KTM 890 Duke R explained by KTM in Official Video

KTM Duke 890 R

KTM AG’s 890 Duke R aka ‘The Super Scalpel’ made its world premiere at last year’s EICMA show in Italy as a more powerful alternative to the 790 Duke (aka ‘The Scalpel’). The new variant made its world premiere less than two months after KTM India finally decided to treat its loyal audience with the launch of 790 Duke.

The Austrian two-wheeler brand’s official YouTube channel has released a media presentation video of the new 890 Duke R in a bid to keep kindle interest among prospective customers during this challenging time period. The video details the improvements it comes with compared to its slightly small-engined sibling.

The primary difference is the powertrain. The increased displacement puts the sporty street fighter in a relatively more relaxed (still very stringent in the general scheme of things) category to meet the latest emission standards. Then 890cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine is based on the 790 Duke’s motor but receives increased bore and stroke.

The motor also receives a new crankshaft with 20% more rotational mass for stable power delivery and a more aggressive camshaft with higher lift for better breathing. Other noteworthy improvements to the engine include higher compression ratio, revised pistons, improved fuel injection and a larger radiator surface area.

These changes have resulted in a notable improvement in power and torque figures. The new KTM 890 Duke R is capable of 119bhp and 99Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful products in the middleweight segment. This is mated to a 6-speed gearbox which can shift quicker than before (KTM offers quickshifter as an option).

As far as styling goes, KTM has bestowed the 890 with trademark ‘R’ styling cues and colour themes. The motorcycle offers a more aggressive riding stance thanks to a lowered handlebar and rear-set footpegs.

The sturdy trellis frame is suspended by adjustable WP Apex 43mm inverted telescopic front fork and an adjustable WP rear monoshock. Compared to the 790 Duke, KTM’s 890 Duke R gets a larger 320mm twin front discs from Brembo with aluminium callipers. The whole braking system at the front weights a good 1.2 kg lighter than the 790’s system.

A reduction of an unsprung mass of that magnitude should have a noticeable effect on the motorcycle’s riding and handling characteristics. The KTM 890 Duke R is expected to succeed the 790 Duke in due course. In other words, The Super Scalpel will reach our shores eventually.