KTM campaigns on “a Duke naked motorcycle for everyone” with the introduction of its affordable 200 Duke ($3,999). Although new for the US market, the 2020 Duke 200 is a second-generation platform that boasts a fully redesigned engine as compared to the existing 390 Duke.
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Although small in terms of displacement (and price), the Duke 200 is big on capability-as we learned after riding it in the city, around the go-kart track, and across autobahn-like SoCal freeways. With its low seat and 340-pound curb weight, the Duke is easy to ride for virtually any able-bodied person. It’s nimble, easy to park, yet it feels like a real 3/4-sized motorcycle as compared to minimoto bikes from Big Red and Team Green. Sensible ergonomics make for a comfortable cockpit for a wide range of riders, including this 6-foot pilot. There’s also room for a passenger.
KTM has a knack for engineering good-performing single-cylinder engines, and this 199cc power unit is one of its finest. The engine offers a smooth spread of propulsion with a rev-happy powerband. We are especially keen on the 10,000 rpm power surge/hit which makes for a more entertaining ride. Although the engine is only good for 22 ponies at the business end of the Michelin Road 5 tire (and 13.13 pound-feet at 8,060 rpm), the Duke can accelerate hard from a stop for those not afraid of working the six-speed gearbox. It is freeway capable too, with an 87 mph top speed. It’s easy on fuel, as well, with it averaging 51 mpg during high-rpm riding.
Even at high speeds, the engine isn’t as buzzy as other singles, including KTM’s own 390. It also offers a pleasing and meaty-sounding exhaust note. The suspension components offer nearly 5 inches of travel and deliver fair ride quality over rough pavement, yet still provide acceptable damping at a sport-oriented pace. You’re still going to feel big bumps, but it rides well for its price.
The OE-fitted Michelins have plenty of grip for a trackday, and the ABS-enabled brakes are equally capable. Rear ABS can be manually disabled, if desired. A more simple LCD keeps tabs on machine vitals. It’s a tad small, yet again, considering its price, we won’t knock it. There’s no LED lighting either, but the halogen-bulb headlight performs better than expected during night rides.
This KTM 200 is more adept than any other sub-250cc-displacement bikes we’ve ridden recently. It’s easy to ride, has enough power to get the blood pumping, and offers a level of exhilaration, even in a more experienced rider’s hands. Then, of course, there’s its appearance. We’re big fans of its aggressive praying mantis-like lines, which are in line with the rest of the Duke family. Build quality and fit and finish also show tremendous improvement from first-generation 390s. Riders seeking a fun, affordable, and versatile bike regardless of their level of expertise will appreciate the fun-sized factor of KTM’s 200 Duke.
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