Ktm 790 Duke Review

Used Buyer Review

The 790 Duke is genuinely one of the most exciting middleweights ever made, and used prices have finally dropped to where the risk-reward makes sense. That LC8c parallel-twin is an absolute gem — 105hp that feels twice as urgent as the numbers suggest, with a midrange punch that'll embarrass much bigger bikes. Chassis is razor-sharp without being punishing on decent roads. It's the kind of bike that makes you a better rider simply because it rewards commitment. That said, go in with your eyes open. Early 2018-2019 examples had software gremlins and occasional throttle-by-wire issues — always check service history and make sure the dealer updates were done. The WP suspension is stiff stock and most used examples will benefit from a spring rate check for heavier riders. Also inspect the frame sliders situation; these bikes go down, and previous owners aren't always forthcoming about low-sides.