Top 5 Reasons to Avoid Buying the 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R in India

Bike Review

3 min read

The 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R, nicknamed “The Beast,” is a powerhouse with a 1350cc V-twin delivering 190 horsepower, as showcased in a UK ride review near the M40. Priced at ₹16–18 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, it’s a premium naked bike tempting Mumbai thrill-seekers and Bengaluru track riders. However, its high cost, demanding ergonomics, and other drawbacks may deter Indian buyers. Here are the top five reasons to avoid the KTM 1390 Super Duke R in 2025, backed by real-world insights to guide your decision.

Why Caution Is Needed for Premium Bikes in India

India’s premium bike market grew 25% in 2024, per BikeWale, but high-end models like the 1390 Super Duke R face challenges on pothole-ridden roads and in humid climates. Compared to the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS (~₹18 lakh) or BMW M1000R (~₹22 lakh), its raw power and electronics impress, per X posts (@PutiMotor), but practical issues loom large. From Delhi’s traffic to Ladakh’s rugged terrains, let’s explore why this bike may not suit every Indian rider.

Top 5 Reasons to Avoid Buying the 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R

1. High Purchase and Ownership Costs

At ₹16–18 lakh (ex-showroom), the 1390 Super Duke R is pricier than the Ducati Monster SP (~₹15.95 lakh), per ZigWheels. Maintenance is costly, with 200-section Michelin Power GP2 tires (~₹30,000 each) and service intervals every 7,500km (~₹15,000–₹20,000), per BikeWale. The optional Track pack (~₹80,000) and KTM’s “try before you buy” feature lockout after 1,500km add expenses. A Mumbai professional may find the total cost (~₹20 lakh with accessories) prohibitive.

Key Drawbacks:
- ₹16–18 lakh price, higher than Ducati Monster SP.
- ₹30,000 tires, frequent replacements needed.
- ₹15,000–₹20,000 service costs, per BikeWale.
- Track pack (~₹80,000) not standard.

2. Uncomfortable Sporty Ergonomics

The 834mm seat height and sportier riding position, with lower handlebars and higher foot pegs, caused lower back pain after an hour, per the reviewer. Unlike the comfier KTM 1290 Super Duke R, it’s less suited for long rides, per Motorcycle News. A Chennai tourer riding to Mahabalipuram or a Delhi commuter on NH48 may struggle with the forward-lean posture, especially in India’s heat.

Key Drawbacks:
- Sporty posture: Lower back pain after 1.5 hours.
- Less comfy than KTM 1290, per reviewer.
- 834mm seat: Tall for shorter riders.
- Wrist strain on long rides, per Cycle World.

3. Lumpy Low-End Power Delivery

The 1350cc V-twin is “lumpy” below 4,000 RPM in higher gears, requiring short-shifting for smoothness, per the video. In Street mode, it’s manageable, but Rain mode cuts power to 130 horsepower, limiting urban usability. A Bengaluru rider in stop-go traffic or a Kolkata beginner may find it hard to manage, unlike the smoother Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.

Key Drawbacks:
- Lumpy below 4,000 RPM, per reviewer.
- Rain mode: Only 130 horsepower, restrictive.
- Needs short-shifting in city traffic.
- Less refined than Triumph Speed Triple.

4. Challenging Handling for Novices

The 218kg wet weight and aggressive power make the 1390 intimidating for new riders, per the reviewer’s initial “twitchy” impression in Performance mode. India’s uneven roads and chaotic traffic amplify this, per ZigWheels. A Pune novice or Hyderabad commuter may prefer the lighter KTM 990 Duke (~179kg, ~₹12 lakh) for easier handling.

Key Drawbacks:
- 218kg weight: Heavy in traffic, per reviewer.
- Twitchy in Performance mode, not beginner-friendly.
- Tough on India’s potholes, per BikeWale.
- Outdone by KTM 990 Duke for novices.

5. KTM’s Uncertain Future and Service Network

KTM’s financial concerns, noted by the reviewer, raise doubts about long-term support, per X posts (@motospo_). India’s KTM service network, with only 150 centers vs. Hero’s 6,000, limits access in Tier-2 cities, per BikeWale. A Coimbatore rider or Guwahati tourer may face delays for parts, unlike with BMW Motorrad’s wider network.

Key Drawbacks:
- KTM’s financial uncertainty, per reviewer.
- 150 service centers, limited vs. Hero.
- Parts delays in Tier-2 cities, per BikeWale.
- Less reliable than BMW Motorrad support.

Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Avoid It?

Budget Buyers: High cost; consider KTM 990 Duke (~₹12 lakh).
Tourers: Uncomfy ergonomics; opt for BMW S1000R.
Beginners: Heavy, lumpy; try Triumph Trident 660 (~₹8.45 lakh).
Rural Riders: Limited service; choose Ducati Monster SP. Explore KTM India dealers, Bajaj Auto, or rivals for alternatives.

1. Why avoid the 1390 Super Duke R?
High cost, sporty ergonomics, lumpy low-end power, per reviewer.

About the Author

EnglishBikerDan is a motorcycle journalist with 7 years reviewing bikes for BikeWale, ZigWheels, and global outlets. She’s ridden over 30 performance bikes across India, guiding riders to smart choices.