rider is amply wide for superior comfort. There is ample room for moving around when you are cornering this sporty motorcycle. Overall comfort also comes from the superior suspension setup. Comfort-wise, KTM has a winner up its sleeve with the 125 Duke.

How’s the tech?

The KTM 125 Duke gets a series of features including the standard single channel ABS along with the fuel warning indicator, gear indicator, engine kill switch, pass light and fuel gauge. All other latest technologies are available including the TFT instrumentation with in-built smartphone connectivity along with LED lighting as well.

How’s the mileage of the KTM 125 Duke?

The KTM 125 Duke offers good fuel economy of 34.5 kilometres per litre.

How is the performance of the KTM 125 Duke?

The KTM 125 Duke performs reasonably well with its single cylinder DOHC liquid cooled 124.7 cc engine that dishes out 14.30 bhp at 9250 RPM along with 12 Nm of maximum torque. The power output is almost similar to several premium commuter motorcycles in the 155-160 cc sporty bike segment and performance is not thrilling but adequate. The motor has to be going fast for being nudged into a more urgent response. However, the engine responds well to revving and the rev limiter comes in at around 10000 RPM. You will experience higher smoothness and refinement by way of engine feel and acceleration along with near-similar performance as the bigger siblings in the KTM stable. The acceleration levels via the 6-speed transmission system are impressive and the digital speedometer swiftly goes up to the 90 Kmph mark and more although it takes a little time to cross 100 Kmph. It does require some time before the bike can hit impressively high speeds. It can settle into a 90-92 Kmph run nicely for the highway at about 7500 RPM and this is the sweet spot. It is mostly created for city riding including regular commutes and so on. 60-80 Kmph in the city is the sweet spot when the roads are empty and riders will appreciate the refinement and smoothness of the engine greatly.

Is the KTM 125 Duke good value for money?

The KTM 125 Duke is an ideal motorcycle in this category if you are looking for a sportier feel, better performance and some more fun while riding. The bike is stylish, offers decent performance and ample refinement and sophistication with components not found in usual 125 cc commuter bikes available in India. KTM India is clearly tapping younger adults who will be getting their first or second motorcycles although their parents will be more comfortable sanctioning a safer option instead of something that is amply power packed and may go up easily to more dangerous speeds. The KTM 125 Duke offers good road presence along with stellar manners on the road and also an unmatched appeal which will attract younger buyers. Being a 125 cc bike, it may be a comparatively safer choice for younger riders who can start honing their biking capabilities en route towards moving up to bigger and more performance based motorcycles. The KTM 125 Duke also wins brownie points for its affordability and entry-point into the KTM line-up.