I wish the motoring press would not label a smaller bike as entry level… This bike flat out is not. Class leading power per displacement and cylinder count, high end standard accessories, fully adjustable suspension… that’s not an entry level product. There are a fair amount of us experienced riders that just want a lighter agile bike. Having started on liter bikes it’s just nice to have fun at speeds that don’t turn you into red mist.
I think by calling it entry level it sets the stage for new riders to become interested. It could be a marketing tool that actually works to attract new and experienced riders alike. I’m the guy the OP had described: started on two brand new R1s (2000 & 02). Sold the first to buy the second and then sold the 02 to buy a home. Several years later I got the rc390 which was an absolute blast to right but the 390 Duke is the best all around bike for me: enough power, extremely lightweight, corners even better than my R1s 😅, gets great mpg, and it’s just so comfortable to ride slow or fast 😊. Maybe cause I only weigh 130 pounds and stand 5’ 8” short 😁
I 100% agree with your comment ! I passed my motorcycle test in 1974 on a 'Coffin tank" Honda CB200 and 133 bikes later I'm still riding. The Duke 390 has more power, better brakes and WAY better manners than my RD350 LC from the 80's and that wasn't considered a 'beginners' bike! At 66 and only 5'6", I'm starting to struggle with the weight of my 2006 BMW R1200RT, especially getting it in and out of the garage. I'm lucky enough to own a 2021 HD Sport Glide as well, and although heavier than my BM, it's certainly easier to get off the stand kerb-side because the weight is all low-down. I'm seriously considering a Duke 390, RC390 or something else of that ilk, simply because they're so light, highly manouverable, more than fast enough (I live in Australia), very low fuel consumption and fuck-all to insure! If the 390ADV wasn't so tall, i'd also consider one. We've got rediculous, draconian speeding laws here in Oz and you just can't use the power of big-capacity bikes here.
I got to testdrive this thing last week and it is a giggle fest. I own a 1290 which, while great, is a lot of bike. Getting on to the 390 it is quite small that you feel on top of the front wheel all the time. That isn-t a bad thing, though, as you feel everything it is doing and could just gas it all the way all the time. Changing direction you can feel the roll over the profile of the front tyre, it is very communicative and engaging. When i had to drive home on the 1290 i had to be a lot more restrained with the throttle and despite it having a great chassis, you did notice that you are leaning a battleship by comparison
Although I really like my 800 pound highway bike, I would rather not have to use it for a trip to the grocery store for milk and eggs. My city has mostly 50 and 60 kph speed limits that are aggressively enforced with photo radar. The 390 is at the top of my short list for a nimble urban runabout that's heaps of fun at lower speeds.
it doesn't cease to amaze me how the US sees these as "little bikes" not in a negative or disrespectful way but still almost like they were cute little toys to play around compared to a serious full adult motorcycle
The reason they focused on the right side of the bike, like having the rear shock, front brake disc, and exhaust on the right side was so it would look good while on its side stand. I like the changes they made. Very cool and fun machine.
Looking forward to a new light weight naked comparison! No doubt the new Duke won't be able to match the 450 twins for HP but it stands a very good chance of having the best chassis.
I raced professional motocross in the 60’s on 2 strokes. I am use to using both throttles from my 2 stroke experience. One throttle is your on/off switch as 2 strokes not known for Torque. lol. The other throttle is the clutch feathering all the time or regular in/out clutch movement. I guess I still like smaller bikes. 2 strokes experience makes you Appreciate 4 stroke torque
I still enjoy underbelly exhausts. Exhausts stuck on the side of a bike not aesthetically pleasing unless it’s stating something like a MV AGusta triple exhaust or a Ducati Diavel quad exhaust tips.
It is a premium motorcycle even at that price point. Take a look at the BMW 310. You do not even have to sit on the BMW as definitely built to a price point. The last few years everything has doubled in price. The KTM keeps you comfortable financially. When an average new car costs, $48,000, you do not Also want an expensive motorcycle. Average new beginners motorcycle $5000-$10,000. An average experienced new motorcycle, $10,000-$35,000. The 390 could be a great commute bike for anyone.
Love KTM headlights. You know the brand by the headlight. Both KTM and Ducati really pushing stability control standard in all their bikes for increased safety. Stability control mandated in all new cars starting 2012 because of its safety aspects. Many overcorrect or undercorrect in an emergency. You never know how you might respond in an emergency. Electronics are always 100% focused.. electronic nannies just sit in the background unless there’s an emergency. Most people do not practice emergencies like doctors or airline pilots. Most riders do not continue taking skilled riding courses. 40,000 people die/year in cars and thousands on motorcycles. That is not acceptable. Even if we could improve safety by 50% it would be worth it. Good job KTM
Thanks for another review! I started riding dirt bikes in '73, and didn't get my first road bike until 2012 (not counting a road legal dirt bike I had in the early 2000s). I prefer riding slow bikes fast! I've ridden a lot of bikes up the twisty road to the ski resort, and by far the most fun are the 250-400 cc bikes. I agree with others who say that small displacement bikes should not only be looked at as entry level bikes. I'm glad that KTM is making a nice, light bike for those who don't want a 500+. I wish that KTM made a 390 SM! I need to figure out how to get a demo 390 Duke! EDIT: Troy, in the written review you mention that it struggles to break triple digit mark...no one buying this bike is planning to do that. :)
It’s very polarizing but I personally love it in the blue and orange. I’d love an RC 390 but 40 years of riding and a lifetime of hard labor my lower back is done with that style bike. And these are on sale near me for $5399 so that’s quite a bargain. I’ve got a ninja to move on so I’ll see what I can get in trade should be fairly good
Agree. All bikes nowadays are reliable. Buy the bike that pulls on your particular heart strings. Usually the aesthetics makes the final decision to pull the trigger.
The color is growing on me after like 5 yrs eyeing their platforms. I think it's the design that makes me say.. so what about the color? Very nice tho.
The Duke 200 also a great bike. Similar price Honda Grom but a real motorcycle that can easily maintain 50 mph and above. Biggest weakness Grom is minimal top speed to keep up on just basic streets. The 390 is just That more perfect especially all The safety aids for beginners but great commute bike or small track race days. I have owned 3 Super Dukes. KTM makes great bikes.
Most KTMs are ugly. KTM has cornered itself by going all into the orange insect boy racer look. If they can change that it will only grow their customer base.
Nope, unless you plan to tour. Even then, it can be done. I have been fine with 500 singles (my old Ascot) and love my current Z400. I have been riding since the 1970's and just prefer a light, flickable motorcycle. My Z400 is faster than the 70's XS650 that I considered a fun all around motorcycle. The much heavier Honda 750 Shadows just put out about 44hp, virtually the same as this bike. I have found over 30hp at the rear wheel enough to keep up with traffic. My old FT500 Ascot didn't even have that, but it was still fine.
@@jfess1911 bro i aint young but ur too old to have an opinion on this, the fact u had an ascot says sooo much lol u can get killed outhere if u cant hit 70 quick enough, touring? Ur crazy man this aint the 70’s i know this might feel fast for ur age but its borderline dangerous for the crazies authere, let you in a little secret the only reason Why these companies build these little POS is they know six months and you’re gonna want the bigger one and they’re hoping you stick to the stupid brand.
@@gigi9467 The Honda 500's are very understessed to last a lifetime, but they tend to be slower than the KTM and Kawasaki. Largely because the Hondas weigh more. The Rebel 500 is tuned more for low-end torque and it weighs 50 labs more than a 390 Duke or Z400. According to Cycle World, the 500 Rebel puts out 40.8 hp, the old Duke/RC with the slightly smaller engine were 40.2hp at 8550 rpm and the Z400/Ninja 400 at around 44.1 at 9830 rpm. The KTM and Kawasaki's don't have as much low end power, but they rev higher. You spend a lot more time using the gearbox of the Duke or Z400 if you want max performance, but that is fine with me.
@@gigi9467 The Rebel 500 is a nice motorcycle and I have recommended it. Just a different class of motorcycle. I don't make recommendations by displacement anymore since power output can vary so much depending on engine design. I suspect that your water-cooled Rebel 500 has similar performance to the air-cooled Royal Enfield INT 650. The old air-cooled Royal Enfield 411cc engine in the Scram only claimed 24.3hp and I would not consider it acceptable on the highway. The new water-cooled 452cc engine claims 39.5hp and might well be OK.
I wish the motoring press would not label a smaller bike as entry level… This bike flat out is not. Class leading power per displacement and cylinder count, high end standard accessories, fully adjustable suspension… that’s not an entry level product.
There are a fair amount of us experienced riders that just want a lighter agile bike. Having started on liter bikes it’s just nice to have fun at speeds that don’t turn you into red mist.
What does it matter what they call it? If you like it, get it and enjoy it 😋
@@Death666wishI don’t! Inown this bike and ride it everyday!
But it discourages a lot of riders, they don’t want to be labeled a beginner!
@@groupbmotors enjoy it and ride safe, people that worry what others think will always find life hard.
I think by calling it entry level it sets the stage for new riders to become interested. It could be a marketing tool that actually works to attract new and experienced riders alike.
I’m the guy the OP had described: started on two brand new R1s (2000 & 02). Sold the first to buy the second and then sold the 02 to buy a home.
Several years later I got the rc390 which was an absolute blast to right but the 390 Duke is the best all around bike for me: enough power, extremely lightweight, corners even better than my R1s 😅, gets great mpg, and it’s just so comfortable to ride slow or fast 😊.
Maybe cause I only weigh 130 pounds and stand 5’ 8” short 😁
I 100% agree with your comment ! I passed my motorcycle test in 1974 on a 'Coffin tank" Honda CB200 and 133 bikes later I'm still riding. The Duke 390 has more power, better brakes and WAY better manners than my RD350 LC from the 80's and that wasn't considered a 'beginners' bike! At 66 and only 5'6", I'm starting to struggle with the weight of my 2006 BMW R1200RT, especially getting it in and out of the garage. I'm lucky enough to own a 2021 HD Sport Glide as well, and although heavier than my BM, it's certainly easier to get off the stand kerb-side because the weight is all low-down. I'm seriously considering a Duke 390, RC390 or something else of that ilk, simply because they're so light, highly manouverable, more than fast enough (I live in Australia), very low fuel consumption and fuck-all to insure! If the 390ADV wasn't so tall, i'd also consider one. We've got rediculous, draconian speeding laws here in Oz and you just can't use the power of big-capacity bikes here.
I got to testdrive this thing last week and it is a giggle fest.
I own a 1290 which, while great, is a lot of bike. Getting on to the 390 it is quite small that you feel on top of the front wheel all the time. That isn-t a bad thing, though, as you feel everything it is doing and could just gas it all the way all the time. Changing direction you can feel the roll over the profile of the front tyre, it is very communicative and engaging.
When i had to drive home on the 1290 i had to be a lot more restrained with the throttle and despite it having a great chassis, you did notice that you are leaning a battleship by comparison
Although I really like my 800 pound highway bike, I would rather not have to use it for a trip to the grocery store for milk and eggs. My city has mostly 50 and 60 kph speed limits that are aggressively enforced with photo radar. The 390 is at the top of my short list for a nimble urban runabout that's heaps of fun at lower speeds.
it doesn't cease to amaze me how the US sees these as "little bikes" not in a negative or disrespectful way but still almost like they were cute little toys to play around compared to a serious full adult motorcycle
After 40 years I’m impressed with the smaller cc bikes available now and as I’m down sizing and clearing out some other bikes I’d like to add one
@@bfarm44yeah small cc bikes are great, small light agile fun and capable at 80% of situations of daily use
Seat would look better black. I had a 2017 390 and loved it. Fun little bike that punched above its weight.
I agree. I have the 2024 in the blue and the seat is black thank goodness. Lol
The perspective on this bike in the India market is very different. The thing costs less than $4K before taxes, fully loaded.
Manufacturers definitely screw the Western world.
Bruh it costs 8k in my country
It costs almost 6k in the US where I live
Yeah, coz it's manufactured in India and thus sells at less price there
The reason they focused on the right side of the bike, like having the rear shock, front brake disc, and exhaust on the right side was so it would look good while on its side stand. I like the changes they made. Very cool and fun machine.
I got the blue one, I love kTm😁.
Looking forward to a new light weight naked comparison! No doubt the new Duke won't be able to match the 450 twins for HP but it stands a very good chance of having the best chassis.
Is "getting" the quick shifter option just a matter of enabling software? Or are there parts that have to be installed?
I raced professional motocross in the 60’s on 2 strokes. I am use to using both throttles from my 2 stroke experience. One throttle is your on/off switch as 2 strokes not known for
Torque. lol. The other throttle is the clutch feathering all the time or regular in/out clutch movement. I guess I still like smaller bikes. 2 strokes experience makes you
Appreciate 4 stroke torque
Love mine! Been having a blast. Especially with a slip-on exhaust installed. I went with the Ixil and looooove it.
I still enjoy underbelly exhausts. Exhausts stuck on the side of a bike not aesthetically pleasing unless it’s stating something like a MV AGusta triple exhaust or a Ducati Diavel quad exhaust tips.
It is a premium motorcycle even at that price point. Take a look at the BMW 310. You do not even have to sit on the BMW as definitely built to a price point. The last few years everything has doubled in price. The KTM keeps you comfortable financially. When an average new car costs, $48,000, you do not Also want an expensive motorcycle. Average new beginners motorcycle $5000-$10,000. An average experienced new motorcycle, $10,000-$35,000. The 390 could be a great commute bike for anyone.
Love KTM headlights. You know the brand by the headlight. Both KTM and Ducati really pushing stability control standard in all their bikes for increased safety. Stability control mandated in all new cars starting 2012 because of its safety aspects. Many overcorrect or undercorrect in an emergency. You never know how you might respond in an emergency. Electronics are always 100% focused.. electronic nannies just sit in the background unless there’s an emergency. Most people do not practice emergencies like doctors or airline pilots. Most riders do not continue taking skilled riding courses. 40,000 people die/year in cars and thousands on motorcycles. That is not acceptable. Even if we could improve safety by 50% it would be worth it. Good job KTM
Thanks for another review! I started riding dirt bikes in '73, and didn't get my first road bike until 2012 (not counting a road legal dirt bike I had in the early 2000s). I prefer riding slow bikes fast! I've ridden a lot of bikes up the twisty road to the ski resort, and by far the most fun are the 250-400 cc bikes. I agree with others who say that small displacement bikes should not only be looked at as entry level bikes. I'm glad that KTM is making a nice, light bike for those who don't want a 500+. I wish that KTM made a 390 SM! I need to figure out how to get a demo 390 Duke!
EDIT: Troy, in the written review you mention that it struggles to break triple digit mark...no one buying this bike is planning to do that. :)
It’s very polarizing but I personally love it in the blue and orange. I’d love an RC 390 but 40 years of riding and a lifetime of hard labor my lower back is done with that style bike. And these are on sale near me for $5399 so that’s quite a bargain. I’ve got a ninja to move on so I’ll see what I can get in trade should be fairly good
Many of these entry level bikes are sold more by their msrp advantage or disadvantage. Some bikes discounted more than others. I would buy this bike
Agree. All bikes nowadays are reliable. Buy the bike that pulls on your particular heart strings. Usually the aesthetics makes the final decision to pull the trigger.
What is the cost to add the quick shifter?
45 horsepower and 360 pounds wet very respectable
A lighter bike helps everything, handling, braking, and acceleration
love the new design
I went with the CF MOTO 300 nk ,so far no complaints 😊
I wish they could also add the passenger review. So we know if the passenger is also comfortable riding with.
The BS6 had quick shifter, backlit contols, etc.
The color is growing on me after like 5 yrs eyeing their platforms. I think it's the design that makes me say.. so what about the color? Very nice tho.
The Duke 200 also a great bike. Similar price Honda Grom but a real motorcycle that can easily maintain 50 mph and above. Biggest weakness Grom is minimal top speed to keep up on just basic streets. The 390 is just
That more perfect especially all
The safety aids for beginners but great commute bike or small track race days. I have owned 3 Super Dukes. KTM makes great bikes.
getting mine in few weeks but they dont have crashbars yet for him wich i would really like on him since it will be brand new...
Love the chiseled look of all KTM‘s. and in your face type of stance like a Lamborghini
Nice looking bike for a KTM. Curious how the engine feels compared to the Triumph Speed 400.
Quick and lively
Every year I get disappointed at KTM coz they don't launch the Super Adventure models here 😭
only if the stock exhaust looked like this
Still a horrible colour. Think of how many more they'd sell if they offered more colour options.
They also sell it in blue. Looks sick
@@nerychristian yeah orange is a bit too much. But that blue is just 🥴!
with an orange seat! They have no taste.
If you want a KTM, you get any color you want....as long as it's orange. But the Atlantic Blue looks good too.
i tihnk the CFMOTO twin 270 crank is way better.
If you re gear it you could shoot it to the 400cc
Mileage..? And is it a buy or no buy bike..? Plz tell.
Buy it! I think I’m averaging like 57mpg at the moment and I’m gassing it hard. Lol
KTM’s are easy to work on as whole engine is exposed. Many bikes especially track type bikes all the fairings in the way and easily damaged
The bike is small irl.
U only said pros and what about cons of bike.. That's not fare review.. Misguiding the buyers..
Build quality is awful. Looked at one in the dealer, glue on tft border, seat stitching come off on brand new bike.
Ktm duke 390 old model 2022
Taylor Edward Martinez Ronald Perez Jason
Rodriguez Patricia Davis Lisa Perez Mary
My review on the new 390 Duke... Its uglier. Follow for more in depth reviews.
Most KTMs are ugly. KTM has cornered itself by going all into the orange insect boy racer look. If they can change that it will only grow their customer base.
@@seauryakumar Husqvarna
Sorry dukes are not for boomers😅
I don't think it's ugly. I saw it in person, and it actually looks really nice. It's comfortable too. I'm 6'1" and didn't feel uncomfortable on it.
❤ I love the color. The bike looks so sleek. Black and Orange gels well...
Waldo Terrace
Ines Trail
Davis Nancy Johnson Charles Lopez Paul
Yawn, expensive unreliable weak and one cyl… 500cc parallel twin is the minimum for the us as an only bike.
Nope, unless you plan to tour. Even then, it can be done. I have been fine with 500 singles (my old Ascot) and love my current Z400. I have been riding since the 1970's and just prefer a light, flickable motorcycle. My Z400 is faster than the 70's XS650 that I considered a fun all around motorcycle. The much heavier Honda 750 Shadows just put out about 44hp, virtually the same as this bike. I have found over 30hp at the rear wheel enough to keep up with traffic. My old FT500 Ascot didn't even have that, but it was still fine.
@@jfess1911 bro i aint young but ur too old to have an opinion on this, the fact u had an ascot says sooo much lol u can get killed outhere if u cant hit 70 quick enough, touring? Ur crazy man this aint the 70’s i know this might feel fast for ur age but its borderline dangerous for the crazies authere, let you in a little secret the only reason Why these companies build these little POS is they know six months and you’re gonna want the bigger one and they’re hoping you stick to the stupid brand.
@@jfess1911 z400 maybeeeee but my 500cc rebel has been adequate wouldnt do less
@@gigi9467 The Honda 500's are very understessed to last a lifetime, but they tend to be slower than the KTM and Kawasaki. Largely because the Hondas weigh more. The Rebel 500 is tuned more for low-end torque and it weighs 50 labs more than a 390 Duke or Z400. According to Cycle World, the 500 Rebel puts out 40.8 hp, the old Duke/RC with the slightly smaller engine were 40.2hp at 8550 rpm and the Z400/Ninja 400 at around 44.1 at 9830 rpm. The KTM and Kawasaki's don't have as much low end power, but they rev higher. You spend a lot more time using the gearbox of the Duke or Z400 if you want max performance, but that is fine with me.
@@gigi9467 The Rebel 500 is a nice motorcycle and I have recommended it. Just a different class of motorcycle.
I don't make recommendations by displacement anymore since power output can vary so much depending on engine design. I suspect that your water-cooled Rebel 500 has similar performance to the air-cooled Royal Enfield INT 650.
The old air-cooled Royal Enfield 411cc engine in the Scram only claimed 24.3hp and I would not consider it acceptable on the highway. The new water-cooled 452cc engine claims 39.5hp and might well be OK.
Sound like a tractor,, enjoy with tht