- Powered by a 105bhp parallel-twin engine
- Expected to be launched here in 2019
KTM has launched the 790 Duke in Malaysia at RM 64,800 (Rs 10.99 lakhs). A replacement for the single-cylinder 690 Duke, the 790 Duke is expected to arrive in India in 2019.
Dubbed as the ‘scalpel’, the 790 Duke is based on a completely new parallel-twin platform. The sharp styling draws inspiration from the flagship 1290 Super Duke. The split headlamp design, angular fuel tank, minimalistic bodywork and the loud paint scheme give it a futuristic look. The instrument console gets a colour TFT display similar to the one in the 390 Duke.
The 790 Duke is built around a steel trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member. At its heart is a new 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, churning out 105bhp and 86Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch. The rider aids include cornering ABS, traction control, four riding modes and a launch control. The 790 Duke rides on suspension setup supplied by WP consisting of 43mm inverted front forks and a rear monoshock.
Reports suggest that the 790 Duke will be manufactured in India, and will go on sale in the domestic market in 2019. It will compete against the Suzuki GSX-S750, Triumph Street Triple S and the Kawasaki Z900.
