KTM Duke 250: The KTM Duke 250 is a celebration of cool, modern and fun, loaded with full of energy that will drive you wild with an unrivalled combination of power (31 ps), weight (161 kg) and high-tech componentry.
This naked looks amazing and has made a strong name in the mid-size motorcycle segment for its stance & performance factor.
KTM Duke 250: Design fluff- Pointy and Pointy
Design and Style The Duke 250 carries the KTM family genes for sure; there are sharp design lines, the KTM front fascia, and a towering stance to demand attention on roads.
The aggressive tilt led headlamp cluster with DRL complements the sculpted LED tail lamp, which forms the arrow-shaped design at the back of the bike, resembles those jaws in the dark. Its muscular fuel tank along with minimal body work reflects its streetfighter DNA.
Top color choices usually consist of KTM’s iconic orange with black graphics so that no one can mistake you for anything else but a KTM rider.
Why have the trellis frame? The trellis frame and swingarm is on display, providing that element of the street bike appearance.
Performance: Heart of a Beast
Powering the Duke 250 is a 249cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor which comes with some impressive power and torque figures to boast.
The engine puts out around 30bhp and 24Nm torque which is more than adequate for commuting within the city and on an open road.
But what sets this bike apart is a ride-by-wire throttle and linear power. The engine’s character encourages confident riding in a range of situations, whether its threading traffic through busy city centres or enjoying a spirited run through the lanes. The 6-speed transmission provides smooth and accurate gear changes for second to none ride.
Chassis and Handling: Born on the Corners
It comes with steel trellis frame so customary from a KTM motorcycle, which offers stupendous stiffness and weight is kept well under control.
This results in better handling, which enables riders to feel more comfortable in tight turns and through twisties.
Pumping duty is managed by WP and it is handled in the form of upside down forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear.
They nailed the comfort-versus-sportiness ratio with these, soaking up road rash while keeping composure during serious riding.
Braking duties are handled by a disc at the front and the rear and comes with ABS to ensure a safer ride. The mix delivers progressive braking, with plenty of feel at the levers, so you always have confidence, even when braking hard.
Technology: Modern Features
Technology The Duke 250 might be a mid-size naked but it’s certainly not short on tech. Essential information is displayed in a clear, easy-to-read format on the all-digital instrument panel.
Readings on the display include a tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, trip meters and more.
The LED lighting package is not just a brilliant way of making you extraordinarily visible to other road users, but it also puts the cowl in a contemporary light.
The addition of ABS is a prima facie evidence of KTM’s concern for rider safety without losing the motorcycle’s sporty edge.
How it rides: Fun, but Sensible
To sum it up, the Duke 250 makes for an entertaining ride which caters to the needs of both, beginners as well as the pros.
The riding position is sheer perfection, the upright stance complemented by fastidious peg and very relaxed reach to the handlebars for unhurried pain-free miles.
Light and agile, this super compact street warrior is small in size and price but is a giant in terms of rider friendly features. On the highway, the forceful engine has plenty of grunt for passing and cruising without effort.
KTM Duke 250: Verdict- A Compelling Package
KTM Duke 250 is a great choice who are looking for power, handling and every day usability in the same package, it’s the most affordable and practical product from KTM.
It has the excitement of a bigger bike in an easy-to-use and ride package that will really appeal to those making the step up from smaller capacity bikes.
Though formidable competition exists in the segment from other companies, the individuality of the Duke 250, its ‘ready to race’ attributes and legacy of KTM has proven universally appealing and thus global acceptance.
Whether you’re a weekend track warrior wanting an addictive adrenaline high or a daily commuter wanting fun every time the traffic opens up, the 2017 KTM Duke 250 demands a very serious look-in. It is a clear definition of how KTM translates racing success into everyday performance.