2020 KTM 890 Duke R Review (The Naked Super Scalpel)

KTM named their new middleweight naked 890 Duke R the Super Scalpel, is it as focused, hard and pointy as the name suggests? Well, Chris has refused to give it back, that might give you a clue.
As always, we don't read the spec sheets, this review is solely based on what Chris thinks of the bike and how it makes him feel. Our reviews are all about the ride!
Like and subscribe if you want to see more.
#ktm #ktmduke #ktm890duke

[@stefanoslan]

I love how you tell us a lot about the feeling you had riding the bike instead of listing all the spec we hear all the time! Good job guys

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

That was the plan Stefano, thanks!

[@markbailey9555]

Yes that's why I watch them! And Chris can actually ride and talk about what he feels. Most others don't even know how to ride and talk about "feel" but just repeat what every other reporter says or what they read! I enjoy watching these videos. I'm like Chris an ex racer and just enjoy riding like an absolute goon. So I really value his feedback! Big fan of Bike World all the way from down under in Aus! Cheers boys

[@vfrfandom3904]

he is not a journalist he's a professional rider

[@MrDannyZ123]

Agreed this guy's sick like that

[@ehtikhet]

“I’m not going to give it back” is truly the highest praise! What a brilliant bike!

[@dannygernaat9961]

Had the same feeling after a testride

[@neildxb]

This is exactly what I want to see in a review, to know how it rides, what it does well and what it doesn’t, from somebody who rides loads of bikes, knows what he’s talking about, and makes it fun to watch. Bloody brilliant, thanks for the videos.

[@Keeta381]

Just bought the 890 r after watching your review about 10 times. Please keep making great content. KTM have probably sold a lot of these bikes after riders digest your comments

[@GrtSatan]

This is an immortal machine. KTM got it exactly right with this one and I will keep mine forever.

[@chrissorreda4982]

Just wanna add to the list of compliments to the reviewer: More of this guy please. Especially off road.

[@matthiashauptmann9423]

Two weeks ago I gave the 890 R a testride. The engine is fine, delivering progressive power where and how you need it on the road. But the real surprise is the way this bike inspires confidence - it really feels as if you had ridden it for years after the 3rd or 4th turn. And your statement about the suspension confirmed my impressions as well: compliant on the bad stuff and reassuring on the fast stuff. It is amazing how far stock bikes have developed, as the Duke reminded me a lot of a heavily reworked Duke 990 with expert suspension tuning - but with better driveability overall. If money was no issue I´d have come out of the KTM-dealer with a signed contract. The Duke 890 R is a rare breed, as it inspires a lot of confidence without being too linear or boring - it surely isn´t.

[@friarpesel5646]

Chris is a talented rider and I always enjoyed the articles in the mags where he was featured... I paid quite a premium for UK bike mags here in the US but worth it. I’m so happy to see Chris and so many other UK journos in video reviews now, Hogan and Hargreaves and the Baron! Thank you all so much 😇

[@paulocarreiro5855]

Loved the enthusiasm! Don't want to try the bike because I own a Super Duke R and nobody needs a 20 thousand dollar regret! :)

[@redline9221]

I don't think anyone would regret getting a SDR even after trying this bike, they're just both great in different ways

[@marcjohnson7734]

I was also going to get the super duke r until a few reviewers said it's better to have less power you can use more of than more you can't put to the road!. But I'm sure I'll probably end up with both

[@diggerdave519]

This review was a factor in me buying one of these. Great review, honest and I agree, from going from a 2017 R1, I can’t find anything I don’t like about it. Chris, you little ripper 👍🏻🇦🇺

[@dukie1616]

Was trying to decide between the 2021 Street Triple, new MT09 and this KTMs 890r for several months before seeing this review. Upon witnessing your thorough spanking of this bike and gushing praise the vacillating was over and the 890 duke r was sitting in my drive. Thanks Chris! You’re right it’s everything you said it was.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cool!

[@Showmetheevidence-]

I love that these reviews are like talking to your (well informed) mate... who can describe things easily & in way that I feel like I’ve almost ridden the bike already. Top notch.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cool, exactly what we were going for.

[@conceptsmart]

Chris is my favourite reviewer, Cheers from Russia!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@waseemmustapha2641]

I agree with the review. I rode the new Superduke R and the 890 Duke back to back a few weeks ago. The Superduke R is great, but was not nearly as impressed with the handling as I was with the 890. It really was very confidence inspiring in the bends and you never felt uncomfortable about pushing it even after only a few minutes on the bike. A really great package.

[@walterhippmann9399]

Sorry but it’s an Austrian, not a German bike, Dude

[@lauraschlenker4743]

My boyfriend and i just got a pair of new 890r fantastic bikes.

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

Good choise

[@pirixmartian4457]

Must be nice. I’m struggling to get the 790 lmao

[@lauraschlenker4743]

@@pirixmartian4457 the 790 is badass too

[@pirixmartian4457]

@@lauraschlenker4743 yeah those front brembo brakes tho

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Probably on of the most notable upgrades from 790 to 890R is the brakes.

[@gressshap8200]

You have a most excellent presentation style and rare ability to express your connection and feedback that comes from someone who actually knows how to ride a motorcycle. Well done

[@MrLadyboss86]

I’ve owned this for a month now. It’s an awesome bike and great handling!! A great upgrade from the previous 790

[@blaneroycroft6337]

Got one 3 weeks ago. Absolutely love it .keep it for ever

[@hafizh.1920]

Just wow. Worth my 15 minutes. Pure ride feeling through ears. Thanks for the review, Chris. You made me want to own one! 😁

[@jankie55]

I bought this bike recently and can say this review is what pushed me over the line to make the jump. Holy crap is this review spot on. I am on twisties most of the time and this things is a missile on them.

[@dikky70]

Yes Yes Yes this review convinced me too! have duke 890R for over a year now and........Wow what a complete bike thanks KTM for the beautiful and joy !

[@hlpang1075]

KTM does magic with their suspension ❤

[@RoyClendaniel]

My absolute favorite review. I bought this bike because of your review. It did not disappoint, i've had mine for two years, and i cant get enough.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Good to hear, thanks!

[@mfbfreak]

It really is fantastic. Test rode it last week. The suspension and seat are a bit harsh, but still totally doable on normal well maintained roads. The engine is incredibly quick to respond on everything, yet it will happily run at very low revs to quietly and slowly roll through little villages. For such an intense bike, it is surprisingly well behaved in normal traffic. But in the end, i just feel too sad holding it and myself back. It truly is a track/hooligan machine and on the road in normal traffic i just felt like 'aww damnit, this thing can do such amazing things but i can't do any of them'.

[@ArthephiusX]

Chris (L.E.G.E.N.D) Northover Another distinctive, illuminating, and benchmark review (with added wanton wheelie WOWness!) Magic.

[@GH-rt8ih]

Thanks for a great review, the information about how well the suspension felt on rough secondary roads, but still handled well was great to hear. After “fixing” my soft MT09 suspension it handled great on smooth corners but was really harsh on the typical B roads here. Im now awaiting the build and delivery of a 21 Duke 890R in part due to this review!

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

Any update on the 2021 Duke 890R? You must have it by now and put some km on it?!

[@LambChopRides]

Brilliant review! So gutted my 2 weeks with this was cancelled 😫

[@DukeOfTwist]

Poor Chopsy I feel for yah mate, hit em up again maybe they'll come thru for yah. Love to see an extended review from you, might even convince me to upgrade my '18 790 Duke.

[@LambGiles]

Great review. Subscribed! There is something about the rhetoric and the delivery of a vlogger / journo (honesty? accuracy? passion? emotion? experience?) that lets you know straight away, whether they know their onions or not! Good work!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers!

[@thesoapster]

Very nice review. I've put ~3600 miles on mine. The KTM-made ergo seat is a godsend for the long days. Otherwise I have to agree - this bike has made me smile and laugh more than any other I've owned, and it's been less than four months.

[@steveoliver177]

I love Chris’ reviews. He’s got a great attitude and style. He’s certainly put the 890 Duke on my wish list.

[@nickprice3605]

Great review from Chris as per. Honest, real world review and put in simple terms. Brilliant 👍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Nick!

[@williamcb78]

I’ve said it before I’ll say it again ..... Chris needs his own tv show ! The guy is pure class ! 🤟🏻 🏍

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

William Bailie He does, we’re on SKY tv William. Cheers

[@williamcb78]

Bike World well don’t I feel stupid ! 🙈🤣 I’ll definitely be checking that out .

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

William Bailie No worries, we’re on Freesports and Showcase. Next episode is Sunday 3.30 on channel 422.

[@williamcb78]

Bike World ALL OVER THAT !! Cheers for the heads up & keep up the cracking content . 🙌🏻

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

@@williamcb78 Cheers

[@TMBMITWisjason]

Awesome review! I have a Duke 125 over here in Sri Lanka and will never be able to afford or even buy this bike here. Watching this review made me really sad about that and made me really want to at least test ride one. Hopefully one day I can.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Hope you do, good luck mate!

[@257796]

You're absolutely right about the hooligan part. You start with an MT-07 when you start to feel the hooligan biker growing in you. And once you've reached your final form you grab an 890 Duke. Then you don't leave that bike until they give us a more powerful lighter weight platform. That's the only way we'll trade up. More horse, less pounds. And shouts to my other hooligans that only have the front wheel on the ground 50% of the time. Ripping away from every stoplight like there's a medical emergency. Slide the rear so much your hips learn to pick it up and autocorrect like traction control. Calamari Race Team for life

[@russellsmith3011]

One of the best reviewers online. Chris + Neevesy + 44teeth = the truth!

[@boatman2628]

WOW What a great review! So honest and gave us your real thoughts on the bike and backed it up with a lot of details that are not in the brochure. I am not a buyer for that bike but would love to try one out, thank you!

[@leroyjones769]

ABSOLUTELY love Chris’s reviews.. Bravo 👏🏽 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Leroy

[@leroyjones769]

I have a huge amount respect for guys like him with their knowledge and abilities to do proper reviews. Well done. I hope he stays around awhile.

[@Steyreon]

I love this bike. I rode both the 790 and the 1290...good bikes for sure. But only the 890 left me with a big grin in my helmet. Pure fun :D

[@The.JZA.]

That pop on the upshift is so cool. I'll stick with my Duke 390 for now but when I feel confident (and have the money) I think the 890 is next step.

[@eoppedal]

I really like that Jamiroquai does MC reviews now

[@akmt9114]

😆

[@CharlieboySLONDON]

I think hands down this is the best reviewer I've ever come across. We know all the stats blah blah .. here's how it feels ! This guy is top notch ! I've subbed and will be following Chris where ever his head pops up... Ive been dabbling with selling my Tracer GT after touring onit ..you've just cost me £10.5k 🤣 ... off to KTM I go..

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks for the sub and the great feedback!

[@duc899]

Easy to see why the rider has even more fans than the bike, wonderful review!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Terry, we'll pass on the love!

[@paulsmith-vn7pq]

great review, i got mine a month ago after not having been on a motorcycle for 5 years and its like i never had a break, its so eager to please, the akrapovic full system sounds awsome, and rear sets are great, cant wait to get it to a track. .

[@banestock]

This is the 890 review I was waiting for since this bike was announced! This is a baby tuono for all intents and purposes! Chris is such a skilled rider, always factual and to the point! Amazing video!Can’t wait to get mine asap!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks!

[@dingoog1]

I saw these bikes take first and second at the hooligans race, Laguna Seca.

[@montha123]

I’m thinking about trading in my ‘19 s1000r sport for ‘21 1290 sdr , now you’ve got me thinking maybe 890 could be the better all rounder road bike !!!

[@TheHuggmg]

I was thinking the exact same thing. Do I want a crazy 1290 Duke R or do I want more of a balance...

[@apatara]

Loved how much you loved it. A real road review. Thank you 🙌

[@masongoss4615]

Best review yet Chris. It’s great to see you get excited about a bike that we could probably all enjoy. Top work.

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Cheers Mason!

[@geraldperry7779]

Chris after your review on the 2020 KTM 1290 SDR your quote this bike has no purpose. Well thank you cause i had blast this summer at 56 years old i was riding like I was in my 20s.

[@MtnMig]

Chris makes the best motorcycle reviews. Always feel like I really learn about the bikes.

[@safariterenas3176]

As always, brilliant review! I like the bike even more now! Thank you!

[@mclarnonc2002]

A really superb review; intelligent, articulate and telling me exactly what I want to know. Thank you!

[@robertrscott]

Great Video! I've been watching you for a while now, your a great rider and reviewer that a subscriber can trust.... also, you've just sold me on an 890 duke R! Thanks

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks, you’ll love it!

[@davidfleet]

Loved the review. Thanks. Cannot wait to pick mine up in 2 days time.

[@Alex-HD]

How do you like it? :D

[@Champion2Manager]

Great review ! Especially the last part where you talk about all the bikes you rode and their differences. ❤️

[@AMAsomeday91]

So excited, I'm riding one of these tomorrow. Very interested to see how it is compared to my 09 monster 1100s

[@yorkshireR9T]

Best review yet. Makes me want one.

[@prabhugautham]

I still like and view Chris Kawasaki H2r review video obviously on a race track. Just awesome video.

[@TheHuggmg]

So, you've given both the new design Yamaha MT-09 and KTM 890 Duke R rave reviews. Guess you can't go wrong with either. Of course I would go SP model on the Yanaha and R version for the KTM. I really think the 850-900 cc Naked Class is the most competitive these days. Love the video, keep up the good work.

[@mohammedbhyat5377]

Your review convinced me to buy this bike. And I love it. Thanks mate.

[@Mr.ATGATT]

Wow, thanks for this genuinely informative review. Your subjective feelings are just as clear and concise as the technical objective aspects that journalists usually rehash. Without being able to test ride bikes in my area, your honesty and transparency have helped narrow my list. Thank you and ride safe!

[@barefootrunningcoach]

Fantastic review Chris, thanks so much - based on your enthusiastic and entertaining review I have ordered one and pick it up next week!!!

[@natenobrakes6292]

Really nice, honest review. So tempted to trade in my 690 Duke R... Maybe...

[@Juuul89]

Dunno about where you live but here the 690 R's have a stonking resale value where I live, they're about the same price as a second hand 790 here.

[@Statek63]

Pillion seat and foot pegs are delivered with a new bike and can be mounted for you by the dealer. It's just more common to have this bike reviewed with a pillion cover and without second pair of footpegs, it's also a few kilograms lighter like that. So worry not, you can still take your GF/SO on the bike without having to pay for extra passenger options :-)

[@stefanwehinger1235]

A review with emotions. Great !!!!

[@andrewfraser3261]

I wish I could compliment you, alas I have no KZbin account with which to do so. You are a properly decent 'journalist'. All I want right now is to ride that bike, well bloody done mate, excellent review

[@Aslexandru1]

I really love everything about this bike. I currently have a 2019 300 EXC TPI and want to buy a street bike as well and this review help me decide to really go for it ! Thx !

[@l.8297]

We really need a comparison between the 890 and the 1290 3.0!! They say the 890 is faster on roads than the 1290 😵😵😵

[@deweysturgill6220]

Great review, lot of good info. If this bike only had more valve overlap to where it actually sounded like a proper rumpty rump twin instead of a brapperr like their MX bikes. Looking forward to your review of the new RS660 Tuono! That thing sounds like a two banger that us Mercuns would love.

[@ronaldoleon48]

my thoughts exactly, the good news is that an aftermarket exhaust gets rid of that mx sound

[@eggyherman]

What boots is Chris wearing, TCXs? They look like Vans. Great review by a great rider who's enthusiasm for riding is infectious!

[@massvfunk]

The 890r will be my next bike. Have spent the last 4 years(2 engines, 2 clutches, 12 brake pads, 4 rear tires, 25K miles) on my 390 and cannot wait to get on the 890. I've been riding my whole life and reckon the duke is about the most fun ive had on 2 wheels. Its a durable, Light easy to ride bike that creates a confidence in the rider. All that on 42.5 horsepower. What will the 890 (121 hp) feel like? Cannot wait!

[@PoisonousPen]

Really awesome review. Just honest chat about a bike and how it rides 👍 Dammit…..you’ve made me want one even more than I already did 😅

[@marcusgeorge1825]

An awesome review Chris! Thank you. I guess the scariest thing about this bike, when riding it quickly is when you start getting rain drops on your visor! It’s definitely a dry weather bike with those tyres... 👍😎

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks Marcus, we had a bit of rain over the couple of days riding, didn't seem to worry Chris though. I've seen him on slicks on track in the rain, no fear!

[@nebachiv]

sometimes I watch this review just to get a better sleep

[@norm701]

I like the beatbox at 10:38, wondering if Chris can do that while riding, that is an great skill to have when riding a super cub.

[@DukeOfTwist]

He nail it, my 790 with twin pipes does the same thing.

[@SilvoTheMindShifter]

Great review. One of the best I’ve seen to date. 👌🏽💪🏽🤩

[@stephenmcqueen4029]

Love your reviews, so much detail, and boy, can you ride!

[@Carlos-qk2vi]

Only one 'scalpel' here - the guy riding it!

[@jimpanzer07]

Great review, just got a 22 890R and its everything claimed and then some, best handling bike I have ever ridden. The only bad side is KTM loading track pack and quickshift on all the 890R models and charging an extra grand to unlock, whoever is in charge of this needs to be fired!

[@Navillus2273]

Which one do you think is better 890 R or MT-09 SP?

[@akshaysinha1993]

I was waiting for your review. There was another idiot on KZbin who concluded in his review that his kawasaki z900 was better than this KTM. I waited just to hear your thoughts. Now I'm so buying it.

[@chrisnorthover7582]

Two pretty different bikes there - I would absolutely get a test ride on both to make your own decision before sticking any money down.

[@akshaysinha1993]

@@chrisnorthover7582 I see. Thanks mate. Turns out, It's coming to India only in 2021, so I guess I will have to wait.😭😭😭

[@visionhalf328]

Thats cause it was HIS Z900

[@aaronkelley6335]

Love your guys' reviews! Would love to see a shootout with this bike, the Z900 (my bike), and the MT-09 😜

[@Baste_Bastesen]

maybe Ktm 890 woud be my next bike. Driven 69.000 km so far, on my Z900 ( 2017 ), No prob. at all. lovly bike, super engine.

[@nebachiv]

best review of 890r

[@TheRealChetManley]

This guy does awesome reviews. If he likes it, you know it's good.

[@badger4361]

Had a 990 SD and a 950SM and this bike is deffo on my radar, much more than the 1290 if I'm honest. (edit, I rode one and was sorely disappointed, unfortunatley)

[@LanceLumbanPHI]

The BMW F900 can’t hold a candle against this. KTM is just crazy.

[@timrodierides]

What a review. Feel like I need one now!

[@BikeWorldTVshow]

Thanks

[@MrLadyboss86]

Oh u should man, I’ve been riding this for a month now and I can say it’s crazyy awesome. Superb handling

[@timrodierides]

@@MrLadyboss86 Sadly I've just bought a Hypermotard 950SP and it needs to last me a few years

[@wakedaze1]

@@timrodierides Sadly? Please explain.

[@timrodierides]

@@wakedaze1 It's just a phrase! I love the Hypermotard

[@silence568]

You are crazy good at doing reviews my friend. Gj

[@ianbunn7513]

Rode this bike back in August 2022 and just knew I had to have one as it's truely amazing. After 50 years riding all kinds of bikes (present bike 2020 Aprilia Tuono Factory), this thin is simply amazing. Fully recommended. Tyres totally dodgy in the wet. Fitting Pirelli Diablo Rosso IVs now. Track mode really unnecessary on road - far to agressive. Sport mode more than you need for street riding :-)

[@pmr01]

hi there, i have been thinking of an 890r for close on two years now. like a lot of people, i have multiple bikes but ideally i would like to rationalise. i have a 2020 690smcr and have been thinking of swapping that out with the 890r and getting rid of a zzr1400 as well. my concern is that the 890r may be a bit too similar to my other bike - a 2020 aprilia tuono factory :-) i feel you may have the answer.

[@alex5761]

Such a good review!! Good job🔥

[@fernandopascualsedeno6191]

Do you like more than ducati hypermotard 950?

[@Juuul89]

He said it's the best road going sportbike available at the moment so I think that's a yes.

[@fernandopascualsedeno6191]

@@Juuul89 Yes!! To me is better..

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Maybe a coupe of complaints, but honestly they are common with many sports bikes these days: Give it a couple more liters of fuel capacity, please! And give it a decent sized subframe, a useful back seat or some kind of platform to strap down a bag or something. Otherwise, it's probably the most idea machine ever. Fast enough to not become boring in the acceleration and/or limits department.

[@kretccx]

Hey Chris! Entertaining review as usual. So is it better than the hypermotard 950 sp? If it is, then how does it compare to its bigger sibling, the 1290r?

[@kretccx]

@Andy Freeman thanks for Your input. Isn't it funny how we realize and know that smaller capacity bikes are actually more fun and better for 'normal' everyday riding but we still buy the fireblades and superdukes.

[@kretccx]

@Andy Freeman'Throttle wheelies in any gear' sold it for me haha. Took the hypermotard 950sp for a test ride recently and really enjoyed it. Almost swapped it for my 2015 blade! Will test ride superduke and 890 soon. I think I'd go for the 1290 as I'd miss the torque. If i could afford to keep two bikes it would be the blade and hypermotard or 890.

[@doyourememberbe]

Had a short ride with the Hypermotard 950 SP this weekend. Loved it. Probably better then the 890 if you’re struggling with knees which are too folded...

[@chrisnorthover7582]

Hit the nail on the head there @Andy Freeman with the comparison to the 1290 - big one for big spaces and big smiles, 890 for more everyday usability. Regarding the Hypermotard 950, its a very different bike to the KTM - bit more of a sports bike, a bit more focussed and not so easy to ride every day as the 890. Honestly, I love the Hypermotard but for a fun road bike I'd pick the Duke 890 every time.

[@sahilarora1987]

Thats a great review! Love your style. You think this bike is practical for daily commute to work?

[@georgebutler7850]

Watched this. Bought one. Lol. Thanks for the review.

[@rubeenm1]

I loved the bike, loved the feeling of her and loved the review! But, what you think about her reliability? Great video!

[@jodiebates]

Best bike review I have heard so far.

[@imperialtekk9443]

I know this video is a bit old but I'm going to look at a 2022 890 duke r next weekend. I'm the orginal owner of a 04 cbr1000rr. Definitely looking forward to fun little bike for around town.

[@akshaysinha1993]

Please do a comparison with latest z900 and latest MT09. Please please please

[@PixelRuzt]

Chris is such an awesome reviewer! Hey! What are your thoughts on the 390 Duke?

[@TOPSK2015]

In stock form this 890 achieved 180kg in wet, no doubt it can be the king of middleweight street bike that offers tons of fun and agility. Unfortunately, KTM set the price nearly double compared with Yamaha MT-09 in my country (most possibly bcoz of the stupid tax things).