The Super Scalpel Gets Sharper Clothing For 2022

KTM has launched the 2022 KTM 890 Duke R in the global market. For this year, the updates have been merely cosmetic in the form of a new colour scheme called ‘Atlantic Blue’. It’s a clear reference to the KTM RC16 GP race bike, and the same colour scheme is also available in the recently updated 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R.

The updated naked is priced at GBP 11,049 (around Rs 11.18 lakh) and will reach global dealerships this month itself. The new colour scheme comes with a matte blue finish on the fuel tank and front fender, along with orange and black highlights on the bodywork. Oh, and it retains the quintessential KTM flavour: Orange-painted frame and wheels. Overall, while this may be a subtle update, it makes the bike sportier than before, thanks to a more pronounced MotoGP genes in the aesthetics. 

The rest of the mechanicals have been retained. To jog your memory, the 890 Duke R’s parallel-twin engine churns out a healthy 121PS and 99Nm, further enhanced with three riding modes, and an optional Track mode, 6-axis IMU-enhanced traction control, engine braking, anti-wheelie, among others. You’ve also got top-shelf underpinnings in the form of adjustable WP Apex suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers and sticky Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres. 

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The 2022 update is likely to be the last hurrah for the KTM 890 range, as its successor, the KTM 990 range, is incoming. In fact, the 990 Duke was already spotted testing. You can read the full analysis here.