Six and a half years have passed since the rumor of the arrival of a new 490 mechanic to the ranks of KTM began to spread strongly. Now the sighting of a mule proves the future 490 Duke It finally confirms to us that this idea is on its way to materializing. Specifically at some point next season, or that is what some Indian media that have reported the news for the first time are betting on.
KTM 490 Duke 2027?: what we know
Just a few weeks ago the “orange brand” announced its future RC for the A2: 56 HP, less weight and a scandalous price. However, this one, initially intended for Asian markets, is not equipped with the supposed new mechanics that the brand has been working on for a few years. In this case we are looking at a redesigned version of the CFMoto 450SR-S, powered by the well-known 449.5 cc in-line twin engine from the Chinese firm.
In the case of the 490 Duke, as well as the rest of the models expected within this new intermediate range, RC 490 and ADV 490, among others, we would be facing a new platform developed in collaboration with Bajaj. The idea is to be able to offer an intermediate option between the current 390 Duke and 790 Duke, while at the same time filling the gap of the now extinct “six ninety”, with a maximum power of around 60 HP, most likely with a 48 HP variant intended for A2 license holders.
In general terms, a motorcycle is expected that will keep the design features of its range sisters practically unchanged. Perhaps closer to the larger displacement variant, given the arrangement of the new parallel twin-cylinder mechanics. Other notable aspects that will characterize the model, as confirmed in these first images, would be a WP suspension system, with an inverted front fork and a rear monoshock.
Braking is very likely to also be provided by the same brand, with a front radial caliper and a single disc on the front axle. On the other hand, despite the initial development phase in which the model is located, a chassis section presided over by a tubular steel chassis and a double-arm rear swingarm made of aluminum can be sensed. Also worth mentioning is the side exhaust system with a stylized muffler of careful proportions.
Beyond these purely technical aspects, there are other details surrounding the development and manufacturing of this 490 Duke that are interesting to discuss. For example, Bajaj Auto will be in charge of the same and subsequent distribution in India and the main European markets. As we discussed earlier, it will probably be produced at the Bajaj plant in Chakan, near Pune.
This underlines the company’s role as a global development and manufacturing center for KTM, well beyond being a majority shareholder. Finally, it is not clear when the final version of this 490 Duke would be officially presented. Everything indicates that EICMA 2026 could be the chosen location, with the first months of 2027 being the ideal time for its commercial launch, although both assumptions would still be confirmed.
