The KTM 250 Duke represents Austria’s quintessential street-fighting naked motorcycle, combining aggressive styling with accessible performance tailored for both novice and experienced riders. Priced at Rs 2.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), this quarter-liter machine delivers genuine KTM DNA through its trellis frame, sharp handling, and distinctive orange identity. The 249.07cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine produces 31 PS at 9,250 rpm and 25 Nm torque at 7,250 rpm, paired with a six-speed transmission featuring a quickshifter and slipper clutch for smooth gear transitions.
Following its comprehensive 2024 redesign, the 250 Duke received significant updates including revised chassis geometry, enhanced suspension with WP Apex components, upgraded braking with larger 320mm front disc and four-piston radial calipers, and modern electronics including dual riding modes (Track and Street), Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation integration. The motorcycle achieves 30.08 kmpl fuel efficiency and a top speed of 148 kmph, making it practical for daily commuting while retaining spirited performance characteristics. With a kerb weight of just 162.8 kg and an accessible 820mm seat height, the 250 Duke offers confidence-inspiring handling across urban environments and twisty roads. Available in three color options—Electric Orange, Ebony Black, and Atlantic Blue—the machine maintains KTM’s signature aggressive aesthetics while incorporating refined ergonomics and premium build quality that justify its positioning as the most powerful 250cc naked bike available in India.
KTM 250 Duke (249.07cc) Complete Specifications
| Specification | KTM 250 Duke Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 249.07cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC, 4-valve |
| Bore x Stroke | 72mm x 61.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.63:1 |
| Max Power | 31 PS @ 9,250 rpm (22.8 kW) |
| Max Torque | 25 Nm @ 7,250 rpm |
| Fuel System | Bosch EFI with 38mm throttle body |
| Emission Norms | BS6-2.0 compliant |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual gearbox |
| Quickshifter | Bi-directional quickshifter (up and down) |
| Clutch | Assist and slipper clutch |
| Starting | Electric start only |
| Frame | Steel trellis frame with aluminium subframe |
| Front Suspension | WP Apex 43mm upside-down forks, non-adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | WP Apex monoshock with preload adjustability |
| Front Brake | 320mm disc with four-piston radial caliper |
| Rear Brake | 240mm disc with two-piston floating caliper |
| ABS System | Dual-channel Bosch ABS with Supermoto mode |
| Front Tyre | 110/70-17 tubeless radial |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60-17 tubeless radial |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch cast aluminum alloy wheels |
| Wheelbase | 1,354 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 176 mm |
| Seat Height | 820 mm (accessible for most riders) |
| Kerb Weight | 162.8 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 litres (3L reserve) |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) | 30.08 kmpl |
| Real-World Mileage | 28-32 kmpl typical (rider-dependent) |
| Estimated Range | 420+ km per full tank |
| Top Speed | 148 kmph |
| Riding Modes | Track and Street modes with distinct throttle response |
| Instrument Console | 5-inch LCD digital display |
| Display Features | Digital speedometer, tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, clock |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth with KTM My Ride app integration |
| Navigation | Turn-by-turn navigation with smartphone pairing |
| Additional Features | Call/SMS alerts, service due indicator, shift light, ride-by-wire throttle |
| Lighting | Full LED (headlight, tail light, indicators) |
| USB Charging Port | Yes, Type-C charging available |
| Safety Features | Engine kill switch, hazard warning lights, side stand sensor |
| Seating | Single seat with passenger grab rail |
| Color Options | Electric Orange, Ebony Black, Atlantic Blue |
| Battery | 12V 8Ah maintenance-free |
| Warranty | 2 years standard manufacturer warranty |
| Price (India, ex-showroom Delhi) | Rs 2,30,179 (after GST 2.0 reduction from Rs 2.48 lakh) |
About KTM Motorcycles
Ready to Race Philosophy
KTM AG, founded in 1934 in Austria, stands as Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer with a distinctive “Ready to Race” philosophy permeating every product. The Duke series, introduced in 1994, pioneered the naked streetfighter segment by removing fairings and emphasizing raw performance, sharp handling, and aggressive aesthetics. KTM entered the Indian market in 2012 through partnership with Bajaj Auto, establishing local manufacturing in Chakan, Pune, which enables competitive pricing while maintaining Austrian engineering standards.
The 250 Duke’s 2024 redesign represents KTM’s commitment to continuous evolution, incorporating feedback from track racing programs including the KTM Cup competition series that develops young riding talent. The motorcycle benefits from technology trickle-down from higher-displacement Duke models and KTM’s MotoGP racing program, including WP Apex suspension components, advanced electronics integration, and chassis geometry optimization. With 450+ authorized dealerships across India and comprehensive service network, KTM ensures ownership experience matches the performance promise of its motorcycles.
The 250 Duke competes against Honda CB300R, Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZ25, Hero Xtreme 250R, and Bajaj Dominar 250, yet maintains differentiation through its distinctive trellis frame design, Austrian heritage, race-derived components, and aggressive performance positioning that appeals to enthusiasts seeking genuine streetfighter character rather than merely practical commuting capability.
What Experts Are Saying
Key Highlights
- Most Powerful 250cc Engine: 31 PS output with 25 Nm torque delivers class-leading performance with engaging character
- Premium Chassis Components: Steel trellis frame with aluminum subframe and WP Apex suspension ensure sharp handling dynamics
- Advanced Electronics Package: Bi-directional quickshifter, dual riding modes, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation integration
- Enhanced Braking System: 320mm front disc with four-piston radial calipers and dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode
- Accessible Ergonomics: 820mm seat height and 162.8 kg weight enable confidence-building control for diverse rider sizes
- Comprehensive Instrumentation: 5-inch LCD display with smartphone connectivity, call alerts, and ride-by-wire technology
- Practical Fuel Efficiency: 30.08 kmpl ARAI rating with real-world 28-32 kmpl and 15-liter tank for extended range
- Austrian Engineering Heritage: Ready to Race philosophy with race-derived technology trickle-down from MotoGP programs
Conclusion
The KTM 250 Duke stands as the definitive choice for riders seeking authentic streetfighter character in an accessible package. The 249.07cc engine’s 31 PS output represents genuine performance rather than marketing numbers, while the comprehensive 2024 redesign addressed previous shortcomings through improved chassis rigidity, enhanced suspension components, and modern electronics integration. At Rs 2.30 lakh following the GST 2.0 price reduction, the 250 Duke offers exceptional value considering the trellis frame construction, WP Apex suspension, four-piston braking, and bi-directional quickshifter—features typically reserved for higher-displacement motorcycles.
The motorcycle excels as both a beginner-friendly introduction to performance riding and an engaging tool for experienced riders who appreciate sharp handling dynamics over raw power. The practical 30 kmpl fuel efficiency and 15-liter tank capacity enable daily commuting duties while the dual riding modes and comprehensive electronics support spirited weekend rides. For buyers prioritizing genuine motorcycle character, Austrian engineering heritage, and race-derived technology over bland refinement or excessive comfort, the KTM 250 Duke delivers comprehensively. This represents accessible performance executed properly—aggressive enough to excite, refined enough to use daily, and priced appropriately for the Indian market.
