Next-gen KTM 250 Duke: What To Expect
Modified On Apr 19, 2021 01:01 PM By Zaran Mody for KTM 250 Duke (2017-2023)
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All the changes we anticipate on the upcoming quarter-litre Duke
Rather out of the blue, KTM was spotted testing a comprehensively updated 250 Duke in Europe last week. This sighting has thrown up a lot of questions about what exactly this next-gen 250 Duke will bring to the table, and we’re here to answer them for you.
Powertrain
Though the current 248.8cc single-cylinder mill already meets Euro 5 and BS6 emission norms, KTM seems to be tweaking the powerplant, perhaps in an attempt to extract an additional pony or two. The engine covers are different from those on the current bike, and the test mule features an underbelly exhaust system in contrast to the side-slung unit seen currently.
Chassis
The lion’s share of changes appear to be in the chassis department. KTM seems to have modified the main trellis frame as well as the engine hangers, but the more comprehensive changes have been to the rear subframe, which no longer features a trellis design. In fact, its new composite construction is rather similar to the design seen on the recently launched 1290 Super Duke RR.
Also completely new is the redesigned swingarm, which gets a very different internal bracing pattern from that of the current bike. So different is its design that the updated 250 Duke actually sports an offset, side-mounted rear shock absorber. Wheels and brakes are also new, in line with those seen on the recent KTM RC test mules. We expect the manufacturer to make suspension tweaks on the updated 250 Duke too.
Design
Of course, to go with all these mechanical changes, KTM will also overhaul the appearance of the quarter-litre Duke. The test mule seemed to sport an early mock-up of this new design, featuring a new headlight shroud and sharp, sculpted tank extensions. Moving towards the rear, the redesigned side panels and updated subframe should freshen up the tail section as well.
Launch & Price
This being the early phases of testing, an official launch for the new 250 Duke is still some time away -- we expect it sometime next year. Considering the extensive updates that seem to be on the cards, expect it to be priced around Rs 2.30 lakh (ex-showroom).