The KTM 990 DUKE elevates the mid-weight segment with hard-hitting parallel-twin power, sharp design, and class-leading rider tech.
Compact, aggressive, and engineered for ultimate road performance, it represents next-generation DUKE DNA and a thrilling step forward in responsiveness and ride dynamics – bringing an all-new colorway to the battlefield.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 KTM 990 Duke: SHARP PERFORMANCE.
Introducing the 2026 KTM 990 Duke…
Hitting every target with devastating accuracy, the all-new KTM 990 DUKE brings unmatched levels of precision to the street. Packing a reworked engine into an all-new frame, with adjustable WP APEX suspension and highly tuned electronics to boot, this – put simply – is the lightest, sharpest, most performance focused mid-class NAKED motorcycle to ever wear the DUKE nameplate.
The KTM 990 DUKE elevates the mid-weight segment with hard-hitting parallel-twin power, sharp design, and class-leading rider tech.
Compact, aggressive, and engineered for ultimate road performance, it represents next-generation DUKE DNA and a thrilling step forward in responsiveness and ride dynamics – bringing an all-new colorway to the battlefield. This model takes advantage of the KTM 4 Year Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty.
2026 KTM 990 Duke Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
RAW, UNFILTERED NAKED PERFORMANCE: THE 2026 KTM DUKE RANGE SETS THE PACE FOR THE NEW YEAR
KTM roars into model year 2026 with its most complete Naked lineup to date, delivering raw performance for every rider – from lightweight urban agility to full-scale, knock-out punch Hyper-Naked domination.
The 2026 range showcases bold design evolution, cutting-edge technology, and the unmistakable attitude that has defined the DUKE family for three decades. With models spanning from compact city performers to range-topping powerhouses, KTM continues to set new benchmarks in the Naked motorcycle segment.
Last but not least, the 2026 KTM DUKE lineup will be completed by the most powerful BEASTs in the orange stable. “April changes everything. Two of the most extreme DUKE models in the history of KTM will hit harder than ever before! Sharper. Lighter. Meaner. Power that resets expectations, precision that hunts apexes, torque that could turn the world on its own axis. Watch this space!“, says Gareth Davidson, Product Marketing Manager Street.
Enhancing the new 2026 generation KTM DUKE line-up even further, a comprehensive range of KTM PowerParts and KTM PowerWear is specifically designed to fit the new DUKE range and its riders, providing performance, style, protection, and comfort.
2026 KTM 990 Duke Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Precision and setup go hand-in-hand. In this case, 5-click adjustability on both the WP APEX 43 mm front fork and the WP APEX rear shock provide the ideal setup for maximum attack, while an adjustable handlebar and levers ensure the perfect posture for hitting the bullseye, everytime.
An all-new 5″ bonded glass TFT dashboard is upgraded with he latest graphic and information software, making it faster, easier to navigate and designed to give riders faster access to the various features of the bike with far fewer clicks. The TFT also works in conjunction with optional KTMConnect, which connected with your smartphone to the dash to access navigation, audio and calls. A USB-C connection is also available for charging your smart device.
An all-new and purposefully NAKED build is devoid of any clutter but packed with attitude. Wicked at standstill, and imposing on the move, the KTM 990 DUKE debuts an all new look for DUKE, boasting aggressive lines and design elements that shout POWER! This new design is further set off with two unique colorway options of Black and Orange, celebration 30 years of DUKE.
An all-new, lightweight LED headlight design adds to the KTM 990 DUKE’s menacing look while turning night to day. With daytime running lights that automatically adjust in intensity according to the ambient light conditions, and automatic low leam that stays illuminated for a moment after the ride is done, not only do the LEDs on KTM 990 DUKE burn a hole into the darkness – they are smart too.
Of course, this isn’t the first time the DUKE nameplate and 990 have been seen together. However, this machine is a completely different powerplant. Nestled into the all-new frame is a 990 cc LC8c parallel-twin engine pumping out asphalt-ripping power. Not only powerful, it is also the most compact twin in class, adding to the KTM 990 DUKE’s nimble handling characteristics. More aggressive camshaft profiles and longer valve openings result in improved rideability, while a wider radiator with optimized airflow ensures things stay cool. A new exhaust system rounds off this powerhouse package.
Configurable with up to 5 different ride modes, the KTM 990 DUKE is ready to dominate just about any eventuality. In the default STREET setting, riders have full power, traction control, and limited front wheel lift, with easy throttle response. SPORT steps the experience up with sharper throttle control and some wheel slip, while RAIN mode does what it says on the box, providing maximum traction and reduced power in wet conditions. The optional PERFORMANCE and TRACK modes crank the KTM 990 DUKE all the way to 11, providing enhanced rider customization and focused sport riding.
Toggle the optional TRACK mode, and the KTM 990 DUKE goes from a no-holds-barred NAKED street motorcycle to an all-out apex-brawling race machine. TRACK mode allows you to take full control of rear wheel traction with a 10-level slip control, as well as the sharpest throttle response possible. Want more? How about 5 levels of anti-wheelie, and maximum acceleration thanks to LAUNCH CONTROL!
Unleashing maximum acceleration from a standing start, the KTM 990 DUKE is fitted with LAUNCH CONTROL for rapid starts off the line. Simply select launch control, wind on the throttle, drop the clutch, and blast off the line.
The brief for the KTM 990 DUKE was simple; develop the ultimate mid-weight street bike. The result is the lightest, most precise, most performance-focused mid-class NAKED, providing unmatched rider feedback, performance, and comfort in all riding scenarios. What’s more, the KTM 990 DUKE is designed to inspire confidence in all riders, from beginners looking for a little more, all the way up to advanced riders who want to rip up the tarmac.
At 32.4 inches (825 mm) tall and with a 2° tilt upfront, the rider seat on the KTM 990 DUKE has been specifically developed to provide a sporty, aggressive seating position, without compromising on comfort. The seat cover is also designed to provide the sweet spot between grip and freedom of movement, for both textile and leather riding gear.
Made from high-strength, lightweight aluminum, the footpegs ensure grip and provide some vibration damping. The pillion hasn’t been forgotten either, with emphasis placed on passenger comfort thanks to a more comfortable knee angle.
The KTM 990 DUKE has been developed with a completely new tubular frame, with torsional stiffness and rider feel as a top priority, thanks to the use of forged parts over sheet metal and an integrated swingarm pivot point, adding additional stiffness. An aluminum diecast subframe integrates the airbox and air intakes under the seat, reducing weight.
Featuring a new lightweight, gravity die-cast swingarm, the KTM 990 DUKE boasts increased stability and perfect levels of flex. Why flex, you ask? City streets and rural backroads aren’t perfect, and even small bumps can affect handling. The increased flex of the swingarm dramatically improves bump absorption, improving the effectiveness of the rear shock, and feedback to the rider.
Keeping the front end in check, a WP APEX 43 mm open-cartridge, upside-down front fork provides 140 mm of suspension travel and uses split-function technology to control compression and rebound damping in separate fork legs. The front fork can be easily and simply adjusted in a 5-click setting for both compression and rebound to suit rider skills and road conditions.
The high-quality, gas-assisted WP APEX Monotube rear shock absorber is fitted with a new lighter, linear spring which, together with a newly developed setting, offers riders enhanced responsiveness and comfort. Rebound can also be adjusted through a 5-click setting, as well as manual preload adjustment.
A set of grippy Bridgestone S22 tires – 120/70-R17 on the front and 180/55-R17 on the rear – are wrapped around a set of lightweight, alloy wheels, delivering excellent performance in various road conditions.
When the going gets quick, the slowing needs to match. Upfront, twin lightweight 300 mm floating discs are paired with 4 piston radially mounted calipers, with a 240 mm disc on the rear. These are mated to a tried and tested anti-lock braking system, with Supermoto ABS functionality.
This motorcycle comes with a PREMIUM MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY. Riders enjoy up to 4 years of coverage; ride worry-free and experience the thrill of KTM with added peace of mind. To keep the warranty valid, regular services must be performed according to the service plan at an authorized KTM dealer.
2026 KTM 990 Duke – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £10,999 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
Design
2-cylinder, 4-stroke, parallel twin
Displacement
947 cm³
Power
123 PS
Torque
103 Nm
Transmission
6-speed
CO2 emissions
110 g/km
Cooling
Liquid cooled with water/oil heat exchanger
Engine cylinder
Twin cylinder
EMS
Bosch EMS with RBW
Engine oil
Motorex Power Synth SAE 10W-50
Drive type
Combustion
Silencer
Stainless steel primary and secondary silencer
Chassis
Front brake disc diameter
300 mm
Rear brake disc diameter
240 mm
Front brake
2x radially mounted 4 piston caliper
Rear brake
Single-piston floating calliper, brake disc
Chain
520 X-Ring
Frame design
Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder coated
Steering head angle
65.8 °
Rear subframe design
Aluminium, powder-coated
Trail
100 mm
Wheelbase
1476 mm
Suspension
Front suspension
WP APEX 43
Rear suspension
WP APEX – Monoshock
Suspension travel (front)
140 mm
Suspension travel (rear)
150 mm
Dimensions
Seat height
825 mm
Wheelbase
1476 ± 15 mm
Tank capacity (approx.)
14.8 l
Ground clearance
195 mm
Weight (without fuel)
179 kg
Wheelbase tolerance
15 mm
Front wheel diameter
17 “
Rear wheel diameter
17 “
Front wheel width
3.5 “
Rear wheel width
5.5 “
Wheels
3.5 x 17″; 5.5 x 17″
Wheels
Cast aluminium wheels
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
