Machine Description
16ps extra with a complete renewal of the engine
The new KTM 890 DUKE R has made its debut in Japan. Based on the 790DUKE, this latest model features an enlarged engine displacement and enhanced suspension and electronic controls. The development is packed with the on-road and off-road race model development know-how that KTM has cultivated over many years.
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The 790DUKE-derived liquid-cooled, in-line twin-cylinder engine, the first of its kind on a KTM, has a larger bore and stroke, with a 91cc increase in displacement to 890cc. Its maximum output is now 121ps, 16ps higher than the KTM790's 105ps. The intake and exhaust valves, camshafts, and crankshafts were also revised to achieve more aggressive power output and easier handling, and the 2 cylinders were given independent fuel injection control for improved low-speed control.
The suspension and electrical systems have also been significantly upgraded.
Even on other vehicle surfaces, the new WP's new APEX front and rear suspension increase the grade and the riding height by 15mm. While increasing the swingarm sagging angle and increasing the front load, the rear wheel traction improved when accelerating. BREMBO has also been newly adopted for the brakes, and handling has evolved while increasing the braking force, such as increasing the diameter of the front disc to φ320mm and reducing the weight. The tires were also upgraded to Michelin Power Cup 2. The riding position was also upgraded with a lower steering wheel and a higher footpeg in the rear compared to the KTM790. With a 3.3kg reduction in weight, the overall direction of the vehicle has evolved in a more aggressive manner.
The electronic control system has also evolved further, with a six-axis sensor-based cornering ABS and torque converter, as well as an optional slipper clutch and MSR that prevents the rear wheels from locking up when shifting down sharply on low-mileage surfaces. The riding modes include RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and TRACK (optional), as well as a 9-step adjustable tracker, wheelie control, and throttle control, all of which can be customized.
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Test Ride Review
Somewhat scary with a nickname "THE SUPER SCALPEL"
The concept of the new 890DUKE R is "THE SUPER SCALPEL". The literal translation of this concept is "THE SUPER SCALPEL". To be honest, I was a little concerned before the test ride, because I had experienced the sharp and powerful performance of the 790, and I had a preconceived notion that the much more powerful 890, with its enhanced "R" specification, might be a bit tough to handle.
The 790DUKE's first liquid-cooled, in-line twin-cylinder engine, newly adopted from the 790DUKE, is as compact as a single cylinder and weighs 166 kg (dry), about the same as a 400cc engine. Compared to the 790, the riding position is slightly more forward-leaning and the seat is also 834mm, which is about 1cm higher, but the difference cannot be understood unless told. The chassis is light and slim, so it is not hard to maneuver and reach the foot grounding.
Turns well with smooth and stable riding
You can feel the pleasant throbbing of the unequal explosions of the 75-degree crank as it bases up. The engine rotation is extremely smooth and mild. Thanks to the new dual balancer and advanced electric control, my initial concerns were overturned completely.
I was especially impressed with the smoothness of the throttle response. When the throttle is opened up in the middle of a corner, the bump is very linear and natural. Although the vehicle's body dimensions have been redesigned so that it is slightly lowered, when the throttle is switched from off to on, the weight is smoothly transferred from the front to the rear, and the vehicle's posture is stable despite the sharp turns.
The WP's new APEX suspension also helps the motorcycle follow the road smoothly, allowing you to accelerate at the start while feeling the rear wheels grip the road. Of course, this sense of security is aided by the highly controlled cornering track-control and ABS underneath the edges. It's a perfect match for the MICHELIN's moist ground contact, which is a perfect fit for the road.
High-dimensional sports performance in your hands can be manipulated
The nimble footwork, easy-to-handle engine, and the latest electric control system give it a pleasingly high-quality feel. As its nickname "The Super SCAPEL" implies, it's sharp and precise in its ability to turn through the corners, but the fact that it's not a contest of endurance is a testament to its evolution and maturity. It's just as easy and fast as it should be.
There may be plenty of machines with more horsepower and top speed, but when it comes to large motorcycles that offer a high level of sporting performance and fun to ride, it's one of the very few.
The KTM 890DUKE R is a perfect match for the short course at Fuji Speedway, where I took a test ride, and I'm sure it will be one of the fastest machines on the winding and tight tracks.
I was able to properly separate it from the 790 DUKE I was interested in. The sporty riding style of the 790 on the open road is contrasted with the comfortable leather-clad 890R, which is the perfect choice.
See KTM Moto Index Page
See Accessories of KTM 890 DUKE R
See Accessories of KTM 790DUKE
