KTM Duke 250 Review: Power-Packed Street Performance at an Affordable Price

The KTM Duke 250 stands as a dynamic blend of raw power, aggressive design, and real-world usability—crafted for riders who crave excitement without sacrificing everyday practicality. Nestled between the entry-level Duke 200 and the more extreme Duke 390, the Duke 250 has carved out its niche as the ideal middleweight naked bike. It’s powerful enough to thrill experienced riders and approachable enough for newer enthusiasts stepping into the world of performance motorcycling.

KTM Duke 250 Review: Power-Packed Street Performance at an Affordable Price

Designed and engineered by the Austrian powerhouse KTM, the Duke 250 embodies the brand’s racing DNA with refined aggression, premium components, and street-smart technology. Whether you’re commuting through city traffic, hitting the twisties on the weekend, or simply enjoying the daily ride, the Duke 250 offers a riding experience that feels purposeful and engaging—without the intimidation or price tag of larger machines.

In this article, we take an in-depth look at what makes the 2025 KTM Duke 250 one of the most well-rounded machines in its class, from its performance and handling to design, features, and ownership value.

Summary Table: KTM Duke 250

Feature Details
Engine 248.8cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC
Power & Torque 31 PS @ 9,000 RPM, 25 Nm @ 7,250 RPM
Transmission 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
Frame Steel trellis main frame with aluminum subframe
Suspension WP APEX 43mm USD front forks, WP APEX rear monoshock
Brakes Front: 320mm disc with radial caliper; Rear: 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper; Dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode
Wheels & Tires 17-inch cast alloy wheels with 110mm front and 150mm rear tires
Instrumentation 5″ LCD display with smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation
Lighting Full LED headlight and taillight
Seat Height 800 mm (optional 820 mm seat available)
Fuel Tank Capacity 13.5 liters
Weight 161 kg (dry)
Price (Ex-showroom) ₹2.39 lakh (India)
Official Website KTM India – 250 Duke

Design and Aesthetics

The 2025 Duke 250 showcases KTM’s signature aggressive styling with sharp lines and a muscular stance. The exposed steel trellis frame, now paired with a pressure die-cast aluminum subframe, not only enhances the bike’s rigidity but also contributes to its lightweight structure. The LED headlight with integrated DRLs and the sculpted fuel tank add to its streetfighter appeal.(Bajaj Auto)

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Duke 250 is a 248.8cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine delivering 31 PS and 25 Nm of torque. The DOHC setup with four valves ensures efficient airflow and combustion, resulting in responsive acceleration and a broad powerband. The 6-speed gearbox, complemented by a slipper clutch, allows for smooth gear shifts and prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifting.(Bajaj Auto, Bajaj Auto)

Chassis and Handling

The new steel trellis frame combined with the aluminum subframe provides a balanced chassis that excels in both urban environments and twisty roads. The WP APEX 43mm upside-down front forks and the WP APEX rear monoshock offer 142mm and 150mm of travel, respectively, ensuring a comfortable ride over varied terrains. The bike’s 17-inch cast alloy wheels, shod with 110mm front and 150mm rear tires, provide excellent grip and stability.(Bajaj Auto, KTM – READY TO RACE | United States)

Braking and Safety

Braking duties are handled by a 320mm front disc with a radial caliper and a 240mm rear disc with a twin-piston caliper. The dual-channel ABS system, developed by Bosch, includes a Supermoto mode that allows riders to disable rear ABS for more control during aggressive riding.(Bajaj Auto)

Technology and Features

The Duke 250 is equipped with a 5″ LCD instrument cluster that offers a wealth of information, including gear position, fuel range, and trip data. The system also supports smartphone connectivity, enabling turn-by-turn navigation and music control. LED lighting ensures visibility in all conditions, and the bike’s ergonomics have been refined for improved rider comfort.(KTM – READY TO RACE | United States)

Ergonomics and Comfort

With a standard seat height of 800 mm, the Duke 250 caters to a wide range of riders. An optional 820 mm seat is available for those seeking a taller stance. The redesigned seat offers better cushioning and support, making longer rides more comfortable. The footpegs and handlebar position have been optimized for a sporty yet comfortable riding posture.(Bajaj Auto)

Pricing and Availability

Priced at ₹2.39 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, the 2025 KTM Duke 250 offers a compelling package for riders seeking performance and practicality. The bike is available in two color options: Electric Orange and Ceramic White. For more details, visit the official KTM India website.(KTM – READY TO RACE | United States, Bajaj Auto)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the fuel efficiency of the KTM Duke 250?

A: The Duke 250 offers a mileage of approximately 30-35 km/l, depending on riding conditions and habits.

Q: Does the Duke 250 come with ride modes?

A: While the Duke 250 doesn’t have multiple ride modes, it features a Supermoto ABS mode that allows more control during aggressive riding.(Bajaj Auto)

Q: Is the seat height adjustable?

A: The standard seat height is 800 mm, but an optional 820 mm seat is available through KTM PowerParts.(KTM – READY TO RACE | United States)

Q: What are the color options available?

A: The 2025 Duke 250 is available in Electric Orange and Ceramic White.(KTM – READY TO RACE | United States)

Q: Does the bike support smartphone connectivity?

A: Yes, the 5″ LCD display supports smartphone connectivity for navigation and music control.(KTM – READY TO RACE | United States)

The 2025 KTM Duke 250 stands out as a versatile and performance-oriented motorcycle that doesn’t compromise on daily usability. Its blend of aggressive styling, advanced features, and accessible performance makes it a top choice for riders seeking excitement and practicality in one package.

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