- Spotted testing multiple times
- Will be powered by a 947cc, liquid-cooled motor
- Likely to be lighter than the standard 990 Duke
KTM India has revealed the unveil dates for five of its upcoming motorcycles including the 990 Duke R. The bike will debut internationally on 31 October along with a few other models in the same week.
In one of our recent stories, we covered the specification details of the 990 Duke R as it was being tested on a race track. KTM will power it using a 947cc, parallel-twin, LC8c engine that will dish out 128bhp and a peak torque of 103Nm. Compared to the standard model that makes 123bhp at 9,500rpm, the R is slightly more powerful and revs higher for the same. KTM is likely to equip the bike with a different exhaust setup as well which will further help tweak the performance and reduce the weight.
KTM is also working on making the 990 Duke R lighter than the standard model. For reference, the 990 Duke weighs 179kg but the R trim could tip the scale around 175kg. While that may not be a significant difference, the R also makes more power which further alters its power-to-weight ratio. The weight reduction could result from using lighter wheels, fully adjustable WP springs and Brembo brakes.
In signature KTM style, the 990 Duke R will be draped in an orange paint scheme. Although KTM could bring the 990 Duke to India, it’s unlikely for the R trim to come here.
