It's that time of the year - the annual round of updates and upgrades to existing motorcycles are being released by manufacturers, and this time, it is KTM that has fresh new trims for you. It was not too long ago when the news of KTM revising their highly popular 390 Duke for 2024 broke. It was only a matter of time till its younger siblings were revised as well. The Austrian brand has now officially introduced the global 2024 version of its quarter-litre naked, the 250 Duke. The 2024 250 Duke has received extensive aesthetic and mechanical improvements, comparable to its larger 399cc sibling.

KTM recently upgraded all of the three entry-level Duke variants for the global market. The redesigned motorcycle portfolio will be available in a few countries beginning in September 2023. It seems like the time for buying a new naked or even a sports bike is just right - just look at the amount of launches happening in this category! As for the 250 Duke, it is positioned between the 200 Duke and the 390. We discussed the latter extensively in a recent article, and this piece focuses on the 250 Duke. So, without any further ado, these are the most significant things about the 2024 KTM 250 Duke.

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Refurbished Looks Make The 2024 KTM 250 Duke More Aggressive

In contrast to the recently revealed 2024 KTM Duke 390, which receives an extensive aesthetic overhaul, the new Duke 250 gets more of a modest and progressive improvement over its predecessors. Nonetheless, the style of all three new-generation entry-level Dukes is strikingly similar. The 2024 250 Duke's new-age style is considerably more significant, and it starts with the pointy fuel tank fairings that extend all the way to the front forks, and up front, you will find a split-type LED headlight setup with Daytime Running Lamps. The aforementioned fuel tank is now metal, while the rear sub-frame is immediately noticeable.

The base of these changes is the all-new trellis frame, which is complemented by a 790 Duke-like aluminum sub-frame. It lacks panels at the back, which makes the sub-frame an integral component of the bike's rear section. In addition, a new curved swingarm with an offset mono shock (similar to the 390 Duke) is included. It also appears to have distinct, notably less heavy alloy wheels, as well as wider and lighter brake discs. There is a new paint scheme that adds to its visual charisma, and all of this put together gives the new version a more powerful and fierce look than the former trim, which featured an understated chiseled look.

The 2024 Duke Sports A Fresh 250cc Powerplant

The 2024 KTM 250 Duke will be powered by one of the most recent LC4c engines which produces greater power, more uniform acceleration, and most significantly, carries a far lighter total weight than its predecessors. It comes with a fresh new 249cc mill that benefits from decades of expertise gained by KTM in the field of compact engines. Remember that the 2024 KTM 250 Duke is now equipped with an upgraded 6-speed gearbox, a cylinder head that has been optimized, and complies with EURO 5.2 emission requirements.

Although these modifications are substantial, they are not quite as drastic as the KTM 390 Duke's overhaul of the more dated 373cc engine. With 18.4 pound-feet of peak torque and 31 horsepower, we don't expect the power figures to change much. What should remain the same though, is the same magnificent power-to-weight ratio that the Dukes are primarily known for. The previous model (not available in the US) could do 0-60 mph in about 8.6 seconds and could reach the top speed of about 88 mph mark. That was already quite impressive considering the engine size. With the update in the engine, we don't see a dramatic improvement in these numbers to be honest. In any case, if numbers are what get you going, you should consider the 390 Duke that does quite a commendable job when it gets going.

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There Is No Dearth Of Modern Features And Tech

As for the features of the 2024 KTM 250 Duke, there is a new digital console that comes courtesy of a 5-inch LCD that can be configured using the new switchgear mounted on its tubular handlebar. You will also get a Bluetooth connection, allowing you to take calls, play tunes, and make use of turn-by-turn navigation in addition to other features. The rider is able to disable the dual-channel ABS on the motorcycle, and there is your standard ride-by-wire as an option as well. These changes are similar to those found on the new KTM 390 Duke and will be specifically appreciated by riders who need both connectivity and performance from their tech.

It is not all just tech though as the hardware sees some nifty overhaul as well on this bike. Starting with the suspension - the 250 Duke's chassis is supported by 150mm travel on both ends, owing to 43mm WP Apex front forks that offer rebounding and compression adjustments, and a new off-set, preload variable mono-shock at the rear. A new 320mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, that support dual-channel ABS provide safe stopping power. The stock seat height is 800 mm; however, the KTM PowerParts kit allows for an increase to 820 mm.

The 2024 Duke Will Arrive In American Dealerships Soon

With its contemporary style, cutting-edge features and advanced hardware on offer, the KTM 250 Duke promises to deliver a thrilling riding experience. Talking about direct competition, there are far and few. However, the likes of Benelli 302S, Yamaha MT-03 AND Honda CB300R are some bikes that can be considered as alternatives. These motorcycles, however, come with bigger engines and belong to different price categories altogether. So, it will be interesting to see how big a market the updated 250 Duke is able to build for itself in the USA. It is widely anticipated that the revised version will be released soon in the States.

Now, it is no secret that the Dukes are well-known for being among the most expensive options in each of their respective categories, so a price increase for the 250 Duke will undoubtedly draw some attention. According to our estimates, the cost of the 2024 KTM 250 Duke could be around the $5,000 mark, up by a few extra hundred dollars given the types of changes the next-generation model offers. However, there aren't quite as well-packaged offerings in the sub 250cc naked category anyway, so that might well work in the Austrian brand's favor. Now, all we can do is wait…