KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: In the ever-evolving world of performance-oriented streetfighters, two names are currently locking horns in the Indian market KTM 390 Duke and the newly launched Aprilia Tuono 457.
Both bikes promise adrenaline-pumping performance, aggressive styling, and a tech-laden experience. But which one truly deserves your garage space?
Let’s break it down.
KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: Design
The KTM 390 Duke has always been unapologetically aggressive. Its sharp tank extensions, exposed trellis frame, and futuristic LED headlamp scream street hooligan. The 2025 update adds even more muscle to its stance.
The Aprilia Tuono 457, on the other hand, brings Italian flair with a sportbike-inspired silhouette and a more mature design language. It’s less in-your-face than the Duke but exudes sophistication.
Ergonomically, the Duke offers a more upright and relaxed riding posture, ideal for city commutes and weekend blasts. The Tuono leans slightly forward, offering a sportier stance that may strain the lower back over long rides—especially on Indian roads.
KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: Engine
- KTM 390 Duke : 398.6cc, single-cylinder, 45.3 bhp @ 8,500 rpm, 39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Aprilia Tuono 457: 457cc, parallel-twin, 46.9 bhp @ 9,400 rpm, 43.5 Nm @ 6,700 rpm
On paper, the Tuono edges ahead with more power and torque, thanks to its twin-cylinder layout. It delivers a smoother, more refined powerband—ideal for highway touring and spirited corner carving.
The Duke, however, is no slouch. Its punchy low-end torque and supermoto-like agility make it a riot in urban traffic and twisty backroads. It’s raw, visceral, and thrilling traits that have made it a cult favorite.
KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: Features
The 390 Duke is loaded to the gills—cornering ABS, traction control, ride modes, a bi-directional quickshifter, and even cruise control. It’s a tech fest that rivals bikes twice its price.
The Tuono 457 offers three riding modes, switchable ABS and traction control, and preload-adjustable suspension. However, features like the quickshifter and adjustable levers are optional extras—costing a premium.
The Duke’s WP Apex suspension setup is fully adjustable and tuned for Indian conditions. It feels planted yet playful, making it a joy to flick through traffic or attack corners.
The Tuono’s aluminium perimeter frame offers excellent stability and composure at high speeds. It feels more mature and confidence-inspiring on highways but slightly less nimble in tight city spaces.
Build Quality & Practicality
Aprilia’s build quality is commendable, but some cost-cutting is evident—like basic switchgear and a flimsy key. KTM, in its latest avatar, feels more premium and better put together.
In terms of practicality, the Duke’s upright stance, better mileage (~31 kmpl), and lower kerb weight (168 kg vs Tuono’s 175 kg) make it more suited for daily use.
KTM 390 Duke vs Aprilia Tuono 457: Which bike is best option?
- KTM 390 Duke : ₹2.95 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Aprilia Tuono 457: ₹3.95 lakh (ex-showroom)
That’s a full ₹1 lakh difference. While the Tuono offers a twin-cylinder experience and Italian charm, the Duke delivers more bang for your buck with better features, lower ownership costs, and a wider service network.
If you’re a performance purist who values refinement, exclusivity, and weekend thrills, the Aprilia Tuono 457 is a compelling choice. But for the majority of Indian riders—who want a daily-friendly, feature-rich, and wallet-wise machine—the KTM 390 Duke remains the undisputed king of the sub-400cc streetfighter segment.
In short: Tuono for the heart, Duke for the head.
Also Read: Tesla to Open First India Showrooms in July 2025 with Made-in-China Model Y EVs
By
