The KTM 790 Duke, which KTM refers to as the “Scalpel,” returns for 2027 with upgrades to its chassis, electronics, styling, and ergonomics.
The 790 Duke was introduced in 2017 but was replaced with the 890 Duke in 2021. In 2023, the 790 Duke returned, featuring its 799cc LC8c parallel-Twin, WP suspension with minimal adjustment options, J.Juan brakes, and 4-inch TFT display, from which riders could access ride modes and lean-sensitive ABS and traction-control settings. In 2025, it was updated with minor changes to its instrumentation, handlebar switches, and headlight cowl.
The 2027 update is more significant, primarily in the chassis. The WP Apex suspension now features more adjustability, with the 43mm inverted fork with split function now getting 5-position clickers for compression damping (left) and rebound damping (right). The WP Apex rear shock offers 5-click rebound adjustability and manual preload adjustment, as well as increased travel. A WP steering damper is also standard.
New WP brakes were designed in-house, and they include dual 300mm front discs paired with 4-piston radial calipers and a 240mm rear disc with a 1-piston caliper, and the rear brake lever has been repositioned to offer better accessibility. The chromium molybdenum tubular steel frame returns, but the subframe is new, featuring a cast-aluminum design that incorporates the airbox and side air intakes.
The LC8c engine returns unchanged, but it’s now paired with a new muffler. The muffler cover has been removed, and the construction eliminates visible welds by using a rolled construction. The only weld seam is located on the lower inner side and is hidden from view. A new cast-aluminum end cap has been added to cover the end-cap weld seam. A new heel guard on the passenger footpegs adds heat protection.
The bike also features a new headlight design, taking cues from the 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke R Evo. It’s made from a lightweight, glass-fiber-reinforced plastic and features the position and daytime running lights on the out edge and a centrally located low beam. The menu structure of the 5-inch TFT display has been redesigned to offer faster access to features in fewer clicks.
The bodywork has been updated to provide more rider comfort by removing pressure points. The front fairing is now bigger, and the 3.5-gallon fuel tank has been reshaped to enhance contact with the knees to improve stability and control.
As before, the bike comes equipped with lean-sensitive ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and ride modes (Sport, Street, and Rain). Track mode, a quickshifter, Motor Slip Regulation, and cruise control are available as options. The bike features a 32.4-inch seat height and a claimed wet weight of 408 lb (4 lb lighter than the previous 790 Duke).
KTM PowerParts offer many accessories and options to customize the 790 Duke, like the titanium Akrapovič slip-on silencer for a sporty look or an anodized aluminum Silencer Bracket for a clean look. Riders can convert the bike to a one-seater with the Pillion Seat Cover, and the Ergo Rider Seat is available in three seat heights (standard, 0.6 inch lower, or 0.8 inch higher). A CNC-machined Mirror Kit is also available, as well as a Handlebar-end Mirror Kit. Riders can also add the Windshield Kit or Flyscreen.
The 2027 KTM 790 Duke is available in orange or black for $9,799. Visit the KTM website for more information.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2026 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
