Spy shots emerge of new KTM Duke testing in Spain

Oct 15, 2023

New images have emerges of a prototype KTM Duke in testing in Spain. It seems to be a 125, with aesthetic and possible chassis modifications.

Spy images have emerged of a new KTM Duke of low-capacity, which could be expected for production in the coming years.

The state of the motorcycle shown in the spy shots, published by Motociclismo, would put it out of contention for a 2023 release, seemingly, with many pieces not yet completed and not even a protector for the engine.

The photos were taken in Spain, and show what might appear to be a KTM 490 Duke were it not for the recent announcement of the Austrian marque's abandonment of its 490 project.

Instead, we can assume that this testing prototype is preparing a future model update for either the KTM 125 Duke or KTM 390 Duke. By the engine size and position of the exhaust exit, it seems to lean more towards the 125.

One of the most striking features about the bike in the photos is the front shroud bodywork, which extends forwards past the front fork legs. This is similar to the 2022 KTM motocross range, but also - perhaps more relevantly - to the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Super Duke R Evo.

It is therefore possible that the update would be an aesthetic one and little more, however the rear subframe now appears to be cast aluminium as seen on the older siblings of the 125 and 390 in the Duke family, instead of the steel tubular design the smallest models of the range have used before. Although it is possible that the actual subframe has been shrouded to look, so it will not be until further down the line that we know for sure if KTM has gone to aluminium for the subframe of its smaller nakeds.

The singular front brake disc has also swapped sides, from left to right.

There are also handguards (presumably intended to be optional) and a new front mudguard design. The headlight is also much different, even if the overall shape is relatively similar to before and identifiably ‘KTM Duke’.

As a testing prototype, there is of course no official information on the bike at the moment, and it is difficult to say when such information will become available.