Re: 2017 Duke 250

Bricking is a high probability, especially given KTM's buggy track record. They have a history of patching the same thing again and then find a new one along the line. But, the old console though busy, really had the rush going in. Virtually zero bugs, clean interface barring the hard buttons.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Yes newer 200s moved to EPM44 ECU and CAN based system
Since i worked as WM in a KTM SVC I came to know tons of stuff....

Re: 2017 Duke 250

I have the 2019 ABS model but it doesn't have the dedicated switch for turning off the ABS.
I don't like the rear ABS as I miss the drifts and skids. It completely dilutes the fun.
Shd I turn off the ABS by taking out the fuse or making a diy fuse switch...I mean will it have any other undesired effect?

Re: 2017 Duke 250

This switch isn't visible, but it is present on the left of console, just below SET and MODE buttons. Check in YT about how to switch off ABS in old Duke 390, it should help you.

If it doesn't, then fuse is the only option. It won't harm the bike.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Post ABS mandation that switch was removed. Fuse is the only go.

Re: 2017 Duke 250

My best suggestion would be leave the Front ABS ON at all times, there is no way of turning OFF the ABS as mentioned in previous post using electronics.
Anything DIY with electronics might lead to a void warranty.

The only short term option would be to bypass the rear brake cable line directly to the rear brake calipers instead of the ABS module.
In future KTM might add an option with the software update to ECU to have different ride modes.

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Kiran, bypassing the line would cause fluid to leak out of the pump and corrode the casing, eventually. It should either be sealed or simple, remove the ABS unit completely, and bypass the lines directly to their respective cylinders. And probably, since it's a dual channel ABS, chances are the other wheel might not work too excluding the one directly bypassed "might or might not" owing to pressure differences, but that's just my understanding. But definitely do not recommend one line being bypassed. Either fully remove the unit, bypass the system using couplers, or remove the fuse.

Removing fuse won't void the warranty Kiran. It's render the ABS system completely null, but the other braking will continue to work as they should.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Does the duke 250 bs6 come with 320mm(also sintered brake pads?) or the older 300mm setup? Found that review and new report mention it as 320mm whereas its specified as 300mm on the ktm website https://www.ktm.com/in/naked/250-duke/.

Also is there an appreciable difference in running cost of duke 250 vs 390 in terms of fuel cost, maintenance, parts wear and tear?

Upgrading from a fzv2, with usage being restricted to ~60-70km commute and occasional long distance rides(very rare). Want something that is fun to ride. Both felt good to me, with the only difference being i might outgrow the 250 much earlier. Having said that I need to balance it with running costs.

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Yes, agree with the point that sealing of the open valve in the ABS pump is necessary if the rear brakes are bypassed and also braking might not work as expected, it's a hit or miss. That said by removing the fuse, both front and rear ABS gets disengaged which is not preferred, atleast the front ABS should be ON in all cases(even a old school rider like me prefer to have the front ABS ON), so there is no perfect solution unless some helpis available from KTM as part of software fix.

Most of us have the same issue and doubt of outgrowing very quickly in future with a quarter liter bike going from 125-180cc bikes.

As far as outright power and fun to ride nothing can beat the D390, it can pull in any gear from any speeds on highways, but also it is way to aggressive and even frustrating at times. But if you can learn how to balance your riding and handling the power, it'll be fun bike and you'll never feel that you've outgrown the bike (not comparing to 600cc-1000cc bikes).
If you never have any plan to upgrade to bigger superbike/600cc+ bike and plan have to only one this bike for next 5-10years or so, then get the D390.

Coming to D250 has the right balance of everything, not to aggressive yet it's a very fun bike. If you have plans of upgrading to bigger superbike/600cc+ after next 3-5years then buy the D250 now. You'll not outgrow the D250 unless you start comparing it bigger bikes.

Maintenance wise I'd say except for cheapo MRF tyres on the D250 every other wear and tear parts like brake pads, sprocket, clutch plates, valve jobs comparing D250 vs D390 you'll barely have 5% difference, only with tyres you'll have 50% difference in cost in maintenance(MRF's vs Metz, Michelin, Pirelli) , insurance will be cheaper by ₹1500. The entire bottom end of the engine is same between both the bikes, almost all 90% body parts are same.

Only with fuel you'll get 8-10kmpl more on the D250, 22-25kmpl on D390 vs 30-33kmpl on D250 in city. So overall apart from a major engine rebuild cost(hypothetically D390 engine wears more rapidly due to more aggressive power, heat etc etc than compared D250) , there is really not much difference in the cost of day to day running the D250 vs D390.

Re: 2017 Duke 250

Hi,

I have gone through this thread and see that the initial bikes had quite a few niggles which seem to have been sorted as of now.

I am someone who loses sleep if something is amiss in my bike and won't be at peace till I am able to fix it.

So is it recommendable to opt for a KTM for someone like me? I am hoping once I love the bike, even if issues come up, I will be able to overlook it.

But overall can members share their opinion as to how manageable a KTM is these days especially the 250, considering I can find a decent enough SVC nearby and minimal to nil manufacturing issues.

I am planning to keep my next bike for a really long time and maybe even upto a lakh of kms or more.

Thanks!

PS: I am not a fan of adding auxiliary equipment on the bike as in lights, so, is the stock headlight manageable for early morning/night highway rides?

Re: 2017 Duke 250


Would recommend multiple test rides / renting a bike for a while before taking the plunge. The chain needs TLC, other than that the bike is fairly reliable.

Re: 2017 Duke 250

To keep it extremely simple. The bike is a decent one to say the least. Reliability purely depends on the how well the bike is taken care of, secondly, it also depends on luck. KTMs are for the most part not fill it shut it type, reliable machines, meaning by default, they last a while with good upkeep and even low if taken for granted and ripped through. For some, some parts have lasted exceedingly well, for some a premature death and for most it's a decent life. Read your owners manual, for tips and tricks on basic upkeep, and you will get to know to what to and when to.

All bikes do require upkeep and time to keep them running for such long time. If you plan to keep it for a long time, as you've said, and are willing to put the time and effort, not only KTM any bike will be a faithful partner.

Cheers!
VJ

Re: 2020 Duke 250

So many thoughts are there in my mind during this lockdown.
Past 1 week I am drooling over Duke 250 and scolding myself to have not a one yet. So many conversations with my girlfriend that I want this bike no matter what.

Why?
I currently own a Discover 135S 2008, still going strong. I ride it quite frequently (upto 300km) with proper gears, gloves and my MT helmet and often heard people saying Why you just don't buy a good bike instead of spending money on bike clothing and I am like... huh. I can afford only the clothing whereas as a bike will cost 10x or even 20x for the price.

BUT my last ride was kindoff .. I was just not satisfied. Bike simply refused to go beyond 100 kmph and had some vibrations which were not there before. It felt like exhausted, like a old retired man. (Note- I service it myself with top notch care and fully synthetic oil)
Now I have an urge to buy its replacement and finds Duke 250 to check my list.
It looks good, it is powerful and can cruise around 100, ABS, and again looks good.
I also know that this bike is somewhat overpriced but I am gonna keep it for next 10 years so budget here doesn't matter.
The other thing in my list is CGT 650 but practically that heavy 650twin is not a replacement.

After all this excitement and urge I realize The only thing I don't have is Money to buy a Duke 250. Dreams shattered here.
Someday for sure
Till then I am (have to be) happy with my Discover.

Re: 2020 Duke 250

Hope for the best. I am sure you'll soon get your Duke 250 buddy.

Re: 2020 Duke 250

You're riding and enjoying that's all that matters for now. People who give "free advices" are aplenty, especially, why this, why that, that was better, this could have suited you. But, not all can fathom what "you" as a biker desires deep down, it can be costly, it can be a budget or just about any cheap motorcycle, but it all comes down to how satisfied with what one has. What I am extremely happy about is to know that you are fully geared up, which is where the true essence of it all lies. If it's not D250, probably something ever better, some day.

Good luck!

Cheers!
VJ