For many of us, these are not just "stepping stones" ... just sayin' ... I have owned over 20 bikes of all shapes and sizes, done track days, ridden on Laguna Seca, COTA, Miller, etc. I understand the spirit of the comments, but really, these bikes are a breath of fresh are for many experienced riders who just want something light, nimble, and fun.
I own the Duke 390 2021 model. I road a Honda CR 125 in 1975. This duke in my opinion is not just a beginner bike. It's a great city suburb bike that I can't believe how good it is with heaps of touch for pick up with just a single cylinder 373 cc engine. I've become proud to own it.
Right here my friend! Had Harleys, old school UJM bikes too, fast fat 4 cylinders. I decided on this BMW because it's all that I need for fun. I'm 230 and I've gotten that 310 up to 92(GPS checked) and still about another 1k till close to redline... More than enough to carry you with the legal riding big bikes, street fun and nimble.
Had my 390 for ~2weeks and the 750km(mostly commuting) I've put on have been the most fun I've had in 3 years of riding(~12k km on a 79 CB400T cafe before the Duke). It does everything my beloved cafe did, but so much better and with modernism. Staying alive in a torrential downpour with my Honda felt like an accomplishment given its f/r drums, iffy electrical, and Firestone Champions, but with the Duke it's just plain old fun in those conditions. (I did feel like I was going to die the whole way home from work in ~100kmh winds last night, but that's a rare occurrence and I'd have been scared in a car last night.) The price is incredible too. Sticker is one thing, and financing obviously varies, but I got my 2017 with no km for $7000CAD out the door. With the 0.99% financing, I only pay ~$165 extra over 5 years(be done next year in reality). Originally I wanted an XG750, and boy am I glad that I went for the KTM over the Harley. The HD would've needed at least $3k put into it to make me happy, but the Duke required $200 for handguards(saved me from damage from wind tippage) and likely another $200 for the fender eliminator(stock is so gross looking).
I wish KTM would take that 390 engine and throw it in an SMC chassis. It would basically become the DRZ everyone has been asking Suzuki for over the last decade lol
MrSlowestD16 I mean they do already make the 690 supermoto and the husqy 701. The 690 motor seems like it doesn't weigh any more than the 390. For example, you'll see that somehow the curb weight for the 690 is a full 1kg or 2 pounds less than the 390 haha. The engines likely weigh roughly the same then
These bikes are geared toward the new rider. BMW has been perceived more as a brand for older people but that is changing. Even with the higher price, the KTM will likely sell better.
I have 23 years of riding experience. I've had tons of bikes. From a Honda RC51 (still have it) to CBR1000RR, BMW K1300S and S1000RR, etc... to a Honda Goldwing to an R1200RT I've had since '06 which almost has 100k miles on it. I just spent the last 2 weeks on a National Parks tour - Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons and every day rode my friend's G310R for 150-200 miles each day. People can judge small bikes and say what they want to say, but I'll tell you what - These little bikes are so much fun! After spending a lot of time on one of these, it really starts to make you think about why you need a big bore bike. I get it, sometimes that power is awesome, and needed to get away from oblivious people. But these bikes are hugely capable in the twisties, and there's something to be said about riding something that's just so darn easy to ride. It's like driving a Miata. It just puts a smile on your face.
As an Indian, this was an interesting video. To start with- both bikes are Indo-European bikes. The interesting thing was how both are priced differently in India and USA. In India, the 310R comes with a premium over the Duke 390. I would love to know how much spec difference is there in Indian and USA models for both brands.
I have the BMW G310R and I love it. I've ridden the previous gen Duke 390 / RC390 and wasn't too impressed. Poor FI management, shitty throttle response, poor fit and finish, and grenading engines. I wasn't a fan of the soggy shock either. However, it's an induspited king in the power department, especially in this comparison. For the sake of engine longevity, I probably wouldn't do more than 10-mile stints on the highway with either of these though. I think a major point you guys fail to mention is that reliability on KTM 390's is pretty crap. Numerous issues (clutch bushing failure, blown head gaskets, faulty fans, etc....just the tip of the iceberg) with the previous generation and given my past history with KTM (two 690's), I'm not inclined to believe they've improved. Google "KTM 390 issues" and the updated 390 platform features even MORE problems (battery, TFT display, headlight, cracked wheels, more engine problems, etc etc..). Although the Beemer is a brand new engine and there's no history yet to track reliability, I feel pretty well-backed by BMW's legendary 3-year warranty and decent track record. They also have a reputation for excellent customer service (I mean cumon...what other manufacturer gives loaner bikes for warranty repairs??) and have far more dealers and much better support. I cannot say the same about KTM's 1-year warranty, their horrid customer service, and far and few between dealer network, which can take months for a warranty repair. There's a reason you find KTM 390's sold with such low mileage.... Furthermore, major services are twice as frequent for the KTM than the BMW adding insult to injury. Not only is the BMW cheaper upfront initially, but in the long run it is far easier on the wallet. And frankly, I like to spend less time wrenching and shelling money out of my wallet and more time riding instead. Just my 0.02 I hope magazines and journalists can start to take reliability and maintenance costs into account in these comparisons....I think it's especially useful to new riders who have little experience with motorcycles and are sometimes in for a shock with reliability issues and maintenance costs.
MotoBoy wow thanks for your comment! Honestly I've heard of these issues with ktm as well and I've always avoided the brand. I want to experience adventure biking for the first time and I'm currently debating between BMW 310 gs and versys x. I'm not a very talented rider just experienced.
MotoBoy All these points (well the majority of them) are exact opposite where I live. It's 1/10 ratio of the number of service stations we have here for KTM as compared to the very very few one's of BMW. KTM is priced lower than the beemer as well here, and as far as the quality of BMW you're boasting about brother, the G310r is manufactured by TVS in India as well just like the Duke/RC390s are by Bajaj in India. The new gen D390 is far far better than the older one...be it in terms of engine refinement or the throttle response, as far as the TFT issue was concerned it was rectified with a software update. At this price point (Duke being cheaper) I just don't see any reason to buy the TVS-BMW G310r over the 390. TVS has already used the very same engine to manufacture their own bike (Apache 310rr) which is a good bike but vibrates at 5-7k rpm which is it's touring range whereas as the 390s are pretty smooth at those rpms. Blown gasket and stuff has happened at the tracks where one pushes the limits of these bikes....there haven't been any such (major) case in city or highway here.
Bent alloys...? Yeah we've had bent alloys for CBR1000rr, Yamaha R1, Z800, Z900, S1000r etc as well here because of the crappy roads we have....with the kind of pot holes one can encounter here the rider needs to be cautious or he'll bend any allot of any bike or car here.
Rider'sDen my first bike from back in 2007 was a TVS fiero. Its still running to this day. TVS is an experienced bike maker and dont get me wrong i would much rather prefer the Japanese 4 over TVS but this weird bias exist over all the fans of BMW, mv, ducati, moto guzzi etc. If they fail then its 'character' for some reason. I respect your opinion but from my experience of driving tvs and my friends driving tvs they are superb machines. I drive an R1 currently but would never hold bmw against it for using TVS for keeping cost low.
Rider'sDen very true Ive had a bent alloy on my Yamaha R15 which my TVS fiero easily survived but I think that has more to do with the fact the fiero had spoked wheels which have better structural integrity compared to alloy wheels.
As a rider with 34 years in the saddle I've never met a ktm that didn't explode. BMW's last forever. It remains to be scene how this one will hold up but I wouldn't hesitate to choose the 310r over another waiting to grenade ktm
I own the baby Duke and I love it right bits. You guys are right about the hard seat and it's kinda hard to use everyday but I personally don't mind that. For the fun it offers, there's nothing in the market as radical as the KTM. #BleedOrange
For the Duke 390 The seat is easily fixed. Buy the ergo seat. As for commuting, I use the Duke 390 every day and if you are filtering through traffic it is absolute boss. It is so agile you can manoeuvre so easily through tight spaces when the traffic is parked unevenly at red lights. I love this bike, it is such good fun.
would you mind testing the dominar 400 by bajaj? it is supposed to have the same engine design as the 390 duke but with some tweaks to make it more fuel efficient and confortable for every day riding at the expense of some power, torque and top speed.
Looking to get into riding and I really want a Duke 390 to start out on everyone has told me that it’s a great beginner bike and has enough power and different modes so you won’t get bored with it super fast
I rode both back to back and I think there is not much comparison. KTM is better overall. The power, fun, comfort, LED lights, TFT and quality was way above than BMW's. I think BMW needs to up their game when they do the next gen of their 310. I did go to buy the BMW but ended up getting KTM for my commuting bike.
Sounds like there's basically no reason to buy the G310. The KTM seat may be hard, but they offer a soft seat for it for like $200 or something, and I have the stock seat on mine and it's good enough for as long as you're going to want to ride a 400cc thumper in 1 go.
Just bought the wife a g310r on Wednesday. The duke was my first choice until I heard of the issues people were having with them. I believe I made the right choice.
I like the idea of a small displacement single, but I'm sort of a large guy at 6-2", 200 lb, 34" inseam. I'd go with a Ninja 400 as things currently stand. However, if manufacturers built one of these little funsters with a 450 or 500cc single and enlarged the frame a bit with a longer wheelbase, that would suit me just fine. Until then, MT-07 is the small displacement funster for me. I'd happily drop a couple grand into it to fix the suspension and brakes, open up the power, and flog it. Convert a WR450 or CRF450 or something of the sort to super moto? But then these bikes were designed to be serviced all the time, have small oil capacity that needs changed all the time, don't employ electric fans to remove heat in slow speed stuff, and fuel capacity suffers. They really aren't road bikes.
The 310R has a 3 year warranty! KTM warranty only covers the engine, swing arm, and frame. Not to mention the endless reliability issues these 390 have had since they were brought over. The choice is easy, 310R all the way.
I’m looking into getting the KTM duke 390 as my first bike because it seems like a really good bike do you think that a 5 foot rider like myself will be able to ride it or should I see if I can get it lowered planning on getting my drivers and motorcycle license next month or so since I took the course already
Troy how was Alpinestars? Heath says hi. One of these days I swear I’m gonna bump into you guys on Azusa/GMR! I was just at that Mobil on Monday, then Taco Nazo right behind it. Catch you on the flip.
I have the 390 Duke and with the gel seat you now have a perfect motorcycle for any use. If I want to smooth the ride I'll take my Challenger but if I want to have fun I'll take the Duke
Great reviews, guys! They're both sweet looking bikes. I'd go for the extra oomph of the KTM, but i wouldn't feel bad about owning the BMW, either. I ride a ZX-14R, but going to work on a second, smaller bike for more everyday things. Definitely a naked. Or maybe that Z900 RS Cafe... It's a great time to be in the market for a great bike. :)
Hmmm... I just yesterday sold a new Alpinestars "Missile" leather race suit that was too small for me, to a rider named Aditya (well, his friend, Yasar did the transaction ahead of Aditya arriving for a visit and to have some track days with his friend). :) Awesome coincidence! :D
I wish they would put the cb500 engine in the new CB300R chassis and price it somewhere close to these, even within a grand. I don’t think either has classic looks or reliability really nailed, and we know a Honda wouldn’t face the same thing with a proven engine. I think it would be a cool option vs the new Husky 401’s too, not to mention big enough for actual people... Just my 2c
I truly enjoyed this video. I work in Azusa and live in Upland. I ride those roads monthly in my Aprilia Shiver 750. I fill in at that gas station weekly. Let me know when you are out here testing!
I'm just going to be controversial, spend an extra grand and get a Honda CB500F, its a little bit faster, cheaper to get parts for and much more reliable.
They're decent bikes. Lots of low-end grunt (far more than any 300), but is ultimately a little boring if you're looking for something sporty although everything works well from the suspension to the brakes, etc. For me, the biggest issue is the painfully low redline at 9k RPM and power falls off long before that. It feels like it runs out of steam way too quickly. And perhaps even more important (especially if you're a new rider), is that the CB500F is 65+ pounds heavier than either of these bikes and it's felt everywhere. The BMW G310R is 349 pounds, but it feels like even less. I'd liken it to a grown up Honda Grom....that's how light it feels. It also has seat options to change seat height from 30" to 31" to 32". At the Honda's price point, I think I'd probably go for a Suzuki SV650, Yamaha MT-07, or Kawasaki Z650, which are a good bit more bike, for not a whole lot more. Both the MT and Z weigh less with the SV coming in at a little more and have a similar seat height to the Honda. They all make considerably more power and are better at everything all around, and MPG is quite comparable as well. All proven to be rock-solid reliable as well. The Honda just kind of fills a strange niche in my opinion.
Eh, if you're commuting I'd agree. If you're into aggressive riding I'd get the Duke. Most Hondas (excluding fireblades and the like) are boring as shit. They make excellent commuters because nothing ever goes wrong but they also lack character. I'm sure the CB500 is smooth as silk with perfect fit & finish in every regard, but that to me is its biggest downfall. I'd rather take the Duke (and I did buy the Duke), because I considered the CB500F but I've owned 100 mid-displacement Hondas and I know it'll be a completely uneventful ride every time I throw a leg over, but despite having ridden a few thousands to their top speed, the Duke manages to put a smile on my face every time I throw a leg over just to commute to work.
Here is the honest review. KTM flew usto Austria and it was beautiful, BMW flew us to Germany and the beer/food was great. But the hotel KTM put us in was way nicer, but BMW let me bring my wife.... To close to call both bikes are great for different reason... Only kidding of course 🤣
Yeah, show me one main stream moto (mag) that dogs any bike they review, always a positive spin. "The one gallon tank on the new ABC400XYZ represents a forward thinking philosophy, reducing weight and effectively lowering the center of gravity. This ultimately makes the bike immensely flickable...." - Whatever.
I have few question regarding both the bikes. Duke 390 : what about the engine vibration when it goes above 100, it is noticeable ? ABS : i am planning to buy BMW G310R and it would be launched next month in India and i got to know that ABS is not switchable in G310R so what would be impact when ABS need to off but there is no option to off the ABS. what about G310R barracking control compare to Duke 390 ?
Great review (apart from the cringe-worthy intro). It's gotta be the Duke all day long! Just the extra HP, rider modes & styling is enough to win the battle. Welcome back Troy!
Me personally... I'm just looking for something to get me to work and back and run quick errands during the warmer months. Driving a car here in Chicago can be quite annoying and costly. So I think I will go with the BMW as my first bike.
You are not red lining the Duke to stay at highway speeds. It will do 90mph all day long and still have some oomph left. Of course if you want to be doing 100mph plus, well maybe you should be buying a bigger bike.
I got a KTM 390 in the Philippines. So I’m either in traffic or mountain curves. The only thing I don’t like about it is the jerking at low speeds. Like until the rpms get above 3000 rpm. Then it is smooth as an electric bike. I know for us USA bikers it is small. In the US I normally ride 1000cc up bikes, but here the 390 has more than enough power. I rarely get above 50mph.
FodderRev Even i have the same question in my mind. I am from india and in my duke 390 i have led indicators but in this video duke have incandescent bulbs in indicator. How is this possible??
pratik jha Only the American version as far as I know gets incandescent indicators. Same holds true for the old Duke 390 as well. Saw it in a Revzilla video.
I am looking for a bike under 350cc that is relatively light and I can flat foot at 5ft 9. The 310r really appeals. Especially in cosmic black. People say Duke this ninja 400 that but neither appeal as much. Everyone has different tastes, budgets and needs as a rider. So you can never really say which bike is best. Mostly though people in comments will judge a bike purely by how quick it is.
KTM is the largest motorcycle manufacturer in Europe. They know electronics, engines, and suspension. We have great cars/motorcycles because of the super dependable electronics and better metallurgy. Remember when fuel injection arrived over carburetors. People were nervous, mechanical vs digital. Mechanical wears vs no moving parts with digital.
That was a pretty down to earth fair review 👍 Now , I’m waiting for KTM to come out with their 390 Adventure R bike ( I’ve heard they announced that) to compete with the BMW G310GS . That will be THE unicorn bike to do it ALL ! Nobody will be able to touch it
Can you guys do a Muscle Cruiser Shootout! Suzuki Boulevard M109r, Harley Vrod, Ducati Diavel, Honda Gold Wing Valkyrie, Triumph Rocket III, Victory Octane (RIP), and the Moto Guzzi Cali 1400! PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN!!
You can buy a 2 year old 600 sport bike for the price . you can buy 3 low mileage xl650 . unless the manufacturer's begin to fight back on some of the smog equipment or whatever is driving the price up on beginer bikes they wont sell here. Even if they were lower tek at 3000$ they would sell .
KTM is one of those companies that come out with some real neat bikes, but the quality isn't there and KTM themselves don't even believe in the reliability of their own products. KTMs warranty only covers the engine, swing arm and frame, nothing else.
Chris Hart Honda claimed 30.5 stock bhp from the CBR300R which uses the same motor as the new CB300R. The CB300R is supposed to be only 315lbs wet. Which makes it about 25lbs lighter than the KTM Duke 390 and 35lbs lighter than the BMW G310R. I think that makes for a pretty close comparison between the three bikes.
Grant85kg looks like that could be a new engine for the crf300l if they do one.over 30hp now, the old one was 26hp. And 145kg wet is light, but 15kg still won't make up for the extra power the ktm has.
Fast forward to 2023 and the bmw has proven to be reliable and the KTM plagued by the usual KTM isms, failing sensors, leaking coolant lines, grenading lower ends. Sucks because I would love to pick up the new RC390 but I have no desire to own another German Harley
The intro music...It’s back again. It just won’t die! I can’t remember who it was but they used that song for years! Most overused royalty free song on the youtubes.
G310r is a collab between TVS and BMW, we have that exact 310 engine in our tvs product which costs less tham bmw with equal amount of power (roughly around 35 hp) ,bmw only shared the engine not the fi system but tvs still keeps it on mark, you guys should have to check thay bike too. For a 310cc this thing can do 90 mph in a relaxed manner and toping out at 105
90mph in a relaxed manner?!??! lmaao....pretty sure the top speed is around 95mph. According to the owners manual its 89mph, but from common sense given the power figures, it's a little more. BMW always underrates their stuff even in cars.
MotoBoy Fanboy stuff I guess.... The Apache310rr wouldn't do 90mph in a "relaxed" manner....I've ridden one here and max it can do in a "relaxed" manner is around 110-115kmph (65-70mph) after which it does feel stressed. And while doing 65-70 mph at 6-7k rpm it vibrates alot just like the BMW mentioned in this review.
Yeah, a sustained 110km/h feels fine. I wish the lower gears weren't so tall and the higher gears weren't so short haha. All single-cylinder vibes though...so does the KTM. I find the BMW smoother than the KTM below 6k RPM though. At 100km/h it's spinning at 6500 RPM, which is right where it starts to get vibey
I have duke 390 2014 and I’ve done like 5000 miles on it but I wish I’ve gotten a Japanese bike. Well 2 years and I will get mt09 when im old enough to get one, yes Europe sucks.
For many of us, these are not just "stepping stones" ... just sayin' ... I have owned over 20 bikes of all shapes and sizes, done track days, ridden on Laguna Seca, COTA, Miller, etc. I understand the spirit of the comments, but really, these bikes are a breath of fresh are for many experienced riders who just want something light, nimble, and fun.
well said!
I 100% agree. I recently bought one of these and i'm nimble through the traffic of major capital cities around Europe. What a pleasure
I own the Duke 390 2021 model. I road a Honda CR 125 in 1975. This duke in my opinion is not just a beginner bike. It's a great city suburb bike that I can't believe how good it is with heaps of touch for pick up with just a single cylinder 373 cc engine. I've become proud to own it.
Right here my friend! Had Harleys, old school UJM bikes too, fast fat 4 cylinders. I decided on this BMW because it's all that I need for fun. I'm 230 and I've gotten that 310 up to 92(GPS checked) and still about another 1k till close to redline... More than enough to carry you with the legal riding big bikes, street fun and nimble.
So glad to see Troy back. I actually met him at the Long Beach Motorcycle show and he's just the coolest guy you would want to meet. Welcome back :-)
Aw, shucks. You're making me blush. ;-)
For A Moment I Thought You Wrote Tori Black !
@@diemari487 Shes great.
Had my 390 for ~2weeks and the 750km(mostly commuting) I've put on have been the most fun I've had in 3 years of riding(~12k km on a 79 CB400T cafe before the Duke). It does everything my beloved cafe did, but so much better and with modernism. Staying alive in a torrential downpour with my Honda felt like an accomplishment given its f/r drums, iffy electrical, and Firestone Champions, but with the Duke it's just plain old fun in those conditions. (I did feel like I was going to die the whole way home from work in ~100kmh winds last night, but that's a rare occurrence and I'd have been scared in a car last night.)
The price is incredible too. Sticker is one thing, and financing obviously varies, but I got my 2017 with no km for $7000CAD out the door. With the 0.99% financing, I only pay ~$165 extra over 5 years(be done next year in reality). Originally I wanted an XG750, and boy am I glad that I went for the KTM over the Harley. The HD would've needed at least $3k put into it to make me happy, but the Duke required $200 for handguards(saved me from damage from wind tippage) and likely another $200 for the fender eliminator(stock is so gross looking).
Cringe first 2 min. 👀
Indeed
Thanks for the heads up
OK, so at first I thought you were full of it. But I'm cringing now.
I wish KTM would take that 390 engine and throw it in an SMC chassis. It would basically become the DRZ everyone has been asking Suzuki for over the last decade lol
good idea....my only worry is reliability
Yeah, I
MrSlowestD16 I mean they do already make the 690 supermoto and the husqy 701. The 690 motor seems like it doesn't weigh any more than the 390. For example, you'll see that somehow the curb weight for the 690 is a full 1kg or 2 pounds less than the 390 haha. The engines likely weigh roughly the same then
MotoBoy these two are nowhere near the price people want to pay.
Probably not be much cheaper than a 690smc
These bikes are geared toward the new rider. BMW has been perceived more as a brand for older people but that is changing. Even with the higher price, the KTM will likely sell better.
Lucky you guys aren’t actors huh!
I bought the 310r and love the riding experience :) so nice
My first bike
310 is my first bike too, I love its handling and overall experience
@Maximilian Berger i've had one since june of last year and it's been a blast in the twisties. 70% of the 7000 miles ive got on it have been twisties.
Did he say "the key chain that's on it let's you know it's ready to race".. When it displays it on the dash on "key turn" .
I have 23 years of riding experience. I've had tons of bikes. From a Honda RC51 (still have it) to CBR1000RR, BMW K1300S and S1000RR, etc... to a Honda Goldwing to an R1200RT I've had since '06 which almost has 100k miles on it. I just spent the last 2 weeks on a National Parks tour - Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons and every day rode my friend's G310R for 150-200 miles each day. People can judge small bikes and say what they want to say, but I'll tell you what - These little bikes are so much fun! After spending a lot of time on one of these, it really starts to make you think about why you need a big bore bike. I get it, sometimes that power is awesome, and needed to get away from oblivious people. But these bikes are hugely capable in the twisties, and there's something to be said about riding something that's just so darn easy to ride. It's like driving a Miata. It just puts a smile on your face.
As an Indian, this was an interesting video. To start with- both bikes are Indo-European bikes. The interesting thing was how both are priced differently in India and USA. In India, the 310R comes with a premium over the Duke 390. I would love to know how much spec difference is there in Indian and USA models for both brands.
That acting took the production value down 50% :S
I have the BMW G310R and I love it. I've ridden the previous gen Duke 390 / RC390 and wasn't too impressed. Poor FI management, shitty throttle response, poor fit and finish, and grenading engines. I wasn't a fan of the soggy shock either. However, it's an induspited king in the power department, especially in this comparison. For the sake of engine longevity, I probably wouldn't do more than 10-mile stints on the highway with either of these though.
I think a major point you guys fail to mention is that reliability on KTM 390's is pretty crap. Numerous issues (clutch bushing failure, blown head gaskets, faulty fans, etc....just the tip of the iceberg) with the previous generation and given my past history with KTM (two 690's), I'm not inclined to believe they've improved. Google "KTM 390 issues" and the updated 390 platform features even MORE problems (battery, TFT display, headlight, cracked wheels, more engine problems, etc etc..).
Although the Beemer is a brand new engine and there's no history yet to track reliability, I feel pretty well-backed by BMW's legendary 3-year warranty and decent track record. They also have a reputation for excellent customer service (I mean cumon...what other manufacturer gives loaner bikes for warranty repairs??) and have far more dealers and much better support. I cannot say the same about KTM's 1-year warranty, their horrid customer service, and far and few between dealer network, which can take months for a warranty repair. There's a reason you find KTM 390's sold with such low mileage....
Furthermore, major services are twice as frequent for the KTM than the BMW adding insult to injury. Not only is the BMW cheaper upfront initially, but in the long run it is far easier on the wallet. And frankly, I like to spend less time wrenching and shelling money out of my wallet and more time riding instead. Just my 0.02
I hope magazines and journalists can start to take reliability and maintenance costs into account in these comparisons....I think it's especially useful to new riders who have little experience with motorcycles and are sometimes in for a shock with reliability issues and maintenance costs.
MotoBoy wow thanks for your comment! Honestly I've heard of these issues with ktm as well and I've always avoided the brand. I want to experience adventure biking for the first time and I'm currently debating between BMW 310 gs and versys x. I'm not a very talented rider just experienced.
MotoBoy All these points (well the majority of them) are exact opposite where I live. It's 1/10 ratio of the number of service stations we have here for KTM as compared to the very very few one's of BMW. KTM is priced lower than the beemer as well here, and as far as the quality of BMW you're boasting about brother, the G310r is manufactured by TVS in India as well just like the Duke/RC390s are by Bajaj in India. The new gen D390 is far far better than the older one...be it in terms of engine refinement or the throttle response, as far as the TFT issue was concerned it was rectified with a software update.
At this price point (Duke being cheaper) I just don't see any reason to buy the TVS-BMW G310r over the 390.
TVS has already used the very same engine to manufacture their own bike (Apache 310rr) which is a good bike but vibrates at 5-7k rpm which is it's touring range whereas as the 390s are pretty smooth at those rpms.
Blown gasket and stuff has happened at the tracks where one pushes the limits of these bikes....there haven't been any such (major) case in city or highway here.
Bent alloys...? Yeah we've had bent alloys for CBR1000rr, Yamaha R1, Z800, Z900, S1000r etc as well here because of the crappy roads we have....with the kind of pot holes one can encounter here the rider needs to be cautious or he'll bend any allot of any bike or car here.
Rider'sDen my first bike from back in 2007 was a TVS fiero. Its still running to this day. TVS is an experienced bike maker and dont get me wrong i would much rather prefer the Japanese 4 over TVS but this weird bias exist over all the fans of BMW, mv, ducati, moto guzzi etc. If they fail then its 'character' for some reason. I respect your opinion but from my experience of driving tvs and my friends driving tvs they are superb machines. I drive an R1 currently but would never hold bmw against it for using TVS for keeping cost low.
Rider'sDen very true Ive had a bent alloy on my Yamaha R15 which my TVS fiero easily survived but I think that has more to do with the fact the fiero had spoked wheels which have better structural integrity compared to alloy wheels.
TFT screen and Led headlight gets my attention especially ride modes.
As a rider with 34 years in the saddle I've never met a ktm that didn't explode. BMW's last forever. It remains to be scene how this one will hold up but I wouldn't hesitate to choose the 310r over another waiting to grenade ktm
Exaaaactly my point. Ktm has no character no heritage. Fucking orange toys
@@shahidahmad8948 mad cuz bad
Bmw didn't make the engine on the 310r tho
@@Gkogko839bmw engineered it from the very first design iteration then built the factory and trained the employees. So there’s that, which is nice.
I own the baby Duke and I love it right bits. You guys are right about the hard seat and it's kinda hard to use everyday but I personally don't mind that. For the fun it offers, there's nothing in the market as radical as the KTM.
#BleedOrange
I've got a Duke 390. Your correct. The seat is a bum hurter but as you said the fun it offers outweighs that by Miles.
What about getting Duke or Bmw for short travel ? For example 100km 200km ? which one will be better ?
BMW 71 miles per gallon.
Very comfortable.
For the Duke 390 The seat is easily fixed. Buy the ergo seat. As for commuting, I use the Duke 390 every day and if you are filtering through traffic it is absolute boss. It is so agile you can manoeuvre so easily through tight spaces when the traffic is parked unevenly at red lights. I love this bike, it is such good fun.
You guy's are THE best web site in the world of BIKES. SON FABULOSOS!!!!!!!!!
would you mind testing the dominar 400 by bajaj? it is supposed to have the same engine design as the 390 duke but with some tweaks to make it more fuel efficient and confortable for every day riding at the expense of some power, torque and top speed.
Looking to get into riding and I really want a Duke 390 to start out on everyone has told me that it’s a great beginner bike and has enough power and different modes so you won’t get bored with it super fast
Did you get it?
Nice comparative! Of course I would chose the KTM :P
I rode both back to back and I think there is not much comparison. KTM is better overall. The power, fun, comfort, LED lights, TFT and quality was way above than BMW's. I think BMW needs to up their game when they do the next gen of their 310.
I did go to buy the BMW but ended up getting KTM for my commuting bike.
Sounds like there's basically no reason to buy the G310. The KTM seat may be hard, but they offer a soft seat for it for like $200 or something, and I have the stock seat on mine and it's good enough for as long as you're going to want to ride a 400cc thumper in 1 go.
Just bought the wife a g310r on Wednesday. The duke was my first choice until I heard of the issues people were having with them. I believe I made the right choice.
2nd gen 390 is very reliable.
That 390 looks like a big bike,and looks absolutely 💥💥💥
I like the idea of a small displacement single, but I'm sort of a large guy at 6-2", 200 lb, 34" inseam. I'd go with a Ninja 400 as things currently stand. However, if manufacturers built one of these little funsters with a 450 or 500cc single and enlarged the frame a bit with a longer wheelbase, that would suit me just fine. Until then, MT-07 is the small displacement funster for me. I'd happily drop a couple grand into it to fix the suspension and brakes, open up the power, and flog it.
Convert a WR450 or CRF450 or something of the sort to super moto? But then these bikes were designed to be serviced all the time, have small oil capacity that needs changed all the time, don't employ electric fans to remove heat in slow speed stuff, and fuel capacity suffers. They really aren't road bikes.
Which one do you recommend for a 6’2” 215Lb 40years old? Looking for confort some highway riding, and optimum maintenance cost. Thank you
The 310R has a 3 year warranty! KTM warranty only covers the engine, swing arm, and frame. Not to mention the endless reliability issues these 390 have had since they were brought over. The choice is easy, 310R all the way.
In Australia and almost every other country except USA KTM has 24mth warranty unlimited mileage.....
Welcome back Troy!
Thanks! It's great to be back!
Troy Siahaan hi Troy, do you have Indonesian bloodline?
what is average of bmw310r in in simple riding mode
No other motorcycle in the world spells : character like a KTM duke.
For My Commuter, I choose the BMW.
I’m looking into getting the KTM duke 390 as my first bike because it seems like a really good bike do you think that a 5 foot rider like myself will be able to ride it or should I see if I can get it lowered planning on getting my drivers and motorcycle license next month or so since I took the course already
KTM is doing great business here in India. BMW G310 is expected to be launched here in next 3 months.
Good to see you again, Troy. You and Tom made the channel.
Troy how was Alpinestars? Heath says hi. One of these days I swear I’m gonna bump into you guys on Azusa/GMR! I was just at that Mobil on Monday, then Taco Nazo right behind it. Catch you on the flip.
I have the 390 Duke and with the gel seat you now have a perfect motorcycle for any use. If I want to smooth the ride I'll take my Challenger but if I want to have fun I'll take the Duke
How does the 390 Duke have an aggressive seating position? Its completely upright
For extra 1k you can get a lot more fun and practically from 2017 sv650 (with current Suzuki rebate, cb500)
You should do comparation: Yanaha mt03, Kawa Z300, Honda cb300, BMW 310r and Benelli TNT300.
Vladimir Vukajlovic the Mt-03 is probably better than the duke
Great reviews, guys! They're both sweet looking bikes. I'd go for the extra oomph of the KTM, but i wouldn't feel bad about owning the BMW, either. I ride a ZX-14R, but going to work on a second, smaller bike for more everyday things. Definitely a naked. Or maybe that Z900 RS Cafe... It's a great time to be in the market for a great bike. :)
OregonOnTwoWheels
A duke390 or fz07 or sv650.
Hmmm... I just yesterday sold a new Alpinestars "Missile" leather race suit that was too small for me, to a rider named Aditya (well, his friend, Yasar did the transaction ahead of Aditya arriving for a visit and to have some track days with his friend). :) Awesome coincidence! :D
how different would be 310 gs to 310R ,for touring bmw gs310 vs dominor vs KTM 390 ??
请问拍摄地点是在哪？ I mean Which city you test these bikes?
CBR 500 vs Ninja 400 next. Also welcome back Troy!!!
Please tell me which bike is best ktm 390 or bmw?
How were the bikes on bumps?
I wish they would put the cb500 engine in the new CB300R chassis and price it somewhere close to these, even within a grand. I don’t think either has classic looks or reliability really nailed, and we know a Honda wouldn’t face the same thing with a proven engine. I think it would be a cool option vs the new Husky 401’s too, not to mention big enough for actual people... Just my 2c
I truly enjoyed this video. I work in Azusa and live in Upland. I ride those roads monthly in my Aprilia Shiver 750. I fill in at that gas station weekly. Let me know when you are out here testing!
Any plans on testing the Dominar 400 (by Bajaj)???
Great videos, I like your content very much...
Good video guys, very non-biased and realistic.
I'm just going to be controversial, spend an extra grand and get a Honda CB500F, its a little bit faster, cheaper to get parts for and much more reliable.
Good idea.
They're decent bikes. Lots of low-end grunt (far more than any 300), but is ultimately a little boring if you're looking for something sporty although everything works well from the suspension to the brakes, etc. For me, the biggest issue is the painfully low redline at 9k RPM and power falls off long before that. It feels like it runs out of steam way too quickly. And perhaps even more important (especially if you're a new rider), is that the CB500F is 65+ pounds heavier than either of these bikes and it's felt everywhere. The BMW G310R is 349 pounds, but it feels like even less. I'd liken it to a grown up Honda Grom....that's how light it feels. It also has seat options to change seat height from 30" to 31" to 32".
At the Honda's price point, I think I'd probably go for a Suzuki SV650, Yamaha MT-07, or Kawasaki Z650, which are a good bit more bike, for not a whole lot more. Both the MT and Z weigh less with the SV coming in at a little more and have a similar seat height to the Honda. They all make considerably more power and are better at everything all around, and MPG is quite comparable as well. All proven to be rock-solid reliable as well. The Honda just kind of fills a strange niche in my opinion.
Jessa Phillips
You are so right !
And it's a fat ass. Handles like an elephant
Eh, if you're commuting I'd agree. If you're into aggressive riding I'd get the Duke.
Most Hondas (excluding fireblades and the like) are boring as shit. They make excellent commuters because nothing ever goes wrong but they also lack character. I'm sure the CB500 is smooth as silk with perfect fit & finish in every regard, but that to me is its biggest downfall. I'd rather take the Duke (and I did buy the Duke), because I considered the CB500F but I've owned 100 mid-displacement Hondas and I know it'll be a completely uneventful ride every time I throw a leg over, but despite having ridden a few thousands to their top speed, the Duke manages to put a smile on my face every time I throw a leg over just to commute to work.
How can I buy one and have it shipped to me ? I live in the mountains 50 miles from fresno ca .
50miles...Lol... if you really want something worth while then make the trip to go and get it.
When doing bike comparisons, it would be really helpful if you could cover maintenance costs. Thanks and good info.
bullshit! get prices yourself idiot, not everyone lives in youtube land where the prices are the same for everyone.....
Here is the honest review. KTM flew usto Austria and it was beautiful, BMW flew us to Germany and the beer/food was great. But the hotel KTM put us in was way nicer, but BMW let me bring my wife.... To close to call both bikes are great for different reason... Only kidding of course 🤣
Bez Bizara Moto journalist get flown all over world, at various times of the year and it’s not on their dime...
Yeah, show me one main stream moto (mag) that dogs any bike they review, always a positive spin. "The one gallon tank on the new ABC400XYZ represents a forward thinking philosophy, reducing weight and effectively lowering the center of gravity. This ultimately makes the bike immensely flickable...." - Whatever.
Michael Szymborski watch fortnine
I have few question regarding both the bikes.
Duke 390 : what about the engine vibration when it goes above 100, it is noticeable ?
ABS : i am planning to buy BMW G310R and it would be launched next month in India and i got to know that ABS is not switchable in G310R so what would be impact when ABS need to off but there is no option to off the ABS.
what about G310R barracking control compare to Duke 390 ?
they mentioned the KTM had ZERO vibrations at highway speeds, don't you listen to the whole video before commenting?
Great review (apart from the cringe-worthy intro). It's gotta be the Duke all day long! Just the extra HP, rider modes & styling is enough to win the battle.
Welcome back Troy!
How are they for short riders, those 5'5" and under?
you should be able to reach the handlebars........Lol.
Me personally... I'm just looking for something to get me to work and back and run quick errands during the warmer months. Driving a car here in Chicago can be quite annoying and costly. So I think I will go with the BMW as my first bike.
so how much maintenance do these bikes require if you are pretty much red lining them to stay at highway speed?
You are not red lining the Duke to stay at highway speeds. It will do 90mph all day long and still have some oomph left. Of course if you want to be doing 100mph plus, well maybe you should be buying a bigger bike.
KoG GoK Consider a 600cc Segment
Yep the KTM will do 106mph at 1500rpm
Y will ul make a video thats at the end indecisive ?
benjamin cyril, you can always go read the article.
@5:43 helium?
I got a KTM 390 in the Philippines. So I’m either in traffic or mountain curves. The only thing I don’t like about it is the jerking at low speeds. Like until the rpms get above 3000 rpm. Then it is smooth as an electric bike. I know for us USA bikers it is small. In the US I normally ride 1000cc up bikes, but here the 390 has more than enough power. I rarely get above 50mph.
Try the TVS Apache 310R .... Compare the BMW to this awesome RTR 310R
very practical and honest review. Informative as well. Thank you for sharing!
Wait, why does the American version of the 390 Duke have incandescent bulbs in the turn signals and not LED like the global version??
FodderRev
Even i have the same question in my mind.
I am from india and in my duke 390 i have led indicators but in this video duke have incandescent bulbs in indicator.
How is this possible??
pratik jha Only the American version as far as I know gets incandescent indicators. Same holds true for the old Duke 390 as well. Saw it in a Revzilla video.
LED indicators are not approved/ banned by DOT.
I am looking for a bike under 350cc that is relatively light and I can flat foot at 5ft 9.
The 310r really appeals. Especially in cosmic black.
People say Duke this ninja 400 that but neither appeal as much.
Everyone has different tastes, budgets and needs as a rider.
So you can never really say which bike is best.
Mostly though people in comments will judge a bike purely by how quick it is.
KTM is the largest motorcycle manufacturer in Europe. They know electronics, engines, and suspension. We have great cars/motorcycles because of the super dependable electronics and better metallurgy. Remember when fuel injection arrived over carburetors. People were nervous, mechanical vs digital. Mechanical wears vs no moving parts with digital.
decades ago when I was in college I had a jetted Suzuki RF600R. I feel the duke 390 is way more punchy and lively.
No complaints about my G310R 🤙🏽💯🏴☠️
It a good idea to always switch riders for a bike test as ones riding capability is never the same as the other.
very good review for these two bike guys.!!! I think that the BMW is the best bike for my needs and my daily routine!!!
What about fuel average?
Great Comparison Video, thanks from India.
That was a pretty down to earth fair review 👍
Now , I’m waiting for KTM to come out with their 390 Adventure R bike ( I’ve heard they announced that) to compete with the BMW G310GS . That will be THE unicorn bike to do it ALL ! Nobody will be able to touch it
All i know is my 2016-KTM-1290 SDR has been incredible 9300 miles and no issues except the loose tail light!! Thats all
Michael Kastner that’s a beast man! Real machine...
Need to put the 390 Duke up against the new Ninja 400 !
not the duke the rc maybe
Motorcylist mag alread did. Check them out.
Napper yep, RC 390 would make more sense
Ninja is 2 cyilnder man...but i know the ktm torque...😃
Both make comparable torque.
Who is the winner?
Can you guys do a Muscle Cruiser Shootout! Suzuki Boulevard M109r, Harley Vrod, Ducati Diavel, Honda Gold Wing Valkyrie, Triumph Rocket III, Victory Octane (RIP), and the Moto Guzzi Cali 1400! PLEASE MAKE THIS HAPPEN!!
Interesting using the themes of "naked singles" and a boxing title fight in the same article. Fighters AND lovers?
Hey guys, Can you review Apache 310rr? It is based on 310R.
pieces of shit like that are only available in India thank fuck!
I’m not even gonna watch this.
It’s a no brainer, the KTM 390 is the clear winner.
Is the BMW motor made in Taiwan by Kymco?
made in India by pooskins.
As always super review
Aesome bikes, comments & scenery. Loving it
the g310r looks like a boring version of the old duke.
Muhammad Rayyan lmfao
Bmw 310R = Tvs apache 310 R
RIP G310R
If BMW will launch it now in India it might be too late!!!!
Launched
You can buy a 2 year old 600 sport bike for the price . you can buy 3 low mileage xl650 . unless the manufacturer's begin to fight back on some of the smog equipment or whatever is driving the price up on beginer bikes they wont sell here. Even if they were lower tek at 3000$ they would sell .
After wrapping up the film clip... "Rock, paper, scissors... who gets to ride the KTM back to the shop?"
KTM is one of those companies that come out with some real neat bikes, but the quality isn't there and KTM themselves don't even believe in the reliability of their own products. KTMs warranty only covers the engine, swing arm and frame, nothing else.
only in your country! in Australia and most of europe KTM have 24mth, unlimited mileage warranties.
Welcome back troy...
Kemana aja? Baru muncul ...
Would love to see this test repeated with the addition of Honda's CB300R when it makes it to the US.
Grant85kg is that bike not just 26hp. The 310r is 34hp the ktm is 44hp
Chris Hart Honda claimed 30.5 stock bhp from the CBR300R which uses the same motor as the new CB300R. The CB300R is supposed to be only 315lbs wet. Which makes it about 25lbs lighter than the KTM Duke 390 and 35lbs lighter than the BMW G310R. I think that makes for a pretty close comparison between the three bikes.
Grant85kg looks like that could be a new engine for the crf300l if they do one.over 30hp now, the old one was 26hp. And 145kg wet is light, but 15kg still won't make up for the extra power the ktm has.
Fast forward to 2023 and the bmw has proven to be reliable and the KTM plagued by the usual KTM isms, failing sensors, leaking coolant lines, grenading lower ends. Sucks because I would love to pick up the new RC390 but I have no desire to own another German Harley
The intro music...It’s back again. It just won’t die! I can’t remember who it was but they used that song for years! Most overused royalty free song on the youtubes.
If you want to have fun buy a KTM. When you ride it you heve smile on your face every time its feel like your where riding supermoto
G310r is a collab between TVS and BMW, we have that exact 310 engine in our tvs product which costs less tham bmw with equal amount of power (roughly around 35 hp) ,bmw only shared the engine not the fi system but tvs still keeps it on mark, you guys should have to check thay bike too. For a 310cc this thing can do 90 mph in a relaxed manner and toping out at 105
90mph in a relaxed manner?!??! lmaao....pretty sure the top speed is around 95mph. According to the owners manual its 89mph, but from common sense given the power figures, it's a little more. BMW always underrates their stuff even in cars.
MotoBoy i said that is for tvs APACHE 310R .... With this same engine
MotoBoy Fanboy stuff I guess.... The Apache310rr wouldn't do 90mph in a "relaxed" manner....I've ridden one here and max it can do in a "relaxed" manner is around 110-115kmph (65-70mph) after which it does feel stressed. And while doing 65-70 mph at 6-7k rpm it vibrates alot just like the BMW mentioned in this review.
Yeah, a sustained 110km/h feels fine. I wish the lower gears weren't so tall and the higher gears weren't so short haha. All single-cylinder vibes though...so does the KTM. I find the BMW smoother than the KTM below 6k RPM though. At 100km/h it's spinning at 6500 RPM, which is right where it starts to get vibey
MotoBoy Exactly and it's after those rpms that the KTM feels smoother....vice-versa ... KTM's 6th gear is pretty tall which helps I guess.
I have duke 390 2014 and I’ve done like 5000 miles on it but I wish I’ve gotten a Japanese bike. Well 2 years and I will get mt09 when im old enough to get one, yes Europe sucks.
Thanks for such a logical and nice review. TVS is spoiling by making the bike
where is Mr. Kevin duke the chief editor?? i like his reviews