The 890cc parallel-twin produces 121 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque, preserving all of the excitement that made the 890 Duke platform so famous when it first debuted in 2020 on the KTM lineup.
Six-axis IMU, wheel slip control sensor, and pitch angle control sensor help tame the beast with cornering ABS and lean-sensitive traction control, but it’s still a beast.
The bike has received a slight modification for 2022, with much of the cycle parts, engine, and systems staying the same. For the front, that means Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers mated to an MCS master cylinder and WP Apex suspension as before.
For road and track riding, you’ll have Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres and a set of electronics to keep everything in check.
Additional Track riding mode can get the regular Road, Street, and Rain modes for those who prefer to ride in a more competitive environment. The 890’s nine degrees of traction control slip, switchable anti-wheelie, and additional throttle control settings make it both exciting and accommodating.
This year’s Atlantic Blue livery on the Super Scalpel emphasizes the model’s performance pedigree. The matte blue hue of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R was an inspiration from the RC 16 MotoGP race bike.
KTM’s orange-painted trellis frame makes the 890 Duke R stick out even more from the middleweight-naked crowd thanks to its Grand Prix-inspired color.
KTM has yet to release the MSRP of the next 890 Duke R, which will arrive in showrooms in February 2022. The pricing should not be much higher than the $11,999 sticker price of the 2021 model because of the paint change.
Unfortunately, the trickiest riding mode (TRACK) on the 2022 KTM Duke 890 R will still cost money for many riders who want all the bells and whistles.
The feature comes on the bike’s TFT dash, so all you have to do is ask your dealer to unlock it. It’s a shame, really. For review and first look of this beauty keep visiting BikersInsider.
