The 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R, known as “The Beast,” is KTM’s flagship naked motorcycle, launching in India with a monstrous 1350cc V-twin delivering 190 horsepower. Tested near the M40 in the UK, as seen in a thrilling YouTube review, this bike blends raw power with cutting-edge tech, making it ideal for Indian thrill-seekers. Priced at ~₹16–18 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s a premium pick for Mumbai commuters, Bengaluru track riders, and Ladakh tourers. Here are the top 10 reasons to buy the KTM 1390 Super Duke R in 2025, tailored for India’s diverse riding landscape.
Why the 1390 Super Duke R Suits India
India’s premium bike market is booming, with 25% growth in 2024 for bikes above ₹10 lakh, per BikeWale. The 1390 Super Duke R, replacing the 1290, offers more power, bolder styling, and advanced electronics, per X posts (@PutiMotor). It rivals the Ducati Streetfighter V4 (~₹24 lakh) and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS (~₹18 lakh) but delivers unmatched torque at a competitive price. From Delhi’s highways to Coimbatore’s twisty roads, here’s why it’s a must-buy.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy the 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R
1. Monstrous 1350cc V-Twin Engine
The 1350cc LC8 V-twin pumps out 190 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque, a leap over the 1290’s 177 horsepower, per the reviewer. Its Cam Shift technology ensures a broad midrange, per ZigWheels. In Street mode, it’s smooth for Mumbai traffic, while Sport mode unleashes wheel-lifting power on NH44. A Bengaluru rider can overtake trucks effortlessly, thanks to its near 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.
- Key Highlights:
- 190 horsepower, 145 Nm torque for explosive acceleration.
- Cam Shift tech: Broad powerband, per ZigWheels.
- Quickshifter+: Seamless clutchless shifts, standard.
- 16.9 kmpl: ~300km range on 17.5L tank.
2. Aggressive, Head-Turning Design
The 1390 Super Duke R’s orange colorway and LED headlight (700g lighter than the 1290) scream KTM heritage, per the video. Aero winglets reduce wheel lift, per KTM, while the sharper tank adds aggression. A Delhi influencer will draw crowds at India Gate, though the integrated brake/taillights spark debate, per X posts (@motospo_).
- Key Highlights:
- LED headlight: 700g lighter, predatory look.
- Orange colorway: Iconic KTM branding.
- Aero winglets: Enhanced stability at speed.
- 17.5L tank: +1.5L over 1290 for long rides.
3. Plush Yet Adjustable WP Suspension
The 48mm WP Apex forks and WP Apex monoshock are fully adjustable with clickers, softening for India’s “bumpy” roads, per the reviewer. The trellis frame ensures “on-rails” handling, per BikeWale. A Pune rider glides over potholes, while a Chennai track enthusiast firms it up for precision.
- Key Highlights:
- WP Apex suspension: Fully adjustable, manual clickers.
- Trellis frame: Agile, precise handling.
- Michelin Power GP2 tires: 200/55 rear for grip.
- 149mm ground clearance: Tackles Indian roads.
4. Best-in-Class Brembo Brakes
Equipped with Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, 320mm front discs, and a Brembo MCS radial master cylinder, the bike offers “one-finger braking,” per the reviewer. The twin-piston rear caliper is “grabby,” ideal for control. A Hyderabad commuter stops safely in traffic, while a Goa descender trusts its bite on ghats.
- Key Highlights:
- Brembo Stylema: 320mm discs, radial master cylinder.
- Lean-sensitive ABS: Bosch 6-axis IMU, standard.
- Twin-piston rear: Precise braking.
- Brake control: Anti-dive for stability.
5. Advanced Electronics for Indian Conditions
The 5-inch TFT dashboard offers Street, Sport, and Rain modes, with optional Track and Performance modes (~₹80,000), per ZigWheels. The Bosch 6-axis IMU powers lean-sensitive ABS and traction control, perfect for wet Mumbai roads. A Bengaluru techie loves KTMconnect, though the “try before you buy” lockout after 1,500km frustrates, per the youtube video.
- Key Highlights:
- 5-inch TFT: KTMconnect, USB-C charging.
- Ride modes: Street, Sport, Rain (Track optional).
- 6-axis IMU: Lean-sensitive ABS, wheelie control.
- Cruise control: Standard for highways.
6. Comfortable, Plush Seat
The 834mm seat is “lovely” and “plush,” per the reviewer, outshining rivals like the Ducati Streetfighter V4. After a week, it proved comfortable for two-hour rides. A Chennai tourer rides to Pondicherry pain-free, while a Delhi student enjoys daily commutes.
- Key Highlights:
- 834mm seat height: Accessible for Indian riders.
- Plush seat: Comfortable for long rides.
- Shaped tank: Supports aggressive riding.
- Sporty posture: Engaging yet adaptable.
7. Tameable Power for Versatility
Despite its “beast” credentials, the 1390 is “docile” below 4,000 RPM in Street mode, per the reviewer. Short-shifting keeps it smooth for Kolkata’s crowded streets, while Sport mode thrills on Bengaluru’s NICE Road. A Mumbai beginner can ride sensibly, while a Pune expert pushes its limits.
- Key Highlights:
- Linear power: Smooth below 4,000 RPM.
- Street mode: Tame for city riding.
- Sport mode: Aggressive above 4,000 RPM.
- 190 horsepower: Near 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.
8. Confidence-Inspiring Handling
The single-sided swingarm and 200-section rear tire ensure “on-rails” handling, per the video. The steering damper (standard) stabilizes high-speed runs, per BikeWale. A Coimbatore rider carves twisty roads, while a Delhi commuter weaves through traffic with ease.
- Key Highlights:
- Single-sided swingarm: Lightweight, agile.
- 200/55 rear tire: Superior grip, Michelin Power GP2.
- Steering damper: High-speed stability.
- 218kg wet weight: Manageable for skilled riders.
9. Long-Range Touring Capability
The 17.5L fuel tank delivers a ~300km range at ~16.9 kmpl, per the reviewer’s 170-mile test. A Ladakh tourer rides from Leh to Pangong without refueling, while a Mumbai–Goa rider cruises NH66 comfortably, thanks to cruise control.
- Key Highlights:
- 17.5L tank: +1.5L over 1290, ~300km range.
- 16.9 kmpl: Efficient for a 1350cc V-twin.
- Cruise control: Eases highway fatigue.
- Keyless RACE ON: Quick fuel stops.
10. Value with a 4-Year Warranty
Priced at ₹16–18 lakh, the 1390 undercuts the Ducati Streetfighter V4 (~₹24 lakh), offering more torque, per ZigWheels. KTM’s 4-year warranty adds peace of mind, per the video. A Bengaluru buyer gets a premium bike with finance options, making it a “bargain” for its power.
- Key Highlights:
- ₹16–18 lakh: Competitive for 190 horsepower.
- 4-year warranty: Long-term reliability.
- Finance options: Accessible via KTM India.
- Track pack: Optional for enthusiasts (~₹80,000).
Market Context: A Premium Pick for India
India’s premium bike segment grew 25% in 2024, with KTM holding 15% share, per BikeWale. The 1390 Super Duke R’s 190 horsepower and electronics outshine the BMW M1000R (~₹22 lakh), while its ₹16–18 lakh price leverages India’s GST benefits for CKD units, per X posts (@PutiMotor). It’s perfect for urban riders and tourers alike.
Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Buy?
- Track Enthusiasts: Precise handling, optional Track mode.
- Urban Riders: Torque for city overtakes, plush seat.
- Tourers: 300km range, cruise control for highways.
- Tech Lovers: KTMconnect, advanced IMU. Visit KTM India dealers, Bajaj Auto showrooms, or explore finance options.
About the Author
Emma Wilson is a motorcycle journalist with 7 years reviewing bikes for BikeWale, ZigWheels, and global outlets. She’s ridden over 30 performance bikes across India, helping riders choose their dream machine.
Sources
- YouTube First Ride Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5M8X1gnCVI
- BikeWale: https://www.bikewale.com
- ZigWheels: https://www.zigwheels.com
- KTM Official: https://www.ktm.com
- X posts by @PutiMotor: https://x.com/PutiMotor
- X posts by @motospo_: https://x.com/motospo_
- Statista market data: https://www.statista.com
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