The KTM Duke 390 is the fastest thing you money can buy under Rs. 3 lakhs in India. This is a motorcycle that can give sportscars a run for their money, and most luxury cars will simply be left behind at traffic lights. With little or no wind protection to speak of, the Duke 390 is more of a point-and-shoot rocket that’s great for city roads and the occassional highway run. The lack of wind protection also makes it a difficult motorcycle at triple digit speeds. To see how the KTM Duke 309 fares against similarly priced competition, Youtuber Ayush Verma pitted the motorcycle against the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and the TVS Apache RR 310. Will the Interceptor’s extra cubic capacity and cylinder, or the Apache RR310’s full fairing help against the KTM Duke 390 raw power? Well, watch this video to find out.
As the video indicates, the KTM Duke 390 rockets ahead right from start despite a mis-shift. This mis-shift allows the Royal Enfield interceptor 650 run the Duke 390 close but it’s still just not enough for the Royal Enfield to actually catch up with the Austrian and pass it. The TVS Apache RR 310 finishes last, which is understandable given the fact that it’s got the least amount of power and torque (34 Bhp-28 Nm) among these bikes, and also runs the smallest engine (310cc) of the trio.
However, the Apache RR 310 will be a more comfortable motorcycle at triple digit speeds thanks to its full fairing, behind which the rider can tuck in. The Apache RR 310 has been designed as a motorcycle that will be at home on city streets, fast highways and the race track. Its generous proportions give it the feel and stance of a big, 600cc motorcycle. It’s got the best street presence among these motorcycles.
Big on value, the Royal Enfield Interceptor is a 650cc, retro motorcycle that’s meant to be a very easy bike to ride across most conditions: City, highway and the occasional off road ride. However, the Interceptor 650 is not really meant for the track given its ergonomics, which suit relaxed, mildly sporty riding. The bike makes 47 Bhp-52 Nm, which is more than ample for everyday riding. Among all three bikes, the Interceptor 650 has the most usable power delivery, and is the most comfortable one for everyday use. The KTM Duke 390 is a frantic motorcycle that begs to be ridden hard. The bike has a sense of urgency and revs up really quickly, and can be a handful for the inexperienced. It features a 373cc, single cylinder engine with 44 Bhp-37 Nm on tap. The futuristic looking motorcycle is a great buy for those seeking a fun, fast ride for city streets and the occassional highway day trip.
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