Looks like this will be available early next year. Duke 990 https://www.ktm.com/fr-fr/models/naked-bike/2024-ktm-990-duke.html If KTM follow form, we will probably see an SMT version…then fingers crossed for an R with just a bit more poke. Its like re inventing the wheel sometimes? Bikes were nearly perfect circa 130-150bhp, decent suspension and tyres…just needed a bit refinement and maybe electronics to tame them. Instead they get bigger, heavier, more power etc. and pricier.
If it follows the 890 the R will be alongside the sniper with the SMT very close behind. This capacity increase is down to emission laws. My 790 was/is IME the ideal power/weight, was let down with non adjustable front forks. 105bhp, you can buy the A2 compliment 790 still at 95 bhp. Slightly lower total output but same torque figures.
Given recent stories I’ve heard recently (including today), give it 9-12 months and punters will be chopping them in for another brand.
I find it interesting that so many bikes look 100% better with a rider (including this new KTM which looks crap to me sans rider). I find that most Ducatis look good without a rider.... Maybe that's why so many of us keep them
I like the headlight as do many on the 7/890 FB page. Not big on the exhaust siting though looks way better on the 7/890.
KTM’s certainly aren’t bikes to look at. I’ve had a few, and not once ever looked back and admired any of them. But they were all brilliant fun to ride.
It why there is so much anodised tat for them, you can’t polish a turd but you can roll it in glitter.
I shudder when I look at pictures of my first 1290, it looked bloody awful. I certainly went all out!
General breakdowns and bits falling off. And fixings furring up at the drop of a hat. However, to add a bit of balance, all those that said they were getting rid did say that when their bikes were running okay they were great to ride. It was just the not knowing if they would start or stay started that bothered them all.
