Like its big sister 360 Duke, the KTM 125 of the same name is now compatible with the Euro5 standard. The Austrian manufacturer is updating a motorcycle marketed since 2011. Discover the 2021 version.
The KTM Duke 125 meets the Euro 5 standard
KTM continues to conform its Duke range to the Euro 5 standard. After the 390, it is the turn of the 125 to welcome some modifications. The manufacturer has made changes to the frame which now sports a new appearance. In fact, the brand equips the single-cylinder 125cc a tubular lattice frame. In the past, this style was reserved for 200 and 390 cubic centimeters. The revision also includes the addition of a bolt-on subframe.
Coming into force since January 2020, the Euro 5 standard concerns two-wheelers and quads of all cylinder capacities. This approval meets a list of technical requirements, including the limitation of toxic gas emissions. Carbon monoxide must be less than 1000 mg/km. Noise pollution should also remain below 80 decibels.
This motorcycle gives an impression of “déjà vu”
With its restyling, the KTM Duke 125 takes on the look of the 390 which belongs to the same range. The design is copied identically, particularly in terms of the LED headlight. The 125 cm3 is equipped with an LCD dashboard like its big sister. The only difference would be connectivity. In fact, the small roadster does not yet have Bluetooth technology.
For the 2021 model, the manufacturer has kept many of the strong points that make up the very soul of the KTM Duke 125. The front and rear wheels equipped with disc brakes are the same. The telescopic forks and central shock absorber are unchanged. A slight modification is noted on the height of saddle which drops to 822 mm, or 8 mm less than before.
Minor modification to the tank
The makeover concerns the tank of the KTM 125. This new Duke has 13.5 liters of gasoline compared to 11 for the previous editions. This significantly increases the weight of the vehicle. On the scale, it weighs 159 kg with a full tank of fuel. Apart from these slight modifications, Kiska, the design agency of the Austrian brand, has kept most of the characteristic features of the successful roadster. It is in the top 5 best-selling motorcycles in France.
In terms of engine, the Duke 125 is still equipped with a 124.7 cm3 4-stroke single cylinder. It is liquid cooled. Its 14.5 hp are transmitted by chain to the rear wheel. This 150/60 ZR 17 tire develops up to 12 Nm. The gearbox of this 2021 edition includes 6 speeds. Despite its rugged sports appearance, this motorcycle is limited to 115 km/h.
