KTM 990 Duke

The 2026 KTM 990 DUKE, nicknamed “The Sniper”, is built to hit every apex with clinical precision. As the latest evolution of KTM’s mid-class NAKED line, it combines the lightest, sharpest chassis in its segment with a compact, hard-hitting LC8c twin, adjustable WP APEX suspension, and a deeply configurable electronics package. The result is a no-nonsense street weapon that blurs the line between everyday naked and track-sharpened super-naked, engineered to be devastatingly effective where it counts—on real roads and tight, technical corners.

At its core sits a 947 cc liquid-cooled LC8c parallel-twin engine delivering a claimed 123 PS and 103 Nm of torque. More aggressive cam profiles, longer valve opening times, and optimized cooling via a wider radiator sharpen both response and endurance. Bosch EMS with ride-by-wire (RBW) ensures precise fueling and throttle control, while the optional Tech Pack adds KTM Quickshifter+ and additional software enhancements for clutchless up- and downshifts and even more focused performance.

Power is managed through up to five configurable ride modes. STREET mode offers full power with supportive traction control and limited front wheel lift for everyday use, while SPORT dials in a sharper throttle response and increased slip for spirited riding. RAIN mode softens power delivery and maximizes traction in poor conditions. Optional PERFORMANCE and TRACK modes open deeper rider customization, including 10-level rear-wheel slip control, adjustable anti-wheelie, and Launch Control, transforming the 990 DUKE from road-focused naked into a serious apex hunter for trackdays.

The chassis is built around an all-new chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame that uses the engine as a stressed member for a precise balance of stiffness and agility. A lightweight, cast-aluminum rear subframe keeps mass centralized and the bike slim through the waist. Wheelbase is a compact 1476 mm with a steep effective rake and 100 mm of trail, giving the 990 DUKE its trademark “point-and-shoot” steering while remaining stable on fast sweepers and motorway blasts.

Suspension is handled by fully adjustable WP APEX componentry. Up front, a 43 mm WP APEX inverted fork offers 5-click adjustability for both compression and rebound, matched to 140 mm of travel. At the rear, a WP APEX monoshock with preload and rebound adjustment delivers 150 mm of controlled movement. This setup allows riders to fine-tune the bike for commuting, back-road scratching, or dedicated circuit work without sacrificing feedback or confidence.

Braking performance comes from dual 300 mm front discs clamped by radially mounted 4-piston calipers, backed up by a 240 mm rear disc with a single-piston floating caliper. Cornering-aware ABS, including a Supermoto-style mode, and lean-sensitive traction control work in the background to keep things in check when conditions deteriorate or ambition exceeds grip, without muting the raw, mechanical feel that defines the DUKE family.

With a dry (without fuel) weight of just 179 kg, a seat height of 825 mm, and a generous 195 mm of ground clearance, the 990 DUKE offers an aggressive yet accessible riding position. Wide, adjustable handlebars, carefully positioned footpegs, and a sculpted seat with a 2° forward tilt give a locked-in, streetfighter stance that still works for longer stints in the saddle. It’s built to inspire confidence in newer riders moving up, yet remains engaging and rewarding for experienced pilots chasing tenths.

Technology is centred around an all-new 5-inch bonded-glass TFT display featuring faster graphics, cleaner menus, and a more intuitive interface. Smartphone connectivity via optional KTMconnect unlocks turn-by-turn navigation, calls, and audio control, with a USB-C port on hand for device charging. Depending on equipment and optional packs, the electronics suite can include cornering ABS, cornering traction control, multiple ride modes, anti-wheelie settings, Launch Control, Quickshifter+, Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), cruise control, and adaptive brake light—bringing big-bike tech into the mid-weight naked class.

Visually, the 2026 KTM 990 DUKE debuts a fresh DUKE design language that’s all about sharp intent. The new lightweight LED headlight with integrated daytime running lights automatically adjusts to ambient conditions and even stays lit briefly after shutdown for added practicality. Muscular tank shrouds, compact tail bodywork, and orange or black liveries celebrating 30 years of DUKE give it a poised, “ready to fire” stance even at a standstill. Cast aluminum wheels in 17-inch sizing, wrapped in 120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear rubber, complete the package.

The 2026 KTM 990 DUKE is, in essence, a super-middleweight naked distilled: light, razor-precise, aggressively styled, and armed with serious electronics. Whether carving up city streets, demolishing B-roads, or spending weekends chasing lap times, “The Sniper” is built to hit every target with ruthless accuracy.