KTM 390 Duke to get ABS

KTM 390 Duke, slated for India launch in mid-2013, to include option of ABS.

KTM is ready to step up the excitement in the Indian market with their upcoming 390 Duke. While we wait for the official launch in mid-2013, some details regarding the baby Duke are coming to light.

A significant feature on the 390 Duke for India will be the inclusion of Bosch’s 9M ABS option. The sensors at the front and rear wheels will be connected to an independent ECU for the ABS function, that also monitor engine torque to optimise braking. This is certain to be a big boon as demanding Indian riding conditions are known to throw many uncertainties at street riders, all the more pertinent when the power on tap increases, such as with the 390 Duke. However, riders could also have the option of switching off the ABS system.

Just looking at the 390 Duke’s performance potential makes the ABS option a sensible move. The 390 Duke is 25cc short of doubling the displacement of the 200 Duke, and 43bhp is considerably more power than the 200 Duke. Despite the jump in power, the 390 puts on just under 10kg, which means its power to weight ratio is a gob smacking 290bhp per tonne! The Ninja 650 has a power to weight ratio of 337bhp per tonne, so, it’s clear the 390 Duke is going to be a properly fast motorcycle.

What’s putting all the power down? The 390 Duke comes shod with 110mm section front and 150mm section rear tyres, like on the 200 Duke. There’s 300mm front and 230mm rear discs, again from the 200 Duke, and including ABS ensures the 390 Duke’s performance can be enjoyed with a lot less to worry about.