The KTM 250 Duke is a name that resonates with motorcycle enthusiasts across India, embodying the Austrian brand’s ethos of “Ready to Race.” Launched as a part of KTM’s iconic Duke lineup, this streetfighter bridges the gap between the entry-level KTM 200 Duke and the more powerful KTM 390 Duke, offering a perfect blend of performance, style, and practicality. Manufactured in India by Bajaj Auto in collaboration with KTM, the 250 Duke has carved a niche for itself in the highly competitive quarter-liter segment since its debut. With its aggressive design, robust engine, and cutting-edge features, it appeals to riders seeking an exhilarating yet accessible riding experience. Over the years, the bike has undergone significant updates, with the 2024 model marking a generational leap in terms of aesthetics, performance, and technology. Whether you’re a young rider upgrading from a 150cc bike or an enthusiast craving a thrilling yet manageable machine, the KTM 250 Duke promises to deliver.
KTM, a brand synonymous with performance-oriented motorcycles, entered the Indian market through its partnership with Bajaj Auto, and the Duke series quickly became a favorite among the youth. The 250 Duke, in particular, stands out for its sharp styling inspired by the flagship KTM 1290 Super Duke R, paired with a potent 249cc engine that ensures it’s not just about looks but also about substance. Available in vibrant color options and packed with modern features like a TFT display and quickshifter, this bike caters to the evolving demands of Indian riders. In this detailed product overview, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what makes the KTM 250 Duke a standout in its class, along with a look at its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The KTM 250 Duke is engineered to offer a thrilling ride while maintaining practicality for daily use. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reliable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled |
| Displacement | 249.07 cc |
| Max Power | 31 PS (30.57 bhp) @ 9250 rpm |
| Max Torque | 25 Nm @ 7250 rpm |
| Mileage | 30.08 kmpl (claimed, as tested by experts); 32 kmpl (user-reported) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual with slipper clutch |
| Fuel System | Fuel injection with ride-by-wire |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Bore x Stroke | 72 mm x 61.1 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Frame | Steel trellis frame with die-cast aluminum subframe |
| Front Suspension | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm, 142 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | WP APEX monoshock, 10-step adjustable, 150 mm travel |
| Front Brake | 320 mm disc with 4-piston radial fixed caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brake | 240 mm disc with single-piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 110/70-17 (tubeless) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 150/60-17 (tubeless) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy wheels |
| Length | 2078 mm |
| Width | 831 mm |
| Height | 1109 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1357 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 176 mm |
| Seat Height | 822 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 162.8 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15 liters |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2B |
Variants
The KTM 250 Duke is offered in a single variant in India, keeping things straightforward for buyers. However, it comes with multiple color options to suit different tastes. Below is a table detailing the variant and available colors as of April 2025.
| Variant | Color Options |
|---|---|
| 250 Duke Standard | Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, Ceramic White, Ebony Black |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the KTM 250 Duke varies slightly across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The following table provides the on-road prices (as of April 2025) based on data from BikeDekho and BikeWale, reflecting the latest updates.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2,27,707 | 2,61,607 |
| Mumbai | 2,28,000 | 2,75,000 |
| Bangalore | 2,27,952 | 2,95,771 |
| Chennai | 2,28,000 | 2,70,000 |
| Kolkata | 2,27,707 | 2,65,000 |
Note: On-road prices include RTO, insurance, and other applicable charges, which may vary slightly based on dealership offers and additional accessories.
About the KTM 250 Duke
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the KTM 250 Duke lies a 249.07cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, a refined powerplant that delivers a punchy 31 PS at 9250 rpm and 25 Nm of torque at 7250 rpm. This engine, compliant with BS6 Phase 2B emission norms, has been optimized for 2024 with a larger airbox and a revised cylinder head, resulting in a marginal increase in power and torque compared to its predecessor. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, the bike offers smooth gear shifts and excellent control, especially during aggressive downshifts. The inclusion of a ride-by-wire throttle enhances throttle response, making it more precise and responsive across various riding conditions.
The KTM 250 Duke is designed to thrill, with a top speed exceeding 140 kmph, making it one of the fastest in its segment. Its acceleration is brisk, and the engine’s linear power delivery ensures it’s equally adept at city commuting and highway cruising. While the claimed mileage stands at 30.08 kmpl (as tested by experts), real-world user reports suggest it hovers around 32 kmpl, which is respectable for a performance-oriented bike. The larger 15-liter fuel tank—an upgrade from previous models—extends its range, making it a practical choice for longer rides. However, the engine does exhibit some vibrations at higher RPMs, a characteristic trait of KTM’s single-cylinder motors, though it’s less pronounced than in earlier iterations.
Design and Exteriors
The KTM 250 Duke is a visual treat, drawing inspiration from its elder sibling, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The 2024 update introduced a sharper, more muscular design with aggressive lines and a bold stance. The front fascia is dominated by a split LED headlight setup, flanked by sleek LED DRLs, giving it a predatory look. The sculpted fuel tank, with its angular shrouds, not only enhances aerodynamics but also provides better knee grip for the rider. The bike’s steel trellis frame, painted in KTM’s signature orange, is both a structural marvel and a design highlight, adding to its sporty appeal.
The KTM 250 Duke rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in tubeless tires (110/70 front and 150/60 rear), which offer excellent grip and stability. The rear features a minimalist tail section with an LED taillight and a curved swingarm, further accentuating its streetfighter persona. Available in four striking colors—Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, Ceramic White, and Ebony Black—the bike caters to diverse aesthetic preferences. The ground clearance of 176 mm is adequate for Indian roads, though riders may need to exercise caution over larger speed breakers due to the low-slung exhaust.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the KTM 250 Duke offers a rider-centric cockpit that blends functionality with comfort. The seat height of 822 mm is relatively accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of riders, including those upgrading from smaller bikes. The split-seat design provides decent cushioning for the rider, though the pillion seat is compact and firm, prioritizing style over long-distance comfort. The riding posture is upright yet slightly forward-leaning, striking a balance between sportiness and everyday usability. Taller riders might find the legroom slightly cramped, but the wide handlebar ensures good leverage and control.
The instrument cluster is a standout feature—a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, borrowed from the KTM 390 Duke. This full-color screen offers a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and trip data, along with turn-by-turn navigation and music control when paired with a smartphone. The switchgear is intuitive, allowing riders to toggle through menus and control connected devices effortlessly. A USB-C charging port under the display adds practicality, ensuring your devices stay powered on the go.
Advanced Features
The KTM 250 Duke is loaded with advanced features that set it apart in the 250cc segment. The ride-by-wire system ensures precise throttle inputs, while the quickshifter (a rare inclusion at this price point) enables seamless upshifts and downshifts without clutching, enhancing the sporty riding experience. The bike offers two riding modes—Street and Track—allowing riders to tailor performance to their environment. The Track mode, paired with a lap timer, caters to enthusiasts who occasionally hit the racetrack.
Safety is bolstered by a dual-channel ABS system, with a 320 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, providing confident braking power. The slipper clutch minimizes rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts, adding to rider safety and control. While it lacks traction control or cornering ABS (features reserved for higher-end models like the KTM 390 Duke), the 250 Duke’s feature set is impressive for its class, striking a balance between performance and affordability.
Ride and Handling
The KTM 250 Duke excels in the handling department, thanks to its lightweight steel trellis frame and premium suspension setup. The WP APEX USD forks at the front and the adjustable WP APEX monoshock at the rear soak up bumps effectively, though the stiff tuning prioritizes sporty handling over plush comfort. This makes the bike a joy to flick through corners, with a nimble chassis and a well-balanced 162.8 kg kerb weight. The wide tires and low center of gravity inspire confidence, whether you’re weaving through city traffic or carving up twisty roads.
On the flip side, the firm suspension can feel harsh on poorly maintained roads, and the 176 mm ground clearance might scrape on steep inclines. The bike’s agility and responsive steering make it an ideal urban companion, while its highway manners are equally commendable, with stable high-speed performance. The 15-liter fuel tank ensures fewer stops, making it a versatile choice for both short commutes and weekend getaways.
Close Competitors
The KTM 250 Duke operates in a fiercely competitive segment, where it faces off against several capable rivals. Here’s an in-depth look at its closest competitors:
- Bajaj Pulsar N250: Priced at around INR 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Pulsar N250 is a more affordable alternative, powered by a 249cc air-cooled engine producing 24.5 PS and 21.5 Nm. It lacks the refinement and features of the 250 Duke (no quickshifter or TFT display) but offers a comfortable ride and better fuel efficiency (around 35 kmpl). Its softer suspension and lower price make it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers, though it can’t match the KTM’s performance or handling.
- Suzuki Gixxer 250: With an ex-showroom price of approximately INR 1.85 lakh, the Gixxer 250 brings a 249cc oil-cooled engine to the table, delivering 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm. It’s known for its smooth power delivery and excellent build quality, appealing to riders who prioritize refinement over raw aggression. However, it misses out on advanced features like a quickshifter or ride modes, and its design is less striking than the 250 Duke’s.
- Yamaha FZ25: Priced at around INR 1.55 lakh (ex-showroom), the FZ25 is the most affordable in this group, powered by a 249cc air-cooled engine that produces 20.8 PS and 20.1 Nm. It’s a no-frills motorcycle focused on reliability and fuel efficiency (around 40 kmpl), but it lags significantly in performance and features compared to the 250 Duke. Its understated design also lacks the KTM’s bold appeal.
- Husqvarna Vitpilen 250: A sibling to the 250 Duke (sharing the same engine and platform), the Vitpilen 250 is priced at around INR 2.25 lakh (ex-showroom). It offers a unique neo-retro design and a slightly more relaxed riding posture, but its feature set is less extensive (no TFT or quickshifter). It’s a stylish alternative for those who prefer aesthetics over outright performance.
- Hero Xtreme 250R: A newer entrant at approximately INR 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom), the Xtreme 250R boasts a 250cc liquid-cooled engine with competitive power output (exact figures TBD). It aims to challenge the 250 Duke with a modern design and features like LED lighting, but it’s yet to prove its mettle against KTM’s established pedigree.
The KTM 250 Duke stands out for its superior power, advanced features, and razor-sharp handling, though it comes at a premium price. Riders seeking outright performance and a premium experience will gravitate toward it, while those prioritizing affordability or comfort might lean toward alternatives like the Pulsar N250 or Gixxer 250.
Why Choose the KTM 250 Duke?
The KTM 250 Duke is more than just a motorcycle—it’s an experience. Its combination of a potent engine, agile chassis, and modern technology makes it a compelling choice for riders upgrading from 150-200cc bikes or those seeking a manageable yet thrilling machine. The 2024 update has elevated its appeal with a refreshed design, increased power, and a feature-packed TFT display, all while maintaining a competitive price point. It’s not without flaws—vibrations at high RPMs, a firm ride, and limited pillion comfort are notable drawbacks—but these are overshadowed by its strengths.
For Indian riders, the KTM 250 Duke offers a taste of KTM’s racing DNA in a package that’s practical for daily use. Its 15-liter fuel tank and decent mileage ensure versatility, while the quickshifter and ride modes add a layer of excitement rare in this segment. Backed by Bajaj’s extensive service network, after-sales support is another plus, though maintenance costs can be higher than some rivals due to its premium components.
Final Thoughts!
In the crowded 250cc segment, the KTM 250 Duke shines as a performance benchmark, blending aggressive styling, robust engineering, and cutting-edge features. Priced between INR 2.27 lakh and INR 2.95 lakh (on-road) across metro cities, it’s a premium offering that justifies its cost with an unmatched riding experience. Whether you’re navigating city streets or hitting the open road, this bike delivers a thrill that’s hard to match. Against competitors like the Bajaj Pulsar N250, Suzuki Gixxer 250, and Yamaha FZ25, it holds its own with superior power and technology, making it a top pick for enthusiasts. If you’re ready to embrace the “Ready to Race” spirit, the KTM 250 Duke is waiting to ignite your passion for riding.
