2027 KTM 990 Duke

2026 KTM 990 Duke R

A sportier stance, a more determined purpose, and upgrades taken to the extreme. With maximum fight that takes you further, faster, the KTM 990 DUKE R adds extra flare to the middleweight Naked segment. It establishes a new benchmark through greater power output and sharper ergonomics, combined with upgraded WP APEX suspension and electronic functionality never seen before. Austria is where this motorcycle is designed, developed and produced.

This model may feature:

• Tunability

The decision is yours when settling on the perfect sport-oriented setup, using everything from the WP APEX front suspension, which is fully adjustable and includes an upgraded, stiffer 48 mm fork, and the WP APEX shock at the rear, to the handlebars and levers, which can be adjusted. The last ingredient for pulling ahead of the pack is commitment.

• Powerplant

The R version's parallel twin LC8c motor stays at 947 cc, yet improved mapping lets it make more horsepower and torque, releasing the power held inside. The outcome is an adrenaline-charged experience that stems from being the most compact twin in its class. Built on the KTM 990 DUKE platform that's already part of the line-up, it lets the results do the talking. In short, the best has become even better.

• Ergonomic design

The R is tougher than every one of its predecessors and arrives with a bolder stance. Its seat sits 15 mm higher, with ground clearance raised by the same amount, and it's designed to feel as compact as possible while fitting a broad range of riders. What results is the most lightweight, agile and performance-focused Naked in the mid-class.

• Frame

During development of the KTM 990 DUKE's tubular frame, which also serves as the basis of the R version, priority went to torsional stiffness and rider feel. Its personality is sport-oriented, with agility and stability working together for an immersive ride. A revised linkage mounting point has been added without altering the bike's stiffness value. There's also a die-cast aluminum subframe that incorporates side air intakes for both form and function.