2027 KTM 790 Duke Returns with Extensive Update Focusing on Control and Ergonomics
The 2027 KTM 790 Duke, known as 'The Scalpel', gets its most extensive lifecycle update with aggressive styling, revised rider triangle, and upgraded brakes and tires.
4.4 lb (2 kg)
799 cc
150 mm
What Happened
The 2027 KTM 790 Duke adopts the aggressive stance of its larger siblings, featuring a redesigned headlight, streamlined bodywork, and reshaped fuel tank. Under the skin, it retains the 799 cc LC8c parallel-twin engine but gains a 4.4 lb weight reduction and a new exhaust system.
KTM focused on the rider triangle with a new handlebar, repositioned footpegs, and improved seat for a more natural riding position. The bike also receives Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, WP steering damper, and all-new WP radial brakes developed in-house.
Suspension updates include WP APEX front fork with split-function technology and adjustable rear shock, both adjustable via a 5-click dial. The 2027 model is described as 'Cut on Command'—a natural extension of the rider.
- Aggressive styling update inspired by larger Duke models
- 4.4 lb (2 kg) weight reduction for enhanced agility
- Revamped rider triangle with new handlebar, footpegs, and seat
- New Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires for improved grip
- All-new WP radial brakes for smoother, more powerful stopping
- WP APEX suspension with 5-click adjustability
Why this matters
The updates aim to reinforce the 790 Duke's position as the benchmark in the middleweight naked bike segment, offering improved control and rider feedback.
Terms in This Story
- LC8c
- KTM's 799 cc parallel-twin engine used in the 790 Duke.
- WP APEX
- A line of adjustable suspension components from KTM's subsidiary WP.
- Naked bike
- A motorcycle without a full fairing, emphasizing a bare engine and upright riding position.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.