Motorcycle specifications KTM125 Duke 2026 Duke between the streets

An update in 2026 for the most affordable Duke. Two new colors, but above all, improved engine management and a higher top speed. It can already hear the excited glances of those who pass it. Because the streets are anything but quiet: Dukes are prowling, more menacing with each generation. In 2024, KTM completely revamped its 125, both structurally and visually. Close up shop, the fangs are out.

From its first appearance in 2011, the little Duke made a big impression. But it was not until 2017 that it really made its mark, with a taut, incisive design. Now it's back with an even sharper face, much more prominent shoulders in the style of the 1290 Superduke R, a more paunchy rear section and an all-new chassis.

It's instantly clear that Mattighofen is taking a step forward in the evocation of its beloved little bike. The side-mounting of the APEX shock absorber required a new frame (more torsionally rigid) and swingarm assembly. This rather uncommon configuration (especially on the Kawa ER-6 or Ducati Panigale) allows better access to adjustment (only preload), frees up space for the exhaust and airbox, but above all, the Duke can offer more suspension travel while lowering the seat height. It drops to 800 mm from the ground. If required, a trip to the Powerparts catalog will provide you with a higher seat (as well as a Remus pot, decorative parts, muffler covering, etc.).
The 43mm diameter WP APEX upside-down fork slides an extra 8mm - so all suspension lines get 150mm of travel.

If you're going to rebuild the frame, you might as well do the whole rear end too. KTM has replaced the tubular steel subframe with a die-cast aluminum cradle. The design is as aggressive as you could wish for, perhaps less "light" visually but paying off on the scales.

as well as being one of the most tenacious, the Duke 125 cultivates its image as a stunt rider. This new generation is equipped with a Supermoto ABS (the rear is deactivated) that is equally reactive when cornering. An optional Up & Down Shifter is also available.

The engine unit has been prepared for the future. Euro5 has been digested by virtually all brands, and the future lies in E5+, or E5.2. The mono LC4c is updated with an optimized cylinder head containing fewer components and less weight. Engineers take the opportunity to revise the gearbox, Ride-by-Wire and anti-dribble clutch.

Have you noticed that the front brake assembly has changed sides? It doesn't really matter, because the main thing is in the specs. With the electronic upgrade seen above (ABS supermot' cornering) but also the increase in disc size. From 300 mm to 320 mm, still with a 4-piston radial Bybre caliper; while the rear gains 10 mm (240 mm) and a 2-piston caliper instead of one. Not bad for an 8th-liter.

This little street-savvy bike was the first to offer a TFT dashboard in its class(in 2017). The type is obviously carried over, with a 5-inch glued-glass panel and new functions: a stopwatch, a speed limiter function, connectivity with the KTMconnect App to control your smartphone, calls and music, and the last but not least, luminous controls.

This 125 Duke III also features a number of small changes: a new place for the turn signals, a redesigned front fender, restyled commodos, new footrest supports, a new fork crown, a revised metal fuel tank, more foam in the saddles, Michelin Road 5 tires, wheels with fewer spokes - combined with the lighter front brake, the machine promises more liveliness with its lightened front end. This should compensate for the significant overall weight gain. The bike has gone from 139 to 154 kilos! To which must be added the 15 liters of fuel (+ 1.6 liters). The new mini-Duke weighs in at 165 kilos. An increase worthy of a large television set.

Where does all this mass come from, when the Duke has made efforts all over the place!?!! No info on that.... Even under its belly. The hoof is gone; a tall order, especially with the view of the infamous catalytic converter; which the former appendage would have wisely stashed away.

But that's not what's going to turn people away from this urban prowler. KTM cultivates its 125's identity to perfection, with an unmistakable verve. The price tag matches its pretensions, making the Duke a 125 that's not cheap, but one that makes a style statement.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos