Machine Description
Completely redesigned engine adds 16ps
KTM's new 890DUKE R made its debut in Japan, based on the 790DUKE but with a larger displacement and enhanced suspension and electronic control. The development of the new model was based on KTM's years of expertise in developing on- and off-road racing models.
KTM's first liquid-cooled in-line two-cylinder engine, derived from the 790DUKE, was enlarged in both bore and stroke, and displacement was increased by 91cc to 890cc. Maximum power output was also increased by 16ps to 121ps (105ps on the 790). The intake and exhaust valves, camshafts, and crankshaft were also revised to achieve both aggressive power output and easy handling, and independent control of the fuel injection system for each of the two cylinders further improved low-speed controllability.
The suspension and electrical systems have also been significantly upgraded.
The new WP APEX front and rear suspensions have been upgraded and the ride height has been increased by 15mm. The swingarm angle has been increased to increase the front load and improve rear wheel traction under acceleration. New Brembo brakes have been adopted, and the front discs have been enlarged to 320 mm in diameter, while the weight has been reduced to improve braking power and handling. Tires have also been upgraded to MICHELIN Power Cup 2. Compared to the 790, the handlebars were lowered and the footpeg was set higher at the rear. In addition, the weight of the motorcycle was reduced by 3.3kg, and the overall direction of the motorcycle evolved to be more aggressive.
The electronic controls have also evolved further, with a 6-axis sensor cornering ABS and Traction Control, as well as a slipper clutch and MSR (optional) to prevent the rear wheel from locking up due to sudden downshifts on low-mu roads. Ride modes include RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and TRACK (optional), and the motorcycle can also be customized with 9-stage adjustable traction control, wheelie control, and throttle control.
Test Ride Reviews
I'm a little freaked out by the "super surgical scalpel" nickname, but ......
The concept of the new 890DUKE R is "THE SUPER SCALPEL". To be honest, I was a little apprehensive before the test ride, because I had experienced the powerful and sharp driving performance of the 790, and I had a preconceived notion that the 890, which was much more powerful and had all the enhancements, would be a little tougher than the "R" version.
KTM's first liquid-cooled in-line two-cylinder engine, new to the 790DUKE, is as compact as a single-cylinder and weighs 166kg (dry), about the same as a 400cc engine. Compared to the 790, the motorcycle's ride position was slightly more forward-leaning and the seat was 1cm higher at 834mm, but the difference was barely noticeable unless you were told. The motorcycle is lightweight and slim to begin with, so handling and footing should be easy.
Smooth, stable ride and turns well.
The base is up while feeling the pleasant heartbeat of the unequal interval explosion by the 75-degree crank. The rotation of the engine is extremely smooth and mild. Thanks to the new dual balancer and advanced electric system, our initial worries were completely blown away.
I was particularly impressed with the smoothness of the throttle response. When accelerating out of a corner, the throttle response is very linear and natural. When the throttle is switched from off to on, the transfer of load from the front to the rear is smooth, and the posture is stable despite the sharp turns.
Thanks to the supple road-following characteristics of WP's new APEX suspension, you can open up the throttle and feel the rear wheels grip the road as you accelerate. Of course, this sense of security is only possible with the help of the cornering-compatible Traction Control and ABS, which provide advanced control under the edge. It also matched the moist ground feel of the Michelin tires that stick to the road.
High-dimensional sports performance at your fingertips
The light footwork, easy to handle engine, and the latest electronic control system create a high-quality driving experience. As the name "THE SUPER SCALPEL" implies, it is a sharp machine that can handle corners with precision but it is not a contest of endurance, which is a sign of evolution and maturity. It's still easy and fast.
There are plenty of motorcycles with more horsepower and higher top speed, but there are only a few big motorcycles that offer a high level of sports performance that you can control with your hands and experience firsthand.
Incidentally, it was also a perfect match for the short course at Fuji Speedway, where I had test ridden it, and I'm sure it will be one of the fastest machines on winding roads and tight circuits.
It was also able to separate itself from the 790DUKE. The 790DUKE offers a wide range of sporty riding on public roads, while the 890R is more comfortable in a leather suit and ready to hit the track.
See KTM Moto Index Page
see Accessories for KTM DUKE 890 R
See Acessories for KTM 790 DUKE