KTM has unveiled the base variant of its middleweight naked roadster, the 890 Duke. Previously, the motorcycle was only available in a single variant – 890 Duke R. The base version, which will be offered at a relatively affordable price tag, packs lower-spec hardware than the R variant. Here we explain the new KTM 890 Duke in detail.
Design
The new 890 Duke gets similar styling and bodywork as the 890 Duke R. Thus, the design includes an aggressive front fascia, muscular fuel tank, split-style seats, and a tall-set exhaust. Unlike the 890 R, the base version does not get a rear cowl. At the back, the 890 Duke features a rear-stalk installed taillight and rear indicators. The motorcycle is built around a Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame that uses the engine as the stressed member. The sub-frame is bolted to the primary chassis. The base model also gets revised graphics to differentiate itself from the 890 Duke R.
Colours
The 890 Duke will be offered in two colours – Black and Orange. Both options pack orange coloured alloy wheels while the 890 Duke branding is visible on the fuel tank extensions.
Engine
The changes are more evident on the mechanical front and the base version of the 890 Duke makes slightly less power and torque output than the R version. While the mechanical specifications on the 890 Duke and the 890 Duke R include an 889cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine, the former makes 113.4bhp and 92Nm. The R variant, in comparison, makes 119.3bhp and 99Nm.
Hardware
The suspension setup on the base version is similar to the 890 Duke R. The hardware comprises of WP-sourced 43mm upside-down front forks and a rear mono-shock. The braking setup includes 300mm twin rotors at the front and a single 240mm disc at the rear. In comparison, the R version uses 320mm twin front discs and a 240mm single rear disc – both grabbed by Brembo-sourced callipers.
Electronics
The electronic rider aids include two riding modes (Street and Sports) as standard while the Track mode is available as an option. The safety net also includes lean-angle sensitive traction control system, Motor Slip Regulation, ABS with supermoto mode, cornering ABS. A quickshifter is available as an accessory. The motorcycle also comes equipped with a colour TFT display.
