Sophie's Choice

You can have both the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and KTM 390 Duke for roughly the same price! So, what would you choose – the modern classic or the aggressive hooligan?

- Ravi Ved

You can have both the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and KTM 390 Duke for roughly the same price! So, what would you choose – the modern classic or the aggressive hooligan?

Before we begin, let me make something clear first. This is an unusual comparison, for these bikes have hardly anything in common, except for the fact that they both have two wheels. The KTM 390 Duke is a street naked, and the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 is a modern classic roadster. You see, nothing in common! They’re miles apart in terms of body style and dynamics. So, why the comparison? Well, that’s a fair question. And the answer lies in their price – this one factor is what puts them both in the same league.

The 390 Duke and the Interceptor 650 can both be had for roughly the same amount of money – around `2.5 lakh (exshowroom). Moreover, in terms of outright performance, they are very similar too. So, if you’re out there in the market for a motorcycle that can do it all – from regular commutes to weekend rides – there’s more in common here than meets the eye. But which one? We spent a few days with both to help you make the decision.

Hulk vs Bruce Banner

There’s just so much to like about the 390 Duke, and the engine is right at the centre of it all. The Duke is powered by a 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor that’s good for 43bhp and 37Nm of torque. Out on the road, the 390’s motor is so energetic and lively that it’s hard not to have fun. The motor is rev-happy, with a strong mid-range and crisp acceleration. And in its 0 to 100km/h run, it’s as fast as the Ford Mustang. Now, that’s a proper pocket rocket!