The big-bore twin-cylinder models in KTM’s Duke lineup might grab all the glory, but the series’ single-cylinder models is where new riders start out. Now, for 2024, we see the 390 Duke and 250 Duke both getting important updates for 2024, which should make them better bikes for all riders.
KTM 390 Duke
The 390 Duke sees engine capacity bumped to 399 cc for 2024, due to a longer stroke. This results in max output of 44.2 hp and 28.8 lb-ft of torque. Both those numbers are supposed to be slight gains over the previous 373 cc engine. More importantly, the bike now makes its max power at lower rpm. While previous versions of the 390 could get a bit rev-happy when trying a highway pass, the new engine should handle it more capably.
KTM also revised the chassis, with repositioned triple clamps, new aluminum sub-frame and some modifications to the steel trellis frame. The fork and shock are basically the same for 2024—WP Apex components once again—but the rear suspension is now offset, similar to Kawasaki’s 650 lineup, in order to make room for an expanded airbox. The seat height is now lower, at 820 mm, and can be dropped even further if you remove a spacer.
As KTM continues to move the Duke lineup more towards theworld of track performance, we see this bike coming with Street and Rain riding modes as standard, but also with a new Track mode included. This riding mode comes with launch control, a lap timer and “enlarged rpm display” that means “unnecessary info gets reduced to the bare minimum.”
Of course, as with the previous model, ABS and traction control are both governed by an IMU. There’s some new bodywork for 2024, including a fuel tank.
Expect the new 390 Duke at your local dealer in late 2023.
KTM 250 Duke
The 250 Duke is surprisingly zippy; it changes from a DOHC design to a SOHC in 2024, with the same claimed 30 hp at the crank. The chassis very similar to the 390 Duke, but a bit cheapened-out since this is a lower-priced model. Most notably, the suspension is non-adjustable, although it also uses WP Apex fork and shock.
Along with the electro-tech possible thanks to the standard ride-by-wire throttle, the 250 Duke gets a slip/assist clutch in 2024, and similar new bodywork and fuel tank to the 390. The quarter-litre bike also gets a new 5-inch TFT screen and LED headlight. Unlike the 390, which shows up in Canada in the next few weeks, the 250 won’t be in Canada until sometime in 2024—early in the year, according to KTM.
