2024 KTM 390 Duke, 125 Duke launched

The 2024 KTM 390 Duke and KTM 125 Duke have been launched by the Austrian brand with evolution compared to previous years, as the small Dukes enter their third generation.

KTM’s confidence in its new single-cylinder nakeds is apparent from the first line of its press release, which reads, “[KTM’s 2024 single-cylinder Duke range] fearlessly adopts a no bullshit stance and punches well above its weight.” On one hand, it’s typical PR talk but, on the other, expletives are not exactly commonplace in corporate releases. Makes you wonder whether KTM’s MotoGP rider roster might have had a hand in writing it.

As for the bikes themselves, there are changes throughout. 

On the surface, new graphics and paint jobs are applied with a multi-layered wet-paint approach with the graphics overcoated on the base paint. Additionally, there is a textured seat material specific to the Duke range, and lasered textures on the inner spoilers.

The bodywork onto which the paint is applied is also new. Mostly, the aim of these changes has been to create more differentiation between the different models. So, the 125 Duke has smaller spoilers on the tank, for example, than the 390, whose tank spoilers also incorporate air intakes. Additionally, it has a new seat design complete with an orange accent, and is completed by a TFT display and LED positioning lights. Both of the new Dukes for 2024 have a new metal fuel tank.

The frame and subframe are also new for 2024, allowing for a lower seat height compared to the second-generation models. Sticking of course with the steel trellis layout, KTM has adjusted the stiffness to try to find more compliance and agility.

The diecast aluminium subframe is also new for 2024, reducing weight compared to steel units, and adding to the bikes’ visual thanks to its exposed position (i.e. not shrouded in bodywork). 

Elsewhere on the chassis we find new wheels; new triple clamps with a new offset; a new, lighter, curved swingarm; a new muffler; and a new, off-centre positioning for the shock that allows both that new muffler and a new airbox position.

Both the 125 and 390 are fitted with 43mm open-cartridge WP APEX forks and WP Apex Separate piston shocks, with 150mm of wheel travel at each end. The difference between the two is that the 390 has five-click rebound and compression adjustability at the front and rebound adjustability at the rear, whereas the 125 has no adjustability at the front and only tool-adjustable preload at the rear.

Michelin provides Road 5 tyres for both the 125 Duke and 390 Duke in 2024, while the braking system features lighter discs. They are also the same for both bikes, with a 320mm front disc and four-piston radial callipers; and a 240mm rear disc with a two-piston floating calliper.

At the engine, there is also a new generation shift for the LC4c engine: the cylinder heads are redesigned compared to the previous generation, the gearbox is new and, for the 390, the displacement is increased from 373cc to 399cc thanks to a 64mm stroke.

The 125 retains its 124.9cc displacement but has reduced weight thanks to a new SOHC layout that reduces the number of components. Additionally, there is a PASC clutch and ride-by-wire.

The most interesting electronic addition for the 2024 125 Duke and 390 Duke is perhaps the Supermoto ABS which comes as standard and remains engaged after the ignition is turned off to retain its settings when you turn the bike back on.

Cornering MTC also comes as standard on the 390 Duke, as does the Track riding mode which comes in addition to the Street and Rain modes. Both bikes have launch control as standard, and Quickshifter+ is available as an add-on. 

Connectivity via the KTMconnect app is also possible through the five-inch TFT display.

In addition to the 2024 125 and 390 Duke models, KTM has also launched the 2024 250 Duke, but this will not be marketed in the UK.

Head to the KTM website to find out more and to find your nearest dealer.

2024 KTM 390 Duke Specifications

2024 KTM 125 Duke Specifications

New 2022 KTM RC 390 and KTM RC 125 | Full Specs and Features