- The 2027 KTM 790 Duke receives all-new bodywork, a redesigned rider triangle and revised ergonomics inspired by the larger 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke models.
- New WP suspension components and KTM’s latest in-house WP braking system aim to improve both comfort and performance.
- The 799cc parallel-twin remains, producing 105hp and 87Nm, while updated electronics include a redesigned TFT dash, new headlight and refined rider aids.
KTM has unveiled a heavily updated 2027 790 Duke, bringing new styling, revised ergonomics, upgraded suspension, a new in-house WP braking system and a host of electronic refinements to its popular middleweight naked bike.
KTM has taken the wraps off the 2027 790 Duke, giving its middleweight naked bike its most comprehensive update since the model returned to production in 2022.
Dubbed “The Scalpel”, the latest version builds on the success of the original 790 Duke launched in 2018, while borrowing inspiration from KTM’s larger 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke stablemates. The result is a sharper-looking machine with revised ergonomics, upgraded suspension and brakes, and a raft of electronic updates.
The update is significant because many expected the 790 Duke to quietly disappear after the arrival of the 890 Duke and later the 990 Duke. Instead, KTM has doubled down on the model, giving it a comprehensive makeover while positioning it as the more accessible option within the Duke family.
While WP has long been associated with suspension, KTM is now expanding the brand into braking components, making the 790 Duke one of the first larger-capacity models to receive the complete in-house WP package.
The biggest visual change comes through completely redesigned bodywork. KTM says the new front end is larger and more aggressive, while a reshaped fuel tank has been designed to improve rider comfort and provide better knee support during cornering. The Austrian manufacturer has also removed approximately 2kg from the bodywork package as part of the redesign.
Ergonomics have been a major focus, with KTM introducing a revised rider triangle and a new 13.5-litre steel fuel tank featuring a flatter top section. The aim is to create a more natural riding position and improve rider confidence and control.
Underneath the bodywork, the 790 Duke receives updated WP APEX suspension. The 43mm upside-down forks now feature easy-to-use five-click compression and rebound adjusters derived from the larger 990 Duke, while the rear shock is 5mm longer and delivers an additional 20mm of wheel travel for improved comfort and compliance over rough surfaces.
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of KTM’s new WP Braking System. While WP has long been associated with suspension, KTM is now expanding the brand into braking components, making the 790 Duke one of the first larger-capacity models to receive the complete in-house WP package.
The setup uses twin 300mm front discs gripped by four-piston radial calipers and operated via a radial master cylinder. KTM claims the system delivers stronger braking performance, improved feel and reduced lever effort compared with the outgoing arrangement.
Power continues to come from KTM’s familiar LC8c parallel-twin engine. The 799cc twin produces a claimed 105hp at 9,500rpm and 87Nm of torque at 8,000rpm, while an A2-compliant version will also be available in selected markets. Unfortunately, the capacity is too big to fit within the NZ LAMS category, so there won’t be the opportunity for learner riders to sample the Scalpel. Fuel consumption is quoted at 4.6L/100km.
KTM has also confirmed that Demo Mode will be removed from future models following customer feedback.
The electronics package has also been refined, featuring a new LED headlight inspired by KTM’s larger naked models and an updated five-inch TFT dashboard with revised menu structures designed to reduce the number of button presses required to access key functions.
Rider aids include multiple ride modes, Cornering ABS, anti-wheelie control, launch control and Track mode. KTM has also confirmed that Demo Mode will be removed from future models following customer feedback.
With 105hp on tap and a claimed focus on agility rather than outright horsepower, the 790 Duke continues to target riders looking for a lighter, more playful alternative to machines such as the Yamaha MT-09, Triumph Street Triple 765 and Kawasaki Z900.
KTM is also backing the new model with a four-year premium manufacturer’s warranty, which is pretty rare in the middleweight naked bike segment, obviously in an effort to dispel any worries from customers.
The 2027 KTM 790 Duke will continue to sit at the heart of KTM’s middleweight naked bike range. KTM New Zealand has yet to announce local pricing or arrival dates, although models are expected to be supplied globally from July 2026.
2027 KTM 790 Duke Quick Specs
| Engine | 799cc parallel twin |
| Power | 105hp @ 9,500rpm |
| Torque | 87Nm @ 8,000rpm |
| Suspension | WP APEX adjustable |
| Brakes | New WP radial braking system |
| Fuel Tank | 13.5 litres |
| Electronics | Cornering ABS, anti-wheelie, launch control, Track mode |
| Warranty | 4-year premium manufacturer’s warranty |
