2019 KTM 125 Duke review, road test

KTM introduces its 125cc sport-naked in India. We test its competency.

Published on Mar 05, 2019 06:30:00 AM

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Quality grips and back-lit switchgear; bar-end weights missing.

The trellis frame and the segment-leading, premium WP-branded USD fork and monoshock on the 125 are the same ones as on other Duke models (including the 390) in India. What this means is that the new Duke has a similar firm and sporty ride where comfort takes a back seat to favour dynamics.

As a result, the 125 feels over-engineered for the level of performance that it offers and you almost wish it was specced-down a bit to help reduce the weight, which at 148kg is the same as the 200 Duke. While the bike does feel light and easy, a lower weight figure would have helped performance.

KTM has equipped the 125 with single-channel ABS on the same 300mm and 230mm discs as the 200 Duke. While the brake bite and lever pressure is good, it lacks the force we would have liked under hard braking.