With the KTM Duke nameplate hitting 30 years old this year, KTM has announced the return of the 990 Duke moniker with the 2024 KTM 990 Duke.
The new bike will enter the market with some interesting features, including what KTM calls a Coming Home light function as standard. For this, the bike’s headlight will remain on after the ignition has been switched off, with the idea being that it will give the rider a few seconds of guaranteed light to open doors or for better visibility in the garage. In a world where high-tech features are all the rage, this simple function might possibly be one of the more useful for real-world riders to debut in years.
Power comes care of a dramatically updated version of the LC8c engine found in the KTM 890 range. Now measuring in at 947 cc, the heart of the new KTM 990 Duke receives new pistons, crankshaft, and conrod producing a roaring 123 HP and 103 Nm, while in true peak performance fashion, it only has to propel a total motorcycle weight of just 179 kg.
In typical Duke fashion, KTM has bestowed the 990 with a stiff trellis frame and a new closed-lattice swingarm together with high-quality adjustable WP APEX Suspension components.
The WP APEX Suspension fitted to the KTM 990 DUKE features easy-to-adjust settings, encouraging the rider to push the limits comfortably. Upfront, the 43 mm WP APEX Suspension can be easily and accurately dialled in with 5 clicks on both rebound and compression. On the rear, the WP APEX Monotube shock absorber can be adjusted in 5-clicks, with manual preload adjustment also possible.
Once seated, riders are greeted by a 5-inch, anti-scratch bonded glass dashboard providing all the information a rider pilot could want. According to KTM, the new dash has revised graphics and menu structures that are designed for faster, more intuitive access to the various features of the KTM 990 Duke. This includes a new function that displays Lean Angle data, with an optional TRACK Mode complete with lap timer and telemetry stats. The cockpit also features a USB-C connection is also added for device charging duties.
While most of the visuals of the new 990 Duke follow the lines of the previous 890, we’ve got to talk about that headlight! While not everybody’s cup of tea, the new LED headlight is constructed from a carefully chosen mix of materials, with the new design ensuring lighting stability in all road conditions. Position and daytime running lights are located on the profile of the headlight, which also auto-adjusts in intensity according to ambient light conditions thanks to a light sensor integrated into the dashboard.
KTM New Zealand is yet to announce local arrival and pricing for the new 990 Duke, but you’ll definitely notice it a mile off when it lands in dealers.