KTM 390 Duke vs Triumph Speed 400: Specifications Compared

Both bikes are fighting for the sub-400cc roadster segment. 

• The Speed 400 packs a 398cc engine making 40PS and 37.5Nm. 
• At Rs 2.33 lakh, the Speed 400 packs incredible value for money. 
• KTM, meanwhile, has priced the 390 Duke at Rs 2.97 lakh. 

When we took the new Triumph Speed 400 for a solo ride, it immediately struck us how reminiscent it was of the KTM 390 Duke. The sense of speed, agility, the captivating sound, and the slender feel between the legs seemed to draw parallels between the two. 

Intrigued by these similarities, we decided to bring the two bikes together for a back-to-back test to explore their true nature. Surprisingly, the testing unveiled that these bikes are actually quite distinct, each possessing unique characteristics.

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke: Design & Features

Back in 2017, the 390 Duke underwent a significant aesthetic transformation, adopting the striking design language of the 1290 Super Duke. This makeover gave it a bold and aggressive appearance, highlighted by a sharp and sporty LED headlight and elongated tank extensions. Its design was further enhanced with a flat and wide handlebar and a visible bolt-on rear sub-frame, creating a captivating contrast.

In terms of lighting, the 390 Duke boasts an all-LED setup, complemented by a colored TFT display that offers Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and music control. However, it's worth noting that the display lacks any navigation option. 

Safety features are well-covered with the inclusion of Super moto ABS, which comes with a switchable rear-ABS function, and a bi-directional quickshifter is also provided as a standard feature, ensuring a seamless and dynamic riding experience.

The Triumph Speed 400 boasts a stylish neo-retro design featuring an array of circular elements. Its rounded headlight exudes a classic charm, while the sleek taillight and indicators add a touch of modernity. The elegantly contoured fuel tank seamlessly blends into the single-piece seat, creating a visually pleasing profile. The clean tail section, accompanied by the chunky 150-section rear tire and upswept exhaust, adds to the bike's overall appeal.

Equipped with all-LED lighting, bar-end mirrors, switchable traction control, and Bosch dual-channel ABS, the Triumph Speed 400 ensures top-notch safety and convenience. The semi-digital instrument cluster, though lacking smartphone connectivity or navigation, provides a wealth of information, including a gear position indicator, distance-to-empty readout, and essential tell-tale lights. Moreover, a convenient USB-C port is thoughtfully integrated to keep electronic devices mounted on the handlebar charged during your rides.

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke: Engines

Although the KTM's engine displacement of 373cc is smaller than the Triumph's 398cc, it manages to produce more peak power at 43.5hp compared to the Triumph's 40hp. While their torque figures are quite close, with 37.5Nm for the Triumph and 37Nm for the KTM, the Triumph's peak torque is generated at lower revs.

Despite these seemingly similar numbers, the performance of the two bikes feels vastly different. Riding them back-to-back, the KTM exhibits a rather lethargic and weak response at the bottom of the rev range. It demands significant throttle input to get going and feels rough and juddery at low speeds. 

However, from around 4000rpm and above, the engine comes alive, delivering a satisfying and enjoyable performance as the tachometer climbs. It pulls cleanly and forcefully, and the vibrations noticeably decrease, culminating in an exhilarating rush from 8000 to 10,000rpm that always brings excitement.

On the other hand, the Triumph's motor offers a distinct experience. It may not provide a high RPM rush, but it excels in tractability and mid-range power. Right from idle, the engine feels smooth, willing, and eager, making it a joy to ride at low RPMs in urban environments with minimal throttle input. 

As the revs reach around 3 to 4 thousand RPM, it awakens and surges forward with enthusiasm. The power continues to build strongly until about 7 to 7.5 thousand RPM, after which it gradually tapers off as the redline at 9.2k RPM approaches. 

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

The Speed 400 strikes a perfect balance between sportiness and comfort, ensuring an enjoyable ride for its users. Thanks to its thoughtfully tuned inverted fork and monoshock suspension, the bike glides smoothly over Indian roads, offering a surprisingly comfortable experience. 

Even when faced with our notorious rough terrains and sizable potholes, the bike remains composed and handles them effectively. Regardless of riders' varying sizes and body shapes, they will find the Speed 400 to be remarkably accommodating and comfortable throughout their journeys.

The 390 Duke, though, displays its sporty intentions here too. It feels a fair bit stiffer than the Speed 400 and lighter riders will definitely be bounced around a fair bit. While it’s not as harsh as the case was with the first-gen Dukes, the bike’s still a stiffly sprung bike.

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke: Dimensions

As mentioned before, the Speed 400 offers an exhilarating and captivating riding experience, and we truly relished pushing it to its limits. Its lightweight construction and agility make it a joy to handle, and with a segment-leading weight of 170kg, it stands out in terms of maneuverability. Additionally, the 790mm seat height ensures accessibility for riders of various shapes and sizes, catering to a broad range of enthusiasts. 

A noteworthy feature for touring enthusiasts is its generous 13-liter fuel tank, providing ample capacity to embark on memorable journeys without worrying about frequent refueling stops.

Triumph Speed 400 vs KTM 390 Duke: Price

The Triumph Speed 400 has a price of Rs 2,33,000 (ex-showroom Delhi). Triumph is also offering an introductory price of Rs 2,23,000 for the first 10,000 customers. The bike is available in a single variant and comes in three colour options: Carnival Red/Phantom Black, Caspian Blue/Storm Grey, and Phantom Black/Storm Grey.

On the other hand, the KTM 390 Duke is available in a single variant with a price tag of Rs 2,97,475 (ex-showroom Delhi). It comes in two colour options: Dark Galvano and Liquid Metal.

Verdict

Priced at an astonishing Rs 2.33 lakh, the Speed 400 stands as an incredibly capable motorcycle, offering remarkable value for money that's almost hard to believe. In contrast, the Duke has seen a gradual increase in price over the years and currently sits at Rs 2.97 lakh, making it over Rs 60,000 more expensive than the Triumph. 

However, the Duke justifies its higher price tag by providing additional features such as adjustable levers, a bi-directional quickshifter, and a Bluetooth-equipped TFT display. On the other hand, Triumph opted for a simpler dash with smart digi-analogue clocks (without Bluetooth), but it compensates by incorporating traction control, a feature missing in the KTM.

If your priorities lean towards a motorcycle with more character and excitement, then the KTM is the better choice. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that a brand new KTM 390 Duke is on the horizon, promising to bring the most significant update since its original launch a decade ago. This upcoming version may introduce even more thrilling features and enhancements, making it an exciting prospect for avid riders.