Since the introduction of the KTM 125 Duke in 2011, the entry-level motorbike has seen significant evolution. The 2017 edition comes with a host of changes, bringing it on par with more powerful and bigger motorbikes. The KTM 125 Duke aims to please their target audience, who happen to be teenagers. Will the new motorbike live up to the Austrian manufacturer’s reputation? Let’s check it out!
Specifications
When you look at the entry-level motorbike, you will quickly notice its modern and contemporary design. The new KTM 125 Duke (2017) looks more aggressive than its earlier counterparts. The motorbike borrows its looks from the more bigger and powerful Dukes. With the latest version in the 125 category, KTM once again raises the bar for all its competitors.
For the front suspension of the KTM 125 Duke, you get 43mm WP, upside down fork and WP monoshock in the rear. The result is incredible as the motorbike is comfortable on challenging and congested roads. Even when the road is bumpy, the WP suspension is more than capable of absorbing all the differences. As a result of this, the motorbike feels stable on all types of roads. The motorbike will be able to maintain its composure, even if the road is uneven.
On the front brakes, you will find four-piston, brake disc, radial fixed callipers. At the rear, the Austrian manufacturers fitted in single-piston, brake disc, floating callipers. You also get a two-channel Bosch 9MB ABS along with the brakes. When you put these two together, you have the perfect recipe to bring the motorbike to a complete halt at all speeds.
Whether you take the motorbike through the busy streets or along the countryside, you will always find it perfect for every situation. The motorbike is nimble, narrow, and agile enough to handle extremely busy streets. On the latest edition of the KTM 125 Duke, you get a TFT dash with full colour. To keep the motorbike modern and up-to-date, you can get the Austrian manufacturer’s My Ride, allowing you to connect it to your smartphone. With the help of the switch gear, you can control music or answer calls.
Performance
The KTM Duke 125 comes with a single cylinder 124.77 cc engine that produces 15 hp of power at 10,000 rpm and torque of 9 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm. Coupled with the manual six-speed gearbox, the delivery of power when you hit the throttle is smooth. At the same time, the power isn’t so much that it is overwhelming. To make the most out of the engine, you should keep the rpm between the range of 7,000 to 10,000.
Verdict
The KTM Duke 125 is an exceptional entry-level motorbike that comes with a variety of useful features. The Austrian manufacturers made sufficient changes to the motorbike, to bring it up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry. Whether you are an experienced rider or a newbie, you will never find it difficult to control the KTM Duke 125. To be an owner of this incredible motorbike, you will need to pay a base price of £4,099!
