KTM AG has unveiled the production 2018 KTM 790 Duke
at the 2017 EICMA show held in Milan, Italy.
The Austrian manufacturer showcased the concept
motorcycle at the 2016 EICMA, and has finally revealed the production version.
True to the Design language, the bike features a minimalistic yet aggressive
look. The lighting system is all LED, with the head light design that is
reminiscent of the 1290 Super Duke. The instrument cluster is a full-colour TFT
unit.
The motorcycle draws power from an all-new 799cc
parallel twin motor known as the LC8c. This DOHC engine with liquid cooling and
fuel injection pushes out 105 PS of power at 9,000 rpm; and 86 Nm of torque at
8,000rpm. The powerplant comes with two balancer shafts to quell vibrations, and
mates with a 6-speed transmission. Rider aids include quickshifter; launch
control; three riding modes-Sport, Street and Rain; and an IMU (Inertial
Measurement Unit). There is also a customisable Track mode; and a Supermoto
mode for the ABS which disengages the rear wheel’s brake only. The IMU measures
the lean angle and controls the traction level accordingly.
For suspension, the 2018 KTM 790 Duke features
adjustable 43 mm WP Split Function front fork, and a gas charged rear monoshock
with adjustable preload. Dual 300 mm front discs with radial callipers and a
single 240 mm rear disc handle the braking responsibilities. The motorcycle
locks horns with the Triumph Street Triple RS, and the Kawasaki Z900.
