[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32532379218/[/flickr]

It still rides like bigger Dukes

Verdict – The KTM Duke 125 is priced at Rs. 1.40 lakhs and we might be able to justify the price with the hardware on the motorcycle. But for the performance it offers, it seems a little costly. However, there is no other motorcycle in the same category that offers this much sportiness. And if we are here to compare, the Duke 125 even takes on the 150cc sporty-commuter motorcycles as well. While the Duke 125 is a brand new motorcycle by KTM it still looks slightly dated with the Duke 200 design. If it would have got the new Duke 390 design which goes out in the international market, the price could have been justified even more. Yet it makes a great product as an entry-level motorcycle and an affordable way to get into the KTM family, only if you like that orange.

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/46379906811/[/flickr]

Although the design is old, the Duke 125 does look subtle

What’s Cool

* Engine feels very refined for a KTM
* It takes on the 150cc sporty-commuter segment
* Braking performance is great, ABS works really well
* Riding dynamics are spot on, the handling is feedback rich

What’s Not So Cool

* Design looks old and dated
* Not comfortable for pillion duties
* Priced at a premium makes it unappealing

[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/44562923930/[/flickr]

From the front to the tail, the Duke 125 gets all LEDs

KTM Duke 125 Specifications

* Engine: 124.7cc, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Valve
* Power: 14.3 BHP @ 9250 RPM
* Torque: 12 Nm @ 8000 RPM
* Transmission: 6-Speed Constant Mesh
* Top Speed: 115 km/hr
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Fuel Consumption: 40 km/l
* Frame: Steel Trellis Frame
* Suspension: 43 mm WP USD Forks (Front), WP Monoshock (Rear)
* Tyres: 110/70/17 (Front), 150/60/17 (Rear), MRF Zapper
* Brakes: 300 mm Disc (Front), 230 mm Disc (Rear), Single-Channel ABS

KTM Duke 125 Dimensions

* Length x Width x Height: 1993 mm x 789 mm x 1083 mm
* Wheelbase: 1366 mm
* Seat Height: 818 mm
* Ground Clearance: 175 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.2-litres
* Kerb weight: 148 kgs

Testers’ Note:

“The KTM Duke 125 might seem overpriced for a 125cc engined motorcycle but there is more than what meets the eye as it handles brilliantly well and offers the feel of a big bike. It is also the best KTM to ride in the city with no heating issues and a very smooth engine.” – Faisal Khan, Editor, MotorBeam.

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