The 2017 KTM 125 Duke and 390 Duke stand out as benchmark naked bikes for new riders, city commuters, and those looking to upgrade within A2/2A license restrictions. Tested on the tight, technical KF1 Go-Kart Circuit in Singapore, these Austrian single-cylinder nakeds delivered distinct riding experiences—and clear reasons for choosing one over the other.
KTM 125 Duke: Learner-Friendly Fun with Limitations
- Engine: 124.7cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected
- Performance: Punchier than expected for a sub-200cc bike; adequate midrange for its class, but top end leaves power-hungry riders wanting
- Handling: Lightweight frame, low seat, and easy turning make it extremely user-friendly—“like a bicycle with a motor,” perfect for beginners, students, or those needing an ultra-light commuter
- Braking: Front brake is capable but the rear brake and stock tires are underwhelming—ABS can be intrusive in tight corners, impacting confidence at track pace
- Ergonomics: Comfortable, upright position makes it much more commuter-oriented than a race replica; low foot pegs can scrape with aggressive cornering
The 125 Duke excels as an affordable, approachable option for new riders, but experienced or faster riders will quickly reach the limits of its slow straight-line performance.
KTM 390 Duke: A2 Power Unleashed, Electronics Upgraded
- Engine: 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, ride-by-wire throttle
- Power: Immediate, torque-rich; significant jump from the 125—plenty for spirited city riding and highway runs
- Electronics: Ride-by-wire throttle for instant response, slipper clutch for smoother downshifts, and standard ABS (which can be overly intrusive for hard track use)
- Handling: Retains the flickability of the 125 but with much greater acceleration out of corners—lightweight yet stable chassis is perfectly matched to Southeast Asian roads
- Braking: Large front rotor and quality feel boost confidence; tires are limiting at the edge, especially on-track
- Features: TFT dash, LED lighting, and modern styling set it apart as a premium commuter or first “real” motorcycle
For the slight price bump over the 125, the 390 Duke feels like an entirely more substantial and rewarding machine—one that can grow with your skills and handle cross-country riding or lively back-road fun.
Value & Who Should Buy Which?
- 125 Duke:
- Ideal for absolute beginners, school/uni commuters, and city dwellers seeking the lightest, lowest-commitment entry point
- Not suited to aggressive or long-distance riders; will feel slow for those with any highway or group-ride aspirations
- 390 Duke:
- Best all-rounder for A2/2A riders, daily commuters wanting excitement, and anyone upgrading from a lower cc model
- Offers safety and tech that outperform similarly priced competitors; worth the extra investment for serious urban and entry-level sport riding
Pricing reflects performance: the 125 Duke is the cheapest, but the 390 Duke justifies its S$2,000 premium with major boosts in speed, electronics, and enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 KTM 125 Duke is fun, practical, and easy for true novices—but if your license allows and your budget stretches, the KTM 390 Duke blows it away for performance, tech, and future-proofing. For Singapore and Southeast Asian riders who want a naked bike that handles city chaos, beginner learning, and weekend fun, the 390 Duke stands out as a class leader—confident, quick, and uniquely KTM.