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KTM surprises with early 890 Duke R release for North America, $11,699

Mar 31, 2020

Before writing this article, I asked Editor Lance a question, just to make sure I wasn’t missing something: “Lance, can you think of a motorcycle that was released earlier than the announced date?” 

Neither of us could think of any examples, and if you can, let us know. An early release is just the first exceptional thing about the 2021 2020 Duke 890 R. 

At our first look back in November, the “Super Scalpel” impressed with its “upgraded 790 parallel twin, now making 121 horsepower! That’s 15 more than the 790, and yet the 890 weighs almost seven pounds less at 366 pounds (dry).” The 890 Duke R will also wear top-shelf WP Apex suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, upgraded tires, and a similar electronics package to what the 790 gets. That means a TFT dash, multiple ride modes, an IMU, ABS, traction control, and an optional quickshifter. In KTM’s own words, this is the 790, but turned up to 11. 

KTM 890 Duke R
The 890 Duke R is based on the 790... with a few key differences. KTM photo.

The Super Scalpel will retail for $11,699, and that’s about $1,200 over the 790. Considering all the upgraded parts, not to mention the extra 15 horsepower, the 890 is more of a deal than most folks were expecting, if the comments in that first look article are anything to go by.

Now, the 890 Duke R versus the 790? It’s all a matter of personal preference and riding style. Do you want the bang-for-buck of the 790, or crave the power and components of the upspec model? KTM will sell these bikes concurrently, so that's a choice you'll have to make for yourself.

If the 890 Duke R is the next bike for your garage, and you want one of the '20s, you’ll have to act quickly. Only a limited number will be available for spring delivery, with the remaining 890 Duke Rs to hit showrooms in fall as 2021 models. Aggressive in both specs and price, we can’t wait to get our hands on an 890 Duke R for some testing.