As we continue awaiting the KTM 790 Duke's launch
announcement in India, a new batch of spy shots giving its clearest view in the
country yet has surfaced online. The new images even show the bikes saree
guard, an India-specific accessory, as well as the compact crash guard that
sits very close to the radiator and almost blends into the styling.
A front number plate is mandatory in India, and the
unit occupies the space above the headlight. A massive saree-guard grille
occupies the space next to the pillion footrest on the left side of the
motorcycle. All other specifications are identical to the international-spec
motorcycle. Thus, you see a 1290 SuperDuke-inspired styling along with premium
hardware specifications that comprise full LED lighting and a TFT instrument
console with Bluetooth connectivity.
The KTM 790 Duke uses the company’s newly developed,
799 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled LC8c engine that comes with BS-IV/Euro-IV
compliance. The motor churns out a maximum power output of 105 PS at 9,000 rpm
and apeak torque of 86 Nm at 8,000 rpm. The two counter-balancer shafts and
270-degree firing order give the parallel-twin cylinder mill a V-Twin like
sound. A ride-by-wire throttle allows the rider to select from four riding
modes – Sport, Street, Rain and Track. Shock absorption hardware consists of an
adjustable monoshock at the back and 43 mm inverted forks up front – both
sourced from WP.
The engine is linked to a six-speed transmission
that benefits from PASC slip-assist clutch and quickshifter that works for both
- up and downshifts. The Euro-V version of the vehicle will come with a marginal
bump, and carry 890 cc displacement. It will most likely debut at the 2019
EICMA motorcycle show in Milan (5-10 November 2019). The electronic rider aid package
consists of switchable traction control, ABS (with Supermoto mode – that turns
off the rear ABS), cornering ABS, wheelie control and Motor Slip Regulation
(MSR).
Select KTM dealerships have already commenced the
booking process for the upcoming 790 Duke in India. However, we understand that
just 100 units will be sold in our market. The bikes have started to reach
select dealerships. The 790 Duke will carry an ex-showroom price tag of
approximately INR 8.5 lakh. It will rival the Triumph Street Triple range, the
Ducati Monster series, Suzuki GSX-S750 and the Kawasaki Z900.
