New Car] New Model "990 Duke R" to Hit the Market in 2026! The ultimate naked car with increased power to 128 hp will go on sale in April 2026.

KTM Japan announced that the new 990 Duke R, based on a middle-class naked model with greatly improved running performance, will be released in April 2026. Equipped with an engine with increased maximum output, the latest electronic controls, and a strengthened suspension, the long-awaited "R" model has been created to pursue the highest performance in the series for fans.

Evolved driving performance with increased power output and a fusion of the latest devices

The 947cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder engine, which forms the heart of the "R" series, delivers a maximum output of 127.84PS, an improvement of approximately 5PS thanks to improved mapping. Maximum torque is maintained at 103 Nm, while the vehicle weight, excluding fuel, is kept at 179 kg to achieve an overwhelming power-to-weight ratio. The cockpit features a new horizontal 8.8-inch TFT full-color display with excellent visibility. This monitor has a touch-screen function that allows the user to change various settings without complicated operations. In addition to the usual antilock braking system, the new model is equipped with advanced electronic control devices such as Sport ABS, which assists in more aggressive braking, and Super Moto Plus ABS, which allows the rear wheel to slide. The vehicle's body graphics are white and matte black, inspired by the once famous second-generation 990 Super Duke R. Combined with the bright electronic orange frame, the new 990 Super Duke R has aggressive styling befitting the next generation of the "R" model.

Chassis designed with an enlarged bank angle and with an eye toward circuit driving

The chassis is generously equipped with top-of-the-line components to support the rigors of sports driving. The front fork is equipped with a WP 48mm-diameter Apex open cartridge fork with 34% greater rigidity. At the rear, a WP Apex shock optimized for the new linkage system provides both agile handling and stability. It should also be noted that the center of gravity has been slightly raised due to revised ergonomics, and the seat height and minimum ground clearance have been increased by 15 mm each. As a result, the bank angle when cornering has been increased by approximately 3 degrees, enabling the car to turn at a deeper incline. For the braking system, Brembo Stylesma monoblock calipers and MCS master cylinders were introduced, and together with the large-diameter 320 mm double discs, they provide the rider with precise control performance. The footpegs are secured by Michelin's Power Cup 2 tires, which are designed for circuit use but can be used on public roads. Mounted on orange wheels, these high-grip tires ensure that the enhanced power is transmitted to the road. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is set at 2,070,000 yen, and expectations are high for a market launch in spring 2026.

KTM 990 DUKE R (2026)

・Scheduled release date: April 2026 ・Manufacturer's suggested retail price: 2,070,000 yen (including 10% consumption tax)

KTM 990 DUKE R

KTM 990 DUKE R (2026) main specifications

Overall length x width x height: undisclosed - Distance between axles: 1,481 mm ± 15 mm - Minimum ground clearance: 210 mm - Seat height: 840 mm - Equipped weight: approx. 190 kg - Engine: liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC parallel twin cylinder - Maximum output: 127.84 PS / 9,500 rpm - Maximum torque: 103 Nm / 6,750 Fuel tank capacity: Approx. 14.8 liters ・Transmission type: 6-speed ・Brake type (F/R): Hydraulic double disc / Hydraulic single disc ・Tire size (F/R): 120/70 ZR-17" / 180/55 ZR-17" ・Sales price: 2,070,000 yen (including 10% consumption tax) * Main specifications The values are for EU specifications. The values may differ for Japanese specifications. To the gallery (6)