The KTM 990 Duke (2025) is the latest evolution of KTM’s renowned naked motorcycle lineup, promising a thrilling blend of raw streetfighter design and unmatched performance. Known for producing some of the most dynamic motorcycles in the world, KTM has once again raised the bar with the new 990 Duke. It is bolder, faster, and more technologically advanced than ever before, making it a serious contender in the middleweight streetfighter segment. With an all-new chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a re-engineered powertrain, the KTM 990 Duke is designed for riders who crave aggressive styling and razor-sharp handling in one compact, powerful package.
Design and Styling
The design philosophy of the KTM 990 Duke revolves around pure aggression and functionality. The bike continues KTM’s “Ready to Race” ethos, featuring sharp bodywork, an angular LED headlight setup, and a redesigned fuel tank with integrated winglets for improved airflow and stability. Every line and panel reflects the essence of a modern streetfighter, focusing on performance and bold aesthetics.
The new lightweight trellis frame paired with an aluminum subframe enhances rigidity while keeping overall weight minimal. The ergonomics are rider-focused, with a narrow waistline, aggressive stance, and optimized seat height for improved control during cornering and high-speed maneuvers. The color schemes—KTM Orange, Matte Black, and Electric Silver—add to the bike’s striking road presence.
Even small design details, like the updated TFT console and the redesigned handlebar with adjustable levers, showcase KTM’s attention to blending functionality with form. Overall, the 2025 KTM 990 Duke looks like a machine crafted for pure performance without compromising everyday usability.
Engine and Performance
At the core of the KTM 990 Duke lies a newly developed 947cc parallel-twin LC8c engine that produces an impressive 126 horsepower and 103 Nm of torque. The engine is Euro 5+ compliant and has been fine-tuned to offer smoother low-end torque delivery and exhilarating mid-range thrust, ideal for streetfighter riding.
This new engine architecture brings a noticeable boost in performance, allowing the 990 Duke to reach a top speed of around 240 km/h. The motorcycle features a six-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quick-shifter and a slip-and-assist clutch, ensuring seamless transitions during both aggressive acceleration and downshifts.
Riders can select from multiple ride modes — Street, Sport, Rain, and Track — each adjusting throttle response, traction control, and ABS sensitivity. The new ride-by-wire system enhances throttle precision, while cornering ABS and traction control provide maximum stability. KTM has also introduced a customizable “Performance Mode” for riders who want to tailor their experience. This ensures the KTM 990 Duke remains equally capable on city streets, highways, and twisty mountain roads.
Suspension, Brakes, and Handling
Handling is where the KTM 990 Duke truly shines. The motorcycle rides on fully adjustable WP Apex suspension components — a 43mm USD front fork and a monoshock at the rear — designed for spirited streetfighter riding. These units offer exceptional damping feedback and are tuned for aggressive cornering and stability even under hard braking.
The braking system consists of dual 320mm front discs with radial-mount calipers and a 240mm rear disc, offering phenomenal stopping power and control. The bike rides on lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance Michelin Power 5 tires, ensuring top-level grip and confidence on every ride.
Thanks to its low center of gravity, precise steering geometry, and minimal weight, the KTM 990 Duke feels nimble and balanced, making it perfect for both daily rides and track sessions. KTM’s use of advanced electronics and chassis refinement ensures a ride experience that feels natural yet thrilling, exactly what you’d expect from a high-end streetfighter.
Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 947cc Parallel-Twin LC8c |
| Power Output | 126 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed with Quick Shifter |
| Frame | Steel Trellis Frame with Aluminum Subframe |
| Suspension | WP Apex USD Fork (Front) / WP Apex Monoshock (Rear) |
| Brakes | Dual 320mm Discs (Front), 240mm (Rear) |
| Riding Modes | Street, Sport, Rain, Track, Performance |
| Weight | 179 kg (Dry) |
| Expected Price | ₹11 – ₹12 Lakh (Ex-Showroom, India) |
These specifications highlight why the KTM 990 Duke is being hailed as the ultimate middleweight streetfighter, combining precision handling with adrenaline-pumping performance.
Launch Timeline and Pricing
The KTM 990 Duke is expected to make its global debut in early 2025, with the India launch likely following by mid-2025. KTM is expected to price the motorcycle competitively around ₹11–₹12 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it between the 890 Duke R and the larger 1290 Super Duke R. The bike will be imported via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route to keep costs accessible.
In India, the 990 Duke will compete directly with rivals such as the Triumph Street Triple RS, Yamaha MT-09, and Ducati Monster SP. However, thanks to its aggressive pricing, advanced electronics, and unmatched performance, the KTM 990 Duke is expected to dominate the premium streetfighter segment once launched.
Conclusion
The KTM 990 Duke (2025) is not just another upgrade—it’s a revolution in the middleweight streetfighter class. With its new 947cc engine, lightweight chassis, superior suspension, and next-gen electronics, the bike promises exhilarating performance and everyday usability in equal measure. The design, inspired by pure aggression, complements its razor-sharp handling, making it the ideal motorcycle for enthusiasts who love adrenaline and precision. When it hits the roads in 2025, the KTM 990 Duke is sure to become one of the most thrilling motorcycles of its generation.
FAQs
What engine does the KTM 990 Duke use?
The KTM 990 Duke features a new 947cc parallel-twin LC8c engine producing 126 HP and 103 Nm of torque, optimized for performance and reliability.
Is the KTM 990 Duke a streetfighter?
Yes, the KTM 990 Duke is a pure streetfighter designed with aggressive styling, agile handling, and advanced electronic rider aids.
What is the expected price of the KTM 990 Duke in India?
The KTM 990 Duke is expected to be priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹12 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
Does the KTM 990 Duke have multiple riding modes?
Yes, it offers Street, Sport, Rain, Track, and customizable Performance modes for diverse riding experiences.
When will the KTM 990 Duke launch in India?
The KTM 990 Duke is expected to launch in India by mid-2025, following its global unveiling earlier in the year.
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