2024 KTM 990 Duke

A new 947cc LC8c engine enters the game. My, oh my, the middleweight Dukes are growing up quickly, with the latest version increasing its bore to 92.5mm (+1.8mm) and stroke to 70.4mm (+1.6), netting a 58cc bump in displacement when compared to the 890’s engine. Naturally, all this comes to us due to ever-increasing emissions standards. However, the boon for the consumer is an extra sniff of performance, raising claimed peak figures to 123 horsepower (+4) and 76 ft-lbs of torque (+3). KTM states that this middleweight mill is all new, and there’s plenty of evidence when peeking at the new cases, pistons, crankshaft, and conrod. The Austrians highlight that the 990 Duke powerplant utilizes more aggressive camshaft profiles and longer valve openings, citing improved rideability due to increased rotating masses.

Updates continue to the cooling and exhaust systems. A larger radiator accommodates greater airflow and better cooling for KTM’s fiery parallel-twin engine. The powerplant boasts an updated knock control system and a revised exhaust that features new lambda sensors for more accurate readings and, subsequently, greater efficiency. The airbox is still housed within the lightweight aluminum subframe, keeping things as svelte as possible.