What do you guys think about a Sunday rider version of this? Twisties, fun factor, performance, etc. not necessarily as long but a good more indepth with particular bikes that call for more attention.?
Zack missed a point here which he usually doesn't. These bikes are sold in a lot of markets where a 300-500cc is an aspirational buy and sometimes the riders are limited to a certain cc bracket. So the 'premium' features are actually a great selling point. I don't like the Launch control or some of the very advanced electronics but you have to factor in that not everyone around the world has the option to jump onto a Hayabusa as a first bike like an American. Often these are the achievable dream bikes for a lot of us. I used to own a first gen for 8-9 years.
I agree - but living in NAM Zack is looking at things from the perspective of the North American motorcycle market and typical rider here. In general North America has the least restrictive legislation with respect to the size of motorcycles you can ride and emissions requirements. Assuming you have a decent-ish job this is a very affordable motorcycle in NAM . . . .although with the way house prices and rent prices have been going over the last few years that may change.
Yeah, In my area here in North America the first stage of your motorcycle license is a basic written test only, no on bike rider training. With that beginners license, you are completely unrestricted as to what bike to get yourself even if you've never so much as thrown a leg over a saddle or hit a starter button. You want a 'Busa? Go for it! A full bagger Harley that is 4x your weight? Not a problem. A 1000RR from some other manufacturer? Nothing stopping you squid. If you haven't killed yourself in a couple of years you can get your 'full' motorcycle license which will allow you to, ummm, ahhhh, well, ummm, do nothing extra at all. So yeah, we're not too concerned about engine size CC limits in other places of the planet. I agree that comes across as harsh but it is our reality we have here. Freedom baby.
@@Jagshemasher I don't mind that but it felt like he had to nitpick the motorcycle for some reason. Also felt like he was not his usual self and forgot a lot of smaller details in the review. I've been watching him from 2015 and I do respect his opinion.
it's still a low-displacement beginner bike. a 390 duke doesn't have the speed to justify things like launch control or rider modes; it's just not powerful enough in the first place to justify them. if they wanted a small displacement beginner bike to feel more premium for the eastern market, they should have added cruise control and given it nicer aesthetics rather than ride modes and traction control which should be reserved for bikes around the 100-140 hp sweet spot where bikes are fast enough without being too fast. i understand the money thing, with india not having the purchasing power for those mid-power bikes like the 890 duke, but if they're going to add premium features they should fit what the bike actually is capable of.
We really need to move beyond the idea that small displacement motorcycles are just for young, or new riders. As an old fart who’s been riding for 50 years, one of the bikes in my personal “fleet” is a KTM RC 390, because it’s great fun on tight twisty back roads. 🏍️🤪👍!
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
I grew up on dirt bikes and then got into 600cc sport bikes and then a 750cc Gixxer in my 20s. I’m 45 now and when I was shopping for a new motorcycle at 40, 390 Duke was exactly what I was looking for, owned it since 2019 and have entertained getting a 990 Duke but there’s really no reason to.
I'll take a counterpoint on rider aids. They--in no way, shape, or form beyond a deliberate act to not learn which removing the aids will not fix--prevent anyone from learning all the skills they aid. They just remove that catastrophic and potentially life threatening consequences from failing during learning. To that, I argue that they encourage learning. I can approach the physical limitations of my bikes wheelbase, brakes, and grip and use the feedback those systems give me (cutting power, pulsing brakes, etc) to learn rather than needing the act of destroying my bike or harming myself to get that feedback. They will absolutely hold a track rider back at some point, but for the purposes of learning to ride and staying alive while doing so on the street there's no downside to having them.
The only real downside is the price that they add to the bikes. However, in counterpoint, bikes are already so freaking expensive anyway, and even if manufacturers removed them, we'd be innocent to think that the price would go down. I just hope that they keep these aids (other than ABS) out of the 125's/250's of the world as those NEED to be as accessible as possible. Where I live the most sold bike (for the last 20y+) is a Honda 160cc (which was 125 back then, then 150, now 160) and still has a drum brake on the back (and it's cheapest version uses drums on the front as well), that bike is basically responsible for a SOLID chunk of the country's GDP while also being integral to the motorcycle culture as well.
It's a weird thing. Some people view them as "I can't crash if I have this", which is obviously wrong. Those same people then often also look at bikes without the aid systems as super dangerous machines that are going to slide the rear wheel and lock the brakes at any moment. I'm glad that I learned on a bike without any systems, means I can now jump on any bike and not feel scared to squeeze the throttle or the brakes. If they have electronic nannies that's cool, but I don't need to them to feel safe.
Compeletely agree on all front, this whole "electronic aids" is very overblown in the motorycle world. You always put a safety net on someone that start learning a new skill , be it bowling bars, head protection on boxing, smaller football field etc. Then as you familiarise yourself with the mechanics in a safer/easier environment, you can take advantage of your full possibilities and what you learned on the "real deal" , in this case turning them off. In the motorycle world rider aids have become a taboo thing that only stupid expensive/ 200hp bikes have , otherwise you're a lesser humam with a hoist of exploitatives thrown at you (usually about what you have between your legs). it always was extremely toxic, but it doesnt actually help the conversation move forwards. Even now in 2024 some "riderz" frown upon ABS
For the first question 22:18 ,I think I can represent the idea of having these features as an Indian rider. Most Indians cannot fathom to afford a 390 duke so, here they’re sort of looked at like the middle weight bikes as most people start on commuter workhorses with 12-20 bhp and by the time they upgrade to the 390 duke it is most probably their endgame bike so these extra features just sign the deal over the competition (overpriced mt03)
Yeah americans have no clue how the world works. Even in europe (any country) bikes of this range are more than enough for 90% of people. You dont need to go any faster than 120-130 km/h. They can definitely be forever bikes since upkeep is cheap
This is spot on. I have upgraded from 100CC bike to 400CC Duke and the difference is huge. I love those features and I might not upgrade for next 5-6 years
'24 Duke 390 is a riot. The updates are fantastic. I have been riding for 48 years, owned many super bikes and super sports, which I tracked, among dozens of other bikes. The shortcomings of the bike? It is small. I am 5'8" and it is small for me. particularly in terms of the seat, which doesn't allow the rider to move back much. The mirrors do vibe a bit, though the bike (bars, pegs, and seat) seems reasonably smooth. The advanced controls? Yes please. Nobody needs this stuff in good weather in SoCal on a low powered bike. But go out on a cold day, in the wet, on roads with intermittent sand and gravel on them, moss patches, molding leaves, and with game filled vegetation near either side, and suddenly it will all make sense. The new dash is superb. The motor changes are wonderful. It is a hoot. The quick shifter works well at higher revs and under reasonable load. Can be a little clunky at lower revs/load, especially on 5-6 shifts. It is so light and nimble... I love it overall. I had a RC390 (22 or 23) but the power output was a bit wonky. The new Duke engine feels a lot better. Pulls really good for what it is, and runs happily at moderate to high revs on the highway. The brakes are quite good too, again for what it is. No regrets on this one for around town and back roads. If I lived in San Diego County would I pick it? No way. But for tighter backroads with poor visibility, game animals, etc, it is a ton of fun. Fast, light, and cheap.
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
Updates are meh tbh. It had a bunch of features for ages. What’s inexcusable is how many of the basics aren’t polished after a decade of updates. It’s a fun bike but KTM need to be called out at the same time
@@maomekat2369 Yes the handling on this bike is superb. I have never ridden a bike that is so quick to react, while at the same time it has good stability - pretty crazy. I have about 850 miles on mine and it still takes a conscious effort to prevent turning in too soon. I also still have to remind myself to brake later. The TC seems well dialed too. I had a lot of lean on the bike in a warm/dry 4th gear corner and was a little too aggressive with the throttle, the rear stepped out but it stayed totally controllable and the intervention was not intrusive. The suspension does a good job of keeping the tires connected as well. I ride on pretty rough back roads, and at speed and lean, the Duke is better than my former SV650 which had a suspension that really got overwhelmed on the same roads.
First time I feel like Zack missed the point of the bike in a review. Sure its a "beginner" bike if you look at engine cc's, but thats not what the average buyer of these looks at. There's a whole world out there that cant or wont buy a bigger bike, so this is the endgame for them. And if we look at it from a "western" POV, this thing is the best commuter bike ever made. 390 dukes and adventures are all over europe being driven day and night by people that want a bike (not a scooter), but they dont want to daily a hayabusa or a gs1250. They are ridiculously light, enough HP to get you in trouble, and the "extra fuss" that you dont like is what separates it from the competition. Someone that wants a "beginner bike" doesnt usually buy a 390 duke, and the guy that buys a 390 duke/adventure doesnt want any of the competition. I think his lens of "400cc = 16 year old/never touched a bike" really is a disservice to the bike as a whole
Totally agree, I love my 24 398.63cc (blue) Duke, it`s getting traded next year on the ADV version. I`m 62 and recovering from a quad bypass so I`m only half the man I used to be and this bike is perfect for me, Love it.
I commute into central London on an MT07 and am actually considering downsizing as it has way too much power for going through traffic. But would love all the extra features like a quickshifter and traction control. This bike could fit the bill.
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
I'm a small rider, at 5'3", and have trouble finding a sporty bike that I can both touch the ground on and handle weight-wise. I've been riding for just about 10 years so while I no longer consider myself a "beginner", I also don't need anything too large, both physically and in engine capacity. At the same time, I love tech and welcome the features. Launch control and Bluetooth? Cool! Why not? I especially love my backlit buttons! My 2024 Duke 390 is perfect for me and I praise KTM for going in this direction with their roudy, sub-500cc motorcycles. Cheers!
I'm 57. Bought a 2017 390 Duke on a lark, intending to keep it the summer and move on. I kept it 6 years. It's just a barrel of laughs. I'm still thinking of getting another one as a second bike, or a 401 Svartpielen, just for the fun of it. Cheap to insure, cheap on fuel are pluses too.
I was riding a KLR 650 6 years ago and then my brother and I rented 2 Duke 390's and rode them on Maui for 2 days, when I got back I sold my 650 and bought a 390. Have my second one now, use one for camping with hard panniers and the other is just bare bones but both are a barrel of fun!!
Funny how perspective changes so much....this bike is worshipped in india... it's THE sportiest beginner bike u can get in india. Many ppl in india don't buy a bike higher than 400cc so this is very popular here and it's the benchmark in the 400cc segment. Also cuz traffic and roads are chaotic in india this is all the bike u will need in the city and for some weekend rides. Basically it makes PERFECT SENSE here !!!
@@ashishmatta8504 Look at their cars🤣 they drive those huge trucks which have less visibility than modern tanks. It’s all ego. They also think they drive fast on motorways🤡
Being built in India it also avoids all those import taxes making it relatively unrivalled at its price point. A ninja 500 costs 2/3 MORE than a 390! That’s the real biggest difference between what it’s compared against in the US and in India (3.10 lakh vs 5.24), whilst in the US they’re pretty even on price. Then factor in it’s not just the buy in price but also all your parts, and of course like anywhere there’s some national pride in the things you build right? It’s why so many western and Japanese manufacturers are desperate to get bikes being built in India right now
If I had a child who is learning to ride, I would absolutely want their first bike to be as safe as possible. Rider aids on beginner bikes are 100% a positive thing. I mean.... would you want your kid to learn driving a car without esc, abs and airbags because they need to learn the raw physical experiece of understeering / oversteering into a ditch?
Being safe as possible means building your own skills and abilities, not relying on technology. It is far safer to teach your child to drive a car within their limits, just as a motorcycle, then to simply trust in the safety features. This is even more true of a motorcycle, and why so many people still lose their lives in automobile accidents while the cars are safer than they ever have been. An unskilled driver is dangerous.
I disagree because they should be riding before they're 16 on something smaller. We never personally owned anything I could ride on two wheels but we knew people. I learned all that before I was 16 the hard way when I healed much quicker and learned quicker.
New rider. Older rider. I picked up a 2024 390 Duke because of the safety features that are largely unavailable on other bikes of this size and price point. After 100 miles on it, I think this is a fair review, tho mine has not stalled a single time except for a mistake on my part trying to start out in 2nd. The seat is not comfortable for more than 30-40 minutes at a time, and I'm already looking for a replacement or cover that adds a little cushion. I may play with the suspension adjustments, too. I'm 5'10" and don't feel like this is too small for me at all. The riding position is pretty comfortable, and it fits me like a glove. Scooch forward and grip the tank with your legs and everything is right where it's supposed to be. For me, at least. Try to sit farther back on the seat and suddenly it's uncomfortable and awkward. So I agree that you feel like you're very far forward, but I'm getting used to it. I like the TFT screen, and also agree that I wish it were more forward on the bars, since the riding position puts it slightly out of view and you have to look down to read anything. Is it fun? Absolutely. As stated, I don't have a lot of experience with other bikes, so I'm having a hell of a time on it. I've looked at others in this size like the Triumph Street 400, and the Honda SCL 500, but when I was ready to buy, nothing but the Duke was available. I don't regret it at all. It's well-suited to my needs - a commuter bike that's easy to navigate thru a metro area while having fun. Today I parked near a giant Harley and when I walked back to my bike it looked like a scooter, by comparison. Yet, the weight and size are an advantage in a city when you're looking for parking and want to zip around. BUT, I can see in a year or two moving on to something larger and more refined, like an MT-07. Time will tell. For now, I love the little guy.
I've got an older 390 Duke and it has it's engineering quirks coming from a lifetime of Japanese bikes but I find myself wanting to hop on it more often than any of my other bikes. Kind of like a Miata you're not going to crush highway miles but you can actually ride the crap out of the tiny lil thing around town without being too much of a menace. Not sure I'd pay the premium vs build quality on a new one but I really don't buy anything new
I also have a Duke 390 , ER6N and a Grom .. The best one out of the bunch if the Grom.. it's just so much fun. I rarely touch my Duke 390 and infact I only got it road legal today after storing it away for the last 6 months since I got my ER6N.
I am not a beginner rider, but I like small bikes. I used to have a ZX6R and I now have this bike's sister model. I have the previous platform Husqvarna Vitpilen and I love the features that these bikes have. For riding around my small area of Houston (Webster/Seabrook), this is all you need. Having the quick shifter and adjustable suspension are a major plus. Also, my bike OTD was less than $6,000 with warranty.
I also have a (23) Vitpilen that I added as a bike to confidently ride around in the Wisconsin Driftless region, where you run across equal amounts of gravel and horse/cow poop. And I find it a friggin' hoot to ride every time. I also have an Aprilia Tuono V4...and the Husky doesn't ever make me feel disappointment when riding it in comparison.
The Svartpilen version of this bike fixes a lot of these issues including tft placement, ergos for taller riders and doesn't have as many "needless" options. I just test rode a bunch of bikes including BMW R9T, Ducati Scrambler and some Triumphs... I ended up choosing the new Svartpilen 401 for my daily rider. Best fun for dollar of all the bikes and unbeatable for fun and convenience for city riding. You dont need big bikes to have fun.
I had the previous gen of Svartpilen 401 as a loaner while my Svart 701 was in for service, and I really liked it. Definitely all one need for a daily commute bike. Also fun on the twisty roads :)
Ive always found the idea of "skill development" on beginner things (ANY things, from motorcycles to tennis rackets to tents) to be relatively silly. You develop skills when you need to develop skills, its not like beginner has to mean absolute garbage that forces you to become an expert at something before you can move on to premium offerings that cover bases for you. If a "beginner" version of ANYTHING has a technology that means you dont need to develop a skill that would be needed on other versions of that thing, then that's great. You dont need to develop that skill yet until you move onto a version of that thing that needs that skill. And by then, I would argue, you can grasp that last remaining skill much faster and easier because you're familiar with the other 90% of the new thing you'd started.
You're right, its a competely normal skill curve that its implemented on all sort of activites, from sports to motorsports or even cooking. But with motorcycles people think that you can only learn on a 40 year old bike with drum brakes, otherwise "youre not a real biker" or you "learn it the hard way" (= crashing). Beginner bikes especially should all come with the latest aid for the rider, and as Zack showed, as you get better you can change or even turn of TC/ ABS etc
I don't think it's a beginners bike that little thing is a blast to ride, it hugs the road and swing it around like a rag doll. Very addictive little bike.
I`ve had the blue one for 3mnths now and added most of the Powerparts including the Remus pipe, barend mirrors, removed rear footpegs etc, abso love this playful little bike. I`m 5"10 and fit perfect. It`s my second KTM and looking to trade on the 2025 Adventure version next year. I love kTm😁.
Back when I first purchased my CBR300R 2015 new, and still my current bike, I came from a KTM 300exc 2010 dirt bike which was also road registered. I loved that bike and still to this day have googly eyes for a 390 Duke.. Here in Australia the 2015 390 was almost double the price of the CBR and was out of my league price wise at the time. I still looooove my CBR300R and have zero regrets buying it. A KTM 390 Duke or a Honda CBR500R would be the next bikes I'd consider if and when I decided to move on. Love the channel and your daily rides.
I don't know that wiserepoman will see this comment but I have an experience based opinion. I would suggest a previous Gen Duke 390 over the MT-03. I ride, and have ridden, a 2019 Duke 390 that I purchased new as my first bike - I was 35 at the time and having never ridden before - that only has ABS (the rear can be turned off, and always is in my case) and it has been a great learner and commuter bike with good reliability as I've only had to do regular maintenance and replace consumables, like brake pads, sprockets and chain. I recently rode a new MT-03 on a Yamaha Demo Day and was fortunate enough to spend some significant time on it as well as a couple hours each on some other bigger bikes. My opinion of the MT-03 ultimately ended up being quite low. It felt cheaply made, low on power - compared to the Duke 390 - crashy over rough roads/bumps and had vague or "wooden" brakes. I really expected more from the little MT based on reviewers' opinions but was very happy to jump back on my KTM to ride home. That said, even with the Duke 390, at least a previous Gen like mine, I would suggest some small but immediate upfront changes. Upgrade the brake pads (I put some EBC ones on), the air filter (K&N KT-1217 made notable difference to how warm the bike gets and even reaction to the throttle). And buying an older model, even if leftover new, saves some cash. But those are just my two cents based on my ownership and comparison experience between the two bikes, Duke 390 and MT-03.
Is it just me or does this episode feels like theres a lot of cuts from it in post production? Not complaining,just feels like the episode is more compacted than usual
During the leaderboard there was lots of cuts…but its probably because he wants to say he didn’t like the bike but can’t say he doesn’t like the bike lol. Like he went off to explain why its not as good but trailed off and they just cut it up and got to the point 😂
Yup, way too many cuts. He popped the wheelie at 20-25 and landed a few seconds later at 65 on the dash. Also, immediately went from fifth gear to first before backing it in.
@@reaper320 what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
@@reaper320 that's because the speed is measured at the front wheel, which is also why he turns of rear abs, because the abs can freak out if the tires have different speeds.
I have 2 bikes in my stable an NC750X and a Husky 401 (i.e. the 390). And when it comes time to take the bike out for commute through traffic, city, highway, which one I end up picking? the 401 always. It puts a smile on my face every time. Its way too much fun, but it needs to be revved above 6000 RPM and that's how it likes it. I have 9000 trouble free miles on it. Its a single, and as such quite a simple bike. Yes the new ones and the 390 has a fancy dash, but if you forget the dash for a second, the rest of it is really simple. Yes its not a twin with 500cc or more, but it has a soul and a character. Its quirky. It makes a great daily and in tight traffic, its a a real joy. I'm going to keep riding it until the engine blows up.
The thing to consider about launch control, Traction Control, ride modes etc is that they’re all software. They didn’t add any new parts. The wheel speed sensors were already there for the ABS. So why not use that information for traction control too? Launch control is using the same information. So it’s not like the bike would be significantly cheaper if they took that stuff off. It would just be less capable.
The thing is that all those smaller new bikes have, subjectively speaking from EU, very hefty prices here, so it’s almost always a better choice to buy a used MT07, Duke 390, Ninja 400, Svartpilen 390 or something like that, especially with KTM’s very problematic reliability in recent years. What attracts me the most is to buy an A2 bike that is locked so you can unlock it later, it’s basically like two bikes in one. It’s restricted to 48HP then later when you get a full A license here, you just unlock it to full 74HP, an example for MT07. And I agree for all the electronics subject, it will make some lame riders out there that rely on those always. 😄 As always, you have the most interesting, unique and fun reviews out there. Cheers
MT-07 is a BADDDD example. It's not worth the money to unlock a factory restricted version to a high output version.. it's around $2000 in engine parts and ECU flash, You actually make a profit in selling the restricted A2/LAMS version of the MT-07 (higher resell value) and buying the MT-07HO (lower resell value). The only good examples I can think of are the Ninja 650,Z650 and ER6N all made by Kawasaki who limit it with a simple torx screw to limit the throttle cable and SOME models of them bikes might need a ECU flash or pull out a special cross over cable from the ECU to tell it to go into full power mode. Another good example is the LAMS version (Australia only) of the Trident 660 which only needs a Bluetooth dongle plugged into it's OBDE port so you can upload a map from a Trident street triple 675 and it unlocks it.
@@miketran4289I think your information is a bit outdated. Nowadays it's mandatory that A2 bikes are electronically throttled. Those screws are long gone. Some bikes require stuff like a different throttle body in addition to the new ECU mapping. Throttling a new bike at a dealership is usually somewhere between free and 200€ if it's just a flash and 500€ max if an additional part is required
I am an old guy. Raced motocross and flat track. Owned lots of bikes. Nowadays everyone wants to know the best for the money. The best is what fits your particular needs. A Corrette or Lamborghini supply the same needs. Bikes nowadays are reliable with great warranties. There are sports cars, trucks, sedans, and SUVs and even these have compromises. . Buy the bike the pulls your heart strings. European bikes are more exclusive as less are built so parts/labor more expensive with less aftermarket support. Msrp is a factor also with a purchase.
I hate the "European bikes are more exclusive" thing. No, they're not. You can get any Euro bike you can think of anywhere in the country, and all it takes is a loan application. No one can buy a personality. Buy a BMW or Ducati if it has features you want, but if you think you're going to be cool, you're not. I guarantee you I'll see more Panigales on the road than MT09 SPs.
Glad to see the Euro 5 is still choking the shit out of KTM singles. They've changed nothing from the previous 390 and you will need a fuel dongle on day one just to make sure that your bike isn't stalling out repeatedly. Boy! Can't wait to spend $6,400 on that!
@@jonomasonILoveU Dude he just said at the end of the video that 30% of the time he started it, it stalled immediately. I'm pretty sure Zach knows how to read and use a fuel pump. Go to @30:15
@@sirosisofliverr I have one, and it died about 30% of the time immediately after start up, but only if I held the starter button down during cranking like you would do on most other bikes. If you tap the button and immediately release like you are supposed to, it cranks until it starts and then does not die. Now this was also during break in (like with Zach's), before I learned this was a one-tap button. So that may have had something to do with it too. In any case as soon as I started one-tapping never happened again. Having owned a RC390 with previous generation engine, I can say the engine character of the new and larger Duke 390 is head and shoulders better than the old engine. The new motor feels like a smaller version of the current 690 engine, but without the loading up at low RPMs, and without crashing into the rev limiter at high RPMs. But the way the power comes on and the willingness to rev very freely, particularly from 5K-9K, feels very 690 like. It doesn't have the wonky power dip in the midrange of the previous 390.
Great insight. I returned to motorcycling after taking an almost 10 year break. My sentiments were the same, "Why are all these features on a bike like this?" P.S. -- Please review the Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe next.
I don't see why a small bike shouldn't have Bluetooth connectivity, assuming it actually can show something useful (like navigation). What I don't understand is why a 125cc like the YZF R125 from Yamaha needs, a QS, slipper clutch, riding modes, and a price of 6000€.
I also don't think the 390 can be considered quality. That single cylinder isn't round enough, if it had a bespoke 270° 2cyl then maybe. They are also physically really small, not to mention the RC390 looks like ass and doesn't even get half the love the duke does.
My duke (the 2021 model) has the same fueling issues you've mentioned. It's probably due to Euro standards on emissions. Adding a small piggyback that hijacks the O2 sensor to give the engine more fuel on low RPMs fixes this issue.
There’s an argument for requiring new riders to develop their skills. There’s also an argument for not dying when something unexpected happens. I’ve been riding for over 15 years and I’ve practiced threshold breaking and those sorts of exercises. A couple years ago an 18-wheeler hauling gravel took a left turn in front of me without seeing me, and then panic stopped when he saw me in his window approaching. As much as I’d like to say that I was the reason I stopped in time, it was the ABS that stopped me in time (inches from rolling under his trailer). If not for that, I probably wouldn’t be commenting today. So even if a new rider needs to develop their skills, they should also be allowed to benefit from the technological advances that keep us alive when something unexpected happens.
KTM Engines don't run happy below 3500RPM(Gen 3 Duke) and there's engine knocking at low RPMs. The bike will run alot smoother once you go above 3500-4000 RPM. Quick Shifter works smoothly above 5000 RPM and there's little jerk if you use QuickShifter at low RPMs.
It's interesting to see the features the Duke offers discussed as unnecessary or as demerits when they were part of the draw for me as a beginner rider at 29. Riding scared me and the ride modes/ABS/TC all were things that felt reassuring as a potential buyer. I did end up choosing a MT-03 over the Duke 390 but it was very close. I love my MT-03 and its gotten me over quite a bit of my initial trepidations but I don't think i would have been disappointed with the KTM nor do I think the rider aids would have made me a worse rider. I think Zack's points are fair and a reasonable point of view worth discussing.
I would take a 44 year old 1980 Honda CB400T Hawk, any day of the week over this thing. It was a 360 crank twin with dual counter rotating balancers, 3 valves per cylinder, 10K redline, about 39 HP, a rather tubby 395 lbs, pretty poor brakes, and extremely budget primitive suspension lol, but I toured all along the West Coast of the US and into Mexico from Northern Canada on it, and it was 100% trouble free and one of the best machines I've ever owned.
Just here to add a comment for youtube stats. I don't care about this bike, or many that he reviews, but I watch all of them to learn about motorcycles in general. Zach embodies the love of two Wheels, appreciate you dude.
I wanted to go to Sturgis this year, but every Harley was too much bike for me. Then I looked at this KTM, but still too much. I rode a Honda monkey and I got severe vertigo from the insane speed of that machine. So I purchased a Honda ruckus and put saddlebags and ape hanger bars.. I took it from across the country to Sturgis. Amazing trip, and I got all the looks
390 Dukes have always been able to destroy much larger, more expensive bikes on tight technical roads. I would guess this can too. I would love to give it a go but I'm physically too large for this machine.
I have owned a 2017 since new. It's my goto bike for around town. It's lightweight, easy to squeeze between cars, and gets great gas mileage. 50 mpg is the lowest I've gotten and I can get 70 if I'm easy on the throttle. I wouldn't take it long distance, but as a commuter or first bike, I would recommend it. One thing I'll point out is that QC at the India factor is suss. My engine blew before the first service due to a factory defect. KTM took care of me, and it's been reliable since the repair, but it was a pain.
I would argue beginners need more electronics as more likely to make a mistake especially in an emergency. Beginners and younger riders take more risks whether peer pressure or inexperience
I think it's really weird that manufacturers are adding unnecessary rider aids but refuse to put cruise control on anything less than 13k. Probably just me though since most people don't seem to care.
They added all the features so they could charge more. Quick shifters don't cost $500, and TC doesn't either, but all up the combined features can 'justify' +$1500 to the bike's price.
The 2024 Duke 390 is trying to be the same as it's always been Zack. It''s trying to be a goid beginner bike that you can actually enjoy for a couple years and never really outgrow, which is why i still have my 2015 model next to a buell xb12 and a ktm 620 adv. Go everywhere with a wide open throttle and just as wide a grin on my face
Kinda feel like the whole point of this bike was missed which is weird because you hit it spot on the last 2 generations. Also nobody cares about mirrors on a naked bike, where i come from those, levers and bar ends immediately get switched out on any bike
People lecturing Zach about this bike being a dream for many people in the other parts of the world? Remember this guy flew to India to ride the Triumph 400 built by Bajaj. The company that rolls out KTM 390s from the same assembly line. So, he knows more!
My gosh I don't know if we have had a single day in August this year without at least a little rain, and many it is pissing all day. I feel your pain. This "global warming" is bullshit.
Were my eyes deceiving me or was the gear indicator registering shifts when you weren't upshifting? I'm considering this as my next bike, but I'm not sure. Still considering Mt-03, 450 NK, and Triumph Speed 400...any recommendations (I've been riding larger bikes for about 25 yrs) Love the channel
The "bubble" in the throttle response is due to too rich of the fueling. This is known characteristic, or issue with this engine, and common on bikes with this engine including Husqvarna Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401. The cure is apparently FuelX Lite mod which adjusts the amount of gas and oxygen to make it smoother.
My 790 adventure was in being fixed on warranty, and i was at first given an 890 smt as a courtesy bike, brilliant loved it, and then i was given a 390 duke. Im 5'10" 250 lbs and found it far too small, cramped, underpowered, and under braked. I too had problem with the positioning of the screen, the chin bar of my helmet was in the way, so I couldn't see it. I found the vibrations bad. I kept hitting the horn instead of cancelling the indicator. And the lug for lowering the side stand was directly under the foot peg, so it was a pain to lower. Apart from that, I thought it looked nice.
Waiting for your take on the Triumph 400s and the Royal Enfield 450 Guerilla. Nice video though. The 390 is one of my favourites. Totally forgot the Himalayan ride on the Triumphs. Just the RE Guerilla then :)
The 2024 Z500 SE is the same MSRP as the dealership cost of a 2024 390 Duke where I live. If you go with the non-SE model Z500, it's $700 less than the KTM. I'd much rather the Kawasaki. Aftermarket really has shown there's a lot of power to be had with the updated 451cc Kawasaki (57hp/33ft-lb wheel) and I think overall it's got a broader application and more reliable place than the KTM.
I have the KTM RC390, my son has the Duke. We both have larger bikes but these are unbeatable ,in the mountain twisties! Use to have a Yoshimura GSX-R 750, but the RC is the most fun you can have under 100!
What I like about the small KTM bikes is because they give you the "unnecessary features" like bluetooth, ride modes, and adjustable suspension. In the USA you don't seem to have learner rider restrictions like in other countries, but where I live you will be stuck on a small
As someone who just got their motorcycle lisc, and is waiting for the 2025 ktm 390 adventure to drop, i appreciate the rider aids. To me, safety is the most important. I dont care for the toxic masculinity aspect of cutting my teeth on basic bikes first. Yes it does make for a better rider, but you HAVE to fail to learn from mistakes. Id rather the bike compensate for any lack of skill and never have to lay it down to ‘learn a lesson’
as someone who has owned this bike since April 2024. Please do not get the akrapovic slip on for this bike. Sadly not one does it not change the sound of the bike what so ever. It also completely broke after a couple hundred miles of being installed on my bike of normal commuter use. To the point where all the welds that held the carbon tip on utterly failed and 1 also failed through the outer metal, so I now have an extra hole on my exhaust. I've also learned that KTM's support/warranty system is extremely slow. As I sent my warranty claim for my exhaust over a month and have yet to hear back from them. The bike it utterly fantastic as it comes from the factory. I just can't recommend getting the akrapovic slip on as it is just not as beneficial as with previous generations of the duke 390.
This new generation looks nice, sweet that you get the suspension adaptability that would be great for a beginner to learn how they work. TC is still a nice to have imo (I've had a couple butt-clenchers with all the gravel you can find at random on the road here). It's for sure a bike I'd have had on my short-list for a first bike. Loving my MY2018 Duke. Bought second-hand as my first bike and even took it to a track twice this year. Great fun, did not do much on it besides DNA air filter and FuelX lite for better fueling. I might get a slip-on but I'm not sure as the induction noise is already very nice while riding and I want riding to be more awesome, not obnoxious. No issues 10K miles in, I do my own (more frequent) oil changes. I will probably upgrade in two years after I figure out what style of riding I like best. Either going more touring, sporting or off-roading.
Looks good, a little small for me and I saw too many videos about KTM camshafts wearing out or wearing into the cylinder head. Bought a DR650S instead. I know the DR will outlast me. If you're shorter than me, get a DRZ400SM.
I was buying my first bike right when they announced this updated version of the Duke with a few more ccs and etcetera. I was in love, it just looks so different to me, and I dig it. I ended up buying an old Honda for 1/3 cheaper (CB450 DX) as I think it was way more bike for the price (and I love working on engines as well), however the appearance of the Duke still grabs me, I don't think I'll ever own a KTM considering where I live as not only its price is a bit prohibitive, but access to parts and etc is almost non-existent, but man do these look good, a sharp contrast against all of the same-y Yamaha MTs and modern honda CBs.
Great video as always Zack! I was wondering if you’re also going to review its adventure counterpart? Since you guys considered including it in your CTXP beginner motorcycle video.
I preferred the looks of the previous model. A few years ago, when I got back into motorcycling after a multi decade break, the choice for me was between the Duke 390 and the Ninja 400. I ultimately bought a Ninja 400 to break myself in gently (heavily influenced heavily by my son who preferred the looks of the Ninja). I think this is a bike for people who simply want a small light nippy bike - if you have physical limitations (age, knees, strength, height) then this is a great bike. It is not a North American continent cruiser but for zipping around town or places with narrow roads it would be ideal.
I challenged myself with my 2021 390 Duke to ride it very calm and economical and I managed 90mpg at the best but you need to be very careful and ride it so it might quickly stall at anytime lol (not as bad as it sounds btw) 75-80mpg is easier and I could easily get 50-60mpg with tons of hard riding.
I feel like the lot of people who talk against rider aids started out on a really small cc bike as kid (like Zack in this video), they did not start out on a full sized modern 400cc street bike. Starting out on a small bike almost is like starting out with rider aids.
Yeah, for a beginner bike, get the ABS, get the traction control. Then if/when you want to move up to a more powerful bike, also get the ABS, get the traction control. You only have one life. Don't spend it in a wheelchair, or with a debilitating brain injury.
I like that the tech is added to beginner bikes, but I prefer that the manufacturer provide the ability to turn them off. For example, I like that my 2022 Versys 650 LT has traction control, and I like that it is on the minimal setting by default, that I can increase it easily, and that I cannot turn it off as easily as turning it on but can turn it off without too much trouble. I haven't tried to set the default to off, but I would like that option. When new, the aids can save a fall on the daily ride. However, if the aids cannot be turned off while training I think it does hurt the rider's skill-building. For example, if my ABS engages I assume I hit the brakes too hard, but I don't get the sensation of the front tire sliding under hard braking that I would without ABS, so I will not be able to learn that skill on my bike without pulling a fuse or something. I am much more disappointed by manufacturers not providing the tech at all on a model, even as an option (See: cruise control on Versys 650), but I digress.
Sold my 390 back to the KTM dealer when the warranty expired. Nothing but issues from new that never got resolved. Avoid unless you are happy with a product that decides when it wants to work. Agree with your assessment, the bike feels rough overall most likely due to cramming too much needless crap onto the bike, and not refining any one thing. The rear brake is awful to a point I took it back to the dealer thinking it was faulty. The ride is bad after 30mins. The mirrors on mine kept cracking (the glass cracked) due to the vibrations, and traction control on a bike with 40hp is so stupid, its a total gimmick. There are so many better options on the market. Maybe having them built in India is part of the issue.
Oh man, I've been loving mine but totally agree with your review! Only real bad part for me so far is the dealer experience... Bike has been fun though and makes me (43 yr old) have fun on street bike again. (Coming back to street riding after a few years). Great review.
Read more about the 390 Duke on Common Tread: rvz.la/3Zn4shw
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What do you guys think about a Sunday rider version of this? Twisties, fun factor, performance, etc. not necessarily as long but a good more indepth with particular bikes that call for more attention.?
Please do a review the gsx 8R please I want your opinion
Zack missed a point here which he usually doesn't. These bikes are sold in a lot of markets where a 300-500cc is an aspirational buy and sometimes the riders are limited to a certain cc bracket. So the 'premium' features are actually a great selling point. I don't like the Launch control or some of the very advanced electronics but you have to factor in that not everyone around the world has the option to jump onto a Hayabusa as a first bike like an American. Often these are the achievable dream bikes for a lot of us. I used to own a first gen for 8-9 years.
I agree - but living in NAM Zack is looking at things from the perspective of the North American motorcycle market and typical rider here. In general North America has the least restrictive legislation with respect to the size of motorcycles you can ride and emissions requirements. Assuming you have a decent-ish job this is a very affordable motorcycle in NAM . . . .although with the way house prices and rent prices have been going over the last few years that may change.
Yeah, In my area here in North America the first stage of your motorcycle license is a basic written test only, no on bike rider training. With that beginners license, you are completely unrestricted as to what bike to get yourself even if you've never so much as thrown a leg over a saddle or hit a starter button. You want a 'Busa? Go for it! A full bagger Harley that is 4x your weight? Not a problem. A 1000RR from some other manufacturer? Nothing stopping you squid. If you haven't killed yourself in a couple of years you can get your 'full' motorcycle license which will allow you to, ummm, ahhhh, well, ummm, do nothing extra at all.
So yeah, we're not too concerned about engine size CC limits in other places of the planet. I agree that comes across as harsh but it is our reality we have here. Freedom baby.
@@Jagshemasher I don't mind that but it felt like he had to nitpick the motorcycle for some reason. Also felt like he was not his usual self and forgot a lot of smaller details in the review. I've been watching him from 2015 and I do respect his opinion.
Makes you wonder what the stats are compared to the rest of the world?One would assume the fatality rate in America is higher?
it's still a low-displacement beginner bike. a 390 duke doesn't have the speed to justify things like launch control or rider modes; it's just not powerful enough in the first place to justify them.
if they wanted a small displacement beginner bike to feel more premium for the eastern market, they should have added cruise control and given it nicer aesthetics rather than ride modes and traction control which should be reserved for bikes around the 100-140 hp sweet spot where bikes are fast enough without being too fast.
i understand the money thing, with india not having the purchasing power for those mid-power bikes like the 890 duke, but if they're going to add premium features they should fit what the bike actually is capable of.
We really need to move beyond the idea that small displacement motorcycles are just for young, or new riders. As an old fart who’s been riding for 50 years, one of the bikes in my personal “fleet” is a KTM RC 390, because it’s great fun on tight twisty back roads. 🏍️🤪👍!
Agree😁.
Absolutely. Every time I get on one of my small displacement bikes I have a blast.
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
I grew up on dirt bikes and then got into 600cc sport bikes and then a 750cc Gixxer in my 20s. I’m 45 now and when I was shopping for a new motorcycle at 40, 390 Duke was exactly what I was looking for, owned it since 2019 and have entertained getting a 990 Duke but there’s really no reason to.
Rc390 is perfect commuter/fun/gas sipper/corners/idk what else but my wife calls it the pumpkin bike, I’m ready for Halloween 😂
I'll take a counterpoint on rider aids.
They--in no way, shape, or form beyond a deliberate act to not learn which removing the aids will not fix--prevent anyone from learning all the skills they aid. They just remove that catastrophic and potentially life threatening consequences from failing during learning. To that, I argue that they encourage learning. I can approach the physical limitations of my bikes wheelbase, brakes, and grip and use the feedback those systems give me (cutting power, pulsing brakes, etc) to learn rather than needing the act of destroying my bike or harming myself to get that feedback.
They will absolutely hold a track rider back at some point, but for the purposes of learning to ride and staying alive while doing so on the street there's no downside to having them.
The only real downside is the price that they add to the bikes. However, in counterpoint, bikes are already so freaking expensive anyway, and even if manufacturers removed them, we'd be innocent to think that the price would go down.
I just hope that they keep these aids (other than ABS) out of the 125's/250's of the world as those NEED to be as accessible as possible. Where I live the most sold bike (for the last 20y+) is a Honda 160cc (which was 125 back then, then 150, now 160) and still has a drum brake on the back (and it's cheapest version uses drums on the front as well), that bike is basically responsible for a SOLID chunk of the country's GDP while also being integral to the motorcycle culture as well.
im a rider and i dont have aids i only have herpes
It's a weird thing. Some people view them as "I can't crash if I have this", which is obviously wrong.
Those same people then often also look at bikes without the aid systems as super dangerous machines that are going to slide the rear wheel and lock the brakes at any moment.
I'm glad that I learned on a bike without any systems, means I can now jump on any bike and not feel scared to squeeze the throttle or the brakes. If they have electronic nannies that's cool, but I don't need to them to feel safe.
Compeletely agree on all front, this whole "electronic aids" is very overblown in the motorycle world. You always put a safety net on someone that start learning a new skill , be it bowling bars, head protection on boxing, smaller football field etc. Then as you familiarise yourself with the mechanics in a safer/easier environment, you can take advantage of your full possibilities and what you learned on the "real deal" , in this case turning them off.
In the motorycle world rider aids have become a taboo thing that only stupid expensive/ 200hp bikes have , otherwise you're a lesser humam with a hoist of exploitatives thrown at you (usually about what you have between your legs). it always was extremely toxic, but it doesnt actually help the conversation move forwards. Even now in 2024 some "riderz" frown upon ABS
Every motor vehicle on the public roads should have ABS.
It saves lives.
For the first question 22:18 ,I think I can represent the idea of having these features as an Indian rider. Most Indians cannot fathom to afford a 390 duke so, here they’re sort of looked at like the middle weight bikes as most people start on commuter workhorses with 12-20 bhp and by the time they upgrade to the 390 duke it is most probably their endgame bike so these extra features just sign the deal over the competition (overpriced mt03)
Yeah americans have no clue how the world works. Even in europe (any country) bikes of this range are more than enough for 90% of people. You dont need to go any faster than 120-130 km/h. They can definitely be forever bikes since upkeep is cheap
This is spot on. I have upgraded from 100CC bike to 400CC Duke and the difference is huge. I love those features and I might not upgrade for next 5-6 years
'24 Duke 390 is a riot. The updates are fantastic. I have been riding for 48 years, owned many super bikes and super sports, which I tracked, among dozens of other bikes. The shortcomings of the bike? It is small. I am 5'8" and it is small for me. particularly in terms of the seat, which doesn't allow the rider to move back much. The mirrors do vibe a bit, though the bike (bars, pegs, and seat) seems reasonably smooth.
The advanced controls? Yes please. Nobody needs this stuff in good weather in SoCal on a low powered bike. But go out on a cold day, in the wet, on roads with intermittent sand and gravel on them, moss patches, molding leaves, and with game filled vegetation near either side, and suddenly it will all make sense.
The new dash is superb. The motor changes are wonderful. It is a hoot. The quick shifter works well at higher revs and under reasonable load. Can be a little clunky at lower revs/load, especially on 5-6 shifts.
It is so light and nimble... I love it overall. I had a RC390 (22 or 23) but the power output was a bit wonky. The new Duke engine feels a lot better. Pulls really good for what it is, and runs happily at moderate to high revs on the highway. The brakes are quite good too, again for what it is. No regrets on this one for around town and back roads. If I lived in San Diego County would I pick it? No way. But for tighter backroads with poor visibility, game animals, etc, it is a ton of fun. Fast, light, and cheap.
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
Updates are meh tbh.
It had a bunch of features for ages.
What’s inexcusable is how many of the basics aren’t polished after a decade of updates. It’s a fun bike but KTM need to be called out at the same time
@@maomekat2369 Yes the handling on this bike is superb. I have never ridden a bike that is so quick to react, while at the same time it has good stability - pretty crazy. I have about 850 miles on mine and it still takes a conscious effort to prevent turning in too soon. I also still have to remind myself to brake later.
The TC seems well dialed too. I had a lot of lean on the bike in a warm/dry 4th gear corner and was a little too aggressive with the throttle, the rear stepped out but it stayed totally controllable and the intervention was not intrusive.
The suspension does a good job of keeping the tires connected as well. I ride on pretty rough back roads, and at speed and lean, the Duke is better than my former SV650 which had a suspension that really got overwhelmed on the same roads.
Cant wait for the updated 390 Adventure version
First time I feel like Zack missed the point of the bike in a review. Sure its a "beginner" bike if you look at engine cc's, but thats not what the average buyer of these looks at.
There's a whole world out there that cant or wont buy a bigger bike, so this is the endgame for them. And if we look at it from a "western" POV, this thing is the best commuter bike ever made. 390 dukes and adventures are all over europe being driven day and night by people that want a bike (not a scooter), but they dont want to daily a hayabusa or a gs1250. They are ridiculously light, enough HP to get you in trouble, and the "extra fuss" that you dont like is what separates it from the competition. Someone that wants a "beginner bike" doesnt usually buy a 390 duke, and the guy that buys a 390 duke/adventure doesnt want any of the competition. I think his lens of "400cc = 16 year old/never touched a bike" really is a disservice to the bike as a whole
Yeah americans have no clue how the world works. They only think in wide straight roads lol
Totally agree, I love my 24 398.63cc (blue) Duke, it`s getting traded next year on the ADV version. I`m 62 and recovering from a quad bypass so I`m only half the man I used to be and this bike is perfect for me, Love it.
I commute into central London on an MT07 and am actually considering downsizing as it has way too much power for going through traffic. But would love all the extra features like a quickshifter and traction control. This bike could fit the bill.
what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
Good observation
I'm a small rider, at 5'3", and have trouble finding a sporty bike that I can both touch the ground on and handle weight-wise. I've been riding for just about 10 years so while I no longer consider myself a "beginner", I also don't need anything too large, both physically and in engine capacity. At the same time, I love tech and welcome the features. Launch control and Bluetooth? Cool! Why not? I especially love my backlit buttons! My 2024 Duke 390 is perfect for me and I praise KTM for going in this direction with their roudy, sub-500cc motorcycles. Cheers!
I'm 57. Bought a 2017 390 Duke on a lark, intending to keep it the summer and move on. I kept it 6 years. It's just a barrel of laughs. I'm still thinking of getting another one as a second bike, or a 401 Svartpielen, just for the fun of it.
Cheap to insure, cheap on fuel are pluses too.
How’s the reliability been for all those years? I’ve heard mixed opinions but nobody’s been concrete about it.
I was riding a KLR 650 6 years ago and then my brother and I rented 2 Duke 390's and rode them on Maui for 2 days, when I got back I sold my 650 and bought a 390. Have my second one now, use one for camping with hard panniers and the other is just bare bones but both are a barrel of fun!!
390 is great for most countries where either licenses restrict people down to 47hp or countries where a 400 is a big bike and nobody goes bigger.
Funny how perspective changes so much....this bike is worshipped in india... it's THE sportiest beginner bike u can get in india.
Many ppl in india don't buy a bike higher than 400cc so this is very popular here and it's the benchmark in the 400cc segment.
Also cuz traffic and roads are chaotic in india this is all the bike u will need in the city and for some weekend rides.
Basically it makes PERFECT SENSE here !!!
That’s most of the world my guy. 40-50 horses are enough. Americans only think in wide straight roads and having big things for the sake of it.
@@inquisitive6786 True that
@@ashishmatta8504 Look at their cars🤣 they drive those huge trucks which have less visibility than modern tanks. It’s all ego. They also think they drive fast on motorways🤡
Nah.. the KTM 390 ADV or Svartpilen 401 makes more sense in India.
Being built in India it also avoids all those import taxes making it relatively unrivalled at its price point. A ninja 500 costs 2/3 MORE than a 390! That’s the real biggest difference between what it’s compared against in the US and in India (3.10 lakh vs 5.24), whilst in the US they’re pretty even on price. Then factor in it’s not just the buy in price but also all your parts, and of course like anywhere there’s some national pride in the things you build right? It’s why so many western and Japanese manufacturers are desperate to get bikes being built in India right now
It's the most orange bike in existence.
It's a good start. Hopefully they will get rid of the black bits on the next gen. 😉
😂
I think the 640 adv might still have that crown :)
That's why I'm getting the Atlantic blue version,too much orange for me.
KTM tries its best to make ugly bikes
If I had a child who is learning to ride, I would absolutely want their first bike to be as safe as possible. Rider aids on beginner bikes are 100% a positive thing.
I mean.... would you want your kid to learn driving a car without esc, abs and airbags because they need to learn the raw physical experiece of understeering / oversteering into a ditch?
Being safe as possible means building your own skills and abilities, not relying on technology. It is far safer to teach your child to drive a car within their limits, just as a motorcycle, then to simply trust in the safety features. This is even more true of a motorcycle, and why so many people still lose their lives in automobile accidents while the cars are safer than they ever have been. An unskilled driver is dangerous.
You're strawmanning here. Airbags have nothing to do with controls and are analogous to gear, which most everyone agrees beginners should ATGATT.
I disagree because they should be riding before they're 16 on something smaller. We never personally owned anything I could ride on two wheels but we knew people. I learned all that before I was 16 the hard way when I healed much quicker and learned quicker.
New rider. Older rider. I picked up a 2024 390 Duke because of the safety features that are largely unavailable on other bikes of this size and price point. After 100 miles on it, I think this is a fair review, tho mine has not stalled a single time except for a mistake on my part trying to start out in 2nd. The seat is not comfortable for more than 30-40 minutes at a time, and I'm already looking for a replacement or cover that adds a little cushion. I may play with the suspension adjustments, too.
I'm 5'10" and don't feel like this is too small for me at all. The riding position is pretty comfortable, and it fits me like a glove. Scooch forward and grip the tank with your legs and everything is right where it's supposed to be. For me, at least. Try to sit farther back on the seat and suddenly it's uncomfortable and awkward. So I agree that you feel like you're very far forward, but I'm getting used to it. I like the TFT screen, and also agree that I wish it were more forward on the bars, since the riding position puts it slightly out of view and you have to look down to read anything.
Is it fun? Absolutely. As stated, I don't have a lot of experience with other bikes, so I'm having a hell of a time on it. I've looked at others in this size like the Triumph Street 400, and the Honda SCL 500, but when I was ready to buy, nothing but the Duke was available. I don't regret it at all. It's well-suited to my needs - a commuter bike that's easy to navigate thru a metro area while having fun. Today I parked near a giant Harley and when I walked back to my bike it looked like a scooter, by comparison. Yet, the weight and size are an advantage in a city when you're looking for parking and want to zip around.
BUT, I can see in a year or two moving on to something larger and more refined, like an MT-07. Time will tell. For now, I love the little guy.
Zack remains the best bike reviewer.
I want a Sunday Rider version of this format where he ditches the city and goes out into the Malibu or other canyons.
@@aluisious its perfect for the twisties.
Certainly one of the best
Agreed!
Easily the best
I've got an older 390 Duke and it has it's engineering quirks coming from a lifetime of Japanese bikes but I find myself wanting to hop on it more often than any of my other bikes. Kind of like a Miata you're not going to crush highway miles but you can actually ride the crap out of the tiny lil thing around town without being too much of a menace.
Not sure I'd pay the premium vs build quality on a new one but I really don't buy anything new
I also have a Duke 390 , ER6N and a Grom .. The best one out of the bunch if the Grom.. it's just so much fun. I rarely touch my Duke 390 and infact I only got it road legal today after storing it away for the last 6 months since I got my ER6N.
I am not a beginner rider, but I like small bikes. I used to have a ZX6R and I now have this bike's sister model. I have the previous platform Husqvarna Vitpilen and I love the features that these bikes have. For riding around my small area of Houston (Webster/Seabrook), this is all you need. Having the quick shifter and adjustable suspension are a major plus. Also, my bike OTD was less than $6,000 with warranty.
I also have a (23) Vitpilen that I added as a bike to confidently ride around in the Wisconsin Driftless region, where you run across equal amounts of gravel and horse/cow poop. And I find it a friggin' hoot to ride every time. I also have an Aprilia Tuono V4...and the Husky doesn't ever make me feel disappointment when riding it in comparison.
@@tysonarzt3507 They are fun and a bit punchy. It puts my old ninja 300 to shame. Also, it was cheaper and way prettier.
Zach, have a Snickers bar, break the bike in, and then take that Duke up and down Palomar Mountain several times and get back to us.
Agreed, I think after that trip the addiction would begin and he would be compelled to place the 390 higher on that board......
Can't wait for Zack to try Aprilia 457 on daily rider series. It's making waves in India.
Making waves.?? Not seen a single one on road in India yet
Please do!
abysmal to ride fast
Apparently the electronics are an issue when riding hard.
@@nadarbsm ive seen quite a few in banglore but obviously it wont sell anywhere to close to 400 singles. For its segment its doing quite well.
The Svartpilen version of this bike fixes a lot of these issues including tft placement, ergos for taller riders and doesn't have as many "needless" options. I just test rode a bunch of bikes including BMW R9T, Ducati Scrambler and some Triumphs... I ended up choosing the new Svartpilen 401 for my daily rider. Best fun for dollar of all the bikes and unbeatable for fun and convenience for city riding. You dont need big bikes to have fun.
I had the previous gen of Svartpilen 401 as a loaner while my Svart 701 was in for service, and I really liked it. Definitely all one need for a daily commute bike. Also fun on the twisty roads :)
The Svart also provides some light off-road capabilities. It's a great all-rounder
My son wont stop talking about these, I will watch.
Ive always found the idea of "skill development" on beginner things (ANY things, from motorcycles to tennis rackets to tents) to be relatively silly. You develop skills when you need to develop skills, its not like beginner has to mean absolute garbage that forces you to become an expert at something before you can move on to premium offerings that cover bases for you. If a "beginner" version of ANYTHING has a technology that means you dont need to develop a skill that would be needed on other versions of that thing, then that's great. You dont need to develop that skill yet until you move onto a version of that thing that needs that skill. And by then, I would argue, you can grasp that last remaining skill much faster and easier because you're familiar with the other 90% of the new thing you'd started.
You're right, its a competely normal skill curve that its implemented on all sort of activites, from sports to motorsports or even cooking. But with motorcycles people think that you can only learn on a 40 year old bike with drum brakes, otherwise "youre not a real biker" or you "learn it the hard way" (= crashing). Beginner bikes especially should all come with the latest aid for the rider, and as Zack showed, as you get better you can change or even turn of TC/ ABS etc
I don't think it's a beginners bike that little thing is a blast to ride, it hugs the road and swing it around like a rag doll. Very addictive little bike.
I am looking forward for daily rider review on royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and new roaster cousin. Hopefully get that soon🙂😊
I`ve had the blue one for 3mnths now and added most of the Powerparts including the Remus pipe, barend mirrors, removed rear footpegs etc, abso love this playful little bike. I`m 5"10 and fit perfect. It`s my second KTM and looking to trade on the 2025 Adventure version next year. I love kTm😁.
@@jonomasonILoveU did the Remus Pipe make much of a difference?
@@TheMotoBarista Hell yes especially when quick shifting full noise, sounds like a motorcross bike.
Back when I first purchased my CBR300R 2015 new, and still my current bike, I came from a KTM 300exc 2010 dirt bike which was also road registered. I loved that bike and still to this day have googly eyes for a 390 Duke.. Here in Australia the 2015 390 was almost double the price of the CBR and was out of my league price wise at the time. I still looooove my CBR300R and have zero regrets buying it. A KTM 390 Duke or a Honda CBR500R would be the next bikes I'd consider if and when I decided to move on. Love the channel and your daily rides.
I highly recomend this bike its so much fun.
Some people like the CBR300R better than the 500.
I don't know that wiserepoman will see this comment but I have an experience based opinion. I would suggest a previous Gen Duke 390 over the MT-03. I ride, and have ridden, a 2019 Duke 390 that I purchased new as my first bike - I was 35 at the time and having never ridden before - that only has ABS (the rear can be turned off, and always is in my case) and it has been a great learner and commuter bike with good reliability as I've only had to do regular maintenance and replace consumables, like brake pads, sprockets and chain. I recently rode a new MT-03 on a Yamaha Demo Day and was fortunate enough to spend some significant time on it as well as a couple hours each on some other bigger bikes. My opinion of the MT-03 ultimately ended up being quite low. It felt cheaply made, low on power - compared to the Duke 390 - crashy over rough roads/bumps and had vague or "wooden" brakes. I really expected more from the little MT based on reviewers' opinions but was very happy to jump back on my KTM to ride home. That said, even with the Duke 390, at least a previous Gen like mine, I would suggest some small but immediate upfront changes. Upgrade the brake pads (I put some EBC ones on), the air filter (K&N KT-1217 made notable difference to how warm the bike gets and even reaction to the throttle). And buying an older model, even if leftover new, saves some cash. But those are just my two cents based on my ownership and comparison experience between the two bikes, Duke 390 and MT-03.
Is it just me or does this episode feels like theres a lot of cuts from it in post production? Not complaining,just feels like the episode is more compacted than usual
Agree!
During the leaderboard there was lots of cuts…but its probably because he wants to say he didn’t like the bike but can’t say he doesn’t like the bike lol. Like he went off to explain why its not as good but trailed off and they just cut it up and got to the point 😂
Yup, way too many cuts. He popped the wheelie at 20-25 and landed a few seconds later at 65 on the dash. Also, immediately went from fifth gear to first before backing it in.
@@reaper320 what a surprisingly off-putting negative "blabla" review for A unique fantastic 350 LB 400CC uber light fast ...0-60 4-5sec.... suuuuper light fliiiiickable to moon...not like 450lb 1190 that overheats & cost 15-18k...
@@reaper320 that's because the speed is measured at the front wheel, which is also why he turns of rear abs, because the abs can freak out if the tires have different speeds.
I have 2 bikes in my stable an NC750X and a Husky 401 (i.e. the 390). And when it comes time to take the bike out for commute through traffic, city, highway, which one I end up picking? the 401 always. It puts a smile on my face every time.
Its way too much fun, but it needs to be revved above 6000 RPM and that's how it likes it. I have 9000 trouble free miles on it. Its a single, and as such quite a simple bike. Yes the new ones and the 390 has a fancy dash, but if you forget the dash for a second, the rest of it is really simple. Yes its not a twin with 500cc or more, but it has a soul and a character. Its quirky.
It makes a great daily and in tight traffic, its a a real joy. I'm going to keep riding it until the engine blows up.
Your reviews are always informative AND entertaining! 👏🏻
The thing to consider about launch control, Traction Control, ride modes etc is that they’re all software.
They didn’t add any new parts. The wheel speed sensors were already there for the ABS. So why not use that information for traction control too?
Launch control is using the same information.
So it’s not like the bike would be significantly cheaper if they took that stuff off. It would just be less capable.
The thing is that all those smaller new bikes have, subjectively speaking from EU, very hefty prices here, so it’s almost always a better choice to buy a used MT07, Duke 390, Ninja 400, Svartpilen 390 or something like that, especially with KTM’s very problematic reliability in recent years. What attracts me the most is to buy an A2 bike that is locked so you can unlock it later, it’s basically like two bikes in one. It’s restricted to 48HP then later when you get a full A license here, you just unlock it to full 74HP, an example for MT07. And I agree for all the electronics subject, it will make some lame riders out there that rely on those always. 😄
As always, you have the most interesting, unique and fun reviews out there.
Cheers
MT-07 is a BADDDD example. It's not worth the money to unlock a factory restricted version to a high output version.. it's around $2000 in engine parts and ECU flash, You actually make a profit in selling the restricted A2/LAMS version of the MT-07 (higher resell value) and buying the MT-07HO (lower resell value). The only good examples I can think of are the Ninja 650,Z650 and ER6N all made by Kawasaki who limit it with a simple torx screw to limit the throttle cable and SOME models of them bikes might need a ECU flash or pull out a special cross over cable from the ECU to tell it to go into full power mode. Another good example is the LAMS version (Australia only) of the Trident 660 which only needs a Bluetooth dongle plugged into it's OBDE port so you can upload a map from a Trident street triple 675 and it unlocks it.
@@miketran4289I think your information is a bit outdated. Nowadays it's mandatory that A2 bikes are electronically throttled. Those screws are long gone. Some bikes require stuff like a different throttle body in addition to the new ECU mapping. Throttling a new bike at a dealership is usually somewhere between free and 200€ if it's just a flash and 500€ max if an additional part is required
My prayer and request has been answered!! Thanks so much for this Revzilla!!
I am an old guy. Raced motocross and flat track. Owned lots of bikes. Nowadays everyone wants to know the best for the money. The best is what fits your particular needs. A Corrette or Lamborghini supply the same needs. Bikes nowadays are reliable with great warranties. There are sports cars, trucks, sedans, and SUVs and even these have compromises. . Buy the bike the pulls your heart strings. European bikes are more exclusive as less are built so parts/labor more expensive with less aftermarket support. Msrp is a factor also with a purchase.
I hate the "European bikes are more exclusive" thing. No, they're not. You can get any Euro bike you can think of anywhere in the country, and all it takes is a loan application. No one can buy a personality. Buy a BMW or Ducati if it has features you want, but if you think you're going to be cool, you're not.
I guarantee you I'll see more Panigales on the road than MT09 SPs.
@@aluisious Lack of dealerships and certified service centre network is a reason why they are exclusive, It's not about the money.
Glad to see the Euro 5 is still choking the shit out of KTM singles. They've changed nothing from the previous 390 and you will need a fuel dongle on day one just to make sure that your bike isn't stalling out repeatedly. Boy! Can't wait to spend $6,400 on that!
Aye stuck a fuelx lite on my MY 2018, makes it a lot better for fueling at not a huge cost.
This version is 95% different and abso no fueling probs if you use the right fuel.
@@jonomasonILoveU Dude he just said at the end of the video that 30% of the time he started it, it stalled immediately. I'm pretty sure Zach knows how to read and use a fuel pump. Go to @30:15
@@sirosisofliverr I have one, and it died about 30% of the time immediately after start up, but only if I held the starter button down during cranking like you would do on most other bikes. If you tap the button and immediately release like you are supposed to, it cranks until it starts and then does not die. Now this was also during break in (like with Zach's), before I learned this was a one-tap button. So that may have had something to do with it too. In any case as soon as I started one-tapping never happened again.
Having owned a RC390 with previous generation engine, I can say the engine character of the new and larger Duke 390 is head and shoulders better than the old engine. The new motor feels like a smaller version of the current 690 engine, but without the loading up at low RPMs, and without crashing into the rev limiter at high RPMs. But the way the power comes on and the willingness to rev very freely, particularly from 5K-9K, feels very 690 like. It doesn't have the wonky power dip in the midrange of the previous 390.
Great insight. I returned to motorcycling after taking an almost 10 year break. My sentiments were the same, "Why are all these features on a bike like this?"
P.S. -- Please review the Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe next.
I don't see why a small bike shouldn't have Bluetooth connectivity, assuming it actually can show something useful (like navigation).
What I don't understand is why a 125cc like the YZF R125 from Yamaha needs, a QS, slipper clutch, riding modes, and a price of 6000€.
I also don't think the 390 can be considered quality. That single cylinder isn't round enough, if it had a bespoke 270° 2cyl then maybe.
They are also physically really small, not to mention the RC390 looks like ass and doesn't even get half the love the duke does.
My duke (the 2021 model) has the same fueling issues you've mentioned. It's probably due to Euro standards on emissions. Adding a small piggyback that hijacks the O2 sensor to give the engine more fuel on low RPMs fixes this issue.
There’s an argument for requiring new riders to develop their skills. There’s also an argument for not dying when something unexpected happens. I’ve been riding for over 15 years and I’ve practiced threshold breaking and those sorts of exercises. A couple years ago an 18-wheeler hauling gravel took a left turn in front of me without seeing me, and then panic stopped when he saw me in his window approaching. As much as I’d like to say that I was the reason I stopped in time, it was the ABS that stopped me in time (inches from rolling under his trailer). If not for that, I probably wouldn’t be commenting today. So even if a new rider needs to develop their skills, they should also be allowed to benefit from the technological advances that keep us alive when something unexpected happens.
KTM Engines don't run happy below 3500RPM(Gen 3 Duke) and there's engine knocking at low RPMs. The bike will run alot smoother once you go above 3500-4000 RPM. Quick Shifter works smoothly above 5000 RPM and there's little jerk if you use QuickShifter at low RPMs.
"the right way to ride a KTM is to redline it in each gear"
@@Ankesh_00 Redlining everyday won't hurt the engine? It will not shorten engine's life?
dont take it literally....
what i meant was that you dont ride KTMs like you are saving the petrol....
You can see the maturity in Zack growing throughout the years. Praising a Honda over a KTM...haha.
It's interesting to see the features the Duke offers discussed as unnecessary or as demerits when they were part of the draw for me as a beginner rider at 29. Riding scared me and the ride modes/ABS/TC all were things that felt reassuring as a potential buyer. I did end up choosing a MT-03 over the Duke 390 but it was very close. I love my MT-03 and its gotten me over quite a bit of my initial trepidations but I don't think i would have been disappointed with the KTM nor do I think the rider aids would have made me a worse rider. I think Zack's points are fair and a reasonable point of view worth discussing.
But if you were 5.5 and 100 lbs just think of how much fun you would have, Golly Green Giant. You're tooooooo BIG For The Bike !!!!!!!
I would take a 44 year old 1980 Honda CB400T Hawk, any day of the week over this thing. It was a 360 crank twin with dual counter rotating balancers, 3 valves per cylinder, 10K redline, about 39 HP, a rather tubby 395 lbs, pretty poor brakes, and extremely budget primitive suspension lol, but I toured all along the West Coast of the US and into Mexico from Northern Canada on it, and it was 100% trouble free and one of the best machines I've ever owned.
Two things, can you daily ride some more old bikes? Just regular bikes from the used market. Second, what is backing it in?
Sliding the rear wheel.
I saw one of these yesterday, thought it looked awesome, then stalled out 3x at a stop light next to it.
I love Zack's attitude.
Just here to add a comment for youtube stats. I don't care about this bike, or many that he reviews, but I watch all of them to learn about motorcycles in general. Zach embodies the love of two Wheels, appreciate you dude.
I wanted to go to Sturgis this year, but every Harley was too much bike for me. Then I looked at this KTM, but still too much. I rode a Honda monkey and I got severe vertigo from the insane speed of that machine. So I purchased a Honda ruckus and put saddlebags and ape hanger bars.. I took it from across the country to Sturgis. Amazing trip, and I got all the looks
Looking forward to your take on the Aprilia RS 457!
390 Dukes have always been able to destroy much larger, more expensive bikes on tight technical roads. I would guess this can too. I would love to give it a go but I'm physically too large for this machine.
I have owned a 2017 since new. It's my goto bike for around town. It's lightweight, easy to squeeze between cars, and gets great gas mileage. 50 mpg is the lowest I've gotten and I can get 70 if I'm easy on the throttle. I wouldn't take it long distance, but as a commuter or first bike, I would recommend it. One thing I'll point out is that QC at the India factor is suss. My engine blew before the first service due to a factory defect. KTM took care of me, and it's been reliable since the repair, but it was a pain.
Are you really complaining about too many features? If it didn't have them, you'd be writing ohhhh i wish it had more features.
I have a speedometer and tripmeter on my DR650. It is freeing to lose all the other readings.
I would argue beginners need more electronics as more likely to make a mistake especially in an emergency. Beginners and younger riders take more risks whether peer pressure or inexperience
I think it's really weird that manufacturers are adding unnecessary rider aids but refuse to put cruise control on anything less than 13k. Probably just me though since most people don't seem to care.
I agree. Just two things I would take on my bike ABS and CC.
Cruise control is on my Honda rebel 1100. Brand new. It was 11.5 out the door. I can't remember exactly. Love it
@@TheTurtleCalledPablobut they didn't put it on the transalp?
My tracer 9 was 10.9 and F900R SE was 11 and both have cruise :). But yeah I dont even consider bikes without it, so useful.
CF moto has it on the 700cl-x, I'm looking at getting the sport. They seem like pretty good bikes.
They added all the features so they could charge more. Quick shifters don't cost $500, and TC doesn't either, but all up the combined features can 'justify' +$1500 to the bike's price.
The 2024 Duke 390 is trying to be the same as it's always been Zack. It''s trying to be a goid beginner bike that you can actually enjoy for a couple years and never really outgrow, which is why i still have my 2015 model next to a buell xb12 and a ktm 620 adv. Go everywhere with a wide open throttle and just as wide a grin on my face
Kinda feel like the whole point of this bike was missed which is weird because you hit it spot on the last 2 generations. Also nobody cares about mirrors on a naked bike, where i come from those, levers and bar ends immediately get switched out on any bike
People lecturing Zach about this bike being a dream for many people in the other parts of the world? Remember this guy flew to India to ride the Triumph 400 built by Bajaj. The company that rolls out KTM 390s from the same assembly line. So, he knows more!
Exactly the man I wanted to see, riding exactly the bike I'm looking at as a beginner rider in the UK... but one in my 40s, not my teens.
I am so jealous of your weather. It's August 24th and it's raining here in Cumbria, UK. The great British summer time.
yeah it's raining here in Washington, but LA gets rain like once a year, i don't think i have ever seen Zack review anything in the rain lol
@@nickn7939 he's a lucky guy. I think we need to move 😂
My gosh I don't know if we have had a single day in August this year without at least a little rain, and many it is pissing all day. I feel your pain. This "global warming" is bullshit.
Were my eyes deceiving me or was the gear indicator registering shifts when you weren't upshifting? I'm considering this as my next bike, but I'm not sure. Still considering
Mt-03, 450 NK, and Triumph Speed 400...any recommendations (I've been riding larger bikes for about 25 yrs) Love the channel
The basic message is, you have to have a ~900 - 1400cc bike to daily ride it. Not sure real commuters would agree…
The "bubble" in the throttle response is due to too rich of the fueling. This is known characteristic, or issue with this engine, and common on bikes with this engine including Husqvarna Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401. The cure is apparently FuelX Lite mod which adjusts the amount of gas and oxygen to make it smoother.
Last gen 390 Duke is where it's at.
the thesis i took away from this bike is it thinks its much much cooler than it actually is. Which tracks perfectly for KTM as a brand imo.
I really don't like the new pointy side fairings that come past the front suspension. I really like the rear of the bike though
That is an epic amount of orange! I prefer the older color scheme. Great review as always.
Zack, do the Suzuki Katana please. You're going to love it.
My 790 adventure was in being fixed on warranty, and i was at first given an 890 smt as a courtesy bike, brilliant loved it, and then i was given a 390 duke.
Im 5'10" 250 lbs and found it far too small, cramped, underpowered, and under braked. I too had problem with the positioning of the screen, the chin bar of my helmet was in the way, so I couldn't see it. I found the vibrations bad. I kept hitting the horn instead of cancelling the indicator. And the lug for lowering the side stand was directly under the foot peg, so it was a pain to lower.
Apart from that, I thought it looked nice.
When are u bringing Himalayan 450?
Waiting for your take on the Triumph 400s and the Royal Enfield 450 Guerilla. Nice video though. The 390 is one of my favourites. Totally forgot the Himalayan ride on the Triumphs. Just the RE Guerilla then :)
The 2024 Z500 SE is the same MSRP as the dealership cost of a 2024 390 Duke where I live. If you go with the non-SE model Z500, it's $700 less than the KTM.
I'd much rather the Kawasaki. Aftermarket really has shown there's a lot of power to be had with the updated 451cc Kawasaki (57hp/33ft-lb wheel) and I think overall it's got a broader application and more reliable place than the KTM.
As always, love the video.
You should add a rider triangle shot of you on the bike from the side.
I have the KTM RC390, my son has the Duke. We both have larger bikes but these are unbeatable ,in the mountain twisties! Use to have a Yoshimura GSX-R 750, but the RC is the most fun you can have under 100!
What I like about the small KTM bikes is because they give you the "unnecessary features" like bluetooth, ride modes, and adjustable suspension. In the USA you don't seem to have learner rider restrictions like in other countries, but where I live you will be stuck on a small
Another spectacular review. Well done. I commute on an FJR 1300 (it’s my only mode of transport), so it is great to have new perspectives every week.
As someone who just got their motorcycle lisc, and is waiting for the 2025 ktm 390 adventure to drop, i appreciate the rider aids. To me, safety is the most important. I dont care for the toxic masculinity aspect of cutting my teeth on basic bikes first. Yes it does make for a better rider, but you HAVE to fail to learn from mistakes. Id rather the bike compensate for any lack of skill and never have to lay it down to ‘learn a lesson’
awesome attitude, I`m also waiting to trade my 24 Duke390 on the 25 390 ADV.
as someone who has owned this bike since April 2024. Please do not get the akrapovic slip on for this bike. Sadly not one does it not change the sound of the bike what so ever. It also completely broke after a couple hundred miles of being installed on my bike of normal commuter use. To the point where all the welds that held the carbon tip on utterly failed and 1 also failed through the outer metal, so I now have an extra hole on my exhaust. I've also learned that KTM's support/warranty system is extremely slow. As I sent my warranty claim for my exhaust over a month and have yet to hear back from them. The bike it utterly fantastic as it comes from the factory. I just can't recommend getting the akrapovic slip on as it is just not as beneficial as with previous generations of the duke 390.
Hello Zack, finally,thank you for getting to do a ride review of this new model an beautiful machine,I can't wait to get mine soon in a few months.
This new generation looks nice, sweet that you get the suspension adaptability that would be great for a beginner to learn how they work.
TC is still a nice to have imo (I've had a couple butt-clenchers with all the gravel you can find at random on the road here).
It's for sure a bike I'd have had on my short-list for a first bike.
Loving my MY2018 Duke. Bought second-hand as my first bike and even took it to a track twice this year.
Great fun, did not do much on it besides DNA air filter and FuelX lite for better fueling. I might get a slip-on but I'm not sure as the induction noise is already very nice while riding and I want riding to be more awesome, not obnoxious.
No issues 10K miles in, I do my own (more frequent) oil changes.
I will probably upgrade in two years after I figure out what style of riding I like best.
Either going more touring, sporting or off-roading.
Looks good, a little small for me and I saw too many videos about KTM camshafts wearing out or wearing into the cylinder head. Bought a DR650S instead. I know the DR will outlast me. If you're shorter than me, get a DRZ400SM.
I know they technically have a video with the speed 400 already, but i would love to see it get a dedicated video from zack here
I was buying my first bike right when they announced this updated version of the Duke with a few more ccs and etcetera. I was in love, it just looks so different to me, and I dig it. I ended up buying an old Honda for 1/3 cheaper (CB450 DX) as I think it was way more bike for the price (and I love working on engines as well), however the appearance of the Duke still grabs me, I don't think I'll ever own a KTM considering where I live as not only its price is a bit prohibitive, but access to parts and etc is almost non-existent, but man do these look good, a sharp contrast against all of the same-y Yamaha MTs and modern honda CBs.
Great video as always Zack! I was wondering if you’re also going to review its adventure counterpart? Since you guys considered including it in your CTXP beginner motorcycle video.
I preferred the looks of the previous model. A few years ago, when I got back into motorcycling after a multi decade break, the choice for me was between the Duke 390 and the Ninja 400. I ultimately bought a Ninja 400 to break myself in gently (heavily influenced heavily by my son who preferred the looks of the Ninja). I think this is a bike for people who simply want a small light nippy bike - if you have physical limitations (age, knees, strength, height) then this is a great bike. It is not a North American continent cruiser but for zipping around town or places with narrow roads it would be ideal.
I have a 2022 for urban commuting. Best thing is the light weight for slow speed manoeuvring.
You never did a review on gsx 8r only 8s. Waiting for its review.
I challenged myself with my 2021 390 Duke to ride it very calm and economical and I managed 90mpg at the best but you need to be very careful and ride it so it might quickly stall at anytime lol (not as bad as it sounds btw) 75-80mpg is easier and I could easily get 50-60mpg with tons of hard riding.
Thought this said 1390 and I got so excited. Still a fantastic review!! Zack is the best at what he does.
If the price was $1,000 lower this bike would be more interesting.
Would love to hear how it compares to the Vitpilen.
I feel like the lot of people who talk against rider aids started out on a really small cc bike as kid (like Zack in this video), they did not start out on a full sized modern 400cc street bike. Starting out on a small bike almost is like starting out with rider aids.
That is a big bright dash!
Yeah, for a beginner bike, get the ABS, get the traction control. Then if/when you want to move up to a more powerful bike, also get the ABS, get the traction control.
You only have one life. Don't spend it in a wheelchair, or with a debilitating brain injury.
I like that the tech is added to beginner bikes, but I prefer that the manufacturer provide the ability to turn them off. For example, I like that my 2022 Versys 650 LT has traction control, and I like that it is on the minimal setting by default, that I can increase it easily, and that I cannot turn it off as easily as turning it on but can turn it off without too much trouble. I haven't tried to set the default to off, but I would like that option. When new, the aids can save a fall on the daily ride. However, if the aids cannot be turned off while training I think it does hurt the rider's skill-building. For example, if my ABS engages I assume I hit the brakes too hard, but I don't get the sensation of the front tire sliding under hard braking that I would without ABS, so I will not be able to learn that skill on my bike without pulling a fuse or something. I am much more disappointed by manufacturers not providing the tech at all on a model, even as an option (See: cruise control on Versys 650), but I digress.
Sold my 390 back to the KTM dealer when the warranty expired. Nothing but issues from new that never got resolved. Avoid unless you are happy with a product that decides when it wants to work. Agree with your assessment, the bike feels rough overall most likely due to cramming too much needless crap onto the bike, and not refining any one thing. The rear brake is awful to a point I took it back to the dealer thinking it was faulty. The ride is bad after 30mins. The mirrors on mine kept cracking (the glass cracked) due to the vibrations, and traction control on a bike with 40hp is so stupid, its a total gimmick. There are so many better options on the market. Maybe having them built in India is part of the issue.
this model is not what you described, also its 45.6hp😁.
@@jonomasonILoveU the new one is absolutely still a Bajaj with 40whp...
Cycle World has a great podcast about KTM.
What an interesting comment section. Best ever reads compared to those 600cc and up bikes this dude usually reviews haha
Oh man, I've been loving mine but totally agree with your review!
Only real bad part for me so far is the dealer experience... Bike has been fun though and makes me (43 yr old) have fun on street bike again. (Coming back to street riding after a few years).
Great review.