KTM Unveils the New 990 Duke: A Bold Step into the Future of Naked Bikes

KTM journey through the evolution of motorcycle excellence takes a significant stride with the introduction of the 990 Duke. This latest iteration is not just a nod to the 30th anniversary of the Duke series but a bold statement in the competitive 1000cc naked bike class. The 990 Duke emerges as a fusion of raw power and cutting-edge design, setting a new benchmark for enthusiasts and competitors alike.

Design And Power: A Symphony of Aggression And Precision

The 990 Duke boasts a design philosophy that captures the essence of controlled explosion, a visual representation of pent-up energy poised for release. Its aesthetic is a blend of aggression and precision, with two striking color schemes: a classic black and an electric orange, the latter paying homage to the Duke's storied legacy.

At the heart of this beast lies a revamped LC8c engine, now at 947 cc, derived from the revered 890 Duke R. This powerhouse delivers an exhilarating 123 horsepower and 103 Nm of torque, all while maintaining a lean profile with a total weight of just 179 kg. The result is a ride that's as eager and responsive as it is robust.

Chassis And Suspension: The Foundation Of Finesse

The 990 Duke's chassis is a testament to KTM's commitment to precision engineering. A robust trellis frame paired with a new closed-lattice swingarm provides the foundation for the high-caliber WP APEX Suspension. This setup ensures that the bike's handling is as sharp as its looks, offering riders unparalleled cornering stability and control.

Adjustability is key with the WP APEX Suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune their experience with ease. The front suspension offers five clicks of adjustment for both rebound and compression, while the rear features a similarly user-friendly adjustment system, ensuring that the bike can be tailored to any rider's preference.

Technology And Comfort: The Rider's Interface

KTM doesn't skimp on technology, with the 990 Duke featuring a 5-inch anti-scratch bonded glass dashboard. This interface is not only durable but provides riders with a wealth of information through revised graphics and an intuitive menu structure. The addition of a lean angle display and an optional TRACK Mode with a lap timer and telemetry stats speaks to the bike's racing DNA. Moreover, the inclusion of a USB-C connection ensures modern convenience for device charging.

The Ultimate Mid-Class Contender

The 990 Duke is KTM's answer to the ultimate mid-class naked machine challenge. It's a motorcycle that doesn't just meet expectations but exceeds them in every aspect, from performance to design, technology to comfort.

In conclusion, the 2024 KTM 990 Duke is not just a motorcycle; it's a statement, a celebration, and a revolution, all rolled into one. It's a machine that's ready to dominate the roads and the hearts of riders around the globe.