(Ironically, it could even be a good thing that the 790 Duke will be offered alongside the new 990 Duke starting in 2024, since it was brought back in 2023, but that’s just by the by.)
New face in the Duke lineup
During test rides, the new Duke 990 was spotted with an all-new front end and a fresh 990cc inline two-cylinder. In the prototype pictures, the new design looks like it was created with a 3D printer from a hobby workshop, which may also be due to the lack of paint. However, that it really is the new face of the new Duke range can be concluded from the fact that the 1290 Super Duke R has also been spotted with this front mask.
The basic shape of the new mask has not really changed and remains true to the previous shape. Integrated are two round LED lamps, one above the other. We can assume that these will again be flanked by LED strips that serve as daytime running lights. However, another cover, such as a transparent lamp mask, does not seem to be planned.
As usual, the turn signals are mounted above the mask. There don’t seem to be any major changes here, although the shape may have stretched a bit.
Changes in design and features: display and mirror
The display’s mount has been revised, but this raises questions. Is it a temporary solution or already the final design? However, this question is rather raised by the display itself. The current shape suggests that it is not the final component. Unlike the previous models, the display has a rather square design and is no longer drawn horizontally. Furthermore, the flattened corners, a characteristic design element of the previous Dukes, are no longer present. In direct comparison, you could think that the display looks less high-end and rather cheap (i.e. purely from the design language and the rear view).
Unfortunately, the display is hard to see in the normal view and you cannot see a display at all, but it looks a bit like a large touchpad. On the left of the holder, you could also guess a small flap that could hide a USB charging port.
Also noticeable is the redesign of the KTM 990 Duke’s handlebar gauges. The modified 4-way buttons are particularly eye-catching. Their design appears to be curved inward toward the center. This modification could mean a significant improvement in operability. The curvature makes it easier for the thumb to reach the center of the keys, allowing it to intuitively select the right key.
The mirrors have also been revised. They now show noticeable cutouts in the rear area. Their design differs significantly from that of their predecessors: they no longer run in a 90-degree bend, but rather pull up diagonally.
Chassis and fairing of the KTM 990 Duke
The fact that the upside-down fork of the KTM 990 Duke comes from WP should hardly surprise anyone.
One element that does cause confusion is the additional hydraulics that run from the height of the light parallel to the upside-down fork down to the fender. Whether this is a special measuring device for the test rides, or whether the part will also come in series production and what function it might serve, currently remains a mystery.
In addition to these changes in the chassis area, the fairing also features some innovations. The small side fairing next to the tank has also been revised. In contrast, the frame of the 990 Duke appears to have remained unchanged.
Changes have been made to the swingarm. Current pictures show that it is no longer equipped with static bars, but has a more solid design.
The heartbeat of the KTM 990 Duke: The new in-line two-cylinder.
A key point of the redesign of the KTM 990 Duke is certainly the revised inline two-cylinder. I’ve already covered information on this in a separate article / video after footage of a design registration surfaced that is said to be from CFMoto. Allegedly CFMoto is to build the new KTM engine and will certainly then be allowed to use it in their own models.
The basic design and dimensions of the engine have been retained, but under the surface a lot has changed. Among other things, the cylinder head, the housing, the oil pan and the covers have been redesigned. Of note is the redesign of the oil pan, which has not only been lowered, but also moved to the side. This change creates space for the catalytic converter and exhaust system. E xpanding oil and water cooler also indicates increased engine performance. It remains exciting to see what effect these changes will have in detail on the inner workings and performance of the engine.
Completely new exhaust system of the KTM 990 Duke
The KTM 990 Duke brings with it a completely redesigned exhaust system. Compared to the previous model, there is a noticeable change in the manifold design. They now draw a much stronger arc before ending in a large header under the engine.
Also noticeable is the rear muffler, which also appears more massive than on the previous model, although it is difficult to make it out in the available pictures.
Redesign of the rear end
The design of the rear section of the new KTM 990 Duke also shows changes. In particular, the conventional taillight is now replaced by turn signals with integrated taillight and brake light. However, this approach will depend on the regulations in different markets, as such an integrated solution is not allowed everywhere.
If you look closely, you will also discover a sensor above the new lighting unit. At first glance, you might think it’s a radar, but that’s unlikely for this model (yet). It is more likely a sensor for data acquisition during the test drive.
Speculation and the final presentation
It is important to emphasize that there are many ambiguities when analyzing the new KTM 990 Duke model. Not all the parts seen in the previous images will necessarily be found in the final version of the motorcycle. Some could be for camouflage or to protect certain design elements during the testing phase. So until KTM officially unveils the final model, all info is to be considered speculation.
- Schönes Standmodell: Detailreich gestaltetes Mini-Motorrad der original KTM Super Duke 1290 im Maßstab 1:12
- Dekoratives Sammelobjekt: Das Miniatur-Modell ist ein wunderschönes Stück für die Sammlervitrine und ein Muss für jeden Motorrad-Fan
- Originalgetreue Nachbildung: Das Modellmotorrad ist aus Metall und Kunststoff gefertigt und hat dem Maßstab 1:12 entsprechend eine Länge von ca. 18 cm
- Liebevolle Details: Das Sammelmotorrad überzeugt mit detailgetreuer Ausstattung. Der Ständer lässt sich ein- und ausklappen und der Lenker lässt sich drehen
- Fertigmodell zum Sammeln: Das orangefarbene Speed-Bike mit Seitenständer lässt sich direkt ins Regal stellen
- Kettensatz mit X-Ringkette, Ritzel und Kettenrad
- Farbe der Kette Gold/Stahlfarben, Teilung 520, Glieder 112
- Kette offen mit Hohlnietschloss
- Ritzel 15 Zähne, Kettenrad 45 Zähne von JT
- passende Modelle siehe unten
- Sehr detailliertes Modell eines KTM 250 Duke Motorrads.
Letzte Aktualisierung am 2023-09-18 / *Affiliate Links / Bilder von der Amazon Product Advertising API
