KTM Prepares New Twin-Cylinder Middleweight Duke for Global Markets

A fresh test prototype of KTM’s upcoming middleweight Duke, featuring an all-new parallel-twin engine, has been spotted undergoing trials in Europe. This new platform is designed to fill the significant gap currently existing between the 390 series and the larger 790 range.

While early rumours suggested this might be a sub-500 cc motor, latest reports indicate it is a larger displacement engine being developed primarily by KTM’s Austrian headquarters.

The spied mule appears to be in its early development stages, sporting minimal bodywork and unfinished chassis elements. Despite its raw state, the bike's physical proportions are visibly larger than the current entry-level Dukes. It features a single disc brake at the front and utilises KTM’s in-house WP-branded suspension and braking components.

Industry experts believe this new twin-cylinder engine will eventually replace the long-standing 690 cc single-cylinder motor. As global emission regulations become increasingly stringent, maintaining high-capacity single-cylinder engines has become a technical challenge.

Moving to a twin-cylinder configuration allows KTM to meet future environmental standards while offering improved engine refinement and a more characteristic power delivery.

The new engine is expected to produce a power output in the range of 60 to 70 bhp. This positioning will allow KTM to compete directly with popular middleweight motorcycles such as the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Triumph Trident 660.

While a global launch is anticipated for 2027, Indian enthusiasts might have to wait longer. Current indications suggest that India will focus on the sub-500 cc twin-cylinder models being co-developed with Bajaj Auto, rather than this specific larger-capacity European platform.

Also read: KTM 390 Adventure With 350cc Engine Launched At ₹2.81 Lakh, Prices Drop By ₹62K