INTRODUCED IN 2020 the KTM 890 Duke R was a typically ‘KTM’ attack on the middleweight naked motorcycle sector. Built to scythe through city streets and around tracks, the 890 is a tech-loving rider's dream, with all the riding modes and assistance systems you could hope for.
For 2022 the bike has seen a minor update, with many of the cycle parts, engine, and systems remaining the same as before. That means monoblock Brembo Stylema calipers are mated to an MCS master cylinder at the front, and the suspension is still the WP Apex system as before. And everything is kept in check by Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres and a full suite of electronics encompassing everything you’ll need for road and track riding.
Sadly, for many riders, if you want all the bells and whistles to play with, you’ll still have to pay up, as the trickest of the riding modes (TRACK) will come at a price still on the 2022 KTM Duke 890 R. And annoyingly, as before, the mode is already loaded into the bike’s TFT dash, meaning basically all a dealer must do is unlock it for you. It’s a bit of a shame.
What is new for 2022 is the look of the 890 R. The bike now features a matt paint finish called ‘Atlantic Blue’. The colour makes the latest gen’ bike look much like the Austrian brand’s MotoGP machines and has us frothing at the mouth with anticipation as we wait for the much-talked-about KTM RC890 to arrive.
The 2022 KTM 890 DUKE R will be landing in UK KTM dealer this month – February 2022 – for more information, head to: www.ktm.com.
