I live my 24 model, it’s 8 weeks old and 2’000 miles done. I’m 55 and an experienced rider and racer so don’t be fooled into thinking this is just for newbies.
I bought the original 390 when it came out. Been riding it for 11 years now and still love it. I take it on touring holidays, it’s great for Sunday rides out. Best of all worlds. It’s so light and flickable. Easy to service, hasn’t had any major issues . I do have to ride the clutch a bit to smooth it out while riding slowly through towns, slow traffic but it’s something I quickly got used to. My hubby loves riding it, but it is small. He’s 5ft 11 and to get tucked down in he sits on the pillion seat. But overall, great little bikes even for experienced bikers. I would never part with mine.
Just a heads up to anyone in the area who owns this bike, I owned the 2019 edition. I've had mine for over four years and experienced six theft attempts. Unfortunately, they succeeded earlier this year. Please be careful and invest in strong security measures to protect your bike.
When you say ‘the area’ do you mean Missenden? Is it really that bad there? I live in London and whilst I have no issues with my cheap Chinese 125, I really would be worried riding almost anything nicer
@@DatOldeBikerThey drag you or knock you off your bike , threaten you waving machetes & numerous other ways of taking your bike whilst you are out riding it . Where have you been for the last couple of decades , to another planet, or hiding under a rock ?
@@DatOldeBiker I have been riding for over 53 years , & haven’t been threatened on road either , but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen & others haven’t been & had their bikes snatched by criminals . Apparently it happens quite frequently in places like London these days .
@@DatOldeBiker I have been riding motorcycles on the road for over 50 years too , & I have never been threatened on the road. That doesn’t mean it can’t happen or other people haven’t been threatened & had their bikes snatched & taken . There are cases of it happening .
For those of us who've been riding long enough (50 years) and couldn't wait to get bigger bikes with gobs of power it's funny to see things come full circle. Now that we've scratched the size and power itch we are being drawn back to smaller and more practical everyday motorcycles. I've had the misfortune of seeing the new triumph speed 400 at my local dealer. I'm afraid to ride fearing that I'd pull out my check book and take it home. Your great reviews are making it any easier. Be safe. Bill
A great little bike. I bought the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 version two years ago for a city bike. It's a total hooligan and turns me into a teenager as soon as i sit on it. It handles twisty roads beautifully and I can manage a two hour ride to a mountain cafe for lunch and two hours home again before the seat tells me to get off. I was considering the 390 Duke but once I saw the Svartpilen I bought it immediately for the funky design.
I have a '22 Duke, and after putting some miles on it I sat on a Svart at the dealership. The Svart seat is more comfortable. I'll do about 3 total hours before don't feel like sitting there any longer.
That is probably the first bike that I’ve ever seen tested on which a quickshifter is a viable option. With the small engine and limited power it’s a bike that can be ridden hard in real world conditions. With most motorcycles fitted with a quickshifter it will only be useful on a racetrack, normal roads with traffic and speed limits make them no more than an expensive fashion item.
Here in Australia the Duke 390 is regarded as the bike to have in the LAMS sector - roughly the equivalent of the A2 licence restriction in the UK. I prefer the looks of the Triumph Speed 400, but for everything else, this would appear to be a better machine and better value. You get that lovely TFT screen, an optional quickshifter, more power and torque, backlit instruments, riding modes and more. Interestingly whilst the UK press wax lyrical about the Triumph, I feel that is based on it being a British brand, whereas here, that sentiment doesn't really apply. Notably the BMW G310R is not far off the power to weight ratio of the Triumph, but the UK press seem largely unimpressed. I do think the Triumph gets lots of kudos because of the name, and the lovely retro styling - for everything else I think the Duke 390 has the technology edge.
Got this bike in NZ in March, everything was unlocked as standard, QS is great. Got black Remus, barenders,carbon screen and all the orange cnc bits n bobs, goes like a bat outa hell, I love kTm😁.
I bought a 390 Duke in 2018 on a lark, only intending to keep it the summer. I ended up keeping it 6 years. It’s a fun little bugger to throw around, and sips fuel. I’ve been riding on road since the early ‘90s and have had plenty of bikes, but the 390 still stands out as fun. Mine was dead reliable too. I’ve since moved on to a V85 Adventure, better suited to long rides and travel. I still miss nipping through traffic on the 390 though.
If it's from KTM UK at Silverstone hopefully they've allowed Carol to ride it? The Duke 390 has big bike features for newly qualified riders like Carol. Having owned a 2017 model, the side mounted shock besides giving access to adjust it, means it's not in line with the rear tyre and road crud thrown up from the road and terrain.
I don’t know about this new LC4 but I remember the oil changes on the previous version was a little annoying. Two pre filters/strainers, one right behind the exhaust header, and the usual paper filter on the right side. Excessive for a single cylinder imo
This 390 Duke and it's other variants (especially the 390 Adventure) are fun bikes. KTM have done a great job with the single cylinder. I'm planning to get the 390 Adventure next year, with spoked wheels. Have fun with the Duke!
I may be totally wrong but is the reason the gears are so short the fact that it’s not been run in properly yet and the computer brings the redline down until a certain number of miles have been completed? Kind of looked that way on the TFT.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and to me it looks like the KTM design team are lovers of the Transformers films. As i am considerably taller, weightier and older than your good self this bike isn't on my radar but as always i did enjoy the video.
Hey there TMF! As it happens it is indeed as you said, I have just passed my license for motorcycles (the full license) and I have ordered one of these, even in the same colorscheme! It will indeed be my first bike since my moped days year and years ago. You can say I am nervously-excited for the delivery! I am a tall guy at around 184 cm, and a little bit of a gut also. So I think the seat might be an issue on some say 2 hour rides etc.. Hoping a comfort seat option becomes available soon! I have also asked for a tail-tidy to be fitted before the bike is sent my way! Great video! Did not make me question the choice haha... Been watching the videoes and subscribed since you had your ride through my country of Norway
I have a previous gen 390 2022 after all loads of different sports bikes, blades and Gsxr's. By a long way my favourite bike I have had over 30 years. Easy to see I e yourself and cheap to run. If you look after it it will look after you. 4th and 5th year is where the fun is at.
I,m 69 yrs old have a triumph street twin 900 , also this 2021 model for mega back lane fun. Get the KTM power parts seat for comfort, a set of Diablo Rossi 3,s , you,ll be well dialled in.
A great category of bike with enough usability to have fun and confidence in overtakes. My Speed 400’s great as a second bike and if I have a window to pop out it’s my choice to quickly wheel out and go - all day comfort and I prefer the looks. The KTM though looks well spec’d for the money.
I recently had one of these as a courtesy bike (my 790 adventure was in being fixed, KTM reliability) God points, it does look good, I'm sure it's very cheap to run, the best bit was I only had it for one day. Bad bits, I'm a 5'10", 18 stone fatty (thanks Chopsy for that one) Front brake was very week, front wheel felt it was tucked somewhere between my legs so I thought I was going to go over the handle bars all the time, I had difficulty seeing the dash as my helmet chin bar was in the way, the vibes were bad and went right up my backside (some might enjoy that but not for me thanks), it was far too cramped for me with the foot pegs too high, engine under powered, all of this is possibly down to my size and weight but the thing that has nothing to do with that is I found the side stand lug was right under the left foot peg so it was a pain the get the stand down, also kept hitting the horn when switching the indicator off. I conclusion, I'm too big and fat for this bike.
I have the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, same engine as this bike. You dont need to pay extra for the quick-shifter, it comes as standard on the Husqvarna, sound weird that its different on the Duke 🤔
In 2020 I bought a 390 duke partially based on you review and I still have with 30k on the clock. I was thinking about getting a new one and you might have just pushed me over the edge !!!!
Have been looking forward to your review on this as I owned the previous model 390duke for 6 years and loved it. The seat was hard on that one too as I replaced it with their ergo seat. The new bike still looks good and like you say the tech on this bike was good before but Amazing now. For me if I was after an A2 licence bike it would come down to the style and type of bike. For me there are 3 standout machines. If I wanted a sports bike I'd go for the new Aprilla RS457 if I wanted a more retro bike bike it would be one of the new triumph 400s and if I wanted a modern naked this for sure.
KTM's insistence on doing paid for software options that ALREADY EXIST ON THE BIKE YOU HAVE PAID FOR! And are basically turned OFF and expect you to pay extra to unlock the stuff that THEY have turned off is utter madness!
When you mentioned the positioning on the bike, you said you seemed close to the TFT screen, perhaps it’s mounted closer to you, I notice it’s sat on top of the handle bar, where as previous model was positioned in front of the bars… Please say if I’m wrong, just a thought…
@@vancemarin8022 yeah, some have no issues, some have so many that the bikes spend half the times at the shop. Go browse owners forums for yourself. And congrats on winning the reliability lottery! 🥳
I rode one of these a while back. Was impressed but at 6ft tall it was far too small for me. I ended up buying a 790 which actually wasn't much more money.
I had nothing but issues with my 2021 390, ended up selling once the warranty was expired. The mirrors are poor quality, mine broke every time I tried to adjust them, the glass would shatter. Replaced them, but same issue kept occurring. The ride is not good after about 30mins, it gets uncomfortable fast. Sold mine back to the dealer with broken mirrors and none of the issues resolved. They would be great value is they were reliable , but they are not. Unless this new model is somehow different. A better value bike would be an MT-03.
If you are breaking mirrors while adjusting them, do you not think you might be doing something wrong? Breaking mirrors and finding a bike uncomfortable are hardly what I would call reliability issues.
Morning Andy, great review as usual. The looks don’t do it for me, I prefer the looks of the Husqvarna Svartpilen and Vitpilen which use the same engine. The lack of the seat comfort is also something that would stop me buying one, for me the Triumph 400 and RE Guerilla look nicer and are better value.
Will wait for you to do the living with version... I have a 390 adventure which is great BUT has some seriously dubious build quality.... It is bloody annoying as it isn't something that would have cost more than £100 to ktm as part of the OEM build at a guess
Building the bike and delivering it to the customer with all the features inherent, all the costs for doing so incurred as a function of actual production only to make them operational for the consumer after additional monies are paid at delivery is repulsive, KTM will never sell a motorcycle to me and thousands of others unless and until that marketing model dies.
I feel these have gradually gotten less practical. You could get panniers and a rack and comfort seat for earlier ones, this would now be too small for me.
I’ve just got a 790 Adventure, love it but have developed a small problem with it, the dealers are terrible, almost like they don’t want to know, 12 weeks lead time to look at it and no option of a courtesy bike.
Andy, when you do your 'living with' video can we have your view on headlamp performance please? Shine the light against a wall and compare that to one your own bikes, though the Goldwing must have immense lights. The roads around there are terrible. How frugal is it? What does the average MPG on the dash say? 55mpg? Is the TFT now without the air gap between the TFT and plastic cover? They're known for condensation in the TFTs on the 2017> models. Are the controls backlit like the 2017> model? Is the brake lever adjustable? Is the warranty 2 or 4 years? FYI Supermoto mode turns off the rear ABS. The 2017 looked better, it's a stunner in white.
Just my two cents on it but i think KTM are an example of how being too innovative in design can backfire. The headlight in particular has been a mistake. Aerodynamic no doubt but aesthetics gone wrong.
Hi Andy, keep thinking about a fun 400, looked like the KTM was a blast, now you’ve ridden the Triumph Speed 400, where would your money go? Cheers Martin/Suffolk.
What's with the screen going red at high revs? It looks distracting. The switch gear looks nice though. I have only ridden two KTMs and both had hard seas.
I just done my licence few months ago . Still use my 125 ( which is Ktm duke ) every day for commuting. It was my main reason I started to do my bike licence and bought my 125 to reduce cost of travel to work and time( traveling to london ) time to swap the bike now for something bigger. And as much as I need bigger faster bike like Kawasaki z650 or honda cb650r I also want to find middle ground and not lose on flick ability and fuel consumption. Do you think is worth giving it a test ride on one of these ?
Good review MrFlyer Often think how much faster would people go around these roads safely on a so called big bike? Small lightweight bikes make so much sense regarding handling and confidence.I like to think of them as just bikes, instead of a first bike, or beginners category. Maybe the days of the big 1000cc coming to an end? Keep up the good work 👍
That would be a good test, Chops on a big bike. Tmf on a 400cc one. Pick the destination a good distance away (100 miles ish) and see how they both go.
Thank you Mr. Flyer. I enjoy your "first impression" rides and this bike does seem like a great option for many riders. I have a tiny critique over your assessment of "good brakes" however as in my humble opinion a good and powerful brake SHOULD need ABS assist when you give it a big handful and or big foot full, no? All the best for your future rides. :>)
I love the look of most of the KTM bikes but i heard too many horror stories of reliability issues especially relating to the electronic systems. I still might try a Superduke GT at some point though. Also i’m a total sucker for anything orange.
Like you, I have a Triumph 1200 Speed Twin in my stable of bikes. For short curvy runs would you consider having it instead of the Speed Twin? I had the adventure version and found it a great wee bike. Traded it on a 950 Multistrada, which I later sold and got the Diavel V4, which suits my hobbit orientated height of 5' 9" on a good day. Have been wanting one of these for short runs but considered the Speed Twin covered both aspects and with more power.
Not a bike for me. Can't decide if it's the overall looks of KTM's in general, or the orange. I do wonder though, with the quickshifter etc already 'fitted' and you need to pay to 'activate' it, is that a clever way for people who probably wouldn't fit it after buying, but a case of 'as it's there' I'll activate it. Thus making it a more expensive bike. Admittedly that is down to the 'will power' of the owner. Another good, honest review again though, and I'm sure it will be a decent seller.
Wasn't sure what to make of the 3 white vans at the start of this video. Seemed like a bad omen. heh. Yeah, the 390 offers a lot. Not wild about the subscription thing either.
Good video I like the tft, switch gear and the tech is spot on with cruise control but I’d negotiate the subscriptions thrown in. One big question mark is long term will this turn out to be another chocolate engine and will the electronics fail.
Does anyone know if the 20mm-lower-seat is readily available in the US? I'd also be okay paying for overseas shipping if it's actually available. Haven't spoken to my local KTM dealer yet, but they're not really great with ordering parts expeditiously. Plus, I didn't want to get them all jazzed up just yet thinking that I might be buying a bike. I have a 27"-inseam (top-of-leg to floor) and, occasionally, it would be nice to get more than one foot on the ground. I don't care if the low seat feels like sitting on a plank, as my husband would say.
Subscription model is total insanity. Great bike, but not going anywhere near it due to that. The competition doesn’t have it so what’s the incentive? Any way…. interesting review.
Great bike. Want to get one for the wife so I can ride it. It's just a shame KTM thinks all their customers are 12 and like ORANGE! Small price to pay I guess.
It is mildly interesting to me, that KTM can put a superbo TFT on their base model, and Triumph still fiddle around with rubbish LCD displays or TFTs on their BIG bikes that are really not good, at all. RE has a lovely TFT on its new 450s. The hybrid stuff on the (various) 660 Triumphs is embarrassing in comparison. Wot go on?
I live my 24 model, it’s 8 weeks old and 2’000 miles done. I’m 55 and an experienced rider and racer so don’t be fooled into thinking this is just for newbies.
I bought the original 390 when it came out. Been riding it for 11 years now and still love it. I take it on touring holidays, it’s great for Sunday rides out. Best of all worlds. It’s so light and flickable. Easy to service, hasn’t had any major issues . I do have to ride the clutch a bit to smooth it out while riding slowly through towns, slow traffic but it’s something I quickly got used to. My hubby loves riding it, but it is small. He’s 5ft 11 and to get tucked down in he sits on the pillion seat. But overall, great little bikes even for experienced bikers. I would never part with mine.
Just a heads up to anyone in the area who owns this bike, I owned the 2019 edition. I've had mine for over four years and experienced six theft attempts. Unfortunately, they succeeded earlier this year. Please be careful and invest in strong security measures to protect your bike.
They can get you while out riding - it even happens with expensive E-bikes now. We simply need more Police.
When you say ‘the area’ do you mean Missenden? Is it really that bad there? I live in London and whilst I have no issues with my cheap Chinese 125, I really would be worried riding almost anything nicer
@@DatOldeBikerThey drag you or knock you off your bike , threaten you waving machetes & numerous other ways of taking your bike whilst you are out riding it . Where have you been for the last couple of decades , to another planet, or hiding under a rock ?
@@DatOldeBiker I have been riding for over 53 years , & haven’t been threatened on road either , but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen & others haven’t been & had their bikes snatched by criminals . Apparently it happens quite frequently in places like London these days .
@@DatOldeBiker I have been riding motorcycles on the road for over 50 years too , & I have never been threatened on the road. That doesn’t mean it can’t happen or other people haven’t been threatened & had their bikes snatched & taken . There are cases of it happening .
For those of us who've been riding long enough (50 years) and couldn't wait to get bigger bikes with gobs of power it's funny to see things come full circle. Now that we've scratched the size and power itch we are being drawn back to smaller and more practical everyday motorcycles. I've had the misfortune of seeing the new triumph speed 400 at my local dealer. I'm afraid to ride fearing that I'd pull out my check book and take it home. Your great reviews are making it any easier. Be safe. Bill
A great little bike. I bought the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 version two years ago for a city bike. It's a total hooligan and turns me into a teenager as soon as i sit on it. It handles twisty roads beautifully and I can manage a two hour ride to a mountain cafe for lunch and two hours home again before the seat tells me to get off. I was considering the 390 Duke but once I saw the Svartpilen I bought it immediately for the funky design.
Completely agree my svartpilen took me bk to being 14 on a bmx.great bikes
I have a '22 Duke, and after putting some miles on it I sat on a Svart at the dealership. The Svart seat is more comfortable. I'll do about 3 total hours before don't feel like sitting there any longer.
That is probably the first bike that I’ve ever seen tested on which a quickshifter is a viable option. With the small engine and limited power it’s a bike that can be ridden hard in real world conditions. With most motorcycles fitted with a quickshifter it will only be useful on a racetrack, normal roads with traffic and speed limits make them no more than an expensive fashion item.
Here in Australia the Duke 390 is regarded as the bike to have in the LAMS sector - roughly the equivalent of the A2 licence restriction in the UK. I prefer the looks of the Triumph Speed 400, but for everything else, this would appear to be a better machine and better value. You get that lovely TFT screen, an optional quickshifter, more power and torque, backlit instruments, riding modes and more. Interestingly whilst the UK press wax lyrical about the Triumph, I feel that is based on it being a British brand, whereas here, that sentiment doesn't really apply. Notably the BMW G310R is not far off the power to weight ratio of the Triumph, but the UK press seem largely unimpressed. I do think the Triumph gets lots of kudos because of the name, and the lovely retro styling - for everything else I think the Duke 390 has the technology edge.
390 Duke, Very popular first bike here with younger riders. Might be my age, I like the Triumphs.
That thing is downright fugly.
Great review .. its good to see some positive vibes for the KTM
I’ve been really hoping to see this review from you, I like the bike a lot, just can’t get over the looks.
Got this bike in NZ in March, everything was unlocked as standard, QS is great. Got black Remus, barenders,carbon screen and all the orange cnc bits n bobs, goes like a bat outa hell, I love kTm😁.
Looks like you enjoyed that ride Andy. Cracking little bike for the money. 👍
I bought a 390 Duke in 2018 on a lark, only intending to keep it the summer. I ended up keeping it 6 years. It’s a fun little bugger to throw around, and sips fuel. I’ve been riding on road since the early ‘90s and have had plenty of bikes, but the 390 still stands out as fun.
Mine was dead reliable too.
I’ve since moved on to a V85 Adventure, better suited to long rides and travel. I still miss nipping through traffic on the 390 though.
If it's from KTM UK at Silverstone hopefully they've allowed Carol to ride it? The Duke 390 has big bike features for newly qualified riders like Carol. Having owned a 2017 model, the side mounted shock besides giving access to adjust it, means it's not in line with the rear tyre and road crud thrown up from the road and terrain.
I don’t know about this new LC4 but I remember the oil changes on the previous version was a little annoying. Two pre filters/strainers, one right behind the exhaust header, and the usual paper filter on the right side. Excessive for a single cylinder imo
This 390 Duke and it's other variants (especially the 390 Adventure) are fun bikes. KTM have done a great job with the single cylinder. I'm planning to get the 390 Adventure next year, with spoked wheels. Have fun with the Duke!
I may be totally wrong but is the reason the gears are so short the fact that it’s not been run in properly yet and the computer brings the redline down until a certain number of miles have been completed? Kind of looked that way on the TFT.
Yep thats why
Spot on it was the same on the previous model that I owned 👍
I've got it myself and I will say after that early redline it is vibey and not the best to stay at comfort wise but you can keep pulling
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and to me it looks like the KTM design team are lovers of the Transformers films. As i am considerably taller, weightier and older than your good self this bike isn't on my radar but as always i did enjoy the video.
Thank you for watching!
Hey there TMF!
As it happens it is indeed as you said, I have just passed my license for motorcycles (the full license) and I have ordered one of these, even in the same colorscheme! It will indeed be my first bike since my moped days year and years ago. You can say I am nervously-excited for the delivery! I am a tall guy at around 184 cm, and a little bit of a gut also. So I think the seat might be an issue on some say 2 hour rides etc.. Hoping a comfort seat option becomes available soon!
I have also asked for a tail-tidy to be fitted before the bike is sent my way!
Great video! Did not make me question the choice haha... Been watching the videoes and subscribed since you had your ride through my country of Norway
Brilliant! Congratulations on the new bike - enjoy in that fabulous country of yours!
This bike has gotten to be a formidable contendor in its class. Very impressive indeed.
I have a previous gen 390 2022 after all loads of different sports bikes, blades and Gsxr's. By a long way my favourite bike I have had over 30 years. Easy to see I e yourself and cheap to run. If you look after it it will look after you. 4th and 5th year is where the fun is at.
Great review of a cracking bike. Please can we see more KTM reviews. Been some time since you reviewed the bigger models. Cheers...
Subscription alone would make me go for the husky ktm really need to check themselves about that idea
KTM and Husqvarna are under the same ownership.
@@tdunster2011 but you get the stuff free with husky .my 401 from 4 years ago had full adjustable suspension, they only put that on the duke this year
I,m 69 yrs old have a triumph street twin 900 , also this 2021 model for mega back lane fun.
Get the KTM power parts seat for comfort, a set of Diablo Rossi 3,s , you,ll be well dialled in.
What a fun looking little bike, as you say ideal for someone just passed their test or a fun commuter! Looks mint too! 👌🏽
Great review as always, Andy. Will Mrs Flyer be reviewing her new Kawasaki 650. It would be interesting to hear her thoughts on it. 👍
That's the plan!
The 400cc range of bikes are so accommodating, I've always rated them.. since my first little big bike in the nineties 😎👍
I had one as a loaner while my DL650 was being serviced - yes it's nice and light, but my vstrom felt very plush and grown-up by comparison
Nice review & a great little bike. If I was in the market for a pocket rocket, this would definitely be on the list.
Don't let Mrs Flyer loose on it otherwise it may become a permanent fixture in your garage!
A great category of bike with enough usability to have fun and confidence in overtakes. My Speed 400’s great as a second bike and if I have a window to pop out it’s my choice to quickly wheel out and go - all day comfort and I prefer the looks. The KTM though looks well spec’d for the money.
Yes it is!
That subscription bullshit would keep me from buying that (or any) bike no matter how much I liked it.
For sure, looks like a blast to ride.
It is!
I recently had one of these as a courtesy bike (my 790 adventure was in being fixed, KTM reliability)
God points, it does look good, I'm sure it's very cheap to run, the best bit was I only had it for one day.
Bad bits, I'm a 5'10", 18 stone fatty (thanks Chopsy for that one)
Front brake was very week, front wheel felt it was tucked somewhere between my legs so I thought I was going to go over the handle bars all the time, I had difficulty seeing the dash as my helmet chin bar was in the way, the vibes were bad and went right up my backside (some might enjoy that but not for me thanks), it was far too cramped for me with the foot pegs too high, engine under powered, all of this is possibly down to my size and weight but the thing that has nothing to do with that is I found the side stand lug was right under the left foot peg so it was a pain the get the stand down, also kept hitting the horn when switching the indicator off.
I conclusion, I'm too big and fat for this bike.
Good feedback thanks!
You just cannot beat light...it beats heavy weights every time...The KTM looks like a deal of fun on UK country roads..
Agreed 100%
I have the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, same engine as this bike. You dont need to pay extra for the quick-shifter, it comes as standard on the Husqvarna, sound weird that its different on the Duke 🤔
In 2020 I bought a 390 duke partially based on you review and I still have with 30k on the clock. I was thinking about getting a new one and you might have just pushed me over the edge !!!!
Cool!
Small cc bikes are definitely the best fun. My friends and family are bored of me banging on about how much more fun my Grom is than my 1290SAS.
Nice little scalpel… … had a Superduke 990 a few years back and it was a peach 🤗⭐️⭐️⭐️
Have been looking forward to your review on this as I owned the previous model 390duke for 6 years and loved it. The seat was hard on that one too as I replaced it with their ergo seat. The new bike still looks good and like you say the tech on this bike was good before but Amazing now. For me if I was after an A2 licence bike it would come down to the style and type of bike. For me there are 3 standout machines. If I wanted a sports bike I'd go for the new Aprilla RS457 if I wanted a more retro bike bike it would be one of the new triumph 400s and if I wanted a modern naked this for sure.
My Mrs had a gen2 model and I found myself riding it more than my own kat. Wasn't keen on the styling but a brilliant thing to ride 👍
Yes they are great fun….
Fantastic banger for the city. Great sidekick option.
I would not buy a bike where they 'blackmailed' me into paying for 'extras' .
You could have a jousting contest with the length of those front tank shrouds.
Looks nice and I like a bit of orange!
I’d have to go with the triumph 400 scrambler, or the RF guerrilla!
Yes, the Triumph Scrambler 400 X is a great bike.
It's a bit like a Pug, not great looking but somehow it's very charming!
Bet it's a load of fun for those smaller blasts, where you just fancy a chilled out ride.... Here's hoping it doesn't eat camshafts though
Good bike good value. Good fun. But paying for features suck.
Brilliant review.
Thank you
KTM's insistence on doing paid for software options that ALREADY EXIST ON THE BIKE YOU HAVE PAID FOR! And are basically turned OFF and expect you to pay extra to unlock the stuff that THEY have turned off is utter madness!
@@amococ2487 totally agree. Having to pay for the quickshift is just greed.. What's the betting that the tft leaks too
I hope it lasts longer than the running in duration 😅
i go the 125 off this and love it i will be looking to get the 390 as dont need or want a silly big powder bike the 390 will do all i need,
When you mentioned the positioning on the bike, you said you seemed close to the TFT screen, perhaps it’s mounted closer to you, I notice it’s sat on top of the handle bar, where as previous model was positioned in front of the bars…
Please say if I’m wrong, just a thought…
The only thing that holds me back from buying it is that it's a KTM and thus reliability is an option you are granted at random
I have 30k on my 2020 with NO issues !!! I think that would be called reliable !
@@vancemarin8022 yeah, some have no issues, some have so many that the bikes spend half the times at the shop. Go browse owners forums for yourself. And congrats on winning the reliability lottery! 🥳
@vancemarin8022 then you have been granted reliability....randomly. Good for you!
I rode one of these a while back. Was impressed but at 6ft tall it was far too small for me. I ended up buying a 790 which actually wasn't much more money.
Duke 30 screen is superb 👌
I had nothing but issues with my 2021 390, ended up selling once the warranty was expired. The mirrors are poor quality, mine broke every time I tried to adjust them, the glass would shatter. Replaced them, but same issue kept occurring. The ride is not good after about 30mins, it gets uncomfortable fast. Sold mine back to the dealer with broken mirrors and none of the issues resolved. They would be great value is they were reliable , but they are not. Unless this new model is somehow different.
A better value bike would be an MT-03.
If you are breaking mirrors while adjusting them, do you not think you might be doing something wrong? Breaking mirrors and finding a bike uncomfortable are hardly what I would call reliability issues.
As good as it may or not be its just not as nice as the Speed 400 IMO
I really like the TFT on the KTM
Morning Andy, great review as usual. The looks don’t do it for me, I prefer the looks of the Husqvarna Svartpilen and Vitpilen which use the same engine. The lack of the seat comfort is also something that would stop me buying one, for me the Triumph 400 and RE Guerilla look nicer and are better value.
I loved my 390, but I didn't like the super upright position. Good to hear this gen is leaning a bit forward more, will take a test ride sometime.
Looks like a bike for the youths of this world.
Sat on one last year at MotorcycleLive. It was uncomfortable after ten seconds and I'm a slim 5'10" bloke so a pretty generic shape.
Will wait for you to do the living with version... I have a 390 adventure which is great BUT has some seriously dubious build quality.... It is bloody annoying as it isn't something that would have cost more than £100 to ktm as part of the OEM build at a guess
Building the bike and delivering it to the customer with all the features inherent, all the costs for doing so incurred as a function of actual production only to make them operational for the consumer after additional monies are paid at delivery is repulsive, KTM will never sell a motorcycle to me and thousands of others unless and until that marketing model dies.
I feel these have gradually gotten less practical. You could get panniers and a rack and comfort seat for earlier ones, this would now be too small for me.
I’ve just got a 790 Adventure, love it but have developed a small problem with it, the dealers are terrible, almost like they don’t want to know, 12 weeks lead time to look at it and no option of a courtesy bike.
Oh dear - time to change dealer?
Any colour you like, so long as it's orange
KTM loaded with electronics, ha ha, makes me laugh. Who'd buy one😂 Nicely done TMF.
Looks like a pain to clean!
Probably a good idea to concentrate more on the road instead of playing with the TFT. Perhaps better to show that once you are stopped.
Thanks for the advice!
Andy, when you do your 'living with' video can we have your view on headlamp performance please? Shine the light against a wall and compare that to one your own bikes, though the Goldwing must have immense lights. The roads around there are terrible. How frugal is it? What does the average MPG on the dash say? 55mpg? Is the TFT now without the air gap between the TFT and plastic cover? They're known for condensation in the TFTs on the 2017> models. Are the controls backlit like the 2017> model? Is the brake lever adjustable? Is the warranty 2 or 4 years? FYI Supermoto mode turns off the rear ABS. The 2017 looked better, it's a stunner in white.
Just my two cents on it but i think KTM are an example of how being too innovative in design can backfire.
The headlight in particular has been a mistake. Aerodynamic no doubt but aesthetics gone wrong.
Hi Andy, keep thinking about a fun 400, looked like the KTM was a blast, now you’ve ridden the Triumph Speed 400, where would your money go? Cheers Martin/Suffolk.
Triumph I think....
How about the crankshaft problems? Any news about that?
I dont have any no….
It's camshaft and more on the 790/890s
At least when you're riding it you don't have to look at it, KTM's styling is not for me.
I love to see the 125 model on the channel
Nice bike but I feel the styling makes it a younger persons bike not a old un like me.
For sure thats why I got the Svartpilen 401 instead 🤗
Red rev counter coming on early is because it’s set for running in!
Indeed….
What's with the screen going red at high revs? It looks distracting. The switch gear looks nice though. I have only ridden two KTMs and both had hard seas.
Without rewatching the video I’m not sure what you mean - suspect it was a high revs/time to change gear warning….
@@TheMissendenFlyer The whole display flashes red, over certain revs. 6 mins 52 in
I just done my licence few months ago . Still use my 125 ( which is Ktm duke ) every day for commuting. It was my main reason I started to do my bike licence and bought my 125 to reduce cost of travel to work and time( traveling to london ) time to swap the bike now for something bigger. And as much as I need bigger faster bike like Kawasaki z650 or honda cb650r I also want to find middle ground and not lose on flick ability and fuel consumption. Do you think is worth giving it a test ride on one of these ?
Defo….
Good review MrFlyer
Often think how much faster would people go around these roads safely on a so called big bike? Small lightweight bikes make so much sense regarding handling and confidence.I like to think of them as just bikes, instead of a first bike, or beginners category.
Maybe the days of the big 1000cc coming to an end?
Keep up the good work
👍
That would be a good test, Chops on a big bike. Tmf on a 400cc one. Pick the destination a good distance away (100 miles ish) and see how they both go.
@@shadowred1980 I’d more like to see Chops on the small and TMF on the big👍
The looks, seat and reliability issues are not for me. I'd spend a bit more and have the Z650, good choice Mrs Flyer.
Thank you Mr. Flyer. I enjoy your "first impression" rides and this bike does seem like a great option for many riders. I have a tiny critique over your assessment of "good brakes" however as in my humble opinion a good and powerful brake SHOULD need ABS assist when you give it a big handful and or big foot full, no? All the best for your future rides. :>)
I like the look of it, but am I right in saying that you said the new Triumph Speed 400 was just a much better bike in every way?
I’m not sure I said that but I personally prefer the Triumph
@@TheMissendenFlyer no you're right, your wording was that it "knocks spots off" the duke. Thanks for your reviews, I know which one I'll be buying!
Very special design
I love the look of most of the KTM bikes but i heard too many horror stories of reliability issues especially relating to the electronic systems. I still might try a Superduke GT at some point though. Also i’m a total sucker for anything orange.
It could be either your microphone or the bike, but I couldn't hear the exhaust during the video, thought you were on an electric bike! 😂
Yes the mic doesn’t pick up much other than my voice…
Like you, I have a Triumph 1200 Speed Twin in my stable of bikes. For short curvy runs would you consider having it instead of the Speed Twin? I had the adventure version and found it a great wee bike. Traded it on a 950 Multistrada, which I later sold and got the Diavel V4, which suits my hobbit orientated height of 5' 9" on a good day. Have been wanting one of these for short runs but considered the Speed Twin covered both aspects and with more power.
Stick with the ST!
Not a bike for me. Can't decide if it's the overall looks of KTM's in general, or the orange. I do wonder though, with the quickshifter etc already 'fitted' and you need to pay to 'activate' it, is that a clever way for people who probably wouldn't fit it after buying, but a case of 'as it's there' I'll activate it. Thus making it a more expensive bike. Admittedly that is down to the 'will power' of the owner. Another good, honest review again though, and I'm sure it will be a decent seller.
I have a Carista for our VW car and van which can unlock some features - hopefully someone will do a similar thing for bikes soon.
Do you have a favourite between the duke and the speed 400?
Speed 400 just tips it for me I think….
Wasn't sure what to make of the 3 white vans at the start of this video. Seemed like a bad omen. heh. Yeah, the 390 offers a lot. Not wild about the subscription thing either.
Good video I like the tft, switch gear and the tech is spot on with cruise control but I’d negotiate the subscriptions thrown in.
One big question mark is long term will this turn out to be another chocolate engine and will the electronics fail.
Time will tell!
Cruise control? Really?
Does anyone know if the 20mm-lower-seat is readily available in the US? I'd also be okay paying for overseas shipping if it's actually available. Haven't spoken to my local KTM dealer yet, but they're not really great with ordering parts expeditiously. Plus, I didn't want to get them all jazzed up just yet thinking that I might be buying a bike.
I have a 27"-inseam (top-of-leg to floor) and, occasionally, it would be nice to get more than one foot on the ground.
I don't care if the low seat feels like sitting on a plank, as my husband would say.
Why didn't you mention the brand new engine whilst you was mentioning everything else - it is a completely new machine!
I just done know who the market is for this bike
An old bloke who found his BMWR1200RS was getting too heavy but still enjoys a fun bike.
Had a test ride of one a couple of years ago.Was fair fun but the horror stories of KTM in general put me off buying it.
Subscription model is total insanity. Great bike, but not going anywhere near it due to that. The competition doesn’t have it so what’s the incentive? Any way…. interesting review.
15:43 what on earth is that on the left lol
What the silhouette of a WW1 soldier you mean?
Great bike. Want to get one for the wife so I can ride it. It's just a shame KTM thinks all their customers are 12 and like ORANGE! Small price to pay I guess.
Yes I don’t know why they persist with the easyJet colours…
I've got the 401 svartpilen which is same bike but much better looking
It is mildly interesting to me, that KTM can put a superbo TFT on their base model, and Triumph still fiddle around with rubbish LCD displays or TFTs on their BIG bikes that are really not good, at all. RE has a lovely TFT on its new 450s. The hybrid stuff on the (various) 660 Triumphs is embarrassing in comparison. Wot go on?
Yes for some reason Triumph don’t seem to be able to do TFTs do they?