When KTM developed its 799 cc parallel twin and introduced it to the US market in the form of the 790 Duke, MD was there to test it. Like virtually every other journalist, MD was very excited by the performance, handling and character of this new middleweight twin naked bike. Indeed, the editor of motorcycle.com immediately purchased one for both commuting and track day use. I personally purchased a 790 Adventure, and modified it while publishing several articles describing the changes I made. I still own that bike.

There were plenty of virtues in the original 790 Duke. The engine outperformed everything in the middleweight class in terms of horsepower and torque, and the delivery of that power was very pleasing. The steel frame and swingarm, together with the stock suspension, provided excellent feedback from the tires, giving the rider plenty of confidence to push the bike hard.

Despite being pleased with the 2019 model we tested, MD noted some shortcomings. The front brake, in particular, was a bit disappointing with decent power, but overly soft initial bite and feel we described as “a bit spongy”. We liked the non-adjustable fork, but remember it being a bit harsh over small stutter bumps on the road. We were anxious to see if there were any changes in the current model that improved these features.

The 790 Duke disappeared from the US market for a short period after the introduction of the 890 Duke and the 890 Duke R. The 790 Duke returned for the 2023 model year, and our test unit was a 2024.

On the spec sheet, not much has changed from the original 790 Duke. The bike is still 799cc with non-adjustable suspension (except for rear spring preload). It does come with a sophisticated IMU that allows for cornering traction control, for instance, and more sophisticated ABS. It also has a stock steering damper in place. All of these features were on the original model.

With the IMU, even traction control is cornering sensitive. A nice feature in this price bracket.

Ergonomics are fairly standard for a “standard“ with an upright rider triangle and decent legroom. The seat seems a bit more comfortable than we recall on the original model, but it is difficult to tell after so many years.

What we can definitely discern is a change in the front brake performance. With the same 300 mm dual front discs squeezed by the same four-piston radial mount calipers, there is now far better initial bite and feel. We suspect KTM didn’t take kindly to the words “mushy“ and “spongy“ used to describe the original 790 Duke front brake. We understand the master cylinder is new, and we are almost certain that the brake pads are a new, more aggressive compound. In any event, any issues we had with the front brake in the initial model are gone.

We also sensed a change in the front fork settings that improved compliance over small stutter bumps. Bravo.

With five years, or so, to dial in fueling and throttle response, it is no surprise that the returning 790 Duke lets you open a closed throttle and consistently get smooth, progressive power. No jerkiness.

The bike comes stock with three selectable ride modes, including Rain, Street and Sport. Our test unit had the optional Track package with a separate Track mode and a quickshifter.

The quickshifter worked well in both directions above second gear … seemingly better than earlier KTM systems on their parallel-twin models. The gear spread offered by the six-speed is well matched to the engine characteristics, which offer good power from as low as 3,000 rpm, a meaty mid-range and a solid pull up through redline. KTM claims more than 100 horsepower at the crank, and it is entirely believable when riding the bike.

Handling recalls the original 790 Duke, that is, good stability coupled with a nimble, confident feeling in the corners. Having never sampled them before, we were pleasantly surprised by the Maxxis Supermaxx ST tires. Turning in with these was progressive and predictable, and they offered good feedback and grip.

I really enjoyed testing the 790 Duke. I loved the bike when it first arrived, as reflected in my test report for the 2019 model. The few issues we had with that bike seemed to be addressed by KTM. One other change is the price. The new 790 Duke is actually less expensive.

The new 790 Duke carries an MSRP of $9,499, which is $1,000 cheaper than the 2019 model. Perhaps its nearest competitor is the Suzuki GSX-8S naked model that retails for $9,209. We have not tested that Suzuki, but it has been well received by the press. Note that the KTM 790 Duke has more horsepower, and features an IMU and a steering damper, both of which are missing from the Suzuki.

In short, we think the new KTM 790 Duke is a great value. If you are looking for a middleweight naked bike with a price under $10,000, the new 790 Duke should be near the top of your list.

Take a look at KTM’s website for additional details and specifications.

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