KTM 490 Duke Spotted Testing, Global Launch Likely In 2027

The KTM 490 Duke has been under development for a while now, and we now have spy shots of the upcoming twin-cylinder streetfighter, revealing key details. The latest spy shots have surfaced in Europe, which reveal a noticeably larger motorcycle over the 390 Duke. That said, the headlight cluster appears to be identical to the 390, while the taillight design is new with integrated turn indicators. Considering these are initial spy shots, the final form of the motorcycle could be different, albeit with the KTM visual styling elements intact.

The spy shots provide a look at the hardware on the upcoming 490 Duke. The test mule gets WP Apex front forks and a monoshock unit at the rear. Braking power comes from a single disc brake at the front, while there’s a side-swept exhaust too. Furthermore, the spy shots showcase a TFT screen for the instrument cluster, identical to the new-age KTM bikes. Expect the unit to come with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and a host of connected tech features.

There’s no word on power figures yet but KTM is developing an all-new engine for the 490 range. The manufacturer has been working on a twin-cylinder motor for a while now, and the engine is expected to produce around 60 bhp. Other mechanical bits will include a 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quickshifter, and we expect a host of electronic aids including launch control, cornering ABS, switchable traction control, riding modes, and more.

KTM is known to spawn a new lineup of motorcycles based on a single platform and expect the 490 range to comprise a streetfighter, a full-faired motorcycle, and an adventure bike as well. There’s no word on the launch timeline yet but the bikes are expected to be made in India by partner Bajaj, promising a competitively priced offering. KTM could pull off a surprise at EICMA this year with the global debut, while the India launch could be sometime next year. The KTM 490 Duke already has rivals in the segment in the form of the Aprilia Tuono 457, and Yamaha MT-03, if the latter makes a comeback to the Indian market.

Spy Images Source: MotorradMagazin