KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- KTM 125 Duke is priced at rs 1.80 lakh
- Features a 124.7 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine
- Follows a sharp, aggressive design
For many young riders, KTM represents excitement and adventure. Among its models, the KTM 125 Duke stands out as a great choice for beginners. This bike features a 124.7 cc engine and is available in a single variant priced at Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom). In this article, well explore its top features and compare them to those of its competitors to help you understand how it stacks up against other options in the market. Before moving ahead, don't forget to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp Group to stay updated about the automobile industry.
Also Read: TVS Raider 125: 5 Positives and 3 Negatives You Should Know Before Buying
KTM 125 Duke: Punchy Engine
The KTM 125 Duke is equipped with a 124.7 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This setup delivers 14 bhp and 12 Nm of torque. It features a 6-speed gearbox and a wet clutch, providing a smooth and responsive riding experience.
Are Rivals Leading or Falling Behind?
In comparison, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 comes with a slightly smaller 124.45 cc engine that produces 11 bhp and 11 Nm of torque. This model is paired with a 5-speed gearbox, lacking the wet clutch found in the Duke.
On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-15 V2 stands out with its 155 cc engine, which generates 18 bhp and 14.1 Nm of torque. It comes with a 6-speed gearbox and also features a wet clutch, offering a competitive edge in terms of power and performance.
KTM 125 Duke: Digital LCD Display
To keep up with modern riding needs, the KTM 125 Duke features a fully digital LCD display with an orange screen. This display provides all essential readouts, including the odometer, speedometer, time, fuel gauge, hazard warning, average speed indicator, engaged gear, service reminder alert, RPM alert, and more. The screen adds a sporty, race-track look to the bike.
How Do Rivals Stack Up?
However, the KTM 125 Duke's rivals have a slight advantage in this area. The Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Yamaha MT-15 V2 have both been recently upgraded to include a new LCD digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity.
KTM 125 Duke: Advance ABS Control
KTM ensures safety is a top priority with the 125 Duke by equipping it with advanced dual-channel Bosch ABS (anti-lock braking system). The front brake features a 300 mm disc with a radially mounted calliper, while the rear brake has a 230 mm disc with a floating calliper.
Do Rivals Also Offer ABS Assistance?
In comparison, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 comes with a 240 mm front disc brake and a 130 mm rear drum brake, featuring a combined braking system (CBS). Meanwhile, the Yamaha MT-15 V2 is also equipped with dual ABS, with a 282 mm front disc brake and a 220 mm rear disc brake.
Also Read: TVS Apache RTR 310 Key Features Explained - Cruise Control & More
KTM 125 Duke: Sturdy Suspension
KTM offers sturdy reliability with its suspension system, featuring WP USD forks with a 43mm diameter at the front and a 10-step adjustable WP mono-shock at the rear. This setup ensures the best possible ride quality.
Suspension Comparison Among Rivals
When comparing it to similar models, the Bajaj Pulsar NS125 is equipped with front telescopic forks and a rear mono-shock, while the Yamaha MT-15 V2 sports telescopic upside-down front forks and a linked-type monocross rear suspension.
KTM 125 Duke: Stand-Out Design
When discussing KTM bikes, it's impossible not to mention their design. KTM follows a brand design philosophy that makes its models look sharp, aggressive, and muscular while maintaining a lean, proportional look that appeals to the youth. Built on the Split-Trellis (Tubular) frame with a bolt-on subframe, the KTM 125 Duke is available in two colour options: Electric Orange and Ceramic White.
Do Rivals Look as Appealing?
Design comparisons with rivals can be subjective. From my perspective, the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Yamaha MT 15 V2 both have standout designs with aggressive fronts and lean elements, making them very appealing. However, the overall presence of the KTM 125 Duke feels more refined and appealing. Of course, personal preferences may vary.
Verdict
Overall, this bike is quite appealing for new young riders. It offers a mix of decent and high-quality features and hardware. However, it's worth noting that some rivals might offer better options in certain areas. Ultimately, the decision to choose this bike will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Also Read: Bajaj Chetak E-Scooter Variants Explained Heres What Each Variant Gets
