The 790 Duke, also known as the Scalpel, is the newest addition to KTM’s product portfolio for India. A feisty motorcycle packed with loads of electronics and razor-sharp handling abilities, it competes against the likes of the Triumph Street Triple S, Suzuki GSX-S750, Kawasaki Z900 and the Ducati Monster 821 in India. We recently rode the motorcycle for our road test review and are heavily impressed by its capabilities. That being said, here’s a detailed review photo gallery of the motorcycle for your eyes to drool upon.
The 790 Duke is KTM’s middle-weight offering that sports a minimalistic look with barely any use of body panels. Up front, it features the signature split-type LED headlamp with LED DRLs that is present on other KTM models.
For its naked street bike stance, KTM has equipped the 790 Duke with a single-piece handlebar, TFT colour instrument console, adjustable levers and easy-to-operate switchgear. The motorcycle features a 14-litre metal fuel tank that is surrounded by KTM orange body cladding.
The instrument console on the 790 Duke is a full TFT colour display offering a plethora of options for the rider to set up the motorcycle. There are four riding modes- Rain, Road, Sport and Track. Besides that, there are two trip meters, traction control and ABS settings, engine temperature and fuel level gauges along with general vehicle information that is accessible to the rider.
Unlike other road-going KTM models sold in the market which feature a trellis frame, the 790 gets a two-spar tubular frame with the engine acting as a stressed member. It is accompanied by an exposed cast aluminium subframe which combines in keeping the weight low.
The 799cc liquid-cooled twin-mill is an absolute gem. The eagerness on opening the throttle and the availability of the strong torque-curve from the mid-range is pure delight and highly addictive. Just open the throttle hard after exiting the corner and the front starts to lift as it just skimps the road surface giving a crazy adrenaline rush.
Given the limited availability of open roads, we managed to clock 205kmph before the fifth cog could hit the rev limiter. Meanwhile, in the city, the 790 isn’t like its smaller siblings that need frequent gearshifts to prevent the engine from juddering. Fourth gear with 30kmph is possible and so is sixth gear at 50kmph.
When attacking twisties, the 790 is an absolute hoot. With the right entry speed and intended line, this Duke will take you through it as if it’s on the rails. The grip levels from the Maxxis tyres and suspension setup keep the bike planted while asking for more speed and lean with more time spent on the saddle. In the city, the 790 Duke can switch lanes on a dime and the acute cornering radius allows you to take u-turns without breaking a sweat.
The J.Juan brakes with KTM branding are a big assuring factor. Even with one-finger operation, there is a strong bite with a progression that lets you modulate the intensity even while cornering.
Tipping the scale at 187kg (kerb), it is on par with the Street Triple RS, but feels notably lighter on the move. The seat height is set at 825mm which can be a matter of concern for someone whose height is less than mine, which is 5ft 6in. Once on the bike, there is a lot of room to move on the seat. The way the seat contours with the fuel tank provides a narrow waistline giving ample space to tuck the knees.
The KTM 790 Duke is a street naked and a maniac one at that. Its main reason for existence is to offer that rush of adrenaline, to convey a sense of hooliganism that you don’t want to mess with and to readily take on the corners as if there is only one path left.
