This Custom KTM 390 Duke Is Ready To Race!

Rajputana Custom’s latest work of art sheds the Austrian naked’s modern appeal for a retro-themed racer

When you think of KTM, you seldom think of smooth lines and retro vibes (they have that covered with the Husqvarnas). From the 1290 Super Duke R to the RC 125, it is fair to say that the brand’s design language is far from conventional. But in the hands of Jaipur-based Rajputana Customs, the 390 Duke has been transformed into a retro-looking machine ready to clock serious lap times.

Christened the Kush, this Duke leaves almost no trace of its life as the orange crotch rocket it once was. The bike features a new fascia, tank, a stubbier subframe, wire-spoked rims and a custom exhaust system. That’s isn’t all--once a naked, the bike now gets clip-on handlebars and racing slicks. And though it might seem weird, Rajputana isn’t new to building retro-themed track machines (remember the Vigilante?). It should be a hoot to ride around the track, especially with KTM’s cracker of an engine and the precise chassis coupled with the weight loss in the transformation.

The bike gets twin LED bars in place of the headlight and a pair of auxiliary lights mounted onto the frame. The subframe gets a unique tail light with four LED bars stacked horizontally. However, the bike doesn’t seem to sport indicators, mirrors, front fender and sports slicks, making its street legality questionable.

Rajputana has given a slight update to the braking as well. Replacing the stock front brake system is the new master cylinder and lever from Brembo. However, the disc as well as the caliper seem to be stock.

Mechanically, the Kush hasn’t been tinkered with. It continues to be powered by the 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine belting 43.5PS and 37Nm. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox which is paired with a slip and assist clutch as well as a bi-directional quickshifter (2020 model onwards).

Though Rajputana Customs hasn’t disclosed the pricing of this project, going by the exquisite paint job and the extensive list of updates, it looks like one expensive mod job.