For model year 2024, KTM has completely updated the little DUKE, the LC4c single-cylinder line-up that consists of a 125, 250 and 390 model produced at Bajaj Auto in India, although you may not immediately see it from the outside. KTM talks about a completely new bicycle part and a stronger block that meets Euro 5+.
For many, the summer holidays have only just ended or KTM has already presented its first news for 2024: the little one DUKE with which the Austrians in Europe focus on the A1 and A2 driving license and which consists of three models in total: the 125 DUKE and 390 DUKE for the European market in particular and the 250 DUKE for the Asian market.
In terms of design, the differences compared to current models are minimal, but in that respect KTM has been using the mantra ‘evolution’ instead of ‘revolution’ since its rebirth 30 years ago. Not a radically different, but refined design, so that the connoisseur immediately recognizes it as a new model, but at the same time the model remains very recognizable.
This is also the case with the 2024 single-cylinder DUKE family, where the panels of the tank have been given a slightly different shape to create more distinction between the 125 and the 390 DUKE. As subtly as KTM’s home designer KISKA has adjusted the design, the three models must have been tackled so thoroughly under the skin.
In fact, KTM is calling it the biggest change to the DUKE family’s sub-500cc range since the launch of the 125 DUKE in 2011, adopting the ‘no compromise’ attitude that has made the Austrians famous in 30 years. , with a completely new bicycle part, a new design and new engine blocks.
Starting with the first, following the large (LC8c and LC8) DUKE families, KTM has now also applied a 2-piece frame to the little DUKE, which consists of a steel lattice tube frame with die-cast aluminum (under high pressure in a mold sprayed aluminum) subframe. In particular, according to KTM, the frame’s torsional stiffness should have been improved for improved feedback, while new triple clamps and a modified offset should have improved handling characteristics.
In addition to the frame, the lightweight swingarm has also been redesigned and engineers have moved the rear shock from center to side to create more room for a larger airbox while lowering the seat height. KTM says it has deliberately done the latter to make the little DUKE more accessible, without compromising stability or handling.
As far as the beating heart is concerned, KTM has been at least as thorough. The single-cylinder range, dubbed LC4c by KTM, now consists of a 125cc, 250cc and 399cc, which is a slight increase for the latter compared to the 373cc of the current 390 DUKE. According to KTM, the new LC4c generation has optimized cylinder heads and gearboxes, improved electronics and meets the upcoming Euro 5+ emissions standard.
As for the 390 DUKE, now nicknamed Corner Rocket by KTM, the Austrians now claim a peak power output of 45 hp at 8,500 rpm and maximum torque of 39 Nm at 7,000 rpm, which is a slight increase over the 44 hp and 37 Nm of the current 390 DUKE. The slightly larger displacement has been obtained by increasing the stroke from 60 mm to 64 mm, with a bore of 89 mm that has remained the same.
To reinforce its nickname Corner Rocket, KTM has now equipped the 5″ TFT color display with a second Track screen, which decrypts a world of hooliganism with an enlarged rpm display, launch control for the perfect start and even a lap timer All unnecessary information has been reduced to a minimum. As far as riding modes are concerned, you can choose from Street and Rain, the latter having a slightly milder throttle response. Cornering ABS and lean-angle dependent traction control are standard, but an up/down quickshifter requires extra cloth placed on the table.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.