25 hp KTM Duke 200 in USA

[wheelbender6]

KTM has surprised everybody by offering the smaller 200cc Duke in the US. A few dealers have them on the showroom floor already.
-Why does it matter? Because the Duke 200 has 25 HP and an MSRP $3999.
However;
While the MSRP of the Duke 200 is only $1,300 more than the Lifan KP 200, the little Dukes are sold in brick and mortar stores.
-I doubt you can drive a Duke 200 out of the dealer for less than $4,800.
-At times, internet vendors will sell the Lifan KP 200s for less than MSRP. If you can find such a deal, the KP costs a little more than half of the Duke 200 (and the Lifan has over 2/3 of the hp of the KTM).
-We now have many affordable choices in the US for a 25 hp bike; $3999 KTM, $4000ish CSC or a $5000ish RE Himalayan. Its a good problem to have.

[culcune]

Interesting development! I am guessing the 200s are also made in India like their 390 big brother. The Lifan is still an attractive bike to me due to the price.

[wheelbender6]

If you like Orange.

[Falkon45]

As an owner of a rc390, I'd say, how much do you want to pay? The Duke 200 is a great idea, but the QC issues are still something to worry about. But, essentially, you're paying for more hp and ABS. So the price difference makes sense. And a bigger dealer network to help with the mishaps.

[wheelbender6]

Here is a road test at the link. I did't realize that KTM has produced this bike for 10 years.'
https://www.motorcycle.com/manufactu...irst-ride.html