A scalpel is a small pocket sized but most powerful tool in the right hands. Because of its agility and corner carving capability, KTM calls its all new mid-sized bike the KTM 890R Duke, “The Scalpel”.

In view of the Corona Virus scare across the globe, KTM launched their bike online and introduced it to the world through a you tube video. KTM has used all the lessons learnt on racing track to offer a light, powerful and agile bike which can be used on road as well as taken to the tracks on a weekend. As is the tradition with the use of the R moniker, KTM has used the best of the components and tweaked the engine as well as the ride geometry to offer a comfortable, fast and sporty bike. The bike has got a typical KTM look with a short wheel base and the edgy geometric body panels. These are further accentuated by the graphics and the typical orange KTM frame and wheels.

The KTM 890R Duke is powered by a twin cylinder parallel engine which has evolved from the KTM 790 Duke. This new engine produces more power and torque than the 790 Duke. The bore and stroke of the engine cylinders has been increased to increase the displacement by a 100 cc. In addition the compression ratio has been increased from 12.7:1 to 13.5:1. The KTM 890R Duke engine gets a new crankshaft with 20% more rotating mass leading to a more stable engine with better characteristics for cornering at speed. The new connecting rod and forged box pistons combined with better breathing thanks to a more aggressive camshaft profile contribute to the KTM 890R Duke engine producing 121 BHP of power at 9,250 rpm and 99 N-m of torque at 7,750 rpm.

Modifications have been done to the gear box of the KTM 890R Duke in the form of short shift lever travel, lighter spring action and an optional quick-shifter. Optimum cooling of the compact but powerful engine is ensured by a larger radiator. An advanced fueling system allows for fuel injection to be adjusted individually of both the cylinders.

The front suspension of the KTM 890R Duke comprises fully adjustable 43 mm WP Apex forks. The suspension has been provided with sufficient travel to allow for a good on-road comfort as well as on-track performance. Compression and rebound adjustments can be carried out on the go to meet individual riding characteristics. Rear gets a WP Apex fully adjustable mono-shock with hydraulically adjustable pre-load.

Stopping power is provided by twin Brembo 320 mm discs at the front. This is a 20 mm increase in diameter over the 790 Duke. The Brembo brake calipers of the KTM 890R Duke are designed to reduce the brake fluid flow and hence the lever travel for a better braking feel. Use of Aluminium carriers for the brakes and the new calipers reduces a total of 1.2 Kgs of unsprung weight from the front brakes as compared to the KTM 790 Duke. The lever ratio and brake feel is also adjustable to the rider’s liking thanks to Brembo’s multi-click system.

The riding ergonomics is designed for a more sporty feel with the rider sitting a bit higher and forward, the handle bars are lower and sit further while the footpegs are rear set for a sporty and fast riding position while offering better control over the bike into turns.

Overall the bike looks stunning with the split LED headlamps, high set passenger seats and angular looks. Its gives a sense of motion even when at rest.

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