New features, updated engine, and an overhauled design — you name it and the new 125 Duke’s got it!
The KTM 125 Duke is the smallest naked motorcycle in the company’s portfolio and already rakes in big sales numbers, thanks to its punchy motor, big-bike-like design, and an extensive set of features.
This is about to get a lot better, though, as the Austrian giant is working on an all-new 125 Duke and the updated bike has been spotted testing abroad bearing a slew of updates.
2023 KTM 125 Duke – What’s New?
Right off the bat, the first thing that catches the eye is the bike’s new design language
For starters, the design. Now, the KTM 125 Duke, thanks to its latest update, already looks quite dapper for its size and segment but the new model takes this up a notch.
The test mule of the new 125 Duke looks a lot sharper and brawnier than the current model and lucky for us, the two bikes were seen side-by-side for an apples-to-apples comparison.
The bike boasts an all-new headlight which is bigger and sharper than the outgoing model
Clearly, the headlight is new here and so are its surrounding panels, both of which look more prominent and muscly, reminding us of the 1290 Super Duke R.
To complement the new fascia, the bike also has a new fuel tank accompanied by slimmer and sleeker tank shrouds. These look quite sharp and make the bike look ever-so-striking. Additionally, the five-spoke alloy wheels and the accompanying braking setup are both different and look like a direct borrow from the 2022 KTM RC 125.
Though unclear, the riding posture is seemingly more relaxed on the new bike
Next, the ergonomics. While this isn’t really clear, both the rider and pillion seats appear chunkier and more spacious than the outgoing model. One thing that is clear, however, is that the seat has a positive domino effect on the posture as the rider sits more upright and relaxed.
On the engine front, the bike gets a new catalytic converter and a rerouted exhaust to help the bike breathe more freely
The big change, though, is right below the pillion seat. Yes, we’re talking about the all-new die-cast aluminium subframe which replaces the steel trellis structure that’s been a signature component of the KTM Duke series since its inception. This is partnered with a completely redesigned cast aluminum swingarm, both of which should help improve the already swift handling of the Duke.
All this, coupled with the new tail lamp, makes the rear end of the baby Duke look a lot chunkier than the outgoing model.
There’s a lot more worth noting here and you can swipe up to know all about it.
Most of these updates will also make way onto the bigger KTM 390 Duke
Moving on, the new chassis is home to an updated 125cc single-cylinder engine. Now, the 125 Duke isn’t really lacking in terms of outright performance or anything, yet KTM has updated the engine with a new catalytic converted and a rerouted exhaust to help it breathe more freely. This also eliminates the side-mounted exhaust, thus shaving a few kilos.
As for features, the front WP USD forks now get full adjustability while the bike retains its TFT instrument cluster and all-LED lighting.
2023 KTM 125 Duke Launch
Right off the bat, the first thing that catches the eye is the bike’s new design language
The new 125 Duke seems to be in its testing phase, meaning the official unveiling will probably take place by the end of 2022 or in early 2023. Whatever the case, though, the new 125 Duke will surely set foot in India soon after its global unveil.
Since this is a big update, the 125 Duke will also get a price hike to match. For reference, the current KTM 125 Duke retails at Rs 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), that’s already quite high for a 125.
Source: Motorrad Online
Keyword: The First Spy Shots Of The All-new KTM 125 Duke Are Here