It looks like KTM is back on the roads of Europe, putting a very interesting new prototype through its paces. Spy shots have emerged of a New Twin-Cylinder KTM Duke, and while the expectations are that this is a 490 Duke, this brand-new twin-cylinder platform looks to be designed to bridge the gap between the 390 and 790 ranges. This isn’t just a minor update; it’s a strategic move to replace the legendary 690 single-cylinder engine with a more refined, emission-compliant parallel-twin. But will that be a 490 or a 690 Twin is yet to be confirmed.
A Tale of Two Platforms
There’s been a bit of confusion in the rumour mill, but here is the deal:
- The Sub-500cc Twin: This is a project being fired up by Bajaj-KTM in India. It’s aimed at the A2 licence category, likely producing around 55–60 HP, and is expected to launch as the 490 Duke by 2027.
- The Middleweight 650–750cc Twin: This is what’s been spotted in Europe. Developed by KTM Austria, this platform is likely to produce between 60–70 HP and is aimed at taking on rivals like the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Triumph Trident 660.
What the Spy Shots Tell Us
The test mule is clearly in its early days, sporting unfinished chassis bits and very little bodywork. However, a few key details stand out:
- Larger Proportions: The bike looks physically bigger than the current 390, with an engine casing that confirms a twin-cylinder layout.
- Hardware: It’s rocking WP-branded suspension (USD forks) and a single large front disc brake with a radial calliper.
- Trellis Frame: The signature exposed trellis-style frame elements are still very much part of the Duke DNA.
Why Ditch the Single?
As much as we love a big single-cylinder “thumper,” they are becoming a nightmare for engineers to squeeze through tightening global emission norms. A parallel-twin is not only cleaner but also brings much better refinement and less vibration at high speeds.
KTM is planning to use this new architecture for an entire family of bikes, including the Duke, RC, and Adventure ranges.
New Twin-Cylinder KTM Duke image gallery
When Can We Buy One?
For riders in the UK and Europe, the middleweight platform (the 690/790 replacement) is expected to make its global debut next year, possibly at EICMA later this year.
Meanwhile, the 490 Duke (developed with Bajaj) is likely a 2027-28 project. It will be built at the Chakan plant near Pune and is expected to be priced around ₹3.5 lakh. It’ll fill that massive power gap in the current lineup, sitting perfectly between the 43 HP 390 Duke and the 95 HP 790 Duke.
Whether you’re after the Indian-built 490 or the Austrian middleweight, KTM is clearly making sure its “Scalpel” stays sharp for the next generation of riders.
