A sharp new 2022 KTM 890 Duke R has been uncovered with an all-new Atlantic Blue base colour, which has been lifted directly from its big brother, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. It features in Detailed.

Having been around since 2020, the KTM 890 Duke R has proven itself to be the undisputed champion in the middleweight segment. Boasting an impressive 121 horsepower and 99 Nm of torque, it represents as a serious option for race-centric riders looking for agility, punch and poise.

Image: Supplied.

Dubbed ‘The Super Scalpel’ on account of its lightning-fast steering geometry and thanks to the load-bearing design of its tubular steel chassis and adjustable WP Apex suspension, it remains a no-compromise middleweight naked bike, equally at home on twisty mountain passes as it is on the racetrack, delivering more power, more torque and more intense asphalt-carving agility than any other parallel twin in the segment.

While its forward momentum and agility are exemplary, the KTM 890 Duke R also excels when slowing down. Front monoblock Brembo Stylema calipers grabbing meaty 320mm discs on the front, along with an adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder, mean that The Super Scalpel stops as quickly and precisely as it attacks apexes. A set of sticky Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres provides reliable grip on all asphalt surfaces in all weather conditions.

In terms of electronic wizardry, the KTM 890 Duke R makes use of Cornering ABS and Cornering MTC (motorcycle traction control) with a 6D lean angle sensor that not only detects the side-to-side (roll) and forwards and backward (pitch) movements of the bike, but also the rotation of the bike on its vertical axis (yaw). This translates into comprehensive traction control management, accomplished by the use of a wheel slip control sensor and a pitch angle control sensor.

Image: Supplied.

A selection of ride modes—namely Rain, Street, Sport and optional Track mode ensure full rider customisation, nine levels of adjustable traction control slip, anti-wheelie on/off and the additional throttle control setting.

The biggest difference is obvious – the KTM 890 Duke R now features a premium hue of matt paint. The colour is reminiscent of the palate used on the KTM RC16 GP racer and recently the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, adding to its Ready To Race demeanour. Typical of all KTM ‘R’ models, the signature orange frame continues to provide the perfect contrast of colours while strengthening its presence.

With its new look to match its performance and character, the KTM 890 Duke R once again promises to be a track-ready machine you’ll want to ride every day.

Image: Supplied.

As always, a full range of specially created KTM PowerParts has been developed to personalise and further intensify your ride. A range of KTM PowerWear ensures the rider gets the most out of themselves and boosts their performance.

The 2022 KTM 890 Duke R will arrive in authorised KTM dealerships in Australia and New Zealand from September 2022 onwards. For more information, visit www.ktm.com.