Ktm Duke 790
The Ktm Duke 790 has a top speed of 220 km/h (estimated; KTM does not officially publish a top speed figure), produces 95 hp and weighs 169 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The KTM 790 Duke was introduced at EICMA 2017 and went on sale in 2018, earning the nickname 'The Scalpel' for its razor-sharp handling and agile middleweight performance. It was notable for introducing KTM's all-new parallel-twin LC8c engine platform, filling the gap between the 390 Duke and the larger 1290 Super Duke. The model was eventually succeeded by the 890 Duke in 2021, which used a bored-out version of the same engine with improved power output.
95 hp
Power
87 Nm
Torque
169 kg
Weight
220 km/h (estimated; KTM does not officially publish a top speed figure)
Top Speed
5.5β6.5 L/100km (approx. 15β18 km/L, real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Parallel Twin Sweet Spot
The 799cc parallel-twin engine delivers a strong 105hp with a broad powerband, making it unusually versatile for both city riding and track days. It's widely praised as one of the best middleweight engines ever built.
Watch for Stator Issues
Early 2018-2019 models had known stator and charging system failures that could leave you stranded. Always check service history and ask if the stator has been replaced or updated before buying used.
Decent Resale Retention
The 790 Duke holds its value reasonably well due to its cult following and the fact KTM discontinued it in favor of the 890 Duke. A clean, low-mileage example commands a premium on the used market.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial release featuring parallel-twin LC8c engine, trellis frame, WP suspension, cornering ABS, and lean-sensitive traction control.
Used Buyer Review
"Buy one with full history and never look back."
$6,500-$9,500 usedThe 790 Duke is genuinely one of the best middleweight nakeds ever built, and buying one used is arguably smarter than new. KTM sorted most of the early software gremlins through updates, so find a bike that's had those done and you're inheriting a properly sorted machine. The LC8c parallel-twin pulls hard from 3,000rpm and absolutely screams past 8,000 β it feels more alive than the numbers suggest. Ergonomics are aggressive but not punishing for experienced riders. Be honest with yourself about KTM's reliability reputation though. These bikes need their service intervals respected. Check the throttle bodies are balanced, verify the WP suspension hasn't been neglected, and look for signs of track use β plenty of these got hooned hard. The TFT dash and cornering ABS are genuinely brilliant tech for the money. Budget for consumables; Supercorsa front tires don't last forever.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Ktm Duke 790 β owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
π₯ 2 CRITICALCheck voltage output, look for dim lights or dead battery
Listen for pump prime, check for stalling under load
Inspect welds and frame around swingarm area closely
Look for oil residue on fork legs and shock body
β Pre-Purchase Checklist
Capable but maintenance-intensive, buy with service history
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Ktm Duke 790
Ducati Monster 821
Kawasaki Z900
Suzuki Gsx-s750
Yamaha Mt-09
Ktm 890 Duke
Compare Ktm Duke 790 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict β head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Ktm Duke 790 vs Ducati Monster 821
Specs Β· Power Β· Buyer verdict
Ktm Duke 790 vs Kawasaki Z900
Specs Β· Power Β· Buyer verdict
Ktm Duke 790 vs Suzuki Gsx-s750
Specs Β· Power Β· Buyer verdict
Ktm Duke 790 vs Yamaha Mt-09
Specs Β· Power Β· Buyer verdict
Ktm Duke 790 vs Ktm 890 Duke
Specs Β· Power Β· Buyer verdict
More Ktm Duke 790 Guides
More from Ktm
View all Ktm models βCommunity Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Ktm Duke 790? +
Stator/charging system failure: Check voltage output, look for dim lights or dead battery (serious) | Fuel pump failure or weak delivery: Listen for pump prime, check for stalling under load (moderate) | Frame crack near swingarm pivot: Inspect welds and frame around swingarm area closely (serious)
Is the Ktm Duke 790 a good motorcycle? +
Buy one with full history and never look back. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Experienced riders wanting thrilling, affordable naked performance. Avoid if: You skip service intervals or ride daily commutes.
What is the horsepower of the Ktm Duke 790? +
The Ktm Duke 790 produces 95 hp @ 9,000 rpm, with 87 Nm @ 8,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 220 km/h (estimated; KTM does not officially publish a top speed figure).
Is the Ktm Duke 790 good for beginners? +
Yes β the Ktm Duke 790 is a reasonable choice for new riders (95 hp is manageable), weighing 169 kg. Experienced riders wanting thrilling, affordable naked performance
Is the Ktm Duke 790 reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Ktm Duke 790, notably: Stator/charging system failure (Check voltage output, look for dim lights or dead battery). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Ktm Duke 790 good for daily use? +
Experienced riders wanting thrilling, affordable naked performance Fuel: 5.5β6.5 L/100km (approx. 15β18 km/L, real-world average).
How fast is the Ktm Duke 790? +
The Ktm Duke 790 reaches a top speed of 220 km/h (estimated; KTM does not officially publish a top speed figure), producing 95 hp at 169 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Ktm Duke 790? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Ktm Duke 790, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads β see motoryk.com/bikes/ktm/duke-790/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
