Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM 250 Duke – Which 250cc Bike Should You Buy in 2025?
The Indian motorcycle market is buzzing with excitement in the 250cc bike segment. Two names that are creating a lot of buzz are the Hero Xtreme 250R and the KTM 250 Duke. Both motorcycles are stylish, powerful, and feature-packed — but they cater to very different riders.
So, which one truly deserves a spot in your garage? Let’s break it down in detail.
Engine and Performance
When it comes to engine performance, both bikes are almost neck and neck on paper.
The Hero Xtreme 250R is powered by a 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivers 30 PS of power and 25 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slipper clutch, making gear shifts smoother during both traffic and spirited rides.
The KTM 250 Duke, on the other hand, gets the same 249cc liquid-cooled engine, but with a slightly more performance-oriented setup. It produces 31 PS of power and 25 Nm of torque, with a Quickshifter+ for clutchless upshifts — something you won’t find in most bikes in this range.
If refinement and reliability are your priorities, the Hero does the job beautifully. But if you crave raw power and racing performance, the KTM 250 Duke takes the lead.
Hero Xtreme 250R side view on road
Design and Styling
The Hero Xtreme 250R sports an aggressive and muscular design language. The sharp LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, and dynamic body panels give it a proper streetfighter appeal. It’s bold without being over-the-top — a balance that many riders will appreciate.
Meanwhile, the KTM 250 Duke continues its tradition of aggressive European styling. The exposed steel trellis frame, sharp tank shrouds, and split LED headlights make it look pure performance. The build quality and finish levels are top-notch, living up to KTM’s premium image.
In terms of visual appeal, the KTM 250 Duke is a showstopper, while the Hero Xtreme 250R impresses with a more balanced and mature design.
Read More: Best Low Maintenance Bike
Features and Technology
Hero has stepped up its game by offering modern features such as LED lighting, Bluetooth-enabled digital console, dual-channel ABS, and switchable rear ABS mode. These features make it a practical yet sporty option for daily riders.
The KTM 250 Duke, however, goes all in with its 5-inch TFT color display, ride-by-wire throttle, Quickshifter+, WP Apex suspension, and SuperMoto-mode ABS. These advanced features make the Duke one of the most tech-rich bikes in the 250cc category.
When it comes to technology and performance features, KTM wins hands down. But the Hero still packs enough modern touches for its price.
Top Speed and Mileage
The Hero Xtreme 250R clocks a top speed of around 130 km/h, which is respectable for a bike in this segment. Its real-world mileage ranges between 36–37 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient 250cc bikes in India.
The KTM 250 Duke, being more performance-focused, pushes up to 148 km/h at the top end. However, its mileage averages around 30 km/l depending on riding conditions.
So, if your priority is fuel economy and practicality, the Hero Xtreme 250R is unbeatable. But if you love speed and aggressive riding, the KTM is your pick.
KTM 250 Duke, on the other hand, gets the same 249cc liquid-cooled engine
Ride Quality and Comfort
The Xtreme 250R is slightly heavier, but that gives it better highway stability. Its suspension is tuned towards comfort, offering a smoother ride on city roads and long stretches.
The 250 Duke feels lighter, sharper, and more connected to the road. Its WP Apex suspension and lightweight chassis make cornering precise, but the ride can feel firm on bumpy surfaces.
The Hero Xtreme 250R is better suited for daily commuting and long rides, while the KTM 250 Duke excels in performance and sporty handling.
Price and Value for Money
Hero has priced the Xtreme 250R aggressively at around ₹1.65 lakh (ex-showroom).
The KTM 250 Duke, meanwhile, costs approximately ₹2.30 lakh (ex-showroom) — a significant difference, but one that brings premium hardware and technology.
For budget-conscious riders, the Hero Xtreme 250R offers incredible value for money.
But for riders who prioritize brand prestige, advanced features, and thrill, the KTM 250 Duke justifies its price.
Read More: Best Electric Bikes and Scooters in 2025
Final Verdict – Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM 250 Duke
If you want better mileage, comfort, and daily practicality, go for the Hero Xtreme 250R.
But if you crave power, performance, and advanced features, the KTM 250 Duke is the clear winner.
Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM 250 Duke – Which 250cc Bike Should You Buy in 2025?
The Indian motorcycle market is buzzing with excitement in the 250cc bike segment. Two names that are creating a lot of buzz are the Hero Xtreme 250R and the KTM 250 Duke. Both motorcycles are stylish, powerful, and feature-packed — but they cater to very different riders.
So, which one truly deserves a spot in your garage? Let’s break it down in detail.
Engine and Performance
When it comes to engine performance, both bikes are almost neck and neck on paper.
The Hero Xtreme 250R is powered by a 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivers 30 PS of power and 25 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slipper clutch, making gear shifts smoother during both traffic and spirited rides.
The KTM 250 Duke, on the other hand, gets the same 249cc liquid-cooled engine, but with a slightly more performance-oriented setup. It produces 31 PS of power and 25 Nm of torque, with a Quickshifter+ for clutchless upshifts — something you won’t find in most bikes in this range.
If refinement and reliability are your priorities, the Hero does the job beautifully. But if you crave raw power and racing performance, the KTM 250 Duke takes the lead.
Hero Xtreme 250R side view on road
Design and Styling
The Hero Xtreme 250R sports an aggressive and muscular design language. The sharp LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, and dynamic body panels give it a proper streetfighter appeal. It’s bold without being over-the-top — a balance that many riders will appreciate.
Meanwhile, the KTM 250 Duke continues its tradition of aggressive European styling. The exposed steel trellis frame, sharp tank shrouds, and split LED headlights make it look pure performance. The build quality and finish levels are top-notch, living up to KTM’s premium image.
In terms of visual appeal, the KTM 250 Duke is a showstopper, while the Hero Xtreme 250R impresses with a more balanced and mature design.
Read More: Best Low Maintenance Bike
Features and Technology
Hero has stepped up its game by offering modern features such as LED lighting, Bluetooth-enabled digital console, dual-channel ABS, and switchable rear ABS mode. These features make it a practical yet sporty option for daily riders.
The KTM 250 Duke, however, goes all in with its 5-inch TFT color display, ride-by-wire throttle, Quickshifter+, WP Apex suspension, and SuperMoto-mode ABS. These advanced features make the Duke one of the most tech-rich bikes in the 250cc category.
When it comes to technology and performance features, KTM wins hands down. But the Hero still packs enough modern touches for its price.
Top Speed and Mileage
The Hero Xtreme 250R clocks a top speed of around 130 km/h, which is respectable for a bike in this segment. Its real-world mileage ranges between 36–37 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient 250cc bikes in India.
The KTM 250 Duke, being more performance-focused, pushes up to 148 km/h at the top end. However, its mileage averages around 30 km/l depending on riding conditions.
So, if your priority is fuel economy and practicality, the Hero Xtreme 250R is unbeatable. But if you love speed and aggressive riding, the KTM is your pick.
KTM 250 Duke, on the other hand, gets the same 249cc liquid-cooled engine
Ride Quality and Comfort
The Xtreme 250R is slightly heavier, but that gives it better highway stability. Its suspension is tuned towards comfort, offering a smoother ride on city roads and long stretches.
The 250 Duke feels lighter, sharper, and more connected to the road. Its WP Apex suspension and lightweight chassis make cornering precise, but the ride can feel firm on bumpy surfaces.
The Hero Xtreme 250R is better suited for daily commuting and long rides, while the KTM 250 Duke excels in performance and sporty handling.
Price and Value for Money
Hero has priced the Xtreme 250R aggressively at around ₹1.65 lakh (ex-showroom).
The KTM 250 Duke, meanwhile, costs approximately ₹2.30 lakh (ex-showroom) — a significant difference, but one that brings premium hardware and technology.
For budget-conscious riders, the Hero Xtreme 250R offers incredible value for money.
But for riders who prioritize brand prestige, advanced features, and thrill, the KTM 250 Duke justifies its price.
Read More: Best Electric Bikes and Scooters in 2025
Final Verdict – Hero Xtreme 250R vs KTM 250 Duke
If you want better mileage, comfort, and daily practicality, go for the Hero Xtreme 250R.
But if you crave power, performance, and advanced features, the KTM 250 Duke is the clear winner.
