Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke: The legendary KTM 790 Duke — widely known as ‘The Scalpel’ for its razor-sharp handling — is gearing up for a comeback in an all-new avatar. Recently spotted testing across Europe, the Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke looks more refined, aggressive, and future-ready. While KTM continues to expand its middleweight lineup with the 890 and 990 Duke, recent developments suggest the brand is rethinking its model placement globally. With the new 790 test mule appearing close to production, enthusiasts worldwide now have a lot to look forward to.
Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke Design & Styling – Sharper, Meaner, Inspired by Big Dukes
The first thing you notice is the all-new LED headlamp design which resembles the styling language seen on the 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke R. KTM seems committed to giving its entire Duke lineup a unified visual identity.
Key visual changes:
- New LED headlamp with aggressive split design
- Redesigned fuel tank with sharper cuts and muscular form
- Completely new radiator shrouds and side panels
- Revised rear section with new subframe layout
- Updated exhaust silencer to comply with future emission norms
- More compact tail and sleeker bodywork treatment
While the silhouette remains recognisably “Duke”, the overall stance is more modern and edgy, giving the motorcycle a refreshed street presence.
Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke Engine & Performance – Familiar Powerhouse Retained
The Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke continues to use the trusted 799cc parallel-twin LC8c engine, known for its punchy mid-range and exhilarating torque delivery.
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Expected output:
- Power: ~93–105 bhp (may vary by market tune)
- Torque: 87 Nm (likely unchanged)
- Paired with a 6-speed gearbox
- Ride-by-wire throttle retained
KTM might not drastically boost power figures. Instead, improvements are expected in refinement, cooling, fueling and efficiency due to emission norms. This keeps performance enthusiasts satisfied while ensuring global homologation compatibility.
Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke Chassis & Hardware – Familiar Frame with New Enhancements
The motorcycle continues to sit on KTM’s lightweight steel trellis frame, maintaining the agility that riders love. Although the main frame looks unchanged, the subframe appears completely redesigned, suggesting improved durability and mounting geometry.
Hardware highlights:
- Steel trellis frame carried forward
- Revised subframe structure
- Updated braking hardware with new calipers
- Reworked suspension setup for better stability
- Newly shaped exhaust muffler
- 17-inch alloy wheels expected to continue
- Ground clearance & tank capacity likely similar to current model (14L tank)
These changes indicate KTM is prioritising refinement and ride quality upgrades, not a complete architecture overhaul.
Features & Tech – The Modern Duke Experience Continues
The outgoing model was already packed with features, and most are expected to return with refinements.
Likely feature suite:
- 5-inch TFT display with modern UI
- Bluetooth & Navigation support (KTM Connect)
- Traction control & cornering ABS expected
- Ride modes: Street / Rain / Sport / Track / Performance
- Quickshifter+, slipper clutch
- USB-C charging port
- Adjustable settings for electronics
This blend of tech makes the 790 Duke a desirable everyday as well as weekend machine.
Expected Launch Timeline & Market Positioning
Based on near-production test units, the global debut is expected in 2026, possibly EICMA. The big question — will it return to India?
Current scenario:
- 790 Duke was sold in India earlier in limited units
- India currently gets 890 Duke R (₹14.50 lakh ex-showroom)
- If brought back, 790 could sit around ₹11.5–12.5 lakh pricing bracket
- Would become KTM’s most accessible parallel-twin middleweight
A return to India depends on KTM’s lineup strategy, but the refreshed platform hints positively.
Final Verdict
The Next-Gen KTM 790 Duke seems like a carefully evolved upgrade rather than a complete transformation — and that’s a good thing. KTM appears focused on keeping the agility and performance intact, while modernising the bike with fresher styling, refined hardware, and tech continuity. The updated design, mechanical tweaks and revised exhaust make the motorcycle more relevant for the future, especially if KTM plans a global restructure with the 790 as the entry point and the 990 positioned above. For riders waiting for a powerful, sharp-handling middleweight without jumping to the bigger Dukes, this upcoming 790 could become the sweet spot once again.
