Bob Pickett tells us what we need to know…
KTM launched the 390 Duke in 2013, creating a mid-point between the 125 and 690 models. An immediate sales success, it remained untouched until 2017.
Give Me Some Spec
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A 373cc single-cylinder engine putting out 44bhp/32kW @ 9500rpm with maximum torque of 26lb-ft/35.3NM @ 7000rpm is housed in a steel trellis frame. The seat height is 800mm, its dry weight is 139 kilos. Holding it up are 43mm WP non-adjustable front forks and a rear WP monoshock with adjustable preload. Slowing it down is a single ByBre 300mm 4-piston caliper front disc with 220mm, single-piston caliper rear.
What’s It Like To Ride?
The photos don’t reveal how small the 390 Duke is; I’ve ridden larger 125s. The 800mm seat height looks taller than it is but it’s so narrow (though at the end of the ride I did struggle to lift my diddy 29in leg over the back). The jewel in the Duke’s coronet is handling: instinctive, light and easy. Nudge the bars, tip your hips and it’s turning quickly; glued to the Tarmac, it’s so flickable.
What about that single-cylinder engine?
Well, it all comes down to what you’re asking from it. In town it’s lumpy and clearly not keen. It comes into its own on clear sections of A roads and twisty B roads. On A roads it shoots through the box (your wrists will thank you as the vibrations reduce) and let it flow. On Bs let it rev, allowing you to punch out of twisties.
Despite the poise and upright stance, I’d not want to spend too much time grafting in commuter mode, and it’s not at home at motorway pace; I took it up to, and held, 70, but it’s hard work. The stoppers are more than up to hauling up the bantamweight 139kg, but they’re harsh on first grab; practice is needed to get the best out of them.
I was pleasantly surprised by the mirrors that genuinely work. The clock on the early models is basic, but I like it. The top shows revs and gear, middle shows speed in just big enough numbers, the bottom has fuel level and engine temperature. Sitting under the speed is a changeable section. I liked the ‘how long in the saddle (more on this) and average speed’ option.
It’s not a place to be for long(-ish) rides. Ninety minutes and my legs craved a break, motion supported by my backside. But after a breather for photos, the backroad blast was fun filled.
I’d not want one of these as an only bike, but as a second bike, used mainly for back-road blats, it’ll find a welcome home in a lot of garages.
How much does it cost?
The dealer wanted £2995 for this 2015 bike with 8543 miles recorded. Our dealer search found a good number available, ranging from a 2016 model with 3632 miles logged for £2995, to a 2023 bike with just 350 miles on the clock for £4994.
Thanks to…East London Kawasaki/Bacons Motorcycles for letting us take this Enfield for a spin. Find their new and used offerings at https://www.baconsmotorcycles.co.uk/
