At some point, you’ve definitely debated between the KTM Duke 390 and the new Triumph Speed 400. I owned a Duke 390 for three thrilling years before switching to the Speed 400 last month. Was it worth it? Let’s talk performance, practicality, and that irresistible retro charm—with a side of “I miss my KTM sometimes.”
KTM Duke 390
What I Loved:
- The Thrill Factor: The Duke 390 isn’t just a bike—it’s a caffeine shot on wheels. That 373cc engine screams “Let’s go!” every time you twist the throttle. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve grinned like a maniac while overtaking trucks on highways.
- Agility Master: Weaving through Bengaluru traffic? The Duke’s lightweight frame and razor-sharp handling felt like threading a needle.
- Heat? What Heat? Even in Delhi’s 45°C summers, the Duke’s engine stayed surprisingly cool. No thigh-roasting here, folks.
kTM 390 Duke 2022
What I Don’t Miss:
The Backaches. After an hour, my back would stage a protest. The seat felt like a wooden plank, and the aggressive stance turned my daily commute into a core workout.
The Triumph Speed 400
The first thing you notice is the effortless torque. Unlike the Duke’s “rev-it-to-the-moon” personality, the Triumph’s 398cc engine pulls strongly from low RPMs. Traffic lights? Just twist and go—no drama. The upright riding position and plush seat are game-changers. My lower back hasn’t sent me a complaint letter since.
And oh, the style! The Speed 400’s retro design—chrome accents, round headlamp, and that deep green paint—turns petrol pumps into photo ops. Strangers ask about it. Friends demand test rides. Even my mom called it “handsome.”
Triumph 400 Speed
The Not-So-Good:
But it’s not all sunshine. I miss the Duke’s manic top-end rush. The Triumph’s engine is refined but lacks that “hyped” thrill. And while filtering through the city’s rush hour, the Speed 400’s slightly heavier build demands more effort.
Read: 6 Months with Triumph Speed 400: A Delhi Rider’s Raw Take
Head-to-Head: KTM Duke 390 vs Triumph Speed 400
| Feature | KTM Duke 390 | Triumph Speed 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Character | High-revving, aggressive | Smooth, tractable torque |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.34 seconds | Slightly slower, but quicker in-gear |
| Comfort | Firm seat, sporty posture | Plush seat, relaxed ergonomics |
| Fuel Efficiency | ~25-30 kmpl | ~30-35 kmpl |
| Price | ₹3.13 lakh (ex-showroom) | ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Which Bike Survives Indian Roads Better?
The Speed 400’s linear power delivery is a blessing in bumper-to-bumper traffic. You’re not constantly shifting gears, and the softer suspension soaks up potholes like a sponge. The Duke, while lighter, punishes you with its stiff setup—every speed breaker feels like a mini earthquake.
At 100 km/h, the Triumph hums like a contented cat. Vibrations? Minimal. The Duke, though faster (it’ll hit 170+ km/h), turns into a shaky mess after two hours. My wrists still remember the agony.
Ownership Costs:
The Triumph is cheaper upfront, but KTM’s service network is everywhere. Need a spare part in Jaipur? Easy. With Triumph, you’ll pray their service centers multiply faster than street dogs in monsoon.
Who Should Buy Which Bike?
For the Speed Demon: If your idea of fun is scraping footpegs on twisties or chasing top speeds, stick with the Duke 390. It’s raw, loud, and unapologetically wild—perfect for riders who think “comfort” is a four-letter word.
For the Everyday Classics: The Speed 400 is for those who want to arrive in style without sacrificing their spine. It’s practical, refined, and surprisingly frugal. It is ideal for city slickers and weekend explorers who value comfort as much as the cool factor.
Final Thoughts: No Regrets, Just Nostalgia
Switching to the Triumph felt like trading my old skateboard for a vintage cruiser bicycle—less adrenaline, more elegance. Do I miss the Duke’s madness? On empty highways, absolutely. But for navigating India’s chaos—potholes, traffic, and the occasional cow—the Speed 400’s blend of comfort and charm wins.
Check Out: Speed 400 vs. Duke 390: What It Really Costs to Own These Bikes.
