The 2025 KTM Duke 790 returns to redefine the middleweight naked bike segment, offering a thrilling combination of agility, advanced technology, and aggressive styling. Known for its scalpel-like precision and punchy performance, the Duke 790 has been updated to meet modern expectations while retaining the raw excitement that made it iconic. Whether carving twisty mountain roads or slicing through city traffic, the Duke 790 delivers an adrenaline-filled ride every time.
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Price and Availability
The 2025 KTM Duke 790 is an excellent value proposition in the premium middleweight naked bike category, blending cutting-edge features with high-performance capabilities at a competitive price. It is expected to be priced between ₹8,50,000 and ₹9,00,000 (ex-showroom) in India, $9,500 to $10,500 in the USA, £8,000 to £8,500 in the UK, AUD 14,500 to AUD 15,500 in Australia, and €9,200 to €9,800 in Germany. The bike is set for a global release by mid-2025, appealing to riders who demand a balance of power, agility, and advanced technology.
Engine and Performance
The KTM Duke 790 is powered by a 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, which is celebrated for its smooth power delivery and exhilarating performance. This engine produces approximately 105 PS at 9,000 rpm and 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, offering a remarkable combination of low-end torque and high-revving power. The 6-speed manual transmission, paired with a slipper clutch and quick shifter, ensures seamless gear transitions and effortless acceleration. Capable of reaching a top speed of around 230 km/h, the Duke 790 delivers performance that rivals larger bikes in its segment, making it an ideal choice for thrill-seekers.
Design
The Duke 790 retains KTM’s signature aggressive styling while incorporating modern elements that elevate its streetfighter appeal. Its sharp and angular split LED headlamp, complemented by distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs), gives the bike a fierce and contemporary look. The sculpted fuel tank enhances its bold and muscular stance, while the minimalist tail section with an integrated LED taillight adds a clean, compact aesthetic. Expected in the iconic KTM Orange/Black combination and new shades like Metallic Grey and Matte White, the Duke 790’s design reflects its high-performance DNA and unmistakable road presence.
Chassis and Suspension
Built on a lightweight Chromoly steel trellis frame, the Duke 790 is engineered to deliver exceptional handling and precision. The front features 43mm WP Apex upside-down (USD) forks that are fully adjustable, while the rear is equipped with a WP Apex mono-shock with preload adjustment, ensuring optimal comfort and stability across various terrains. The braking system comprises dual 300mm discs with radial-mounted calipers at the front and a single 240mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS with cornering functionality enhances braking performance even at lean angles, providing riders with confidence-inspiring control whether they’re navigating city streets or attacking corners on the track.
Technology
The Duke 790 comes equipped with advanced electronics that enhance performance and rider safety. Its full-color TFT display provides vital ride information, navigation, and smartphone connectivity for calls and music. Riders can choose from multiple riding modes—Sport, Street, Rain, and Track—to adapt the bike’s behavior to varying conditions. Lean-sensitive traction control ensures stability during aggressive cornering, while cornering ABS optimizes braking even on curves. Additional features like a quick shifter for clutchless gear changes and launch control for rapid starts make the Duke 790 a technologically advanced motorcycle ready to tackle any challenge.
Performance and Ride Quality
The KTM Duke 790 offers an exhilarating and dynamic riding experience with its lightweight frame, responsive engine, and precision-tuned suspension. Weighing approximately 189 kg, the bike is easy to handle, making it suitable for urban commutes and spirited weekend rides. The combination of the trellis frame, WP suspension, and precise throttle response ensures sharp cornering and a stable ride at high speeds. With a top speed of around 230 km/h, the Duke 790 excels in delivering sporty and confident performance that satisfies both seasoned riders and enthusiasts.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite its impressive power, the Duke 790 maintains commendable fuel efficiency, making it practical for both daily commutes and long-distance trips. Its 14-liter fuel tank provides a mileage of approximately 22-25 km/l, allowing riders to cover a range of 300-350 km on a full tank. This balance of performance and efficiency makes the Duke 790 a versatile and reliable choice for a wide variety of riding scenarios.
Target Audience
The 2025 KTM Duke 790 caters to a diverse group of riders. It is perfect for performance enthusiasts seeking razor-sharp handling and thrilling power delivery, urban commuters looking for a lightweight and agile motorcycle, and track day riders in need of a capable and engaging machine. Its versatility and advanced features make it appealing to a broad audience, from daily riders to adrenaline junkies.
Competition
The KTM Duke 790 competes in the premium middleweight naked bike segment against rivals like the Yamaha MT-07, which is known for its affordability and smooth performance; the Triumph Street Triple R, celebrated for its refined handling and premium build quality; and the Kawasaki Z900, offering a powerful inline-four engine with a smooth riding experience. However, the Duke 790 stands out with its lightweight construction, aggressive styling, advanced electronics, and unparalleled performance, making it a top choice for riders who value agility and cutting-edge technology.
Why Choose the 2025 KTM Duke 790?
The 2025 KTM Duke 790 redefines what a middleweight naked bike can offer with its sharp design, advanced features, and dynamic performance. Its aggressive styling ensures it stands out, while features like cornering ABS, multiple riding modes, and a quick shifter elevate the riding experience. With its lightweight frame and powerful engine, the Duke 790 delivers a thrilling yet versatile ride for both city and track enthusiasts. Backed by KTM’s legacy of producing high-performance motorcycles, the Duke 790 remains a standout choice for riders who crave precision and excitement.
FAQs
What is the engine capacity of the Duke 790?
The Duke 790 features a 799cc parallel-twin engine.
What is the expected price of the Duke 790 in India?
It is priced between ₹8,50,000 and ₹9,00,000 (ex-showroom).
Does the Duke 790 have riding modes?
Yes, it offers Sport, Street, Rain, and Track modes.
What is the fuel tank capacity?
The Duke 790 has a 14-liter fuel tank.
What suspension does the Duke 790 use?
It features WP Apex USD forks and a mono-shock at the rear.
