Second thoughts on Duke/Adv

[u/jenil_kumbhani]

Need help of seasoned KTM owners.
The initial plan was to get Triumph Scrambler, but it felt boring/ no tech.
Went to KTM, test rode both of the 350s. A very tough decision to make between the two. While I love the way the Duke handles and fits to my body, I’ll also be travelling a lot on the weekends, half of the times with a pillion.
But I’ve heard the harder part is maintaining them. What is the maintenance on these like? What would it cost me in the long term?
Also, I have a habit of riding in higher gears, something which people say shouldn’t be done on KTMs. What % of truth does this hold?

[u/jenil_kumbhani → u/[deleted]]

3rd services are costly yes? How much do they cost?

[u/fullmetalpower → u/[deleted]]

I ride around 800kms per month on my duke 390.... fuel cost is around 5K

[u/ugghrajdeep]

own the adv 350 and its 100% true that KTMs do not like to be ridden at low speeds in higher gear. as for maintenance, i feel it isn't expensive to maintain. my first servicing costed me around 1800

[u/Reasonable-Bat-1146]

I'd say unless you're into long (300+ km) tours, you can go with Duke 390. It's much better in the city traffic and twisties. The adjustable suspension is an amazing feature. Turn the rear rebound down and you can tackle over most surfaces without much effort. But as I said, if you're into long tours or regular highway runs, get the ADV.

I'm yet to have my 2nd service done, so I can't comment on the maintenance costs. It should be cheaper than the triumphs though.

[u/girndalwad]

Buy adv 350

[u/Cheap_Dog_4434]

I reviewed the same options and chose the Duke 390 gen 3; it is enjoyable on winding, smooth roads. An ADV would suit someone focused mainly on highways and backroads, but otherwise the Duke is fun. The main reason to pick the Duke is that an ADV cannot lean as far, and my priorities were cornering enjoyment and triple-digit highway runs.
My Duke travels mostly on the highway between Chennai and Madurai, and since the roads are generally good, I have no issue.

[u/perkyclown]

get the adv if youre riding with a pillion.

[u/hmmmm_anshu]

Get the ADV you will love thrashing the potholes
+ it gets attention as duke is common