Ever since the KTM 990 Duke R was spotted taking part in a Super Hooligans race in the United States, anticipation has been building among enthusiasts. KTM finally unveiled it a little while back, with the launch scheduled to happen at EICMA.
The KTM 990 Duke R features fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, with an Open Cartridge fork offering 143 mm of travel and 30 clicks of adjustability for compression and rebound. The 48 mm fork diameter, increased from 43 mm, is 34% stiffer, enhancing control and maintaining agility. The rear WP APEX shock has a reduced travel of 140 mm and incorporates a linkage system for improved performance. It allows for extensive tuning, including high-speed and low-speed compression, rebound adjustments, and preload settings. The extended wheelbase of 1,481 mm further boosts stability during aggressive riding.
The R variant features a new frame shared with the latest 990 Duke, designed for sport-oriented performance with a stiffness tuned for agility and stability. The frame uses the engine as a stress element, and an updated linkage mounting point incorporates a bushing for enhanced performance without compromising stiffness. The subframe is an aluminium die-cast structure inspired by KTM’s trellis designs, featuring an integrated airbox and side intakes for improved airflow, all finished in matte electronic orange. The swingarm utilises a new linkage system, maintaining a similar shape to the Duke while optimising space and flexibility for performance.
The motorcycle features a forged aluminium triple clamp with a 32 mm offset and an aluminium steering stem for optimal fork flex. Riders can select from four handlebar positions for enhanced comfort. Equipped with Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres and orange rims from the KTM 1390 Super Duke R, the bike offers excellent performance. The R version boasts advanced braking with radially-mounted Brembo Stylema callipers, larger floating discs (320 mm front and 240 mm rear), and a ratio-adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder for precise feedback. Its 947 cc engine delivers 128 bhp, improved through enhanced mapping, while maintaining 10.5 kgm of torque, making it the most compact twin-cylinder engine in its class at 57 kg while also being EURO5+ compliant.
A new TFT touchscreen 8.88-inch (H88) landscape dashboard has been introduced with inductive technology and also features a customizable split-screen function with improved readability. It features customisable Ride Modes, including four standard options: Rain, Street, Sport, and a new Custom mode. Additionally, KTM offers three more modes as accessories: Track Mode and two extra Custom Modes. The electronic functions include ABS Modes (Street, Sport, Supermoto+, and Supermoto) and Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) in Rain, Street, or Sport, which can be toggled off.
The upgraded ride modes concept streamlines the user experience by allowing adjustments that influence overall motorcycle behaviour in one go. Key features like ABS, MTC, Anti-Wheelie Mode, Launch Control, Throttle Response, and Quickshifter+ are all adjustable for each mode, simplifying customization.
