2023 KTM 890 Duke R Specs & Review

KTM’s R-badged middleweight naked is built for riders who prioritize sharp handling, strong brakes, and a feisty twin. If you’re cross-shopping performance nakeds, the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R specs show a focused package that balances street usability with serious corner speed. This KTM 890 Duke R review sticks to the facts enthusiasts care about.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin
• Displacement: 889 cm³ / 54.26 in³
• Power: 89 kW / 119.3 hp
• Torque: 99 Nm / 73 lb-ft
• Wet weight: ~ 180 kg / 396.8 lbs
• Seat height: 834 mm / 32.83 in

Engine & Performance

The 889 cm³ parallel twin (bore x stroke 90.7 mm x 68.8 mm) delivers 89 kW (119.3 hp) and 99 Nm (73 lb-ft), giving the Duke R punchy midrange and a lively top-end. A 13.5 compression ratio, Bosch EMS with RBW, and DKK Dellorto 46 mm throttle body contribute to crisp throttle response, while forced oil lubrication with two oil pumps and liquid cooling with a water/oil heat exchanger support durability when ridden hard.

On the street, that translates to effortless city overtakes and a satisfying roll-on surge when you crack the throttle exiting corners. The 6-speed gearbox pairs with a PASC antihopping (slipper) clutch to help stabilize aggressive downshifts. Efficiency is solid for the performance on tap, with fuel consumption rated at 4.74 l/100 km (1.25 gal/100 miles) and CO2 emissions of 110 g/km. With a 14 l (3.7 gal) tank, you get a practical range for commuting and weekend blasts.

Handling, Comfort & KTM 890 Duke R Seat Height

The Duke R’s chassis is tuned for quick direction changes and stability. A Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame uses the engine as a stressed element, keeping mass centralized, while a 1482 mm wheelbase and a 65.7° steering head angle deliver composed agility. WP APEX components do the heavy lifting: a WP APEX 43 front setup and WP APEX monoshock rear, with 140 mm (front) and 150 mm (rear) suspension travel for real-world roads. Ground clearance is a healthy 206 mm, and cast aluminium wheels keep unsprung weight in check.

The KTM 890 Duke R seat height is 834 mm (32.83 in), giving a commanding view and plenty of cornering clearance. At low speeds, the KTM 890 Duke R weight—around 180 kg (396.8 lbs) wet—helps it feel light and manageable. Shorter riders may find the height on the tall side, while taller riders will appreciate the roomy, engaged stance. The aluminium 28/22 mm handlebar provides leverage for quick inputs without feeling nervous.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is track-worthy: up front, 2 x Brembo Stylema Monobloc four-piston, radially mounted calipers bite 320 mm discs; the rear uses a Brembo single-piston floating caliper on a 240 mm disc. Bosch 9.1 MP ABS includes Cornering-ABS and a Supermoto mode for more advanced riders.

Other notable details include:

• Bosch EMS with RBW and DKK Dellorto 46 mm throttle body
• PASC antihopping clutch, mechanically operated
• Cast aluminium wheels and 520 X-Ring chain
• Stainless steel primary and secondary silencer
• Aluminium, powder-coated rear subframe
• Aluminium handlebar Ø 28/22 mm
• Electric starter, 10 Ah battery

Who Is the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R For?

This bike targets experienced riders who want razor-sharp street performance with the control to push in the twisties. As a daily, the smooth parallel twin, efficient fuel use (4.74 l/100 km), and reasonable wet weight make it easy to live with. Newer riders can appreciate the ABS safety net, but the strong 89 kW output and 834 mm seat height are better suited to those with some seat time.

If your priorities include precise handling, powerful brakes, and a responsive twin that rewards committed riding, the Duke R fits the bill.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2023 KTM 890 Duke R specs read like a blueprint for real-world sport riding: a potent 889 cm³ twin, premium Brembo Stylema brakes, Bosch Cornering-ABS, and WP APEX suspension all tied together by a rigid, lightweight steel frame. It’s lively without being unruly and efficient enough to commute while still craving canyon rides.

Strengths include its braking package, chassis feedback, and responsive engine. Potential downsides? The 834 mm seat height may challenge shorter riders, and the focused nature won’t appeal to those seeking a relaxed cruiser feel. Overall, it’s a top-tier choice in the middleweight naked class for riders who value precision and performance.

FAQ

• Is the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R good for beginners?

  • It’s manageable in weight (~180 kg wet) and equipped with Bosch Cornering-ABS, but its 89 kW (119.3 hp) output and 834 mm seat height make it better suited to riders with some experience.

• What is the seat height of the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R?

  • The KTM 890 Duke R seat height is 834 mm (32.83 in).

• How heavy is the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R?

  • The KTM 890 Duke R weight is approximately 180 kg (396.8 lbs) wet, with a dry weight of 166 kg (366 lbs).

• What are the power and torque figures?

  • Power is 89 kW (119.3 hp) and torque is 99 Nm (73 lb-ft).

• Does it have cornering ABS and what’s the fuel economy?

  • Yes, it uses Bosch 9.1 MP with Cornering-ABS and Supermoto mode. Fuel consumption is 4.74 l/100 km (1.25 gal/100 miles), and the tank holds 14 l (3.7 gal).