2011 KTM Duke 125 photos and specifications revealed

After making its first appearance in 2009’s European bike shows, Austrian manufacturer KTM has officially released photos and technical specifications of its Duke 125 street bike.

The Duke 125 is targeted at youth and entry-level riders. The 125 stands for 125 cc – serving a graduated licensing system that caps engine size at 125cc for beginners.

The Duke 125 gets its grunt from a liquid-cooled fuel-injected powerplant with a claimed output of 15 bhp at 10,500 rpm and 8.9 lb-ft torque at 8000 rpm. The engine is fed its power via a six speed transmission. Top speed however, is electronically limited to 80 kmph. This might be only for Europe and could get changed for different countries where the Duke 125 might be sold. In India, for example, the Duke 125 will be sold by Bajaj Auto and the restrictions would not apply.

Photo: 2011 KTM Duke 125

The bike looks like a total beauty, albeit a small one. The photos of the Duke 125 reveal a muscular fuel tank with the seats and rear end tapering off at a high angle. The low slung exhaust has a short reach and finishes off just behind the engine.

The Duke 125’s suspension unit consists of an inverted 43mm fork and rear shock, with both units offering 6.3 inches of travel.

KTM developed the single disc brakes at the front and rear with the guidance of industry-leader Brembo. The bike is a lightweight unit as well. With its 11-liter gas tank full, the little zapper weighs in at a lithe 112 kgs. The bike will be built in India to keep costs down but expect total KTM quality control.

Photo: The KTM DUke 125 is small but aggressive-looking

The beginner Duke’s styling can befit a larger Duke as well. For the time being, the speculation is that the bike will be available in two variants – track and stunt. But we expect more variants going further.

The KTM 125 Duke is expected in European dealerships in March next year, but no word on whether it will be imported to the United States . Unfortunately, we think not. Till we get our hands on one, here are some photos for your viewing pleasure . . . Enjoy!

KTM 125 Duke 2011 specifications

Engine: Four-stroke Single, 4-valve DOHC
Displacement: 124.7 cc
Bore x Stroke: 58 x 47.2mm
Peak horsepower: 15 hp @10,500 rpm
Peak torque: 8.9 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm
Starter /Battery: Electric starter
Transmission: 6 gears
Fueling: Electronic fuel injection
Final drive: 14:45
Cooling: Liquid cooled
Clutch: Multi-disc wet clutch, hydraulically operated
Frame: Chromium-Molybdenum trellis frame, steel subframe
Front suspension: Inverted WP 43mm fork, 6.3 inches travel
Rear suspension: WP monoshock, 6.3 inches travel
Front brake: 280mm disc
Rear brake: 230mm disc
Tires front/rear: 110/70 x 17 x 150/60 x 17
Trail: 3.9 inches
Wheelbase: 53.1 inches
Seat height: 31.9 inches
Fuel tank: 2.9 gallons
Curb Weight: 282 pounds