Hi all, Shawn here from Port Elizabeth South Africa. I owned the KTM790 duke for just over a year and then traded her in for the 890R about 6 months ago. After 1000 km I had her decatted and a Akropovic slip on without decibel killer. The 890R is a beast compared to the 790,longer legs through the rev range, the quick shifter is unreal, banging like gun shots up through the gears between 4000 and 6000 rpm. I have been riding bike all my life and at over 50 years of age the 890R still leaves the hands shaking after a extreme session through the Oliphants Kop Pass, novice riders could find themselves in a bit of a pickle when in sport or track mode in the twistys. Opinion over all, it is a beast a bike and great all round fun, smile a mile on the 890R.
I always loved that term “in a bit of a pickle”, it means your ass cheeks are squeezed so tight that you couldn’t fart if you wanted. I have been there several times and luckily have survived.
@@butlersracing7692 I have both... the SDR and the 890R. The 890R is much better and faster in the twisties. The SDR just gives more bragging rights...
Hi Shawno, I'm thinking of upgrading from my 390 to the 890. For more comfort and power. Have you had any major issues with the bike since this comment? I'm based in Cpt
Finally an 890R review that doesn't fudge the suspension spec ... pretty much all the others mistakenly say 'fully adjustable front and rear' ... good on you for highlighting the lack of front pre-load adjustment
Put the ktm fly screen on it , a ktm ergo seat and set the suspension to comfort and it's converted to a perfect touring bike , I do easy 500km trips on one day , and for track day's I just set the suspension to sport .
Have owned an 890 for 4 months and no issues at all so far so reliability seems good (covered 2500 miles). Absolutely love the bike, great road bike and good in many conditions (fast road riding, town, commuting etc.). Recommend trying one for those tempted. Good review by the way. Cheers
Always nice to listen to your comments Greg when reviewing bikes with Lamb Chop Rides. I test rode the 890 R yesterday and it's a lovely bike but the gearbox in first and second gears I found very stiff to engage. This may be my poor riding skills or because it was a demo bike! Note: The bike was not configured for quickshiffter operation. SW France
I did a 1600 km tour. Have the PP comfort saddle. After about 4 h in the saddle, my butt started hurting. A little stretching break dud help. Wind buffeting wasn't that much an issue (188 cm tall, Shoei GT-Air, textile suit), but after the Autobahn ride with avg. speed of 130 kph my neck hurt. As it probably would with any naked bike (except the Tuna😉)
I bought a 790 Duke, granted it’s not as new as the 890. I’ve really enjoyed it. It has ample power for what I’m looking for. I am a new rider, this is actually my first bike. The driver aids give me more confidence to learn how to wheelie etc and also to ride while in the rain. It has ample power, good driver aids, it’s very light and for me at least it has monumental torque. I’ve really enjoyed it. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
Thanks Tim, really like your posts and great content. I have the 790 Duke myself and agree that unless you are a die-hard trackday fiend the 790 is more than enough fun on British roads! I’ve owned a few KTM’s, two 690 supermotos and a 690 Duke and i still have an RC390 track bike which is hilarious but I must admit to having a few reliability problems with all of them, two speedo units on the supermotos, a cracked air box on the 390 and a knackered water pump and leaking radiator on the 690. So far, [fingers crossed!] the 790 has taken everything in its stride with no problems to report so hopefully they have finally got it nailed. To put it in perspective I’ve also got an Indian FTR 1200 base model and It refuses to start if I leave it for anything over five days without the Optimate connected!
Thanks that's really helpful. Glad to hear the 790 is proving more reliable, nothing takes the shine off having a new bike like struggling to get it started for any number of reasons. Shame the FTR has let itself down a little, is it fun to ride otherwise?
The Indian is an absolute torque monster, not the fastest or best handling machine out there but really fun to ride, the brakes are top notch, Brembo m/cylinder and M4 callipers, the fit and finish is outstanding and it oozes quality. It’s probably the most comfortable bike I’ve owned although you get the chance to stretch your legs every hundred miles or so while you are refuelling! It has bags of character though and I actually test rode it after your own review, it was that engine though that finally sold it for me, I’m willing to sacrifice the inconvenience of having to hook it up to the battery tender, it’s a small price to pay for riding the two wheeled version of a Dodge Charger!
Great review. Thanks. I was following a friend on a few Sundays ago that had bought one of these just the day before. He was obviously still getting used to it and running it in but on the tight, twisty little B roads he looked so 'planted' and confident and I also found myself having to work quite hard to turn my S1000RR often kicking it down an extra cog in order to keep with him out of turns. Later, when we stopped for a stretch I started to ask questions about this funny little twin with orange wheels. The next morning I read a few reviews, saw some youtube video's and then rang a few KTM dealers. By Wednesday I had ordered one and I picked it up a week later. I have had hundreds of bikes and currently own 32 mostly sports bikes and I must say that the 890 is the easiest to ride, most confidence inspiring and best handling bike that I have ever owned or ridden. It is absolutely spot on for our regular, brisk B road blasts. My only gripes have been the way that it was marketed ie much of what had attracted me to the bike was classed as an added extra which meant that the advertised otr price seemed a bit of a con and secondly after only 180 miles it haddeveloped a minor oil leak from the seal behind the front chain sprocket (part no 0005000092) something that has been so common that there is now a revised seal but I am told that dealers are still waiting for them. One owner apparently averaged a new seal every 10 days until the 5th swap was a success. Chains also require adjusting quite regularly (CZ are not the best) and so a new DID chain and sprocket set could accompany the new (revised) seal. Other than that..........Absolutely love it.
What kind of prices are these actually going for? I've seen some insane variances with our local ktm dealers curious what everyone else is paying out the door.
@@TheRealChetManley I know right?! I've owned like 6 and thought I had been through a decent little stable of machines. Hahaha .. no, no I haven't, it would seem.
Hi Graham, (This is a copy of a a comment from above, I hadn't read yours yet) I was wondering if you could help me out please mate? I just bought a 2023 model with 1100 klms and sadly I never rode it before the purchase due to salesman pressure tactics which worked on me as I am not a strong person. Do you find the character of these engines is to vibrate as much as a single thumper? I went from a Suzuki DRZ400sm to this bike and it's insanely vibrational, like there is something wrong. I never rode a twin engine motorbike before this and so I am comparing it to a 2005 Yamaha R1 engine, and 2012 Triump Street Triple which was super smooth. Any advice would be appreciated as I just bought it and hate it 😢 Thanks in advance, Andre.
I've done several 300 mile days on mine, and have no complaints about comfort, although my old knees are a bit sore by the end. I've always ridden supersports with clip-ons before owning the KTM, so by comparison this has a very relaxed riding position :) The fuel range was what surprised me the most about this bike, I easily go 240 miles to a tank at aggressive-ish street speeds.
Thank you for being honest, most people probably will barely be able to tell the difference between a 790 and 890 but save thousands of dollars,so many people fall for the hype and always recommend the latest and greatest model and trim,
i've ridden the 1290duke R. that thing was mental. by far the quickest bike i've ever ridden. The torque down low is immense. It's probably the closest thing mankind will get to achieving Warp Drive. The 890R is imho better suited for public roads ;)
I have a 2021 890 R at 275 miles the digital display went bad. The display turned blue green. clock and date quit working. Waited 4 weeks for a replacement which is being installed tomorrow. Not a very gratifying experience so far.
Sorry, I commented the wrong video previously, so I copy it here after some editing. Hi, this might sound weird but you are the only one - I know of - who has ridden both bikes that I have on my shortlist. The bikes are the KTM duke 890 r and the Moto Morini Corsaro ZZ. Shortly about my riding abilities and goals, which I hope explains these candidates that are pretty far apart. I used to be an amateur club racer and tracked an Aprilia RSV Factory (v2) for years until the kids came along. Nowadays, my riding is limited to one - hell of - a week in the Italian Alps (Dolomites) where I ride with local friends (you can imagine the tempo). Though, I have to add that we ride well within our abilities as those are public roads and wouldn't like to kill anyone (including ourselves). We take the bikes on a trailer or in a van to the premises, so the 6 days we spend in the saddle are practically pure canyon riding on mostly racetrack-like tarmac (one of my all time favourites is Passo Mendola, if you happen to know the place). That means that the only thing I am looking for in a bike is having fun in the saddle. Comfort is rather secondary, reliability is only important in so far as the bike should be OK for those 1K miles every year. Now, this might surprise most people, my wife loves riding with me as a pillion. She used to love the RSV that was professionally set up for track use and nowadays we ride on a Tuono Factory (also V2). Being a yoga instructor, she can cope with any bike and any position ;). She even liked my mate's Brutale 910 R and simply found the original Multistrada 1100 S boring being "too comfortable, and not sporty enough". I consider myself pretty lucky, in this respect, too. I am not a huge fan of electronic aids as on public roads they do not add much to the experience, if not take some away of it. I honestly think that I couldn't (or rather wouldn't be) faster on any bike than on my Tuono V2 in the twisties, simply because we ride on public roads. That is why I am looking for character, sublime handling etc. The fuelling (that is very important in the tight switchbacks or tornantes) on my race tuned RSV was phenomenal, but my old 999S was also exemplary in this department. However, I read so much good stuff about the 890 r that it really caught my attention. I am not afraid of eccentric Italian bikes after having owned and ridden older Ducatis, Aprilias, a Cagiva Xtra Raptor and some MVs. Still, I know that the Corsaro is a dark horse. My concern regarding the Corsaro is that it might be too much of a handful sometimes (if that makes any sense at all). On the other hand, the electronics may be so good on the Duke as they are, still I like to ride my bikes myself. Also, I am not sure if the bike's chassis can handle a pillion? So after such a long post, I wonder which would you choose if you were in my shoes (boots)?
I just bought a 2021, rode it 38 miles, the oil light came on and the engine shut off. The dealer initially thought they forgot to turn off the immobilizer, but when they got it, they hooked it up to the computer and talked to KTM. KTM admitted they sent a bunch out with faulty fuel pumps. So my brand new $12,000 bike is sitting at the dealer, unable to be ridden until they get the new pump and replace it.
@@916chidori it took about 2 weeks for the new fuel pump to come in, no problems since. Almost 2000 miles on it now. I added an Akrapovic exhaust, and it now sounds awesome too.
RUclips algorithm just sent me your way (poss as I just bought myself a new 790!), mint review - totally enjoyed your emotive discussion as opposed to just reading the spec sheet.
I Have a 790 duke and I have experienced the following issues: Radiator leak Left front fork leakage Indicator issue (This has not been solved after 2 years of ownership and biggest pain in the ass) Clutch cable broke open and was rusted Oil leak at valve cover Thats all until now... I even decided to buy the extended warranty cause it's not the most reliable machine. Even with these issues she is rideable as if nothing is going on. She has 30.000 km.
Spot on review Mate. I think UR right about the 790. Dropping the UK price to £7.5k is a bloody bargain, especially as all electronics are unlocked at no cost, after the first service. I was originally looking at a 390 to chuck around, but that's a lot of bike for the money. I think, I'm gonna buy a 790, & then upgrade the brakes, suspension & exhaust, bit by bit. A cheeky decat exhaust from Austin Racing saves several kgs &, with a piggyback ecu, you can hit the same sort of figures as the 890. Also, purely from an aesthetic point of view, the 2020 colourways on 790 look a lot better, than when you rode it. The matt grey & black with orange wheels looks the business & a lot classier, more like it's beastly big brother.
Sounds like a good plan to me, changing all those parts over time will probably also help extend the enjoyment because you'll have new things in it to get excited about over time.
@@RarefiedRoad Also, a piggyback ECU completely sorts out the bogging down problems at low revs(did they sort that on the 890R?)as well as adding another 1000revs up top. Probably will buy a Rapidbike Evo, because I'm tinkerer, so a self-learning option is gonna be better than a mapped one for me.
@@djpingu78 Yeah, I hope these deals hang around for a few months. I know some garages are charging the £7.5k list price but throwing in Power parts also. As far as I know, nobody is discounting the 890R, so it makes the 790 a no-brainer to me.
Adjust adjustable master cylinder for desired front brake feel. No preload: Would just checking sag at your weight--and if off--get the actual right spring to remedy this?
Just spent a day on the 890 and I own a Street RS. I'd say the Street is way more refined but the KTM is way more fun. The KTM feels like a 125cc bike that has had an engine transplant, it's so light and small that its almost like flying. You just career down roads unaware that there is even a bike beneath you. I love the triumph and it's also a great fun ride but you have to think about what you're doing a lot more. Bit of an odd one but I ended up getting the 1290 Duke because I thought that the 890 made me ride a bit too much like a hooligan.
Excellent and honest recommendation right at the end of the vid. 890R vs 790, £11,055 vs £7,499 - (and 790 has all options switched on). Btw I just bought a new 790 for £6999 otr.
Great deal, congratulations mate! I would happily save those 3k and spend it on a top-quality aftermarket suspension setup exactly for my weight and riding style. Not saying Apex is crap, but it's still gonna be designed for a typical rider and not perfectly for the owner.
Hope they will make a husqvarna vitpilen 901 with this engine, i really love the look of the vitpilen 701.but the 75 hk on it is a down step from my triumph thruxton r. And i tried the ktm 890 duke r the other day, and i loved it.
bro, u didn't talk about the quality and rideability and smoothness of the suspension u didn't also talk about the headlight visibility and throw that gives in the dark Do a video on WP suspension, should other manufacturers should adopt it.
They are moving pretty much all their bike manufacturing to India and China. I think only the 1290 will be made in Austria. KtM cost way to much and more to own when you factor in they break a lot.
The “pay for unlocks” thing pisses me off… for 1 reason; They’ve already manufactured every bike with it already installed. So their costs are covered & therefore paying extra is exactly that - extra money for he same damn bike.
They're pretty close for performance in my opinion the Street triple is just a bit lower and sportier for position. Biggest difference is the engine as the Triumph will let you chase the revs a bit further.
Finally had a chance to check one out! I am 6'1 and could get the balls of my feet touching. KTM sells a lowering kit and I am guessing that one was lowered, but on paper and in person outstanding bike!!
I went from KTM back to Triumph, times two. 765 RS & a Speed R. Miss the rawness of KTM, not having my bike in the shop for 4 months in the 1st year of ownership.
796andy2 Have yet to have an issue with Triumphs. Had a Street 675 a few years ago, ended up with a 790 that had seal issues and liked it’s fluids on the outside of the bike for some reason. I know that’s not the norm with any current bike, but I can only go by personal experience and KTM left a bad taste.
Only thing I'm left wondering is why KTM doesn't offer Cruise Control for all of their bikes at this point since they are all ride-by-wire, have the same TFT display, etc? I'm sure it's simply a software update and of course the combination control on the left. Why only being offered on their 790 Adventure bikes when all the lower end bikes could benefit, specifically the 390 Adventure? I don't understand this totally artificial gate keeping they are doing. Very annoying.
I think that doesn't fit their philosophy. It's ready to race and not a touring bike. Like heated grips I think that it won't be on a naked sports bike from KTM.
Lovely review! I’m blown by 890r but I’m considering the 790 duke don’t think need this 890r it seems to focused as race bike whereas I prefer a commuter weekend blaster. I guess a normal 890 duke would do🤭👌
The 890R is taller and the bars are further forward and adjustable between a few preset positions. You can also get a taller seat for it, so might be worth another look?
It is pretty 😅 ??? Not really - at least not in my eyes 😂. But a great fun bike, no doubt about it 👍🏻. I did a testride on the 890 GP and it's really enjoyable 😊
KTM seems to be on the roll at the moment! I'm just wanna see their R&D learned in MotoGP in a Road going Sport bike! 1290 engine in the RC8 frame with all electronics one can wish for!! I recon it would fill a hole in the marcet for a big V2 since Ducati now is a V4 same like Aprilia. And the fact that I wouldn't have to any world superbike homologation rules would mean that 1290 would be able to have more cc then the usual 1000cc straight 4 or V4. I recon it would sell like hot cakes!
Nice review. I do really like this bike but I don't think I could justify it if it was my only bike as it seems a bit too full on all the time. Must be getting old god damn it lol!
Wearing stilettos to the gym would be ridiculous....they'd colour clash with your leotard! It may be a good bike but I just can't love the looks. With most manufacturers, you can pick a bike in their range you like, but with KTM, they all look similar, so if you don't like the style, you don't like KTM's! And I HATE orange!
Hi all, Shawn here from Port Elizabeth South Africa. I owned the KTM790 duke for just over a year and then traded her in for the 890R about 6 months ago. After 1000 km I had her decatted and a Akropovic slip on without decibel killer. The 890R is a beast compared to the 790,longer legs through the rev range, the quick shifter is unreal, banging like gun shots up through the gears between 4000 and 6000 rpm. I have been riding bike all my life and at over 50 years of age the 890R still leaves the hands shaking after a extreme session through the Oliphants Kop Pass, novice riders could find themselves in a bit of a pickle when in sport or track mode in the twistys. Opinion over all, it is a beast a bike and great all round fun, smile a mile on the 890R.
I always loved that term “in a bit of a pickle”, it means your ass cheeks are squeezed so tight that you couldn’t fart if you wanted. I have been there several times and luckily have survived.
You'll crud in your best pants if you ride my 1290r, 1125rx or 1190RS
The 890 is very average brother...
@@butlersracing7692 exactly what a SDR owner would say 😅
@@butlersracing7692 I have both... the SDR and the 890R. The 890R is much better and faster in the twisties. The SDR just gives more bragging rights...
Hi Shawno, I'm thinking of upgrading from my 390 to the 890. For more comfort and power. Have you had any major issues with the bike since this comment? I'm based in Cpt
Finally an 890R review that doesn't fudge the suspension spec ... pretty much all the others mistakenly say 'fully adjustable front and rear' ... good on you for highlighting the lack of front pre-load adjustment
Cant wheelie without Bottom in the front end
The lack of easy adjustable preload on the front is a deal breaker for me, I’ll go with the Triumph street triple
@Miguel Harvey can you explain please brother, iam struggling to wheelie mine I also don't have track pack I only have quickshifter! Thanks m8
@@andybowyer3602 without the track pack you can't disable anti-wheelie. That's why you can't wheelie it.
Put the ktm fly screen on it , a ktm ergo seat and set the suspension to comfort and it's converted to a perfect touring bike , I do easy 500km trips on one day , and for track day's I just set the suspension to sport .
Have owned an 890 for 4 months and no issues at all so far so reliability seems good (covered 2500 miles). Absolutely love the bike, great road bike and good in many conditions (fast road riding, town, commuting etc.). Recommend trying one for those tempted. Good review by the way. Cheers
Thanks Greg glad to hear it's a good bike long term.
Always nice to listen to your comments Greg when reviewing bikes with Lamb Chop Rides. I test rode the 890 R yesterday and it's a lovely bike but the gearbox in first and second gears I found very stiff to engage. This may be my poor riding skills or because it was a demo bike! Note: The bike was not configured for quickshiffter operation.
SW France
I’d hope no issues in just 2500 miles… jeez.
I did a 1600 km tour. Have the PP comfort saddle.
After about 4 h in the saddle, my butt started hurting. A little stretching break dud help.
Wind buffeting wasn't that much an issue (188 cm tall, Shoei GT-Air, textile suit), but after the Autobahn ride with avg. speed of 130 kph my neck hurt. As it probably would with any naked bike (except the Tuna😉)
I bought a 790 Duke, granted it’s not as new as the 890. I’ve really enjoyed it. It has ample power for what I’m looking for. I am a new rider, this is actually my first bike. The driver aids give me more confidence to learn how to wheelie etc and also to ride while in the rain. It has ample power, good driver aids, it’s very light and for me at least it has monumental torque. I’ve really enjoyed it. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
*rider aids
Thanks Tim, really like your posts and great content. I have the 790 Duke myself and agree that unless you are a die-hard trackday fiend the 790 is more than enough fun on British roads! I’ve owned a few KTM’s, two 690 supermotos and a 690 Duke and i still have an RC390 track bike which is hilarious but I must admit to having a few reliability problems with all of them, two speedo units on the supermotos, a cracked air box on the 390 and a knackered water pump and leaking radiator on the 690. So far, [fingers crossed!] the 790 has taken everything in its stride with no problems to report so hopefully they have finally got it nailed. To put it in perspective I’ve also got an Indian FTR 1200 base model and It refuses to start if I leave it for anything over five days without the Optimate connected!
Thanks that's really helpful. Glad to hear the 790 is proving more reliable, nothing takes the shine off having a new bike like struggling to get it started for any number of reasons. Shame the FTR has let itself down a little, is it fun to ride otherwise?
The Indian is an absolute torque monster, not the fastest or best handling machine out there but really fun to ride, the brakes are top notch, Brembo m/cylinder and M4 callipers, the fit and finish is outstanding and it oozes quality. It’s probably the most comfortable bike I’ve owned although you get the chance to stretch your legs every hundred miles or so while you are refuelling! It has bags of character though and I actually test rode it after your own review, it was that engine though that finally sold it for me, I’m willing to sacrifice the inconvenience of having to hook it up to the battery tender, it’s a small price to pay for riding the two wheeled version of a Dodge Charger!
Awesome. I wish I had the funds to buy something like that, there's something really cool about flat tracker styling. Glad you like it.
What are your experiences for longer distances on the 790? I want the 890 R so bad but i’m not sure iff its the right choice….
How would you compare the 690 smc with the duke 790?
Great review. Thanks. I was following a friend on a few Sundays ago that had bought one of these just the day before. He was obviously still getting used to it and running it in but on the tight, twisty little B roads he looked so 'planted' and confident and I also found myself having to work quite hard to turn my S1000RR often kicking it down an extra cog in order to keep with him out of turns. Later, when we stopped for a stretch I started to ask questions about this funny little twin with orange wheels. The next morning I read a few reviews, saw some youtube video's and then rang a few KTM dealers. By Wednesday I had ordered one and I picked it up a week later. I have had hundreds of bikes and currently own 32 mostly sports bikes and I must say that the 890 is the easiest to ride, most confidence inspiring and best handling bike that I have ever owned or ridden. It is absolutely spot on for our regular, brisk B road blasts. My only gripes have been the way that it was marketed ie much of what had attracted me to the bike was classed as an added extra which meant that the advertised otr price seemed a bit of a con and secondly after only 180 miles it haddeveloped a minor oil leak from the seal behind the front chain sprocket (part no 0005000092) something that has been so common that there is now a revised seal but I am told that dealers are still waiting for them. One owner apparently averaged a new seal every 10 days until the 5th swap was a success. Chains also require adjusting quite regularly (CZ are not the best) and so a new DID chain and sprocket set could accompany the new (revised) seal. Other than that..........Absolutely love it.
What kind of prices are these actually going for?
I've seen some insane variances with our local ktm dealers curious what everyone else is paying out the door.
Thanks for your real world ownship feedback on the bike.
You currently own 32 bikes?! Damn bro...start a youtube channel, Id love to see them 🙂
@@TheRealChetManley I know right?! I've owned like 6 and thought I had been through a decent little stable of machines. Hahaha .. no, no I haven't, it would seem.
Hi Graham, (This is a copy of a a comment from above, I hadn't read yours yet) I was wondering if you could help me out please mate? I just bought a 2023 model with 1100 klms and sadly I never rode it before the purchase due to salesman pressure tactics which worked on me as I am not a strong person. Do you find the character of these engines is to vibrate as much as a single thumper? I went from a Suzuki DRZ400sm to this bike and it's insanely vibrational, like there is something wrong. I never rode a twin engine motorbike before this and so I am comparing it to a 2005 Yamaha R1 engine, and 2012 Triump Street Triple which was super smooth. Any advice would be appreciated as I just bought it and hate it 😢 Thanks in advance, Andre.
I've done several 300 mile days on mine, and have no complaints about comfort, although my old knees are a bit sore by the end. I've always ridden supersports with clip-ons before owning the KTM, so by comparison this has a very relaxed riding position :) The fuel range was what surprised me the most about this bike, I easily go 240 miles to a tank at aggressive-ish street speeds.
They do come with a pillion seat, grab rail and pegs. They're just not fitted from factory.
They handle 2-up very well.
I just put a deposit down on a 2022 890 duke R. Can't wait till it's home with me.
How is it!? Thinking about one ……
Thank you for being honest, most people probably will barely be able to tell the difference between a 790 and 890 but save thousands of dollars,so many people fall for the hype and always recommend the latest and greatest model and trim,
i've ridden the 1290duke R. that thing was mental. by far the quickest bike i've ever ridden. The torque down low is immense. It's probably the closest thing mankind will get to achieving Warp Drive. The 890R is imho better suited for public roads ;)
There is only so much speed you can use on normal roads you're right.
I have a 2021 890 R at 275 miles the digital display went bad. The display turned blue green. clock and date quit working. Waited 4 weeks for a replacement which is being installed tomorrow. Not a very gratifying experience so far.
Typical ktm unfortunately, and usually cost 20 percent more than Japanese counterparts
I wish they did different colour schemes for this bike.
You don't like white and orange?
@@padrescout not really no it looks a bit cheap Chinese.
I like the white and orange. Maybe next year model they'll make a new color combination you find more appealing.
@@padrescout yeah hopefully👍
I can't believe parallel twins are making 120hp. That is insane
I used to not be a big fan of the Dukes but they have really grown on me to the fact I actually want one now. Thanks for the review.
Sorry, I commented the wrong video previously, so I copy it here after some editing. Hi, this might sound weird but you are the only one - I know of - who has ridden both bikes that I have on my shortlist. The bikes are the KTM duke 890 r and the Moto Morini Corsaro ZZ. Shortly about my riding abilities and goals, which I hope explains these candidates that are pretty far apart. I used to be an amateur club racer and tracked an Aprilia RSV Factory (v2) for years until the kids came along. Nowadays, my riding is limited to one - hell of - a week in the Italian Alps (Dolomites) where I ride with local friends (you can imagine the tempo). Though, I have to add that we ride well within our abilities as those are public roads and wouldn't like to kill anyone (including ourselves). We take the bikes on a trailer or in a van to the premises, so the 6 days we spend in the saddle are practically pure canyon riding on mostly racetrack-like tarmac (one of my all time favourites is Passo Mendola, if you happen to know the place). That means that the only thing I am looking for in a bike is having fun in the saddle. Comfort is rather secondary, reliability is only important in so far as the bike should be OK for those 1K miles every year. Now, this might surprise most people, my wife loves riding with me as a pillion. She used to love the RSV that was professionally set up for track use and nowadays we ride on a Tuono Factory (also V2). Being a yoga instructor, she can cope with any bike and any position ;). She even liked my mate's Brutale 910 R and simply found the original Multistrada 1100 S boring being "too comfortable, and not sporty enough". I consider myself pretty lucky, in this respect, too. I am not a huge fan of electronic aids as on public roads they do not add much to the experience, if not take some away of it. I honestly think that I couldn't (or rather wouldn't be) faster on any bike than on my Tuono V2 in the twisties, simply because we ride on public roads. That is why I am looking for character, sublime handling etc. The fuelling (that is very important in the tight switchbacks or tornantes) on my race tuned RSV was phenomenal, but my old 999S was also exemplary in this department. However, I read so much good stuff about the 890 r that it really caught my attention. I am not afraid of eccentric Italian bikes after having owned and ridden older Ducatis, Aprilias, a Cagiva Xtra Raptor and some MVs. Still, I know that the Corsaro is a dark horse. My concern regarding the Corsaro is that it might be too much of a handful sometimes (if that makes any sense at all). On the other hand, the electronics may be so good on the Duke as they are, still I like to ride my bikes myself. Also, I am not sure if the bike's chassis can handle a pillion? So after such a long post, I wonder which would you choose if you were in my shoes (boots)?
well put together video! friendly personality, some funny lines and informative. subbed
you deserve more views
Thanks Kallum.
I just bought a 2021, rode it 38 miles, the oil light came on and the engine shut off. The dealer initially thought they forgot to turn off the immobilizer, but when they got it, they hooked it up to the computer and talked to KTM. KTM admitted they sent a bunch out with faulty fuel pumps. So my brand new $12,000 bike is sitting at the dealer, unable to be ridden until they get the new pump and replace it.
How'd that end up going?
@@916chidori it took about 2 weeks for the new fuel pump to come in, no problems since. Almost 2000 miles on it now. I added an Akrapovic exhaust, and it now sounds awesome too.
Thanks think i will stay away from ktm!!! Yamaha mt09 for me so reliable
I like the exhaust look, always have.
Great humor and wit. Thank you
Love the power in this bike. Wish it was red. Only thing that's putting me off. It's insanely fast for something so light.
Midweight bikes in my eyes are 70-130hp, heavyweights are 150+. Some grey area in between
Phew. I thought my 125hp BMW R1200RT might have been considered a heavyweight.
RUclips algorithm just sent me your way (poss as I just bought myself a new 790!), mint review - totally enjoyed your emotive discussion as opposed to just reading the spec sheet.
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it.
Is there any UNDERSEAT STORAGE on this thing? Enough for credible tool and flat-fix kits?
Please also talk about service cost and type in every review you do. We usually see that first before choosing a bike.
I Have a 790 duke and I have experienced the following issues:
Radiator leak
Left front fork leakage
Indicator issue (This has not been solved after 2 years of ownership and biggest pain in the ass)
Clutch cable broke open and was rusted
Oil leak at valve cover
Thats all until now... I even decided to buy the extended warranty cause it's not the most reliable machine. Even with these issues she is rideable as if nothing is going on. She has 30.000 km.
How much cost the extended warranty? And those 3 issues you have in 30k miles isn’t that bad either.
We have the 790 here in India more than enough power for the street! Btw great review as always
Thanks
That exhaust looks way better than any of the aftermarket ones you can put on this bike.
Such a shame we have yet to find a cure for blindness...
@@opmike343 overpriced Akro looks like drainpipe
I actually agree that the standard pipe looks better then the over priced aftermarket choices
Always a quality review, thanks.
Thank you
I've heard that KTM's have problems with head gaskets and other reliability issues, anybody got any information on this?
Following
@HahrtDood get a yamaha mt10 waaay better or the mt09 no faults with those bikes
I thought the bike comes with both the rear seat and the cowl.
Spot on review Mate. I think UR right about the 790. Dropping the UK price to £7.5k is a bloody bargain, especially as all electronics are unlocked at no cost, after the first service. I was originally looking at a 390 to chuck around, but that's a lot of bike for the money. I think, I'm gonna buy a 790, & then upgrade the brakes, suspension & exhaust, bit by bit. A cheeky decat exhaust from Austin Racing saves several kgs &, with a piggyback ecu, you can hit the same sort of figures as the 890. Also, purely from an aesthetic point of view, the 2020 colourways on 790 look a lot better, than when you rode it. The matt grey & black with orange wheels looks the business & a lot classier, more like it's beastly big brother.
Sounds like a good plan to me, changing all those parts over time will probably also help extend the enjoyment because you'll have new things in it to get excited about over time.
@@RarefiedRoad Also, a piggyback ECU completely sorts out the bogging down problems at low revs(did they sort that on the 890R?)as well as adding another 1000revs up top. Probably will buy a Rapidbike Evo, because I'm tinkerer, so a self-learning option is gonna be better than a mapped one for me.
You can apparently now get the 790 for under 7k depending at certain dealers
@@djpingu78 Yeah, I hope these deals hang around for a few months. I know some garages are charging the £7.5k list price but throwing in Power parts also. As far as I know, nobody is discounting the 890R, so it makes the 790 a no-brainer to me.
Adjust adjustable master cylinder for desired front brake feel. No preload: Would just checking sag at your weight--and if off--get the actual right spring to remedy this?
Best review Ive seen of this one. Im trying to decide between this one, Street Triple RS and Ducati Monster.
Personally I favour the Triumph
Just spent a day on the 890 and I own a Street RS. I'd say the Street is way more refined but the KTM is way more fun.
The KTM feels like a 125cc bike that has had an engine transplant, it's so light and small that its almost like flying. You just career down roads unaware that there is even a bike beneath you.
I love the triumph and it's also a great fun ride but you have to think about what you're doing a lot more.
Bit of an odd one but I ended up getting the 1290 Duke because I thought that the 890 made me ride a bit too much like a hooligan.
Good review! Thanks for taking the time.
Excellent and honest recommendation right at the end of the vid. 890R vs 790, £11,055 vs £7,499 - (and 790 has all options switched on). Btw I just bought a new 790 for £6999 otr.
Great deal, congratulations mate! I would happily save those 3k and spend it on a top-quality aftermarket suspension setup exactly for my weight and riding style. Not saying Apex is crap, but it's still gonna be designed for a typical rider and not perfectly for the owner.
A great video! Thanks for the review. I have ridden the 790 and the 1260 SD. For me the 790 was a little underpowered. I am anxious to try the 890.
Hope they will make a husqvarna vitpilen 901 with this engine, i really love the look of the vitpilen 701.but the 75 hk on it is a down step from my triumph thruxton r.
And i tried the ktm 890 duke r the other day, and i loved it.
That would be good. I think they are using it in the Nordon so it shouldn't be hard for them to adapt it for the Vitpilen as well.
This is telling me I should get the aprilia tuono v4 & or 1290 duke 🤔
Had both... never go back to the 790.
Nice-looking bike. I wish that KTM still made the 690 Duke, though, as I always wanted one. Left it too late.
Get a Vitpilen 701, pretty much the same bike. And £5-6k used, it's great fun.
Still have the smc
@@Kirkish_Delight The tank is too small.
@@dogman8339 I don't like supermotos as much.
High 790? The R or ? Help..can’t get demo in my city in the states. What would you get for fun riding..no touring, no commuting. Other brands?
I'm waiting for a supermoto with this engine.
Agreed 100%. Now a days KTM forgot where they are coming from. Always Supermoto.
Because there's loads of parallel twin engined supermotos isn't there?
@@crashbangwhallopwhatavideo Which paralel twin supermotos are you talking about? We have L twin from Ducati as supermoto and what else ?
@@hellride3979 it's called sarcasm. There are no 2 cylinder supermotos for a reason.
Bike's perfectly fine for touring
Vindicated my choice to get the 790 ;) thanks fella.
You're welcome. Good choice.
Price : That's a big jump up for the 890. If you're happy with the 790, It's not worth the extra for bragging rights. 🍻
Does anyone know what is failing in the clutch’s????
How's the thrill compared to the MT 09?
Pretty similar I would say. This might just feel a tiny bit more nimble than the standard MT09 but they're both just as much fun.
How is it for daily commuting through traffic?
Pretty good actually.
are these additional settings available only in the R version?
bro, u didn't talk about the quality and rideability and smoothness of the suspension
u didn't also talk about the headlight visibility and throw that gives in the dark
Do a video on WP suspension, should other manufacturers should adopt it.
Great questions
They are moving pretty much all their bike manufacturing to India and China. I think only the 1290 will be made in Austria. KtM cost way to much and more to own when you factor in they break a lot.
I agree, that is disturbing news. One of the whole reasons to own a KTM is because they are Austrian built.
The “pay for unlocks” thing pisses me off… for 1 reason; They’ve already manufactured every bike with it already installed. So their costs are covered & therefore paying extra is exactly that - extra money for he same damn bike.
excellent review!
How does this compare to the street triple?
They're pretty close for performance in my opinion the Street triple is just a bit lower and sportier for position. Biggest difference is the engine as the Triumph will let you chase the revs a bit further.
Yeah ive tried the 790 and its more rhan enough power for me for a daily
I am 6 feet and cant put both foot flat.
Finally had a chance to check one out! I am 6'1 and could get the balls of my feet touching. KTM sells a lowering kit and I am guessing that one was lowered, but on paper and in person outstanding bike!!
This is a great channel, deserves more subscribers
Did you have any issues?
How it is to live with Duke? I had the bike few days 🤦🤦🤦
It's really easy to live with. It's light fast and fun.
@@RarefiedRoad I know. Just it sounded funny , as I was looking for at least few months u ride it. I got 2018 super Duke and thinking downgrade .
Love the humor.😆
been coveting a ktm since i sold my speed trip , kinda pricey at the moment tho . great review , subbed !
Thanks
I went from KTM back to Triumph, times two. 765 RS & a Speed R. Miss the rawness of KTM, not having my bike in the shop for 4 months in the 1st year of ownership.
@@gorillamoto5329 zero problems with my speed triple and i rode it pretty hard had 10,000 on it when i had to sell
796andy2 Have yet to have an issue with Triumphs. Had a Street 675 a few years ago, ended up with a 790 that had seal issues and liked it’s fluids on the outside of the bike for some reason. I know that’s not the norm with any current bike, but I can only go by personal experience and KTM left a bad taste.
@@gorillamoto5329
Most of the time that's other way around Triumph is well known for slapping electronics on old motorcycle and calling it best.
Is it worth the money from something like a husky Svartpilen 701
Only thing I'm left wondering is why KTM doesn't offer Cruise Control for all of their bikes at this point since they are all ride-by-wire, have the same TFT display, etc? I'm sure it's simply a software update and of course the combination control on the left. Why only being offered on their 790 Adventure bikes when all the lower end bikes could benefit, specifically the 390 Adventure? I don't understand this totally artificial gate keeping they are doing. Very annoying.
I agree. I would love to see it featured on almost all ride by wire bikes at this point. As you say it can't be that hard to include.
@@RarefiedRoad It's a feature people are willing to pay for! It doesn't even have to be included factory but at least upgradable!
I think that doesn't fit their philosophy. It's ready to race and not a touring bike. Like heated grips I think that it won't be on a naked sports bike from KTM.
@@peerf6500 Bro BMW 1000cc sport bikes have heated grips and CC, it ain't that crazy
It is available for the 890R as part of the TeckPak.....
This ain't the new daily right?
No don't worry
@@RarefiedRoad Phew, need you to carry on holding the quirky garage baton
It’s a 1980s Yamaha with advanced electronics and FI.
Very entertaining! Thanks for the great review. I want an 890 but I’m a whopping 5’5”. So, it’s still a little tall for me.
Just FYI, there's an optional lowering kit and thinner seat in the powerparts catalogue for this bike, so worth looking into maybe.
@@moto_matt thank you for letting us know about the lowering kit.
Like a review for a home vacuum!! No freaking emotions, just specs.
😂
Would you have preferred if he had worn a clown suit and a big red nose ?
I thought it was a great review
Good review, thanks 👍
Lovely review! I’m blown by 890r but I’m considering the 790 duke don’t think need this 890r it seems to focused as race bike whereas I prefer a commuter weekend blaster. I guess a normal 890 duke would do🤭👌
So it has been a month. Does she still run great?
She's was only on loan I'm afraid so I couldn't tell you.
''it is very pretty''? How on earth do you look past the bug-eyes on this thing? Or is this one of those 'pretty on the inside' things?
It's pretty on the inside :)
790 with quickshifter/blipper as standard! 890 optional extra!👎
Right? What's the point? What kind of logic sits behind that KTM?
@@pasiutrial 790 was bait, 890 has the "more,more,more" sound to it because of the 8 and the R in the name. It's all about sales...
Nice work- subbed! And thank you for making me feel more confident about my height and age 😆
Vitpilen 901 i want🤙🔥🔥
sounds really goooooodddd!!
Nice moto... good review...
Are you near a gun range?
Dude you’re hilarious, great vid!
Great review!
I loved the idea of owning one of these until I sat on a 790, it's so small and cramped for me I was gutted 😭
The 890R is taller and the bars are further forward and adjustable between a few preset positions. You can also get a taller seat for it, so might be worth another look?
I dunno. Im 6'6" and weigh like 280 with a 34" inseam, and i dont feel cramped. Plenty of leg room
Damn I’m 6’1 you think I’d be to big for this bike?
You can change throttle response so it's essentially just on/off... lmao
"perfectly normal height"
It is pretty 😅 ??? Not really - at least not in my eyes 😂. But a great fun bike, no doubt about it 👍🏻. I did a testride on the 890 GP and it's really enjoyable 😊
Nice review. Facts and rational opinions.Good point about the 790.
Nice hat, it's your logo?
It is, thanks for noticing.
So this isn't a bike to ride from Sunderland to London a lot? 🤣🤣
KTM seems to be on the roll at the moment! I'm just wanna see their R&D learned in MotoGP in a Road going Sport bike! 1290 engine in the RC8 frame with all electronics one can wish for!! I recon it would fill a hole in the marcet for a big V2 since Ducati now is a V4 same like Aprilia. And the fact that I wouldn't have to any world superbike homologation rules would mean that 1290 would be able to have more cc then the usual 1000cc straight 4 or V4. I recon it would sell like hot cakes!
Great
Nice review. I do really like this bike but I don't think I could justify it if it was my only bike as it seems a bit too full on all the time. Must be getting old god damn it lol!
We call that getting sensible and there's nothing wrong with it. It is a bit full of you can only have 1 bike.
Its a nice looking bike, but it looks so cheaply put together compared to my street triple rs
I was considering a street tripple rs. Have you had any problems with it?
@@bconte15 no problems at all. Very happy with it. Extremely easy to ride. Lots of power. And its not overwhelming
sounds like a briggs & stratton lawn mower ,,take the muffler off the best exhaust is no exhaust .
For that price I’ll get used mt 10 sp!
nobody cares.
In my country a new MT 10 has the same price of the Duke 890
Lol, this dude is so big and tall that makes the 890 look like a toy 🤣
Wearing stilettos to the gym would be ridiculous....they'd colour clash with your leotard! It may be a good bike but I just can't love the looks. With most manufacturers, you can pick a bike in their range you like, but with KTM, they all look similar, so if you don't like the style, you don't like KTM's! And I HATE orange!
Yeah they really have doubled down on the alien face but there must be some people out there that like them or they'd end up with a warehouse full.
What are you really trying to say?
Design by KISKA ( pussy) in english
Lessons learnt from 3 days?
You should wrap the white tank and front fender black, the white plastic just looks cheap and out of place..
Perfectly average height for a grown man in his 30s lol something about that cracked me up