KTM has updated the 790 Duke, giving its middleweight naked motorcycle its biggest update yet. While the Euro 5+ compliant 799cc LC8c engine remains unchanged, KTM has extensively revised the bike's ergonomics, chassis, suspension, braking package and styling.
- KTM 790 Duke gets revised ergonomics and a claimed 2kg weight reduction
- Gets new WP radial brakes and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
- Features styling inspired by the 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke R
KTM 790 Duke: What’s new?
KTM has also confirmed that it will phase out Demo Mode on future models following customer feedback.
The most significant changes are to the bike's ergonomics. KTM has fitted a new handlebar with a more open angle, repositioned the rider and pillion footpegs, and redesigned the seat to create a more natural riding position. A new subframe, revised triple clamps and a reshaped fuel tank are also said to improve front-wheel feedback. Despite its larger appearance, KTM claims the updated 790 Duke is 2kg lighter than its predecessor.
The 790 Duke adopts KTM's latest Duke family styling, featuring a redesigned LED headlight, slimmer bodywork, a larger front cowl and a reshaped fuel tank, bringing it in line with the larger 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke R.
Power continues to come from the Euro 5+ compliant, 799cc, LC8c, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine, which produces 105hp and 87Nm of torque in standard guise, while a 95hp A2 licence-compatible version will also be available in select markets. The engine continues to be paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch, and also gets a redesigned exhaust and muffler.
Suspension duties continue to be handled by WP APEX units, with revisions to both the fork and rear shock. The 43mm upside-down fork offers adjustable compression and rebound damping, while the rear monoshock features adjustable preload and rebound damping. KTM says suspension adjustment has also been simplified via a five-click adjuster.
Another notable update is the introduction of a new in-house-developed WP radial braking system, replacing the KTM-badged J.Juan units on the outgoing model. KTM claims the new setup offers greater stopping power, a more progressive lever feel and improved control. A WP steering damper is now fitted as standard and the bike runs on Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres.
KTM has also confirmed that it will phase out Demo Mode on future models after the feature received a lukewarm response from customers. The system, which offered temporary access to optional electronic functions before requiring riders to purchase them permanently, drew criticism from buyers, prompting KTM to discontinue this on future models.
The updated 790 Duke will go on sale in international markets from the end of July, with availability varying by region. KTM India is yet to announce plans to introduce the updated model here in our market. The brand currently retails the more performance-focused 890 Duke R in India, priced at Rs 14.50 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Vishal Venugopal
Azaman Chothia
