990 Duke

The KTM 990 Duke is the twin-cylinder middleweight that in 2024 filled the gap between the 890 Duke and the 1290 Super Duke R. At its core sits an evolved 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin with a 270-degree crankshaft, good for around 123 hp and 103 Nm. Strong Bosch electronics, a six-axis IMU, lean-sensitive cornering ABS and a standard quickshifter underline its sharp street focus. A cast steel frame, WP APEX suspension and a five-inch TFT display with Connectivity Unit round out the package.

The target rider is the experienced owner stepping up from middleweight twins, but deliberately picking the lighter parallel-twin character over a V-twin. The riding position is upright and aggressive, the bars are wide and the seat sits under 825 mm. That makes it better suited to long roads and track than rival Yamaha MT-09 SP, and sportier than a Triumph Street Triple 765 RS. Direct rivals include the Ducati Streetfighter V2, Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory and KTM's own 1290 Super Duke R when agility matters more than peak power.