EICMA 2019: KTM 890 Duke R Unveiled; Makes 121PS!

Think the 790 Duke is hardcore? Well, KTM has unveiled an even more powerful version of the Scalpel!

• The 890 Duke R is powered by a bored out version of the Scalpel’s engine.
• The 890cc parallel-twin engine produces 16PS more than the 799cc unit. 
• Gets fully-adjustable suspension at both ends and Brembo Stylema calipers.
• KTM is likely to launch the 890 Duke R in India by mid-2020.

KTM has taken the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show by storm. First, it gave us our first proper glimpse of the much-awaited 390 Adventure. Then it unveiled the new 890 Duke R, a motorcycle we can’t stop gushing about. 

The 890 Duke R powerful version of the Scalpel (790 Duke) that was launched in India recently. Its engine capacity has been increased from 799cc to 890cc, taking the final power output from 105 PS to 121PS. That’s a bump of 16PS! There are other mechanical tweaks as well. For starters, it features fully-adjustable WP Apex suspension at either ends and comes equipped with Brembo Stylema calipers. Being a more hardcore variant of the 790 Duke, KTM has also tweaked the ergonomics to some extent for an aggressive riding position. Apart from these changes, both motorcycles remain the same.

We know KTM will bring the BS6-compliant 790 Duke in India early next year. KTM’s willingness to update the 890 Duke R to adhere to upcoming European emission norms suggest that even the bigger motorcycle could be launched here. When exactly? Mid-2020 is our best bet. However, expect it to command a premium of around Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh over the current 790 Duke, which is priced at Rs 8.5 lakh (ex-showroom).