Matter AERA vs KTM 125 Duke [2021]

An electric motorcycle with a gearbox. This is what we have been hearing since last year when Matter first launched the Aera 5000 and the Aera 5000+. But what would it be like to ride the Aera 5000+ in the real world?

This is the KTM 125 Duke, the most affordable offering in the brand's global line-up. Launched in late-2018, the 125 went on to become one of the highest-selling motorcycles for KTM. And now, two years later, it has received a major cosmetic makeover to keep things fresh. So we spent a good number of hours in the 125 Duke's saddle to find out what kind of experience it delivers.

Offering the same looks as the 200 Duke with a smaller motor, KTM has ventured into the 125cc space with a performance-oriented motorcycle. With premium features and a price tag that crosses the one lakh mark for a 125cc bike, is the 125 Duke worth the price it demands?

It’s finally here. Ever since KTM entered the Indian market with the Duke 200, it got accepted quickly by motorcyclists on the lookout for a swift, nimble and potent machine that was ready to offer a rush of adrenaline when desired. The 200 Duke did well and it still does by making for a major chunk of the sales by KTM India. The Indian arm of the Austrian brand had been already manufacturing the 125 Duke alongside the 200 Duke. But, back then it was limited to only exports. You might think, why introduce it here now? Well, KTM feels now is the right time to do so.