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KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Originally posted by Chandan92 View PostCoolant level is dropping now also but at slower rate as compared to day before yesterday. Will take it again to SVC tomorrow.Originally posted by Chandan92 View PostDon't know let's see what they do tomorrow, I will keep you updated.
Chandan, when they fill coolant, ask them to bleed the cooling system. Something like low coolant level too can show low coolant level on the reservoir. Since they've done the reparing/replacment job and I hope they've refilled the coolant to the right spec and bled the system. Do keep a tab on the oil color and observe if you see any smoke during early morning start up and smell anything odd.
Do keep us posted!
Cheers!
VJ
Once upon a time, a guy asked a girl 'Will you marry me?'
The girl said, 'NO!'
And the guy lived happily ever after and rode motorcycles and watched sport on a big screen TV, went fishing and surfing, and played golf a lot, and drank beer and scotch and had tons of money in the bank and left the toilet seat up and farted whenever he wanted.
THE END
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
i think they need to replace the head gasket (assuming they refilled the coolant the right way - download and read workshop manual)Originally posted by Chandan92 View PostDon't know let's see what they do tomorrow, I will keep you updated.
or you have tiny leak somewhere.
of the cases where i have seen where the coolant mixed with the oil, it was always the head gasket at fault. i was surprised it wasn't in your case.
in a couple of cases the cylinder head itself had to be replaced.
its time you shot an email to bajaj customer care explaining your situation in detail including the past replacements and repairs carried out.Last edited by s1d; 01-09-2016, 12:44 AM.
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Hi
Sold my D390 last week. Had run 7500kms, June 2014 model. Bought a used CBR 250r from my friend.
From my experience, I would like to list out a few things which may be of use to prospective duke owners:
Pros:
1. Brute power
2. Acceleration
3. ABS
4. Adequate braking
5. Superior grip in both wet n dry due to metzelers
6. Adequate throw n illumination on stock head lights
7. The bike comes into it's own on curvy/ghat roads
8. Excellent cornering capabilities
9. Stiff suspension, minimal nose dive even under panic braking
10. Brilliant chassis feedback and best in terms of handling
11. Changing directions is a walk in the park
12. LED tail lamps n turn indicators
13. All digital console giving you a plethora of information
14. Satisfactory build quality
15. Amazing throttle response
16. Stability at high speeds
17. Tall gearing which is a boon on highways
18. Value for money product
19. Widespread ASS
19. No bike gives you so much for so less, in terms of power, tech specs, gizmos, etc. There is still no bike in competition that has threatened to displace this ''raging bull'' from the throne in the 300-400cc category. Considering all the above, it doesn't come as a surprise, Dukes are ruling the roads and will rule in all probability till the competition can come up with an answer to this hooligan.
Cons:
In bumper to bumper traffic, place like bangalore,
1. Heats up pretty quick
2. Engine braking will induce fatigue if you are using this bike primarily for everyday commuting in peak traffic
3. Average fuel consumption in city 22-24kmpl
4. Very hard clutch
5. Peak power comes at higher rpm range thereby egging you to constantly revv the engine
6. Pillion seat/comfort - compromised
7. Chest wind on highway rides (can be minimised with a visor but still wouldn't be as good as a fully faired motorcycle)
8. On bad roads- stiff shocks will transfer every disturbance to your back
9. Ktm ASS- even though responsive, are slipping down wrt customer satisfaction due to very high work load n pressure.
10. Build quality is not on par with the competition but will do, keeping in mind the vfm factor.
11. No exclusivity factor considering the number of them on roads.
12. Metzelers, wear out pretty fast and are expensive to replace.
The problems I experienced on owning and maintaining this were minimal. Replaced head gasket seal once as it used to sweat around the head and replaced the handlebar n crash gaurd after a fall. Apart from this, regular service and fuel expenses. I might have missed out on a few points in my observation as this is what I can remember as of now, but I hope these points would be useful for new buyers.
I really enjoyed my stint with the D390, it bought the darker side of me to the fore

( The above pros n cons listed are my own personal opinion and experience, other's opinion and experiences may differ)
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile appTypical old racer - you wobble when you walk, not when you ride
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Pillion comfort was the one of the reason.Originally posted by zikzak View Post[MENTION=72712]sharathchandra[/MENTION] then what made you sell it and go for CBR?
When I bought this, I was in dharwad, a place in karnataka with pretty good open roads n minimal traffic. I shifted to bangalore two months ago, traffic in bangalore :banghead: I was not enjoying the ride like I used, I wasn't comfortable.
And nowadays I haven't been to any long rides. Felt I am not doing justice to the bike's capabilities, hence sold.
Or may be it's just age catching up with me
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile appTypical old racer - you wobble when you walk, not when you ride
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
The gear lever has very little play, if you observe more vertical play than normal, say if the play is too much that engaging of the gear takes is a little hard, check the tie rod, adjust/tight if necessary and also inspect/tighten the gear arm joint which is covered with the rubber boot on the gear lever.Originally posted by Deepak Vishnu View PostMy gear lever has an unusual play is this normal the d200 and 200 ns has solid gear leversand dont know about 390 are they solid or have a play that is anooying
Cheers!
VJ
Once upon a time, a guy asked a girl 'Will you marry me?'
The girl said, 'NO!'
And the guy lived happily ever after and rode motorcycles and watched sport on a big screen TV, went fishing and surfing, and played golf a lot, and drank beer and scotch and had tons of money in the bank and left the toilet seat up and farted whenever he wanted.
THE END
Comment
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Perspectives differ. And yeah, many among my cons may not be cons at all. I have stated what were cons according to me. But I have immense respect for D390, for what she stands n what she's capable of. :thumbup:Originally posted by bikersdream View PostActually most of them are not cons. Like
Fuel efficiency, exclusivity factor,wind resistance etc etc.
Anyways good to hear your opinions.
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile appTypical old racer - you wobble when you walk, not when you ride
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Originally posted by sharathchandra View PostHi
Sold my D390 last week. Had run 7500kms, June 2014 model. Bought a used CBR 250r from my friend.
From my experience, I would like to list out a few things which may be of use to prospective duke owners:
Pros:
1. Brute power
2. Acceleration
3. ABS
4. Adequate braking
5. Superior grip in both wet n dry due to metzelers
6. Adequate throw n illumination on stock head lights
7. The bike comes into it's own on curvy/ghat roads
8. Excellent cornering capabilities
9. Stiff suspension, minimal nose dive even under panic braking
10. Brilliant chassis feedback and best in terms of handling
11. Changing directions is a walk in the park
12. LED tail lamps n turn indicators
13. All digital console giving you a plethora of information
14. Satisfactory build quality
15. Amazing throttle response
16. Stability at high speeds
17. Tall gearing which is a boon on highways
18. Value for money product
19. Widespread ASS
19. No bike gives you so much for so less, in terms of power, tech specs, gizmos, etc. There is still no bike in competition that has threatened to displace this ''raging bull'' from the throne in the 300-400cc category. Considering all the above, it doesn't come as a surprise, Dukes are ruling the roads and will rule in all probability till the competition can come up with an answer to this hooligan.
Cons:
In bumper to bumper traffic, place like bangalore,
1. Heats up pretty quick
2. Engine braking will induce fatigue if you are using this bike primarily for everyday commuting in peak traffic
3. Average fuel consumption in city 22-24kmpl
4. Very hard clutch
5. Peak power comes at higher rpm range thereby egging you to constantly revv the engine
6. Pillion seat/comfort - compromised
7. Chest wind on highway rides (can be minimised with a visor but still wouldn't be as good as a fully faired motorcycle)
8. On bad roads- stiff shocks will transfer every disturbance to your back
9. Ktm ASS- even though responsive, are slipping down wrt customer satisfaction due to very high work load n pressure.
10. Build quality is not on par with the competition but will do, keeping in mind the vfm factor.
11. No exclusivity factor considering the number of them on roads.
12. Metzelers, wear out pretty fast and are expensive to replace.
The problems I experienced on owning and maintaining this were minimal. Replaced head gasket seal once as it used to sweat around the head and replaced the handlebar n crash gaurd after a fall. Apart from this, regular service and fuel expenses. I might have missed out on a few points in my observation as this is what I can remember as of now, but I hope these points would be useful for new buyers.
I really enjoyed my stint with the D390, it bought the darker side of me to the fore

( The above pros n cons listed are my own personal opinion and experience, other's opinion and experiences may differ)
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile app
Sad to know you had to sell it off. I was stuck between the CBR 250R ABS and the Duke 390 as well. But finally went in for the D390 keeping in mind the VFM and I already had a Karizma R for 3 years! Just booked it, hopefully the issues are ironed out! #LetsHopeForTheBest
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Coming from karizma, the Duke will certainly excite you and also at this price point it is really hard to beat d390. Yeah, many issues have been sorted out through upgrades in the 2015 Duke, the good just got better. Congratulations on your booking broOriginally posted by judebrent View PostSad to know you had to sell it off. I was stuck between the CBR 250R ABS and the Duke 390 as well. But finally went in for the D390 keeping in mind the VFM and I already had a Karizma R for 3 years! Just booked it, hopefully the issues are ironed out! #LetsHopeForTheBest
:thumbup:
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile appTypical old racer - you wobble when you walk, not when you ride
Comment
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
I feel service at KTM Svc's is directly related to tipping the mechanic. The day I give them a Rs.50/- tip, I'm treated like the king of the world. & the day I don't, I'm ignored and treated like a stranger.😭
Btw I'm surprised as to why you've bought a cbr. But then it's ur wish. I can't say anything in between. My colleague has 2 bullets & is going to buy a third one. It's his choice & choices have no proper logical reason behind them.Originally posted by sharathchandra View PostHi
Sold my D390 last week. Had run 7500kms, June 2014 model. Bought a used CBR 250r from my friend.
From my experience, I would like to list out a few things which may be of use to prospective duke owners:
Pros:
1. Brute power
2. Acceleration
3. ABS
4. Adequate braking
5. Superior grip in both wet n dry due to metzelers
6. Adequate throw n illumination on stock head lights
7. The bike comes into it's own on curvy/ghat roads
8. Excellent cornering capabilities
9. Stiff suspension, minimal nose dive even under panic braking
10. Brilliant chassis feedback and best in terms of handling
11. Changing directions is a walk in the park
12. LED tail lamps n turn indicators
13. All digital console giving you a plethora of information
14. Satisfactory build quality
15. Amazing throttle response
16. Stability at high speeds
17. Tall gearing which is a boon on highways
18. Value for money product
19. Widespread ASS
19. No bike gives you so much for so less, in terms of power, tech specs, gizmos, etc. There is still no bike in competition that has threatened to displace this ''raging bull'' from the throne in the 300-400cc category. Considering all the above, it doesn't come as a surprise, Dukes are ruling the roads and will rule in all probability till the competition can come up with an answer to this hooligan.
Cons:
In bumper to bumper traffic, place like bangalore,
1. Heats up pretty quick
2. Engine braking will induce fatigue if you are using this bike primarily for everyday commuting in peak traffic
3. Average fuel consumption in city 22-24kmpl
4. Very hard clutch
5. Peak power comes at higher rpm range thereby egging you to constantly revv the engine
6. Pillion seat/comfort - compromised
7. Chest wind on highway rides (can be minimised with a visor but still wouldn't be as good as a fully faired motorcycle)
8. On bad roads- stiff shocks will transfer every disturbance to your back
9. Ktm ASS- even though responsive, are slipping down wrt customer satisfaction due to very high work load n pressure.
10. Build quality is not on par with the competition but will do, keeping in mind the vfm factor.
11. No exclusivity factor considering the number of them on roads.
12. Metzelers, wear out pretty fast and are expensive to replace.
The problems I experienced on owning and maintaining this were minimal. Replaced head gasket seal once as it used to sweat around the head and replaced the handlebar n crash gaurd after a fall. Apart from this, regular service and fuel expenses. I might have missed out on a few points in my observation as this is what I can remember as of now, but I hope these points would be useful for new buyers.
I really enjoyed my stint with the D390, it bought the darker side of me to the fore

( The above pros n cons listed are my own personal opinion and experience, other's opinion and experiences may differ)
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile app
Comment
-
Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
I had this itch for CBR 250r, it was in close contention back then when I bought Duke. So immediately after I sold my D390, got this perfect opportunity to scratchOriginally posted by jack_daniels View PostI feel service at KTM Svc's is directly related to tipping the mechanic. The day I give them a Rs.50/- tip, I'm treated like the king of the world. & the day I don't, I'm ignored and treated like a stranger.😭
Btw I'm surprised as to why you've bought a cbr. But then it's ur wish. I can't say anything in between. My colleague has 2 bullets & is going to buy a third one. It's his choice & choices have no proper logical reason behind them.
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile appTypical old racer - you wobble when you walk, not when you ride
Comment
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Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences
Yeah slipper clutch, redirecting the radiator fan, throttle grips change, increase in chain guard height & more... let's hope for the bestOriginally posted by sharathchandra View PostComing from karizma, the Duke will certainly excite you and also at this price point it is really hard to beat d390. Yeah, many issues have been sorted out through upgrades in the 2015 Duke, the good just got better. Congratulations on your booking bro
:thumbup:
Sent from my SM-N750 using xBhp Connect mobile app
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