2023 KTM 890 Duke R.

890r mainThe modern-day parallel twin seems to be the choice of many manufacturers at the moment. Its compact design, coupled with the fact that it's ‘cheaper’ to produce than a V-twin for example, could be a few of the reasons for the adoption of this particular layout.

BMW, Kawasaki, Yamaha and now Honda and Suzuki have engines in the parallel motorcycle Universe, but one engine, in my mind, stands out regarding outrageous power characteristics and it’s found nestling inside the KTM 890 Duke R.890r GROUP01

Sure KTM/Husqvarna have their 105hp units found in their Adventure bike range, and indeed in the base model 890 Duke, but the 890 Duke R takes a big leap forward with its 121hp@9,250rpm and 99Nm@7,750rpm delivery. Correct me if I’m wrong, but is that ‘the’ most powerful production based road bike engine on the topic of a parallel-twin layout?890r GROUP02

Not only is it the most powerful, it’s also the smoothest one from the KTM stable. The 899cc, DOHC, 8-valve engine, fed by twin 46mm throttle bodies, is uncannily smooth throughout the rev range, but once above 7,000rpm the 17hp increase is dramatically applied. Even though this is a naked bike it’ll fly past 230km/h, or more, if you’re wondering about top end speed figures.890r GROUP03

When you take a good look around at the Duke 890 R you can immediately see it’s no heavyweight motorbike, even though its performance can dictate otherwise. With a ridiculous class leading weight of only 166kg (dry), there’s no wonder why it fills your limbs with adrenalin. It's not just about this superb engine either, as the handling package on offer is just as commendable.

WP APEX suspension (not found on the Duke 890) is top level but it was a little too hard for my liking, especially the 43mm forks. However, five clicks out on the left fork (compression damping), and two out on the right fork (rebound damping), changes all of that in an instant, and you don’t need any tools to do so. Then the front end was much more compliant for our roads and encouraged attack mode into the bends.890r GROUP05

The agility of this bike has to be felt to be believed, it turns quicker than a confused ferret. Don’t think of the 890 Duke R as a mere naked bike, oh no folks, it’s one of the best sports bikes money can buy, also owing to its massively powerful 320mm Brembo front brakes gripped by race derived Stylema monobloc calipers, more than enough power for any racetrack addict. So it’s a good job there’s also sticky Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres to keep them from overpowering the tortured tarmac.890r GROUP06

Obviously the 890 Duke R is stuffed with fancy electronics, like cornering ABS and cornering traction control, all controlled by a 6D lean angle sensor. The R also has Track Mode that allows you to customise your settings, or, as I did, turn everything off for the ‘full-fat’ experience. First gear becomes a hoot; as soon as you twist the throttle you’re awarded with a face full of the TFT screen in a violent manner. If you’re quick you can snick it into second gear and carry on with the lack of a front wheel using the ‘both ways’ quick-shifter, which now feels superior on this ’23 model than previous versions. Not to mention the delightful ‘crack’ from the exhaust when the next gear is selected, so I will.890r GROUP07

The rider can also change between Street, Sport and Rain modes if they prefer to calm things down a little, and anti-wheelie control. I did try these setting but inevitably returned to the ‘dry-teeth’ Track mode, but the choice is yours.890r GROUP04

You may be thinking that this type of bike is far from comfortable, but I’d have to disagree. The riding position ergonomics are perfect for a naked bike and the wide seat is kind to anyone’s bottom, shape or size. Even though the 890 Duke R is slightly more track focused than road going it’s very easy to live with on a daily basis, either shopping or commuting, you can even carry (scare) a passenger too, as it has a handy grab rail at the rear. When you visit the shops you’ll certainly attract attention, because there’s no doubt this motorcycle is very good looking on all counts, right? Especially in this Atlantic blue/orange colour that was previously found on the MotoGP bike, and now on the 1290 Super Duke R as well.890r middle2

So there we go, the 890 Duke R is without doubt one of the most exciting motorcycles money can buy and for that reason alone it shouldn’t be overlooked. R227,999 is what you’ll need to own one and for a ‘900’ that isn’t too cheap. However the sum of its top shelf parts and the way it performs negates that. If you’re looking for something different and wildly entertaining, and are bored with life, this will change everything believe me. I would most certainly adore having one in my garage, and so would Mat from The Bike Show, (his favourite naked bike too). Is it Parallel Perfection you ask? Well, that’s for you to decide, but it’s pretty damn close!

Images: Sudoku.

Visit: www.ktm.com for more technical information and dealer locations throughout SA.

Or ask our friends at www.radktm.co.za to book a test ride in Jo’burg (011 234 5007).890r middle


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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