2019 KTM 790 Duke R will more focused and rapid than it already is right now and will be downright focused than its rival given Austrian traditional values
The 2019 KTM 790 Duke R has been spied testing in its production form. According to the spy images, we clearly can see that the styling of the 790 Duke R is similar to its base model but it gets the paint scheme of the KTM ‘R’. KTM has just not given the 790 Duke R some cosmetic upgrades, but it has also offered technical changes to it.
The technical changes include the use of new Brembo brakes rather than the KTM branded radial calipers which are seen on the base model. The new Brembo calipers are mounted on new and light carriers and they also help to grasp the larger 320mm disc at front. As compared to the base model the front disc measured only 300mm. Also at the rear, the disc brake is larger as compared to the ones on the base model.
As seen in the pictures, even the suspension units are tweaked, it gets new forks at the front and they are fully adjustable for damping, rebound and compression. These forks can be adjusted with the help of adjuster screws and they are not available on the stock model. It is also expected that the rear monoshock suspension will also be upgraded for adjustability on the KTM 790 Duke R.
So with all the upgrades for the sportier suspension and brakes, this helps the 790 Duke R to gain better handling. With this, the 790 Duke R also gains a more extreme riding position. Along with the upgraded suspension unit and the brakes, KTM main focus is also to save weight on the 790 Duke R. The brake levers and gear levers are made of lightweight aluminum, whereas, KTM also plans on offering this KTM 790 Duke R with forged wheels instead of cast wheels. Also, the pillion foot pegs will most likely be added as an option.
As of now, it is impossible to tell anything about the mechanical upgrades done for the KTM 790 Duke R. The KTM 790 Duke (Base Model) arch rival is the Triumph Street Triple S and in terms of power, the 790 Duke produces a few more horsepowers. In accordance with this the KTM 790 Duke R main competitor will be the Triumph Street Triple RS and hence KTM will be working to cut off the gap in terms of power produced and the weight of the bike. The launch of the KTM 790 Duke R towards the end of the year is planned, as of now there is no clarification if will be brought down to the Indian shores. Till then stay tuned to ThrustZone to know more about the KTM 790 Duke R.
