2024 KTM 990 Duke first look

The new “nine-ninety” isn’t just a higher-capacity 890 Duke, either. If its radically aggressive styling (even by KTM standards) is any hint, the new heavy-middleweight is a thorough reimagining of the p-twin-powered platform.

The more the merrier

KTM’s LC8c engine is well trod territory at this point. The 990 Duke freshens up the formula with longer valve openings and more aggressive camshaft profiles. KTM also increases both bore (92.5 mm) and stroke (70.4 mm) to achieve the 947 cc capacity. That helps drive up both horsepower and torque to 123 ponies (at 9,500 rpm) and 76 foot-pounds (at 6,750 rpm).

According to the manufacturer, increased rotating mass also eases the ride experience while an updated knock control system refines operation. A wider radiator provides enhanced cooling and a newly devised exhaust system optimizes output.

The revitalized twin also pulls double duty, acting as a stressed member of the redesigned steel tube frame. KTM reports more stability at low and high speeds, thanks to recalculated geometry. With the frame rails positioned outside the swingarm, the new unit also achieves higher torsional rigidity. Stiffness isn’t the sole goal, though. KTM says the new gravity die-cast swingarm not only absorbs road inconsistencies with better flex characteristics, but also weighs 4.8 pounds less.

When it comes to suspension, a forged aluminum triple clamp matches the flex of the 43 mm WP Apex fork with a 32 mm offset. Meanwhile, the WP APEX shock offers more comfort and feedback with a lighter, more linear spring. The 990 even cribs the wheels off the 1290 Super Duke R EVO and wraps them in Bridgestone S22 tires. Radially mounted four-piston calipers may provide much of the stopping power but lighter 300 mm discs reduce rotating mass in the name of agility.

In the cockpit, the lower 32.4-inch seat and the four-position handlebar prioritize rider comfort. The five-inch, full-color TFT's revised graphics may be a feast for the eyes, but the dash also benefits from a new menu structure and lean angle readout. Duke owners have come to expect the latest tech and the 990 is no exception. That means three riding modes (Rain, Street, and Sport), traction control, and Supermoto ABS come standard.

Never one to stray from controversy, KTM will offer the 990 Duke in Demo Mode for the first 1,500 kilometers (932 miles). During that stint, owners can test optional software upgrades like Quickshifter+ and additional ride modes. Should the customer grow fond of any of these features, they can purchase them following the Demo period.

In typical KTM fashion, the 2024 990 Duke will arrive in two color options: less orange (Black Metallic) and more orange (Electronic Orange). The firm’s U.S. arm hasn’t announced official pricing yet, but the latest Duke is scheduled to hit showroom floors starting in December 2023.

2024 KTM 990 Duke
Price (MSRP)	TBA
Engine	947 cc, liquid-cooled, eight-valve, parallel twin
Transmission, final drive	Six-speed, chain
Claimed horsepower	123 @ 9,500 rpm
Claimed torque	76 foot-pounds @ 6,750 rpm
Frame	Steel tubular
Front suspension	WP APEX 43 mm fork, adjustable for compression and rebound damping; 5.5 inches of travel
Rear suspension	WP APEX shock, TK adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping; 5.9 inches of travel
Front brake	Dual brand four-piston calipers, 300 mm discs with ABS
Rear brake	Two-piston caliper, 240 mm disc specify ABS
Rake, trail	N/A
Wheelbase	N/A
Seat height	32.4 inches
Fuel capacity	3.8 gallons
Tires	Bridgestone S22, 120/70ZR17 front, 180/55ZR17 rear
Claimed weight	395 pounds (wet)
Available	December 2023
Warranty	24 months
More info	ktm.com