2023 KTM 790 Duke

[Hugh Janus]

KTM’s 790 Duke, a bike KTM proudly refers to as “The Original Scalpel.” (KTM/)

Ups

• Uncut performance at a cut-rate price
• Original 799cc LC8c still packs a punch

Downs

• Suspension has limited adjustability
• J.Juan braking components don’t match the performance level of the rest of the bike
• If you want 10 more ponies but can’t afford the R, you should have bought that 890 Duke when you had the chance

Verdict

The attractively priced 790 Duke brings ownership within reach for a larger audience. One of the best middleweight naked bikes of the last several years is now also one of the best bargains.

Overview

For 2023, KTM streamlines its middleweight lineup by bringing back the 790 Duke to replace the base model 890 Duke. You read that correctly: the 890, which succeeded the 790, is now itself being succeeded by its predecessor. If that all sounds discouragingly dystopian, think again. The 2023 790 Duke has an MSRP of $9,199. That’s $1,300 less than what it retailed for back in 2019 and a whopping $2,100 less than what the 890 Duke sold for last year.

From a market positioning standpoint, the move makes a lot of sense. For one, the 790 is now entering at a lower price that should appeal to a broader audience. On top of that, with greater differentiation between the base model and the R spec, there’s more incentive than ever to pony up the $3,750 extra for the R model. For dealers, that should help prevent the base model from scavenging sales from the R model.

It’s worth remembering how the 790 Duke took the motorcycling world by storm upon its debut. Injected with KTM’s ready-to-race ethos and the Duke’s hooligan genetics, the 790 hits a sweet spot by combining performance pretension and real world fun. While it may not have the higher-end suspension, brakes, electronics—nor bigger-bore, later-spec engine—as the R model, the 790 more than holds its own.

After a short time away from KTM’s lineup, the 790 Duke returned for 2023, a result of KTM’s partnership with Chinese manufacturer CFMoto. (KTM/)

Updates for 2023

The 790 Duke is both all new and entirely unchanged at the same time. There are no discernible differences between the current model and the previous-generation 790. Of course, that means that it doesn’t have the subtle changes to suspension and brakes that the 890 Duke received.

Pricing And Variants

Despite similar basic architecture, the 790 Duke ($9,199) and 890 Duke R ($12,949) are more standalone siblings than base and up-spec versions of the same model. The 790 uses non-adjustable (except for preload in the rear) WP Apex suspension and J.Juan braking components, while the 890 R uses fully adjustable suspension and high-end Brembo components. The 890 R also has lighter wheels, an aluminum steering stem, and more performance-oriented ride modes—not to mention the upgraded engine.

Overall, the 790 is less performance focused, with a slightly lower seat height (32.4 inches compared to the R’s 32.8 seat height) and more relaxed ergos. It also has passenger pegs and a rear seat.

It’s worth noting the 890 Duke GP is not available in the US for 2023.

Competition

The 790 Duke competes in a middleweight category flush with options. While the 890 Duke faced the same competitors, it was one of the most expensive options. The 2023 790 Duke, on the other hand, is now closer to much of the competition when it comes to price.

One new competitor includes the brand-new parallel-twin from Suzuki, the Suzuki GSX-8S ($8,849). From there, the three-cylinder Triumph Street Triple 765 R ($9,995) and Yamaha MT-09 ($9,799) come to mind, as well as the four-cylinder Kawasaki Z900 ($9,399). Thanks to high-tech rider aids shared with its more expensive siblings, the parallel-twin Aprilia Tuono 660 ($10,499) is also an option. Buyers might also consider the BMW F 900 R ($8,995) and Ducati Monster Plus ($12,995).

KTM’s LC8c engine, which began life with the 799cc version, is resurrected for the entry-level middleweight Duke. KTM says it’s sold 29,000 790 Duke’s since being introduced in 2017. (KTM/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

KTM’s 799cc parallel-twin engine produces a claimed 103 hp at 9,000 rpm and 64 lb.-ft. of torque at 8,000 rpm. According to KTM, the 890 mill pumps out another 10 hp and about 4 more lb.-ft. of torque. In addition to the capacity bump, which enables the 890 mill to hit the 790′s peak power number 1,000 rpm earlier, before building power all the way to its 1,000-rpm-higher redline, it also has a 20 percent heavier crank for improved tractability at low rpm.

Even without those changes, the 790 has a punchy powerband that’s happy to accommodate the rider’s wheel-lofting wishes. The six-speed gearbox has a light feel at the lever, and ripping through the gears with the optional quickshifter never gets old. The 790 really showcases all there is to love about the modern parallel-twin. Most manufacturers would have left well enough alone and not bothered to update the 790 after so little time. That KTM brought it back confirms that it hasn’t reached its expiration date.

The Duke’s hooligan side lurks close beneath the surface. It’s a genetic trait that reaches back to KTM’s first four-stroke streetbike, the 1994 620 Duke. (KTM/)

Chassis/Handling

KTM prides itself on building quality frames, and here it uses a steel tube chassis designed to be as rigid and compact as possible, for quick, confidence-inspiring handling. A cast-aluminum subframe houses the airbox and is devoid of plastics or additional brackets—everything is cast into the two connected pieces to keep weight down. That same storyline is carried over to the swingarm and wheels, which are engineered with weight savings in mind. WP Apex suspension is used.

KTM calls the 790 Duke “the scalpel” for good reason. At once nimble and composed, the Duke is beloved by riders who seek out twisties on every ride. The 790′s downfall is suspension that has limited adjustability (there’s only preload adjustability in the rear) and stiff spring rates that have trouble coping with rough surfaces.

Brakes

Dual front 300mm brake discs are paired to radially mounted four-piston calipers, and Cornering ABS comes standard.

Unfortunately, the J.Juan braking system, like the suspension, doesn’t hold up to the excellence of the engine, chassis, and electronic suite. The brakes lack ultimate feel, though power is good with strong initial bite. Many riders will be satisfied with the performance, but riders who trailbrake hard into corners may miss a degree of feel. But it’s for those riders that the 890 R exists.

More burnout! KTM constantly reminds you of the Duke’s character. In reality, this is a great bike for casual around-town riding and local commuting. (KTM/)

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

KTM does not list fuel mileage numbers for the 790 Duke. Cycle World’s recorded fuel mileage when testing the 2019 KTM 790 Duke was 48 mpg in what the logbook described as “moderate riding and commuting.”

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The 790 Duke has a slightly lower seat height and more relaxed ergonomics than the more performance-oriented 890 R, making it more appealing to riders who plan on commuting, running errands, and living with it day to day. That upright position will of course lead to increased wind to your chest, something that comes with playing in naked bike territory.

The 790 Duke’s 5-inch TFT display. Notice the very traditional KTM switchgear, which enables the rider to easily navigate menus. (KTM/)

Electronics

The 790 Duke comes standard with three ride modes preset for throttle response, traction control, and cornering ABS. KTM’s optional dealer-installed track mode unlocks additional functionality and adjustability, including slip adjuster, launch control, anti-wheelie, and three levels of throttle response.

The 790′s electronic rider aids operate unobtrusively and set the motorcycle apart in the middleweight category. An up/down quickshifter can also be unlocked at the dealership. A TFT display and LED lighting are standard.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

KTM includes a 24-month manufacturer’s warranty.

Quality

KTM’s fit and finish is typically excellent. Some would argue the quality of the switchgear isn’t on par with some other premium brands and some of the finishes are comparatively utilitarian, but we say it’s part of the charm.

2023 KTM 790 Duke Claimed Specs

MSRP:	$9,199
Engine:	799cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel twin, 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke:	88.0 x 65.7mm
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery:	Electronic fuel injection
Clutch:	PASC (Power Assisted Slipper Clutch), cable operation
Engine Management/Ignition:	Ride by wire/TCI
Frame:	Chromoly tubular steel
Front Suspension:	43mm WP Apex USD fork, non-adjustable; 5.5-in. travel
Rear Suspension:	WP Apex shock, preload-adjustable; 5.9-in. travel
Front Brake:	4-piston caliper, dual 300mm discs w/ cornering ABS
Rear Brake:	2-piston caliper, 240mm disc w/ cornering ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Cast aluminum rims, 3.50 x 17 in. / 5.50 x 17 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	120/70-17 / 180/55-17
Rake/Trail:	24.0°/3.9 in.
Wheelbase:	58.0 in.
Ground Clearance:	7.3 in.
Seat Height:	32.4 in.
Fuel Capacity:	3.7 gal.
Wet Weight (without fuel):	384 lb.
Contact:	ktm.com

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