Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Indeed, different machines have different engine note characteristics, just to give an example right from driveline slack to the way the engine idle sounds, and post certain RPM. It all comes down to periodic maintenance, proper tuning, making sure adequate engine oil level is maintained, all these are directly proportional to the way she performs on the road.



The ignition should be on for one to switch off the ABS with which the console blinks for a few seconds and goes off to let the rider know the ABS is switched off. Secondly, once the engine/ignition is switched off and turned on, the ABS automatically switches on. Thirdly, find a mild gravelly road with powdered pebbles that cover the surface of the road, the fine ones, they easily slip the wheels, apply the rear brake and front brake. Start with the rear brake frist, you should feel the rear lever flutter, same goes with the front. Do this when you're completely free of traffic or a place where there is not much traffic infestation. When using the front brake use caution, don't grab a handful, just modulate the pressure to the extent the front wheel locks, mildy and gently.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Thanks for your suggestions guys, I’ll replace the rim in next service.

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Thank you. That's very helpful. Simply put, all 390's would start with ABS ON as default when the ignition key is turned ON.

Would try the tips on the braking, if I find good stretch of free and safe road around. It's bit difficult for a new person to ride a Duke 390 in Mumbai traffic conditions while also critically assessing braking, engine, handling etc all at the same time

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Hi, The ABS light should go off as you cross 5 kmph. Also, KTM's need regular personal maintenance. Infact even after a spirited morning ride it is advisable to spend some time with the bike which may vary with people and some chose to ride it without even looking at it unless its a service call.

If you're looking to own a KTM, its always better to go for the new one. Cheers.

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Hey folks,
Unfortunately I've come across a 1 inch-long cut in the rear Metzeler of my D390 which will require to be patched from the inside. The cause of this is completely unknown to me. The tyre has been losing pressure really bad. Any idea of any good tyre repair shops in Thane that can pull off the job without damaging that lovely orange paint on the rims?
Also, since the bike is fairly new (purchased in April, 2017 and run about 4k kilometers), is there any way to claim warranty on this tyre? It's got no other punctures on it.
Please advise!

KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

[MENTION=22282]mitz[/MENTION] .. bro please buy a brand new duke or any bike for yourself .. please don’t got for used/second hand duke and waste your hard earned money on it...nowdays people cheat, do fraud by reducing ODO, so think wisely before taking any decision..as 390 have high compression engine it’s not safe bet to own a second hand unless you know the bike owner very well as how he took care of his machine...

To help you more, i have a short story for you from my personal space.. i did own the duke 200 and sold it for 78k at ODO doing 42k kms to one guy and he re-sold the bike by reducing ODO to 16k kms and at the price of 90k... Think before investing your hard earned money. thanks [emoji120]

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Really? I didn't even know reducing ODO readings is possible in KTM's too...

KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Yes this fraud is very much possible on the odo console but it can be cracked and checked through ecu reading..

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

A inside patch this big will cause imbalance in the rear tyre causing wobbling pitter patter at speed-best to change the rear tyre.
The MRF C1 rear is an affordable option at Rs3500-3600 and much better at resisting cuts than the OE Metz at Rs5500 a pop-other options are Michelin tyres.

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

I'm unable to post any pictures here, the app keeps asking me to check my network and try again. [emoji53]

The cut/crack is a rather thin one and doesn't seem to be deep, it looks like it's just cut at the surface, but I wouldn't know. When filled at 32 psi, if left for a week, pressure falls to anywhere between 14-20 psi. To be honest, I'm unsure if this is actually even the cause of the pressure drop. I tried putting soap water on it but didn't even see soap bubbles. But since there isn't any visible puncture on the rubber, I'm guessing this is it.

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Get it checked properly [MENTION=72810]joelgreen[/MENTION]

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Try uploading from PC, plus reduce the image size so that the uploader doesn't give a "file too big" notification. Secondly, a rip or a tear that is more than 2 and above CM should be examined thoroughly. A small holes can be mendable, a rip unfortunately can't. Also, patching a tear isn't advisable, recommend that you replace the tire. Regarding warranty, unfortunately, no, they won't be entertained.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Alright guys, an update!
Checked the tyre again, there was no loss through that surface cut. Checked multiple times. Then checked the rest of the tyre and lo! Spotted a little nail inside one of the grooves, and how! The soap-water I'd put earlier went in that grove while rotating the tyre and I saw bubbles forming like crazy! Took out the needle and fixed the puncture, but all the air got drained out in the process.
So, no warranty on the rear rubber anymore, hehe! [emoji14]

Checked for other punctures before fixing this, and this was the only one! Feeling relieved now! Phew! Thank you all for the opinions though. The knowledge is definitely useful!

Btw, since the topic of tyre change came up, I was wondering if I should stick to the Metz or move to the Michelin Pilot Street Radial at the rear when the tyre change is due. I've used one on my CBR 150R (now sold) at the rear, and currently have one at the front on my Gixxer SF. I use the Duke only for weekends and tours, no commuting. But the grip of the Michelin doesn't seem half as good as the Metz in corners! Not that I ever found the PSR to be bad, but the Duke with the Metzelers holds lines in corners like it were on rails! And my Duke has the H-rated tyres, not even the W-rated ones. Am really unsure if this is because of the stiff suspension set-up in combination with the tyres or just the tyres at work.

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Even the H rated Metz have better grip than the Michelin PSR's in the corners-guess it is due to the way the Metz are built -they have the most stiff sidewalls and maintain composure even at ridiculous lean angles

Re: KTM Duke 390 - Ownership Reviews and Experiences

Wonderful. Secondly, MPSRs are the best choice when it comes to tire life and also budget. Still Metz offer great grip, but MPSRs are no slouch either, after they're adequately warmed, it's really hard to find the difference between Metz and MPSR. If you're practical and expecting better puncture resistance and an overall do it all, tire, MPSR is your best bet.

Cheers!
VJ