First Look: 2025 KTM 990 Duke R
More power and less weight for KTM’s nutter upper-middleweight sporty naked bike, the 2025 KTM 990 Duke R.
Twenty-odd years ago, the mantra of less weight and more power was a regular shout on the news pages of motorcycle magazines. But in recent times, that’s become less common, as bike designers focus on other factors, and emissions rules make it harder to shave mass and add grunt.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
So fair play to the folks at KTM, who’ve added nearly 5bhp and cut 2kg from the already-saucy 990 Duke R super-naked machine for 2025.
KTM says the new bike takes inspiration from various heritage models in the previous KTM range – in particular, the excellent second-generation 990 Super Duke R model produced between 2011 to 2013.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
The new bike features a new white colour trim and graphic complete with matt black and white accents, an Electronic Orange gloss powder coated frame and the vital ‘R’ logo on the tank.
For 2025, the KTM 990 Duke R also includes the latest KTM tech features: a new TFT touchscreen 8.88-inch landscape dashboard with inductive technology and a split screen mode for improved readability.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
You also get a new switch cube layout, connectivity unit, a map navigation system, and customizable ride modes, along with the introduction of SPORT ABS and SUPERMOTO+ ABS riding modes.
In comparison to the KTM 990 Duke introduced last year, the R version’s 947cc LC8c parallel twin engine now boasts an additional 5PS – up from 123PS to 128PS – while maintaining 103 Nm of torque and a 10,500RPM rev limit.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
That higher power output comes from improved mapping rather than any big component changes. All-up weight has been reduced by 2kg for a total wet weight of 190 kg, complementing the updated new ergonomics that result in a slightly higher centre of gravity.
Both the seat height and ground clearance are 15mm higher, thanks to longer suspension travel with a steeper swingarm angle that allows around 3 degrees more lean angle in corners.
The frame and swingarm have also been updated with a new linkage construction at the rear, allowing more mechanical grip for harder riding. You also get fully-adjustable WP APEX suspension components front and rear, boasting a new Open Cartridge fork design with 143 mm of travel.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
With a diameter of 48 mm (increased from 43 mm on the KTM 990 DUKE) the fork is 34% stiffer and the upgraded settings have been developed to offer a sportier feel. The bike becomes more planted and with better control, without sacrificing agility.
In addition, the new WP APEX shock at the rear incorporates upgrades in line with the linkage system, with travel reduced by 10 mm to 140 mm.
High performance braking systems – including Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers and a Brembo MCS master cylinder – are fitted on both ends, featuring larger front discs (320 mm vs 300 mm compared to the KTM 990 DUKE), lighter components, and a more precise feel under braking to ensure dominating performance is provided under all circumstances.
2025 KTM 990 Duke R
Michelin Power Cup 2 tires have been fitted to the 2025 KTM 990 DUKE R, coupled with orange adapted rims that carry over from the KTM 1390 SUPER DUKE R model.
So – a big upgrade all in all then, and what looks like an even wilder fun upper-middleweight twin supernaked.
The new 2025 KTM 990 DUKE R will be rolling off the Austrian production line in December and will be available at authorized KTM dealers countrywide from January 2025. UK pricing to be confirmed – more info www.ktm.com
