KTM 790 Duke: The naked that rewrites the rules of the game

A sharp engine in a nimble body

The KTM 790 Duke is a motorcycle designed for those who experience riding as an extension of their reflexes. Nicknamed “The Scalpel”, this naked sports bike combines aggressiveness, precision and a perfect balance between power and control. In its 2024 and 2025 European version, the 790 Duke is powered by a water-cooled 799 cc parallel-twin engine delivering 95 hp and 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. This configuration allows it to deliver explosive acceleration without sacrificing handling.

Lightweight chassis and responsive suspensions

The heart of its dynamic behavior lies in its chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame, known for its rigidity and lightness. Add to this a 43 mm WP APEX inverted fork up front and a WP rear shock, which absorb irregularities and keep the bike in line under pressure. The package makes the Duke feel like an extension of your body when cornering in the mountains or zigzagging in the city.

Security to match your style

In the braking section, KTM has equipped the 790 Duke with first-class components: two 300 mm front discs with four-piston radial calipers and a 240 mm rear disc. The entire system is complemented by ABS with cornering function, increasing safety without interfering with sporty riding.

Emotion-oriented technology

The 5-inch TFT display puts clear, customizable information at the rider’s fingertips. From riding modes to advanced settings such as “Track Mode,” which allows you to disable aids such as traction control or adjust the launch control, the 790 Duke’s technological experience is designed for versatility without fuss.

Ideal for A2 license… with an invitation to more

One of its strategic advantages is that it can be limited to 48 hp for A2 license holders. This makes it accessible to new riders, who can then enjoy it without restrictions once they obtain a full license. It is a bike that grows with you and elevates your skills as you gain experience.

Full control even when stationary

For those times when city mobility demands constant stopping – traffic jams, traffic jams or maneuvering in tight spaces – having a solid footing when stopping becomes vital, especially on taller bikes or when you are no taller than 1.75 m (5’6″). This is where accessories like the Upbikers come in with a practical solution: by adding an extra 4 centimeters of effective shoe height, they allow many riders to improve stability without modifying the bike or sacrificing style.

Technical comparison with direct rivals

Model	Power	Torque	Weight (dry)	Seat height	Advanced technology
KTM 790 Duke	95 HP	87 Nm	169 kg	825 mm	Driving modes, cornering ABS, optional Quickshifter
Yamaha MT-07	73.4 HP	67 Nm	184 kg	805 mm	ABS, optional traction control
Kawasaki Z650	68 HP	64 Nm	187 kg	790 mm	ABS, TFT panel, mobile connectivity

An intermediate step with the soul of a circuit

The KTM 790 Duke is perfect for those looking for a bike with a rebellious spirit, designed for fun both in the city and on mountain roads. More control, less compromises and with the extra advantage of adaptability for different heights thanks to new solutions such as the Upbikers. It’s not just about getting to the ground: it’s about mastering every traffic light and every corner with the same confidence.

Equipment that elevates your experience

To complete your style behind the wheel of the 790 Duke, don’t forget to equip yourself with clothing that offers both protection and design. Brands such as Dainese, Alpinestars and Revzilla offer helmets, jackets, gloves and boots that can accompany you in your day-to-day life as well as on weekend getaways. Safety is not only a question of helmets, but of a coherent choice in each accessory.

Conclusion: a naked to go further

Whether you’re making the leap from a smaller displacement or looking for an agile and racy naked for short and medium routes, the KTM 790 Duke is an option worth exploring. Accurate, well equipped and open to different profiles thanks to practical solutions such as Upbikers, this Austrian bike has everything to conquer both streets and circuits. In the naked universe, few models achieve this balance between power, technology and character.