News 8 Nov 2017

Bike: 2018 KTM 790 Duke

Long-awaited production model revealed at EICMA.

Last year at EICMA, the KTM 790 Duke prototype – The Scalpel – was unveiled on stage with the exhaust note of its LC8c engine thundering through the halls. At this years edition of the event in Milan, Italy, KTM returned with the full production version, boasting performance figures and a specification that is set to blow up the fiercely competitive 600 to 1000cc naked bike category.

The KTM 790 Duke punches out 105hp and 86Nm of torque from the extremely compact and all-new LC8c parallel twin engine with an unrivalled electronics package. This is a pure KTM – potent and precise, to satisfy the needs of riders who know that power-to-weight ratio and agility can be more important than raw, straight-line brute power. From prototype to production, ‘The Scalpel’ has lost none of its edge.

Source: Supplied.

KTM has combined a light, state-of-the-art chassis with the new LC8c engine. The result – plenty of torque on tap, a 105 horsepower rush blasting out of corners and a huge grin on your face. In order to slingshot this telepathic lightweight even further ahead, advanced ride by wire, integrated connectivity options and next-generation rider aids are here today.

But that’s not the end of it, it features an up and down quickshifter that takes its name extremely seriously, customised ride modes and personalised traction control. And a lean, mean KISKA design that’ll make you learn to love waiting for the others as you raced ahead.

Source: Supplied.

Purity is the focus here in the chassis, as all components have been reduced to the bare essentials. There are no unnecessary parts or covers. The engine, for example, doubles as a load bearing element, the frame is made of extra strong CroMo steel so less material is needed, and components were developed to combine functions wherever possible.

The KTM 790 Duke comes with some serious brainpower as standard. Even when you’re flirting with the limit, KTM’s combination of the most advanced software and electronics in the world of motorcycling will have your back. The rider aids include Track Mode, Traction Control, Motor Slip Regulation, Supermoto Mode along with the quickshifter.

Source: Supplied.

The bike has been made to feel as compact as possible while accommodating a wide range of riders. The goal in mind his to provide confidence in all types of riders. Purity is one of KTM’s brand values – as seen in the chassis – and in a design context it means not using unnecessary design elements when a simpler option is possible.

Or when you can combine multiple functions in one part. Take the tank spoiler, which combines the functions of spoiler and ergonomic surface, for example. Or the taillight that’s been mounted on the license plate holder, so it can be easily removed for a day at the track. This is a bike that looks and feels as compact as possible. You’ll find no round shapes, but straight lines, clarity and the promise of a radically thrilling ride.

Source: Supplied.

KTM knows its customers like to modify and to travel, which is why it has produced a PowerParts range boasting a huge variety of accessories and luggage options across its Street range of sportmotorcycles – past and present. All PowerParts are developed alongside their chosen machine, meaning that KTM riders only get parts that perfectly complement their ride and provide that important ‘factory fit’ straight from the dealer.

KTM Australia is yet to confirm its availability domestically, along with pricing of the highly-anticipated model. Visit www.ktm.com/au for the latest on the release and more information.

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