2021 Lightweight Naked Bike Shootout
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 27 сен 2024
- You know what they say: It’s more fun to ride a slow motorcycle fast than a fast motorcycle slow. Yet another example of conventional wisdom baloney. It’s actually more fun to ride a fast bike fast, or even a medium-fast one. I’m pretty sure that’s why they keep building faster motorcycles all the time. Heck, you could argue faster bikes are also safer, because power can get you out of trouble just as easily as it can get you into it (once you’ve learned to ride, that is). And power can launch you out of corners, instead of incentivizing you to cling to every mph when you’re diving into them the way slow bikes do when ridden in packs of MOrons. Have you seen a Moto3 race? They’re faster mid-corner than the Moto2 or MotoGP bikes.
Then again, you can probably trust that front tire since all these bikes weigh well under 400 pounds. And you’re definitely not braking into those corners from triple-digit speeds, so how bad could it be? Well. It takes a certain lack of imagination, like the famous race car driver said, to ride these quickly on the street.
But these aren’t just motorcycles for sport riding. Little bikes are a blast in urban areas where space is at a premium, and with what you save in gas and tires, they probably pencil out not bad against public transportation.
It turns out only having $6k to spend on a new motorcycle doesn’t have to be a bad thing, especially when you’ve got us to help separate the wheat from the chaff. No, no need to thank us: Just hit the Like button on the video.
Read the full review here: www.motorcycle...
Subscribe!
www.youtube.com...
RUclips - / motorcycle
Facebook - / motorcyclecom
Twitter - / motorcyclecom
Web - www.Motorcycle.com
Established in 1994, Motorcycle.com is the premier online resource for motorcycle and scooter enthusiasts. With hundreds of high quality, detailed video reviews on bikes from Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and just about everybody else, it's the best place to go to learn about the latest and greatest two-wheeled creations. There's simply no better resource if you're planning on buying or if you just want to check out some awesome machines. 
Авто/Мото
![State of Play | September 24, 2024 [ENGLISH]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/fVs0suPHAX8/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you Troy for bringing up the reliability and maintenance aspect of these bikes. Totally agree with your comments. Total cost of ownership should be included in all of your guys' reviews since it does contribute to the overall experience.
Haha I was the one who talks shit on that subject in the other video, KTM reliablety is trash plus they don't offer extended warranty on their bikes and that's tell you a lot
@@RidingNomad My experience with KTM has been pretty great so far. I have a '17 SDGT (20k miles) and an '18 Duke 390 (6k miles) both purchased new, and they both have been problem-free so far. The 390 has Andreani front fork upgrade and Ohlins rear, Galfer rotor, and Akrapovic slip-on, and I've done 6 track days on it (plus some street riding) and it's been just fine. I know the pre-'17 390's were more problematic, but seems like they addressed it with the later models. Just one guy with a couple KTM's, so doesn't necessarily speak to overall brand quality issues, and maybe I just got lucky with mine, but my Ducati's were way worse.
@@kevpcon "My 20k mile bike is problem free." Yeah so was my Multistrada, until it ate the con rod bearings at 29k. Euro bikes are garbage, never again.
If interested in motorcycles, cars and travelling, go and check my content. You may like it. :) Thanks for taking your time.
@@RidingNomad Talking out of your ass. On my 4th KTM, zero mechanical issues. Had to replace a few batteries about it. They win endurance race’s around the world, not possible on a pos. Need to get experience, your own and stop parroting what you read online.
I own a 2019 BMW G310R all I can say is what a great motorcycle, I commute everyday with it and it does everything that I ask of it. I put in a K&N air filter and took the stock muffler and opened it up and had the computer re tuned and this bike is fast. I have no problem riding on the highway at all.
After riding the Duke 390, your throttle response, counter steering ability, overall control over the motorcycle becomes so accurate that you can upgrade to any 1000cc motorcycles out there. I have directly upgraded from the 2018 Duke 390 to a 2020 S1000RR.
The Z4 is a great place to start but having been a rider all my life I chose to add a Duke 390 to my stable for that hooligan all around 40 + hp engine and it’s race ready heritage it will run 110 out the box corners aggressively and is a confidence builder in the wheeli dept.
Hey mate, I have a S1000RR and I'm petrified to drop it while riding on the shitty roads of Australia.
Do you believe duke 390 has anything to offer if I add as the second bike to my stable?
If you added it to your stable and equipped it with Michelin power piolet 2ct tires I can assure you that your confidence in the corners will not only improve but you will find yourself trying to spend all your time there. I spend my time in the Sierra foothills just south of Sacramento and the roads are very twisty and some in need of repair like yours in Australia...@@raymadani270
@@raymadani270 Get a Duke 790 or 890....with an extended warranty lol. You won't regret it as long as it doesn't break.
@@raymadani270imo a lighter bike is easier off-road or on shitty roads and most of the time cost less anyways and I think you can tune the suspension a lot looser since it’s light so it’s gonna go off road somewhere
Your comment, Troy, about reliability is very pertinent, to all motorcycles. I wish this was done on all classes, of all shoot-outs. It wasn’t until my Ducati 1098 blew up, that I found out they were blowing up everywhere.
Why did your 1098 blow up?
I'm saving up to get a 1098S streetfighter in a year or two (I want to be able to afford the desmo services without thinking about them), I've seen monsters, streetfighters, panigales etc. have their engines get wrecked just by belt failure but what else should I look out for?
@@boldstar69 I don't know why it blew up. But when it did and I started looking around for parts, one guy said he had 3 blown engines under his work bench. I was told if you don't change your oil it can cause it to go, but I changed mine every 5000 km. I did everything right and more. I wrote to the CEO at Ducati and all they gave me was extra discount on parts. Cost me thousands.
I listen to a lot of video where people bring up KTM reliability as an issue. Both of the KTMs I have owned were very reliable, although I will concede that they are high maintenance. As long as the maintenance was kept up to date I had no problems.
The worst quality motorcycle I ever owned was a Yamaha and that was closely followed by a Kawasaki, both bikes I brought new and had continuous problems with them until I traded them in.
My point is not that one brand is more reliable than the other, sometimes it is luck of the draw.
@@web525 The Japanese bikes are more reliable. Consumer reporting data shows it. But also it's (un)luck of the draw like you say. (And can sometimes vary more from model to model than brand to brand.) It's something like the difference between ~7 serious issues in 1000 for Yamaha/Honda vs ~20 serious issues in 1000 KTM.* Usually you won't have one of the 2% that have an issue even if you do dare to go KTM.
It sounds perhaps scarier than it should when someone frames it as "KTM is almost 3x more likely to have an issue."
* (stats estimated from memory and may be off a bit)
You're surprised a Ducati blew up?
"New riders that just want to ride and not wrench." That describes me perfectly which is why I went with the z400. 100 percent agree with the muffler criticism. Switched it out for a Leo Vince and couldn't be more satisfied. Great video! Must've watched the z400 vs duke390 video you guys put out a few years back a couple dozen times.
You made a great choice. In this class, the Ninja 400 and Duke 390 definitely punch well above their weight.
I chose Z400. I’m 160lbs so not a heavy guy. I started on Honda CB500F for two years, which was stolen. Had to decide if I was going to use it as a chance to upgrade, but ultimately decided to take the insurance money and get the Z400 outright, $6000 Canadian out the door. Basically the same power as the Honda with 60 lbs less to move. Goes plenty fast for street riding. Great gas mileage. I’ve put almost 24 000 km on it the last two summers.
I'm debating to buy a z400 or cb500f , which one would you choose?
@@andipandi559 I now have 66,250 KM on my 2019 Z400.
Not a single problem.
@@kermit8619 is there anything you would change eg suspension , seat
@@andipandi559 I have a carbon fiber Acrapovic slipon, the original pipe have 0 sound.
And the thing I can't live without : A quick shifter 😀
@@andipandi559 And I also got my friend to install some extra padding on the seat.
I own a 2020 Duke 390 and racked up 33k miles in a year commuting to work 5 days a week. Loved every minute and the only problem I had was the damn kick stand sensor. It shut the bike off multiple times at freeway speeds. Solution…take the magnet nut whatever of the stand and super glue it to the sensor. I’ve done all the maintenance myself, super easy if you’re mechanically inclined. Overall, I love it and would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, comfortable ride
If you read stuff on the internet you would know you can't put 33k miles a year on it without it blowing up. ;)
i own a 2020 duke 390, and in the season so far ive put 15000km/8000mi and the bike has been solid as a rock. its my first motorcycle and i enjoy the hell out of it. Put a smile on my face knowing it came out on top. Id recommend the bike to anyone.
I am so glad you mentioned "fast bike fast" because everyone who shares that phrase completely forgets that there are other options than the two they present.
Not really, it's just that the phrase pertains to riding on the road, where riding a 'fast bike fast' isn't really an option.
The KTM spoiled me. The 390 Duke is the first thing I took out on the road after the MSF and it really set the standard pretty high. I've been on a bunch of other bikes but I ended up buying the 390 ADV and I love it.
Same goes with me brother.:) got the 390 duke in 2016 & later the 390 Adv in 2020 ;)
I’ve had several manufacturers in the garage. I got a new 390 in 2017, since then I’ve had a 690, 1290 and now a ‘21 890R. Still have a Yamaha and Suzuki in the garage but I keep firing up the KTM when it’s time to ride. It delivers what the others don’t, excitement.
Wait till you get on a 790/890 ADV :]
dealers know, car, an bike, if they can get u to test drive, its sold. u have to narrow it down to 2. Or 3, and force urself to drive all of them, go home an think about it. maybe a couple days. this group its the Kawy or the KTM. ull never know if u liked the kawy better. KTM pretty much dominates every sector on specs. an looks, so ur pre-programmed. people argue specs all day, u gotta go ride each one.
@@ribalderr6052 better yet, own a few. Everyone knows the Japanese have the dependability wrapped up, but the other manufacturers have tightened that gap over the years. One thing KTM has on most others is excitement and innovation, something lacking in the old school take years to change anything that’s become the normal. Suzuki is still selling the same bikes for 20+ years.
No honda cb300r... interesting
Bought the svartpilen 401 as my first bike at the beginning of the summer and already have over 4,000 miles on it. It's a great bike and am loving it so far. Having adjustable suspension is very nice and the tires are great on the street and off-road on gravel and dirt.
The best tires , period 👌
Am thinking of getting this, how is the ride experience/comfort? Does it vibrate a lot to the point of numbing? And how is it on interstate speed?
@@johncruz2488 I'm 6'3" and still find it to be perfectly comfortable in terms of rider position. Compared to my second bike, an Africa Twin, the 401's footpegs are a little higher causing slightly more bend in my knee, and the reach to the handlebars is slightly farther so i'm leaned forward ever so slightly where on the AT I can sit straight upright. Mine honestly doesn't vibrate much at all, and it's never given me any numbness. It's perfectly fine going all the way up to about 80 mph or so - passed that it's starting struggle a little bit and you won't have a lot of passing power, but on a flat straight road mine tops out at about 95-100 mph in sixth gear. So highways and interstates shouldn't be any problem.
Now that more time has passed and i have more motorcycle experience, i can say the 401 is an excellent bike to start on (if not the best) imo. Fast enough to have fun, but not so fast you'll accidentally kill yourself. It's light, narrow for lane filtering, good on the street, good on the dirt. You can practice clutch ups and wheelies on it, and turn off the rear abs to skid the rear wheel.
My only criticisms are that i wish the seat were more comfortable. After about an hour i find my butt really starting to get sore and need to get off and take a break for a minute. And the instrument cluster could be better. It works fine, but navigating the menus and setting the clock or resetting the tripometer aren't super obvious or intuitive. You'll basically have to reference the manual to figure how to work it. Other than that the bike is excellent though. Have fun
@@coolfool102191 this is probably the most honest and refreshing feedback i’ve gotten so far. Thank you so much! Am coming from a small displacement bike, been riding for a year. The vibrations and the suspension of my current bike is spine rattling. Am thinking of getting this as a replacement. Your response probably sealed the deal for me. :)Thanks again!
Yeah... I picked the 2021 DUKE 390 for a great fun bike. The medium compound tyres off the showroom floor are actually pretty good but I go for softs eventually. Also a tail tidy will make the rear look much better. Great review! Thanks.
I’ve got almost 4,000 miles clocked in my 2021 390 Duke. Bought it at 0 and it’s still runnin strong all thing’s considering. I bought that bike specifically as a weekend thrasher. Something I can ride and have fun on, was the soul purpose behind the purchase. I even told my insurance that this thing isn’t nothin more than a toy. Then my ‘99 CR-V failed compression in cyl one and the 390 Duke unfortunately became my daily and is still for now. Believe the bike only had 1,026 miles before the Honda broke down so, miles have been thrown on since then. I will say, the Duke will almost always be a fun punchy little thrasher. Problem I had when I first owned it was not respecting it for what it was( a little bike). Think I’ve gotten to that point where I’m like “yea, it’s a cool little dude” 😆
I watched this video 2 months ago & decided to go buy the KTM 390 Duke. I’ve just had it in the shop for its first service. Now I can give it full power & ride it fast. It’s awesome. It’s a crazy fun bike. Go buy one tomorrow. You won’t be disappointed 💯
Bunch of opinions from real life guys not speaking "presentational English." This is the best.
Have been using KTM for the last 3 years, still gets me off guard sometimes. It's a nice little peppy thing.
I have a friend called Peter but we call him Peppy.
Also glad to hear something about the KTM/Husky reliability question. I want to own this bike for a second little canyon killer, but the reliability issues have always kept me away. Maintenance is one thing, fixing broken crap all the time is another. Well done guys.
11000 miles in absolutely no reliability issues with my Duke 390
Stay away from KTMs and get a Japanese bike. Saves you time and money.
I really don't understand what is the issue with Americans blowing up Duke 390s.
Here in India in the sweltering tropical climate, it is considered pretty good in terms of reliability. We also have Japanese offerrings
No one ever confesses to thrashing their bike when cold, running it with low oil or popping wheelies all the time. You can wreck anything if you try hard enough and KTM 390’s do tend to attract idiots.
What happened to the Honda CB300?? It’s literally the most obvious bike that should’ve been included with these other five. I’m guessing it would’ve ended up in first place…?
From my experience (I am from Indonesia, a SEA country). I own mt 25 (reduced bore due to regulation and a naked version of r3), and it was the best to commute for me. Good fuel efficiency, easy to learn and fun to drive, and cheap maintenance. Mt25 felt good because it is in a more relaxed position imo, but not as comfy as the ninja. It felt aggresive but still comfortable enough for aggresive or relaxing riding. So yeah, for me it is the best motorcycle for me.
The Duke 390 is a dream. I have put 3000 miles on it so far and every single one has been a blast. I bought mine used wit 5,500 miles on it and have had no issues. Overall I highly recommend the 390 platform.
Loved my KTM390 , so much so I purchased the new 890. Either way you go you will not regret it. One of the most enjoyable bikes I’ve ridden and so much character. The 390 is a blast 💥
I just got a Vitpilen 401. Glad to hear it's hot on the heals of the Duke. The Vit is the only naked bike available with clip ons. Clip ons on a naked makes a lot of sense yet no one does it but Husqvarna.
As a rider for over 50 years I finally got my wife to ride her own bike. We elected the Z400 because my wife is 5 foot 1 inch and 105 lbs. I rode all bikes ( note I own a Ducati 1200 Monster S, 1250 RS BMW, and finally sold my Honda Goldwing) and for my wife it’s the best over all leader in the bunch. The smooth clutch and low seat height and great turning ability in the mountains. We ride in the Colorado Rockies and the bike is smooth. Also, note that that 3 of the 5 bikes are made in India and reliability issues concern me. As one tester said the Z400 is dependable and easy to maintain.
No one ever talks about headlights and instrument visibility at night. I used to commute before dawn and sometimes after dark in the evening. Headlights are a HUGE safety concern. Don't you guys ever ride at night?
Come on John Burns. I like your professionalism, humor and no BS opinions. You know how important this is. Make it happen.
We do suck at that, you're right.
@@johnburns8956 To be fair, it's not just you. No one, not even Michael Neeves talks about it.
@@johnburns8956 lmao
Before I bought my Duke 390 I read somewhere that the headlight was impressive and I agree, it works very well.
Second! I love you’re reviews and was just thinking that this is the year I’ll buy a bike, great timing!
I like these kind of videos. Thank you for this roundup
If interested in motorcycles, cars and travelling, go and check my content. You may like it. :) Thanks for taking your time.
Will we be seeing a Sport Touring shootout this year? I’d really be interested to see how the new Suzuki GSX 1000GT stacks up against the competition!! Especially because I intend to get a sport touring bike next year so I’d like to know what to aim for although I am a huge Suzuki fan.
ST it is a great segment. If interested in motorcycles, cars and travelling, go and check my content. You may like it. :) Thanks for taking your time.
Same. I love sportbikes but wouldn't mind having a ST as a 2nd or 3rd bike. Kinda interested in the new Suzuki but rented a VStrom 1050 recently and loved it. Also interested in the Duke 1290 GT but not interested in the maintenance costs.
I had a ST before and thought it was so uncomfortable. It was a Kawasaki Ninja 1000 ABS. I loved it for the torque and HP but the seat was so terrible...
Even the aftermarket seats sucked.
I'm really looking forward to the Suzuki 1000 GT. I'm definitely checking it out at the dealer as soon as I can.
@@Dragoninja833 Agree Wesley, we have great expectations from this Suzuki. Go, check my channel. You may like it. :)
Bought a 2019 KTM 390 Duke brand new. Rode it for around 2,500 miles before selling and the only 'problem' I ever had was needing to adjust the clutch cable. So essentially trouble free.
Rang the bikes neck out almost daily on my 22 mile commute and she never let me down.
Why did you sell it if it was so good? Not having issues isn't a bonus attribute it's a normal expectation from every new vehicle.
@@robertp457 Wanted to keep for a track bike, but not the right type of chassis for that. Already have a CB1000R so having another naked even if small displacement didn't make fiscal sense.
2500 miles isn't considered a test of a bike's longevity
Yeah, that really makes me want to go buy a used one. Lol.
Nice job as usual guys! Your middle weight shoot out pushed me over the edge and now I have an MT09 SP on order. I'd like a smaller bike but being 6"4" and 220 just not in the cards. I'm surprised the MT03 was an "also ran".
Have some interesting vids I think. So, If interested in motorcycles, cars and travelling, go and check my content. You may like it. :) Thanks for taking your time.
I put 10 000 miles on my Husqvarna Svartpilen so far and I had no issues whatsoever with it. I just love riding this thing.
😂😂 The BMW cruises right along in the 80’s.. after that it’s buzzy…. For many regular riders we don’t cruise along at 100 MPH I am fine with 80.
Thanks a lot! But beginner's bike ??? How about old-timer's bike ??? At 75--year-young &1m70, I'm riding in the Tropics & every day, a 192 kg Yamaha 2010 MT03/660cc. Today, I think that, if I'm still in shape when I hit 80, I wouldn't mind downgrading to a 168 Kg Yam MT03/321cc or a 164 kg BMW G310R which also have lower seat heights of 780 & 785 mm. I don't need a fast bike since I'm mainly riding in town anyway :)
The Dyno reports are interesting. As KTM and Husky list the exact same power and torque figures. Would’ve preferred to see the Vitpilen instead as at least it has the same rubber as the Duke. Great review gents, thank you for this. 👍😎
Easy to have the same exact dyno when you use the same exact engine.
@@freebehindbars8654 yes, however did you watch it? My comments are purely based on that the two same engines show completely DIFFERENT Dyno reports…. 🤔
@@marcusgeorge1825 I did. Cycle world dyno showed different than these guys. Seems performance is tied to who’s dyno is used.
@@freebehindbars8654 True. However, they’ve used exactly the same machine and gotten different results so that takes this out of the equation.
So glad to see the other guys back. I love the internet. I’ve watched your reviews from years ago as I now scan the used bike market. Also, on a side note, I’d love to see a review with John burns, Arie henning, and Adam waheed
8:37
'U can push it in ur garage, if ur lucky enough to have a garage'
Why u gotta do us like that man!😭😭
So proud to say, two of these bikes are made in India...(KTM & BMW)
They keep that a secret in some places
Why?
Is the KTM Duke 390 popular in India? The reason I ask is because Americans don't seem to trust the reliability of the Duke 390. Also, the engine seems like it would be very hard to work on, as access is blocked by the trellis frame. Do Indian people worry about these issues?
@@BEEBEE159 It's super popular here... people are crazy about Duke 390, because the cost is also very less.. and very reliable engine...
@@shravanramakrishna7052 Thank you for the reply.
390 Duke got me interested in motorcycles for the first time in my life...and then the z400 came out and I finally got one. 3 years later and 2 more bikes in the garage and the Z400 is still my favorite.
Can hardly wait to see a new Super Naked Bike Shootout!! Great job guys!!!
Does Suzuki make a bike in this segment ?
All of these bikes were on my list and the Z400 had to be remove because it stopped being sold in Europe for now. But I sat and tried all the other bikes and the BMW fit my body better, opposed to the husq and the ktm (as a short 161cm girl who is starting). I knew it wasn't the most powerful but with a end of summer deal and 5 year guarantee, I was and still am pleased with my choice 😅. I ride alone and commute with it too, so I guess that your review is accurate.
Been riding the Husqvarna Svartpilen and the KTM Duke back to back ❤️ Feeling so lucky
so, two KTMs entered the shootout but no Honda?
Even if it wasn't going to be the winner, I wish the Honda CB300R was included in this test. It's under powered but the weight cut for the current gen sounds to have made it more fun.
I started with a 2021 Duke 390, what a great experience and I do miss the bike. Upgraded to a gen 3 MT-09 but will get a KTM in the future for sure. Maybe the 890 GP
Always love the content. Some of the best out there.
Having a new Z400, there has never been a small capacity bike like the two stroke 1985 Yamaha RD350 with the first YPVS I had back then. Dropping a Honda V4 400 or a Honda 900F at a traffic light and your only fear is not seeing the other guys taillight, but keeping the front wheel down even in 2nd gear on a 350 and bringing this monster to stop with it's lacking braking capability was an era I think only Elon Musk can maybe recreate again. Maybe a Teslasaki Plaid?
Looking at this I don’t understand how a mountain bike can be USD10k now…..
Damn I wish I had 5 friends
No friends are better than these guys.
My 2 cents as an owner of a Z400.
It's a decent starter bike. Light clutch like Troy said, good power (though its mid to top end to access it), nimble and forgiving. Ergonomically fit me great because I'm short and lightweight. Great fuel economy. Looks nice and the headlights at night are fantastic if you ride at night.
Things I didn't like...the bike lacks character. The sound is not great and never will be because it's a 180 degree parallel twin. It's buzzy in the midrange and you can feel it in the seat. Not so much in the handlebar. Makes it difficult to use the mirrors unless you're at super low revs or super high revs. You kinda get used to the power quickly because the bike makes you wanna rev it out all the time so you're hitting the gears and revs constantly if you like to ride in a sporty manner. I learned what I could from the bike and moved on in a couple months. Could I have held onto it longer? Sure. But there wasn't much enjoyment left to be had for me on the Z400.
Of course there's always more to learn but it's not something I couldn't gain from another bike, all the while having more fun. Bikes like the Duke 390, I could see holding onto and enjoying for a long time. But the Z400...idk. It's like a short term type of bike, at least for people with a similar mindset to me which I think would be many. That being said, you can't go wrong choosing the Z400. It's like vanilla ice cream. It's good. It's easy. It's available. It's just not great or special.
I worked as test rider for local blog. Having sampled few lightweight naked bikes, agreed with the Kawasaki's lack of characters. It's a decent bike but not something that you'll intend to keep for a long time. KTM n Husky will make you think a lot before letting go and in case you do want to let go, it'll be upgrading to larger KTM n Husky.
I get you , Kawasaki durability, just not quite hooligan enough.
Why isn't the Honda CB300R included here? Or a Gixxer 250?
Not enough power... 286cc, 30hp..
KTM 390 is awesome and it doesn't have any problems. I have 2 modified RC 390's (2016) and I rev upto 12,000 rpm. No issues and it's my daily ride.
The MT03 is rated at 42 HP. If you can't get objective specs correct, your subjective comments are suspect.
great video, however at 11:00 I disagree with the Z400 seating comments. I'm 6 ft 185 lbs and I don't slide into the gas tank at all. The comments after that are spot on! Forgiving clutch, easily able to wind the RPMs up and easy yet fun to drive. I was torn between the Yamaha MT-03 and the Kawi Z400 and I'm so happy with the Z400.
Nice roundup guys, well done.
Microphone pickup was a bit jarring sometimes so maybe something to improve. It was never bad but the differences were noticeable.
Thanks for the video guys
I bought a KTM duke 390 last week, there are not many options in India as svartpilen 401 and Kawasaki z400 are not available here, there is no doubt that the duke 390 is the best among these, the Indian BS6 variant of Duke has a silver metallic colour variant that looks even more dope. Thanks for this video, I enjoyed the scenery and very informative too, helmet and gears on happy riding...
I bought a duke 390 as my first ever bike a few months ago and I absolutely adore it more than I expected. Its my daily and I bring it to the track too. That said, its got some issues. Intermittently stalls when rev matching, banjo bolt for the front caliper was loose, and I can't do more than a 10 minute session on track due to the vibration making my throttle hand numb. I wouldn't trade for any of its competitors though
Don't know if there is a problem with my screen but I can only see the Svartpilen one 😊
Full Arrow exhaust on the Kawasaki is the cure but that 390 Duke takes the lead for me. The Husky just looks like a mess out of a failed Disney movie
KTM 390 is the Best and the 2020 model gets quick shifter as well, one of perfect bike everyone would love to own .
Only in India does it come standard, In USA and rest of world it's not even a add on software option (It is for the Duke 790 , Track Pack). I know because I own a KTM Duke 390 2021 (Australia) and brought it thinking it had it or be able to unlock it but nope. So they are right and you are wrong. If I had known it didn't have QuickShift I would have got the Husqvarna 401 which DOES have QuickShift in ALL markets.
@@miketran4289 In india Duke 390. Does not get preload adjustment for front suspension. Not sure if you get that . It is manufacturer in my City so it is way cost effective in India . Thank you like your channel content .
Wow.... great to see Tom make a cameo. Just need to see Duke every now and again. Where's Evans been? Miss seeing him onscreen.
Thanks for the kind words. I’m always there behind the scenes. On these big shootouts, I’m usually too busy shooting the photos to be in the video.
you put the BMW in this comparison but not the honda cb300r?!?
Wonder if any motorcycle makers will make a 400 with a 270 degree crank like the mt 07. It would help a smaller bike more than even the larger ones while not pushing peak horsepower up too high for euro rules
The g310 ain't that bad, power to weight is okay... but agree the taller u r and the more donuts u eat, the less u gonna like the bike ;)
Watching this video I'd say the Kawasaki won. Most HP, closest to a sport bike and the reliability factor. I actually looked and rode both the KTM 390 and Z400 and it was an easy choice to get the Z400 plus it was nearly a grand less. And I'm not a new rider, well experienced, have owned everything from sport bikes to cruisers. Just wanted something that was comfortable to ride, reliable and good on gas (especially with premium being $7.50 gallon as of my typing this reply)
You should have tried the cf Moto 300 nk would have given these a run for their money
Heard the 390s break alot
I am buying a Svartpilen.... I need to run a few gravel and 2 track farm trails which is why I chose it over the vitpilen or duke390 and I cannot wait to get it. my riding experience to day is on dual sports and underpowered motardy-ish bikes.
Description - why isn't the manufacturer and model listed for each bike in the description so we can search for it on RUclips and web search engines?
I'm sure many more people would see this if you added manufacturer and model information. Because that's how RUclips algorithm and search engines work.
Yamaha mt-03
KTM 390
Husqvarna 401
BMW g310r
Kawasaki z400
Still waiting for a 390 Suoermoto it's almost like KTM don't want to actually sell motorcycles.
put on slick tires on the Svartpilen. drop some weight by changing the exhaust system and you got yourself a 390 SM..
Unpopular opinion: the BMW is actually the underrated goat here but one thing needs to be addressed. More hp. Imo I would actually take the bmw over all the others if it had 40-45hp or so because it’s different!
It’s not underrated if it has a critical flaw
@@meteficha I think your missing the point entirely. What I’m claiming is that the bmw WOULD be underrated if it had a more powerful engine in it. That’s why it’s an unpopular opinion. 👌🏾It’s all about perspective.
Good video, good editing. 👍 Keep it coming
I love my KTM ❤️🙏🏻💪🏻🙌
Can you do a shootout for the 2021 Lighweight Sportsbikes?
390 Adv owner, 8200 miles so far and 0 issues. Treat your KTM well & she will treat you well.
I loved these comparisons ..
Fun review. I started off with a buell blast 2 years ago and upgraded to a honda nc700x a few months ago. It's much more refined but I hate how heavy it is. I wanted something that was more comfortable on the expressway and the honda does that, but it just feels big to me. Is something like the KTM 390 good on the highway or is it screaming at 70 mph?
I have a 2017 Duke 390 I'm an older rider and it's pretty small compared to my other bikes a ZRX1200 and a BMW k12gt . It tops out at 110 and with a 6 spd cruising between 70 and 80 is pretty sweet! As for those who harped on head gasket reliability issues, this has been addressed by KTM and 2017 up bikes don't have this problem. With 11000 miles most of them driven like I stole it and normal oil maint. It shows no signs of any performance issues!
@@traveler390ktm5 Thanks!
Thanx for review shout-out from Philippines.. I wish I have z400 that's my dream bike.. I dream all night about that bike..
No honda cb 500 f? Really? Why?
Ktm cracked plastic at 19:10
This bike could have gone through some journalist abuse...that said, when I looked at Duke 390's in person, I was not overly impressed with the build/material quality.
@@alexp6409 Well...they are built in India and to a 'price point'. And I agree, the quality of the plastic and metal castings, when seeing it in person, was not that impressive. They do ride/perform well though...
Cool side by sidebut yeah they should have done the Vitpilen vs the Svartpilen. Different tires, little more leaned seat position and guess it has a sport mode
John Burns - Absolute legend ! - He's forgotton more about motorbikes than the average bike tester knows .....
and that's just since breakfast.
Is John Burns high?
The svartpilen has a little less rake at the headset I believe that's what causes it to feel better on curvy roads
I took the z400. Happy with my purchase.
I'm probably doing the same.
What's with the Dyno curves for the Husqvarna?? I've never seen such a lumpy power curve.
That mt03 looks the most aggressive
CB300R? How come it didn't make the comparison?
None available
What does the Husqvarna have?? Can’t for the life of me make out what they were saying at the same time right there
I just bought the current model KTM390 Duke. Can’t wait for delivery next week
Man tell me is it worth it? I'm so confused what to get in this category.
Waiting for this one
great discussion and review. i'll take the ktm...no matter the wrenching possibility, i'd rather wrench and enjoy the ride than walk blindfolded to the garage
13:44 can you please please include this shot for every bike in your comparos. Gives a really nice feel
I’ve had my 2019 duke for 1 year and I already have 7k miles... yes I ride a LOT! But given that, I haven’t really had anything wrong. I do all my own maintenance because I love working on things. It’s had oil changes and coolant changes. Only thing that happened was the bolt that holds the clutch plates in came loose so I had to open her up and tighten it and done.
I have a 2019 Duke as well with 19k miles. Just did a valve adjustment with 4 smaller shims, new spark plug and new gear position sensor. I was late on the valves and plug but the bike still performed flawlessly since I bought it. So no reliability issues here either and performance as described in the video is pure fun immersion....
@@hank4787 how did you do valve adjustment? And the spark plug is so hard to get to. I’m not really sure the maintenance that that should be done to the engine aspect. I’m at 12k miles now and would like to do all the timely adjustments so that it stays healthy. Pls help lol thanks
@@Funny_as_Duck I dropped the engine out of it and just set it on a work bench, makes it way easier. It's a bit of a process to extract it but I think well worth it. You will need to buy the 390 Duke repair manual and it will walk you through the whole deal. I'm no master mechanic so if you have the will and it sounds like you do, you'll complete it and learn a lot about the bike while you do it. 12K is a good time for you to replace your spark plug and check your valve clearance.
I really enjoy your content, and I don't know if it's just me, but the audio on your "outdoor talks" is a bit lacking in quality. I'm no sound engineer, so I have no clue what's going on, but when I watch videos on lots of other sites, it's a lot easier to hear what's being said. It's no dealbreaker, but given the quality of your content, it's a shame that the audio isn't up to the same high standard. It would also be nice to have more clips of each individual bike, to hear accelleration, fly-by, all the sounds that make up so much of how a bike "feels". There's a LOT of 5-bikes-riding-past shots - which doesn't really show off the individual bikes, or their sound. Sorry to sound all negative - that's not my intention. I'd just love to get more "usable data" out of your video and audio.
LOL @ that conventional wisdom !!! lol.
Have the duke for 2 seasons now and the only problem I have with it is that I am a bit too tall and heavy for the ergonomics and suspension. The engine is my favourite in the class. I have a restricted license and I can't ride anything bigger yet.
How tall are you?
@@jmills151 6'1 with long limbs relative to my torso.
I am trying to know that what's the cruising speed of Hasqvarna svatpilen 401 and Duke 390, and they did not tell?
Nice review.
I love my KTM duke 390 it's so fun bike so aggressive
Who did BMW make the 310 for? The Chinese market??