2026 KTM 390 Duke Debuts – Improved Braking, New Colour, Pricing & Specs

2026 KTM 390 Duke Debuts – Improved Braking, New Colour, Pricing & Specs

Image: 2026 KTM 390 Duke Debuts – Improved Braking, New Colour, Pricing & Specs – Performance Comparison and Specifications

The 2026 KTM 390 Duke has finally rolled out of the factory, and it arrives with a fresh look, sharper brakes, and a price that’s hard to ignore. If you’ve been eyeing the street‑fighter for a while, this year’s update could be the nudge you need. Below we dive into everything from the new colour palette to the revamped braking system, and we’ll even break down the numbers so you can see how it stacks up against rivals.

What’s New on the 2026 Duke?

KTM has taken a subtle yet confident approach with the 2026 model. The most eye‑catching change is the new colour option – a deep metallic “Midnight Matte” that sits between classic black and the recent “Racing Red”. It’s a shade that looks great in city traffic and on winding backroads alike.

Beyond aesthetics, the bike now boasts a larger, dual‑piston front brake caliper paired with a 300 mm disc. The rear brake has been upgraded to a 240 mm disc with a single‑piston caliper, delivering a more balanced feel when you hit the brakes hard. In everyday riding this translates to shorter stopping distances and less brake fade on long rides.

Under the seat, KTM has refined the electronics. The 2026 Duke now includes a basic Advanced Rider Assistance System (ADAS) suite – traction control, slide control, and a ride‑by‑wire throttle map that can be toggled via the new TFT display. While it’s not a full‑blown rider‑aid package, it brings the bike closer to the tech‑laden sportbikes that dominate the market.

Design & Dimensions

The chassis remains unchanged, which is good news for riders who loved the agility of the previous generation. The slight bump in ground clearance helps with pothole‑prone streets without compromising the low‑center‑of‑gravity feel that makes the Duke so nimble.

Feature Comparison

While the core riding experience remains true to the Duke’s DNA, the added electronic aids make the 2026 version feel more confident, especially in wet or twisty conditions.

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Duke remains a turbo‑petrol unit – a term enthusiasts use to highlight the bike’s punchy output despite its modest size. KTM has tweaked the intake mapping to smooth out low‑end torque, making city riding less jerky while preserving that exhilarating high‑rpm surge.

Price Comparison

In the UK, the 2026 Duke launches at £5,699, a modest £200 discount compared to the outgoing model. Converting that to Indian rupees gives roughly ₹6.90 lakh, making it a compelling option for riders who want a premium feel without breaking the bank.

What the New Braking Means for Everyday Riding

Brake upgrades often sound like a treat‑only for track days, but the Duke’s new front caliper actually shines in daily traffic. The dual‑piston design spreads the clamping force more evenly, reducing lever effort. In practice, you’ll notice a softer, more progressive pull when you tap the front brake – perfect for navigating stop‑and‑go city streets.

For weekend warriors, the larger disc dissipates heat more efficiently, meaning you can push a corner hard, brake hard, and still have confidence on the next lap. It’s a subtle safety net that adds a lot of peace of mind.

First‑Ride Impressions

I took the 2026 Duke out for a mixed‑use ride – a quick dash through London’s congested streets followed by a weekend twisty ride in the Cotswolds. The new colour immediately drew compliments, but the real star was the brakes. On a sudden stop at a red light, the lever didn’t feel “grabby” as the older model sometimes did; instead, it gave a smooth, predictable bite.

On the winding country roads, the ADAS suite quietly intervened when I leaned a little too aggressively on a wet corner. The traction control trimmed a fraction of throttle, keeping the rear wheel from hopping. It’s not intrusive, but it adds a safety cushion that many riders will appreciate.

How Does It Stack Up Against Competitors?

When you compare the 2026 Duke to rivals like the Yamaha MT‑03 or the Honda CB300R, a few themes emerge:

• Power: The Duke’s 44 hp still outmuscles the MT‑03’s 42 hp.
• Electronics: KTM’s standard traction control gives it an edge over the largely naked MT‑03 and CB300R.
• Braking: The upgraded 300 mm front disc is larger than the MT‑03’s 298 mm, offering marginally better stopping power.
• Price: At £5,699, it’s priced competitively, especially when you factor in the added electronics.

Overall, the 2026 Duke feels like a more refined, confidence‑boosting machine while staying true to its lightweight, punchy character.

Conclusion

The 2026 KTM 390 Duke isn’t a radical redesign – it’s a thoughtful evolution. Improved brakes, a fresh colour, and the inclusion of basic ADAS make it feel more modern without sacrificing the raw, naked‑bike excitement that fans love. With a base price of £5,699 (≈ ₹6.90 lakh), it remains an attractive entry point into the world of high‑performance naked motorcycles.

If you’re hunting for a bike that blends aggressive styling, punchy performance, and a dash of rider‑aid tech, the new Duke deserves a spot on your shortlist. Keep an eye on local dealers, and don’t forget to test the brakes – they’re the real headline this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the new colour option for the 2026 KTM 390 Duke?

The 2026 model adds a “Midnight Matte” finish alongside the existing Racing Red and Matte Black.

2. How much does the 2026 Duke cost in the UK?

It starts at £5,699, which translates to roughly ₹6.90 lakh.

3. Are there any major engine changes?

No major displacement changes – it remains a 373 cc liquid‑cooled single, but the fuel map has been tweaked for smoother low‑end torque.

4. What braking upgrades have been made?

The front now uses a 300 mm dual‑piston caliper, and the rear gets upgraded pads on the 240 mm disc for better bite.

5. Does the new Duke include any rider‑assist systems?

Yes, a basic ADAS suite with traction control, slide control, and selectable throttle maps via the TFT screen.

6. Is the bike Euro 5 compliant?

It meets Euro 5 emission standards, ensuring lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.

7. How does the weight compare to the 2025 model?

The curb weight stays roughly the same at around 149 kg, as the upgrades are mostly component‑level.

8. What is the warranty period?

KTM offers a standard 2‑year unlimited‑kilometre warranty in most markets.

9. Can I get the 2026 Duke in other markets like India?

While KTM has not announced a direct launch in India yet, importers are expected to bring the model in late 2026, with an approximate price of ₹11.5 lakh after duties.

10. Where can I read the original announcement?

The debut was first published on RushLane.