Yamaha MT-03 vs KTM 390 Duke: Which One To Buy?

When it comes to performance-oriented naked sports motorcycles in India, the KTM 390 Duke is the epitome of this segment. The recent update that saw it gain a slightly larger engine (displacement-wise) and a completely new aggressive body design made the bike all the more delicious. However, in the last couple of weeks, the KTM naked gained a new competitor hailing from Japan in the form of the Yamaha MT-03. The Yammie was launched here with a premium price tag, and does that do justice to the kind of package it is? Especially, when compared to the KTM? 

Engine

Despite a parallel-twin engine, the Yamaha MT-03 produces less power and torque. The 390 Duke, in comparison, with one less cylinder produces more power and torque, thus clearly making this the more performance-oriented option. Although the Yamaha gets a high-revving engine, the KTM makes it power early in the RPM range - so if you’re zipping on both these bikes, the KTM will be quicker off the line and reach its top speed earlier, while the Yamaha will rev out harder and for perhaps longer. Where the Yamaha holds advantage is the refinement department as the twin-cylinder engine is very refined and good for touring as well. 

Hardware

From bigger brakes to adjustable suspension, the KTM 390 Duke not only benefits from premium components but also gives you the option of versatility as it allows the rider to set up the bike to their liking. The Yamaha MT-03, in comparison, reads simple on paper. 

The big update on the MT-03 is the inclusion of the USD fork which gives it better front end feel and stability. But with CBU-specced Dunlop tyres, the MT-03 seems to lack the edge that the KTM will deliver with ease. The KTM 390 Duke also gets the advantage of switchable ABS that helps the rider have better control, or to hoon around, depending on their skill level. 

Dimensions

The slightly bigger engine and fuel tank do make the KTM a tad bit heavier than the Yamaha. However, it still has the more dynamic set up and puts you in the right spot for sporty activities. The Yammie will be better for a more matured riding approach, thanks to its longer wheelbase and more accessible seating posture.

Features

Another department where the KTM is a clear winner. The latest iteration of the 390 Duke debuted launch control - which is just a party trick. More importantly, though, it has a six-axis IMU that gets you cornering ABS, and traction control, which are better calibrated than the outgoing model. The KTM also gets a nice, premium-looking 5-inch TFT screen with smartphone connectivity. The Yamaha MT-03 just gets dual-channel ABS, and the black-and-white LCD screen feels outdated when compared to the KTM. 

Price

Given all the advantages that the KTM 390 Duke enjoys over the Yamaha, it is still a lakh and a half cheaper than the Yamaha. The MT-03 arrives in India via the CBU route and that is one of the main reasons behind its premium pricing. With this, it will be a hard bargain to choose the Yamaha over the KTM in India. Additionally, the KTM is also much cheaper on the wallet to own owing to its lesser parts and service cost.