KTM 990 Duke Test - Unreason and Riding Pleasure

The KTM 990 Duke 2024 sets new standards in the Duke lineup. Equipped with a lively twin-cylinder engine, it offers an impressive output of 123 hp at 9500 rpm and a torque of 103 Nm at 6750 rpm. This engine not only delivers the raw power one expects from a KTM but does so with remarkable smoothness at lower revs. Schaaf praises the smooth throttle response achieved through modern electronics, while Kurt Rubik highlights the impressive smoothness and strong torque. No matter which gear you're in, the 990 Duke pulls powerfully and shows no signs of hesitation.

The transmission of the KTM 990 Duke is a double-edged sword. While Martin Bauer describes the transmission as notchy and harsh, Kurt Rubik is enthusiastic about the functionality of the quickshifter. Marek, the sporty track rider, also emphasizes the excellent performance of the quickshifter, which allows seamless gear changes. However, the criticism of the mechanical nature of the transmission remains, which is not as smooth as other models like the Yamaha MT-09 or the Honda. The blipper function could also be improved with more throttle blips to smooth out the shift peaks.

The KTM 990 Duke shines with cutting-edge electronics that make the riding experience safer and more enjoyable. Schaaf and Kurt Rubik appreciate the lean-angle-dependent traction control and cornering ABS, which, in combination with the high-quality Bridgestone S22 tires, ensure a confidence-inspiring riding performance. The ability to customize the electronic riding aids individually is positively highlighted by all test riders. Adam Child praises the versatile riding aids and the intuitive operation of the display, which completes the overall package of the electronics.

For a cool head during this test, the HJC RPHA 71 Carbon was used. The helmet impressed the 1000PS crew with its pleasantly neutral aerodynamics, which ensure fatigue-free riding even on longer trips. Additionally, the effective ventilation performance and reliable heat dissipation on hot days are noteworthy. The carbon model not only looks super classy, but it is also noticeably lighter than the base version of the RPHA 71. The visor mechanism with an additional sun visor works flawlessly. The fit is comfortable, and the shape covers a wide range within the 1000PS editorial team - all our editors felt comfortable! We give our recommendation.

https://hjchelmets.eu/products/rpha-71-carbon-solid

For this test, we were equipped with products from the current Sport Collection by our apparel partner IXS. Our 1000PS editorial team has trusted the Swiss brand for more than 10 years now. Besides the quality of craftsmanship, we appreciate that IXS consistently uses high-quality materials and offers excellent fit. Even editors who do not conform to standard body shapes find a well-fitting outfit thanks to the availability of long and short sizes. With advanced features like airbag systems and electronically controlled membranes, they strive to provide the highest level of safety and comfort. We love it!

https://ixs.com/moto-sports-2024

• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/motocinematica/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/jakob.schabsi/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/patbpixx/
• Editor: https://www.instagram.com/christophorvath/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/mbbikeperformance/
• Test Rider and YouTube Host (English): https://www.instagram.com/adamchadchild/
• Test Rider and YouTube Host (Polish): https://www.instagram.com/marek.piechula/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/named.aj/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/turboschaaf/
• YouTube Host (Italian): https://www.instagram.com/weeeslyy/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/kurtrubik/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/ewald_baumgartner_fahrtechnik/
• Test Rider and Host for German Videos: http://zonko.at/
• Producer, Host, and Test Rider: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nils-mueller-doget-1000ps/
• Editor: Martin "Vauli" Vielhaber: More reports from Vauli

Our Partner for the Naked Bike Test 2024

• Motorcycle Care: https://motorex.com/de-at/moto-line--5616
• Less Luggage, No Stink! 1000PS trusts Bamigo

The KTM 990 Duke offers a comfortable riding position that is suitable for both sporty use on the race track and daily use. Schaaf notes a minimal change in the seating position compared to previous models, resulting in a stronger front-wheel orientation. The user-friendliness of the controls and the logic of their arrangement are highlighted by Adam Child, who describes the switches and the display as pleasant and high-quality. However, for taller riders, the 990 Duke might feel a bit small, as Adam notes, which is not an issue for him as a shorter rider.

The chassis and handling of the KTM 990 Duke are outstanding. Martin Bauer praises the new chassis, which offers a lot of feedback and stability. The suspension is adjustable both at the front and rear, ensuring precise line choice and excellent cornering. The combination of stability and agility allows the bike to be ridden safely and with a lot of fun both on the race track and in everyday life. Kurt Rubik appreciates the performance of the chassis in conjunction with the Bridgestone S22 tires, which work well in all conditions.

The brakes of the KTM 990 Duke are an area that could use some improvement. While the traction control and cornering ABS provide a high level of safety, the braking performance itself is sometimes criticized. Schaaf and Martin Bauer have not expressed any specific complaints about the brakes, but there might be some variability from bike to bike. We are looking forward to the feedback from the 1000PS community.

One topic we have on our 1000PS YouTube channel, as well as Adam Child in England, is the recurring comments from people who have had negative experiences with KTM quality. However, this does not align at all with our extensive and positive experiences in our daily testing. Also, always a guarantee for many comments on our social media channels: the design and price of the 990 Duke!

Riding a motorcycle in the Bucklige Welt offers an exceptionally charming experience, highlighted by the picturesque landscape of this region in Lower Austria. Characterized by gentle hills, expansive meadows, and idyllic small villages, the Bucklige Welt is the perfect terrain for motorcycle enthusiasts who seek both the beauty of nature and the thrill of carving up some twisties. The varied routes lead through forested areas and past historical landmarks, making each tour a journey through the culture and history of the country. Riding is especially delightful in the spring and autumn months when the landscape is bathed in a spectacular play of colors that invigorates the senses and leaves unforgettable impressions. This makes the Bucklige Welt a hidden gem for bikers who seek the authentic and the original.

In our test, we rode a total of 10 motorcycles in a direct comparison. The motorcycles were in different displacement classes. Nevertheless, we evaluated the motorcycles using the same rating scheme. The categories in the test protocol include aspects such as engine comfort and modulation, engine revviness, torque, engine power, gearbox, quickshifter, clutch, traction control regulation, traction control adjustment options, switch quality, and control logic. Additionally, aspects such as stability, handling, precision, suspension quality and adjustment range, brakes, modulation, and effectiveness were evaluated. Each test rider provided their individual rating, which was then averaged for each category and ultimately led to an overall rating. The best motorcycle in each category was rated "1", and the worst motorcycle in the category was rated "10". For our readers, these tables are interesting for two reasons. On one hand, they can see in which areas individual motorcycles are above average and in which areas they are below average - always considering that the price and displacement classes are very different. On the other hand, all reports and results can be clicked through here, allowing readers to directly compare their favorites - regardless of price and displacement class.

Motorcycles are meant to be irrational because they embody the pure essence of riding – an untamed freedom that goes far beyond the sober aspects of transportation and efficiency. The KTM 990 Duke is the perfect example of this. With its lively twin-cylinder engine that pumps adrenaline through your veins with every revolution, and a chassis that dives into every twisty as if there's no tomorrow, it reminds us why we fell in love with these machines. They are not meant to save every penny on fuel or be the safest choice in traffic jams. They are meant to make our hearts race, put a smile on our faces, and make us feel alive. When you feel the 990 Duke beneath you, you don't just feel a machine, but a wild, untamed beast that challenges you and makes you feel that reason is overrated. Motorcycles like the KTM 990 Duke epitomize this irrational passion that keeps us coming back to two wheels – because reason doesn't write stories, but adventures and unforgettable moments do.

The KTM 990 Duke will especially make the hearts of those who seek an unfiltered and intense riding experience beat faster. Experienced riders who value strong performance and agile handling will be thrilled by the lively and powerful nature of this bike. Thanks to the dynamic twin-cylinder engine, impressive stability, and modern electronics, the 990 Duke is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their naked bike both on the road and on the race track. Stunt riders like Kurt Rubik, who enjoy freestyle action and prefer to do without electronic aids, will appreciate the versatile performance and strong torque of the engine. Even those who simply want to enjoy the daily thrill on their way to work will appreciate the excellent suspension and comfortable riding behavior, as experienced by Adam Child. In short, the KTM 990 Duke is for everyone who seeks passion and adrenaline in every ride and loves the untamed feeling that only a truly powerful naked bike can offer.