Neevesy rides KTM's fun but single-minded 890 Duke R | MCN | Motorcyclenews.com

Find out what Chief Road Tester, Michael Neeves thought of the latest KTM middleweight Duke R model.
Find the full review here: bit.ly/2YaHyc1
#KTM
#ReadyToRace
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[@elmoomle4565]

A track day is not a 'race' day as there are no winners/losers...pretty much any 'sporty' bike can be ridden on a track day, regardless of HP and still be thoroughly enjoyed. This bike looks like it would be great fun during a track day.

[@otakarlibal]

I agree, I don't understand the argument the bike being "too slow" it has 121hp... the 600s have what around 128hp? I used to go on track with Aprilia Shiver that has around a 100hp and eventually there would be a guy on a 1000cc superbike that I would be keeping up with. Yes, he would be faster on the straights but everywhere else no... In the same way I am sure someone on the 890 duke would be faster than me on a 1000. At least over here the slow group is not that much about the bike. I can imagine the duke being awesome road/eventual track day bike

[@user-dn3yk2qu7f]

Another in agreement. Take whatever the hell you want to a track day, it’s not a race it’s just fun

[@Showmetheevidence-]

Exactly. I’ve been lucky enough to ride a ton of random baskets on track (including a chopper), and some of them (not the chopper) were tons of fun.

[@vinceconn1935]

What a load of old crap, go on any track day and lads and lasses on CB500 blow riders away on their 170+ bhp bikes round the bends.

[@s1mv1d]

@@vinceconn1935 I have personally been humbled by a teenager on a cb500!

[@MrKdr500]

I've done 46,000km's on my 790 commuting to work and playing on the weekends, ridden my 1290 4 times since owning the 790..... KTM know how to make a bike feel really nice and fun to ride.

[@bazza8947]

Any big issues? I only have 3000klms on my 790 so far. Had the standard valve cover gasket, leaking front brake res, dash replaced because of white marks and steering lock not working. I knew of these issues going in but still love the bike

[@FireLysm]

If you don't ever go out when it's raining, then I can agree, but in other cases TC is such a life saver where I live, super oily roads in the city with a lot of rain in april/may which saved me so many times even when you know the road and ride through it daily. Other then that I can agree with the "use case" but lets be honest, this use case is a lot bigger then Neevesy projects, less and less people ride in two, motorways and more and more people commute/take short trips to favorite twisties/have one bike to ride it casually but passionately on the track, to me and almost every person that bought 790/890 this is the perfect bike overall. This bike screams hey I'M HAVING SO MUCH FUN!

[@RandomShart]

Agree, I have space for one bike and it's an s1000r, for road, track, tour, commute, all weathers. Same point with the 890R, it'll have a good crack at all of it and be lots of fun. I'm interested for next bike.

[@chriswest2290]

How has the reliability been ?

[@dav1df0rster]

These do actually come with a pillion seat, rests and grab rail and after doing 300 miles on one already I can’t see how it would be any less practical than any other middle weight naked.

[@albertmyburgh4967]

Agree, pillion seat and pegs relatively comfy as well for short/medium rides.

[@dbdan61]

Glad to know. No pillion seat is a deal breaker for me.

[@f4t4lity0r4]

The 890 R comes with one? I have never seen that. Might be thinking of the 790

[@dav1df0rster]

@@f4t4lity0r4 I own an 890, they come with a seat, grad rail and pillion pegs in a box to fit if needed.

[@f4t4lity0r4]

@@dav1df0rster that’s cool actually

[@TOMOFONO]

It sounds like this bike would give others a fit on track. Not sure why you wouldn't take it there.

[@scholsey2]

My duke 790 got purchased because it’s gonna suit the roads and the track I live near (Cadwell)

[@daytonasayswhat9333]

It would be an amazing track bike.

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

On a small track I heard it will be as fas as the Superduke

[@Tefloncoated]

I know. Hes talking shite!

[@Fee.1]

@@Tefloncoated no he’s not grow up he literally said on smaller tracks it’s THE bike but he has a point you’re never going to compete on the straights on big tracks with proper 600’s and 1000’s

[@kirkdunn1379]

thanks for your reviews!...like how detailed you are and your experience speaks for itself....i just bought one as my first streetbike and liked how riding position was more similar to my motocross bikes.....took it today for first long ride and although i dont have experience with streetbikes what a friggen blast to ride.....i didnt like rear abs as it cuts in pretty quickly i thought and i didnt really push it to use front too aggressively but jeez what a front brake it is.....super fun and feels glued to surface..... didnt care for street mode, used it for 3 or 4 days to just get used to street on quick trips......today a 40 mile ride thru some small canyons lots of hills and sport mode felt alot better.... easy bike to ride.....just beginning street bike and pretty happy with this bike........shifting a lil notchy wouldnt go into 1st gear and neutral bit tough to find but motor is tight and new......quickshifter is awesome and will use trackmode as i get more experience and better........my friend had a 1974 norton roadster he restored and what a beautiful sounding machine that is....

[@TylerJaneBronson]

Don't really understand your comments about this not being appropriate for the track. I've taken an MT-07 on stock suspension to the track many times and have had an absolute blast every time. And this 890 is way more capable.

[@bearclaw5115]

Probably because he rides even more capable 200bhp+ bikes on the regular.

[@Lex-Rex]

Right. Most of us do track days, not race per say so why does it matter?

[@fido0825]

Neevesy, I believe your the best bike reviewer I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Your take on bikes that we have both ridden seems to always capture the subtle nuances that I too have noticed with even a more thorough insight. Therefore you're now my favorite go-to reviewer before I buy. Thank you!!

[@irishbiker5663]

Looks like a cool, fun machine. Great review as usual @neevseybikes, keep up the good work!!!

[@LanceLumbanPHI]

It is so funny that you said that you can’t bring this on track when it was made for the the track. KTMs are sensible bikes for the track and road.

[@jeffestrada6857]

Agree. Remember these guys have the bikes for ten minutes and then do the speel, which of course is influenced by the manufacturers and their own agenda. In short I dont trust them as far as i could throw them. In saying that, i look at reviews for a “gauge” and thats about it. Enjoy the reviews you see with what I said above in mind and you can find out for yourself as an owner the true character of the bike if you decide to road or track the bike which it would do well👍

[@allenclarke9642]

No fairing bro

[@Chris-bd6uc]

If you're going to go to a track you don't take a naked KTM. You got with a s1000RR, panigale v4, yzf-r1, and probably about 20 other choices before wasting your time on a naked KTM 890 lol

[@VFactory-vl5fi]

@@Chris-bd6uc you are clearly a race bike fan boi. That’s absolutely fine. Though I think you are looking down your nose at the fun you could have on a naked bike on the track. I’d have a Superduke R on track over a sport bike any day. That would be my choice. Not everyone wants to try and be Rossi on track. Sometimes folk just want the most fun and engaging ride they can have. I find in-line 4 engines boring and a bit lack lustre where I want the power, but that’s just me.

[@Chris-bd6uc]

@@VFactory-vl5fi I own a 2021 890duke R and it's the most fun bike I've been on. I still wouldn't waste a track day on it.

[@brentcameron4494]

I own a 790 and love it. I have 3 other bikes (RC8, MT-01 and XB12) and the 790 puts the biggest smile on my face and is usually the one that gets taken out of the garage first. It is hard to believe the 890 is that much better again. How could it be???

[@FireTwo]

Find myself riding my 790 over my 1100tuono lately it’s so much FUN! B road king so light and Agile

[@frankeichhorn7979]

I am going to pick up a tuono 1100 on friday..i can still cancel my purchase. Should i buy a 890 instead?

[@IAmTheLittleTeaPot]

@@frankeichhorn7979 Aprilia Tuono will be better on the highway or cold weather as it has fairings. it will be way more comfortable. The KTM is cheaper, smaller, lighter. this makes it more fun in the summer doing B road trip. if you want a fun middle weight bike thats easy to have fun with, KTM. The Aprilia Tuono will give you a much better all year around bike if you want an everything bike.

[@JoeShep71]

Just picked up an 890 and i have a 2016 tuono factory since new... i can see the tuono getting less time spent with her daily...

[@vaughansdr6885]

I asked during your live chat if you’d reviewed the KTM 890 Duke yet as I had a deposit on one. Great review as always but unfortunately I got impatient waiting and bought a 2020 1290 Superduke R and so pleased I did... What a bike!!

[@neevesybikes]

Good choice!

[@JamchesterBoozle]

Love a new Neevsey review

[@Maiden_America]

I’ve taken this bike to Laguna Seca many of times, and always leave with a smile. In the canyons, it’s just as incredible. May not be the bike for you, but I’ll keep this one for awhile because it’s “turn key” to having a great time.

[@NudaMan]

Rode one of these Friday in San Francisco,California and right away had to put it in rain mode lmao my buddy told me sport was toooo brutal 😂 this bike is amazing,light and very easy to use, hats off to Ktm but in the same day I rode a 2019 Triumph Street Triple RS & absolutely loved that bike too (the arrow slip on was magnificent) both bikes make the same HP and either bike would be an amazing purchase seriously

[@Lex-Rex]

KTM fit and finish is shite compared to the Triumph. Triumph also has a better warranty, better suspension, front forks that you can actually adjust the preload, and it is just a better bike through and through. I have no idea why anyone would buy this shite bike over a Street Triple.

[@Statek63]

@@Lex-Rex GTFO with your "shite bike" comments mate. I get it you don't like KTM...

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

@@Lex-Rex What makes the KTM 'shite' in your opinion give the reviews that don't agree? Have you actually ridden this? How much preload have you adjusted on your bikes? I get it would be better to have but it doesn't make it 'shite' does it? Genuine question

[@fabzrustrider9838]

Thank you MCN 👍🏾💯

[@powertrip1050]

for god's sake - there are too many awesome bikes around !!!! hahaha.....yes, great to see reviews by a mature, knowledgeable, nothin-to-prove hombre. Gold.

[@doug3011]

I really want one of these..I see lots of KTM's in Berlin

[@jimmycav369]

Never seen someone speak so intelligently and passionately about motorbikes. A true gent, wel done Neevsey

[@samiam5326]

Best bike reviewer bar none! Thanks Neevsey!

[@Statek63]

I am hearing that pillion seat and passenger foot pegs come with the bike and you can install them if you want.

[@rickyreed8354]

yep they come in the box

[@Firestorm637]

Fantastic eval! Thx

[@RedRupert64]

Good review - you've said plenty that others haven't 👍

[@jimbo1485]

I love ya neevsey but you could totally take that to the track for a great time

[@elfspicer]

Couldn't agree more. My 2014 Triumph Street Triple R leaves many superbikes in its wake on track. I suspect this KTM would be better.

[@TheAegisClaw]

That was a really weird thing for him to say.

[@chrisandersen5184]

Agree. I don't go to track for the straights. Going around bigger bikes on my Ninja 400 is one of the great joys at a track day. Imagine this bike would be a blast!

[@Roger_Ramjet]

You truly are the man ... Humble, knowledgeable, engaging - a rarity these days. Thank you and carry on.

[@scott9107]

Thinking seriously about getting this bike. Nice review mate.

[@freebehindbars8654]

Guess they added a pillion & footrest for the 2021. Picked mine up Saturday and Love It!

[@brucekendall52]

Outstanding assessment,thk you.

[@alessandrosarcia]

Finally an honest review of this bike. I have subscribed the channel since you presented the bike showing good and bad features. Hope it goes on with other brands. This is a pure naked bike designed for the road so track is not her first ground but I think that electronics can help. You did not mention defects. A US reviewer noticed that the slip clutch does not work very well. Do you think so?

[@aleks_the_Great13]

Best review I've seen of this bike...hat off to you sir... Might be to short for me as I am 6.4... 👍

[@dannygernaat9961]

I'm 6,4 also, no problems on that bike

[@marscruz]

I've watched about 4 reviews of this bike already and Neevsy does the best take on it. He really nailed the "use case" for the bike. It's not so much a practical bike, or for the single bike owner, it's really the *best plaything* and most fun that can be had in this class. I'm tempted. Is it the *"Son of the 950SM"* ... perhaps?

[@bazza8947]

Umm yeah not really, could easily tour on this bike and take it to the track. Of course there are better touring bikes and faster tracks bike but I don't agree its a one trick pony. I own a 790 Duke by the way

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

I have a 950sm and i think you would be quite right. Torque is in the same ballpark, more horsepower and better suspension. What’s not to like? Well, it’s smaller. But lighter. And Bazza, ofc you can tour on a 790/890 but would you buy one with touring in mind?

[@bazza8947]

@@HeyAddieImTojo No I wouldn't and certainly didn't when buying my 790. The thought came afterwards. Also, I'm not saying this is a perfect touring bike either, I also own a R1200GS! It's just not as narrow minded as he is saying, in my opinion of course

[@jsleeio]

haven't tried a 950sm but I own a 2013 990smr and the combination of tiny radiator / awful seat makes it entirely unusable for anything but short fun rides out of town and, if I was interested in them, track days. It also seems to burn oil a lot faster than it should

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

Bazza since i do not own one i couldn’t tell 😄 but i believe you

[@jhstony]

Another great review 👍🏼 would you say it handles better than the 1290SDR on the road?

[@thomaskwoll991]

Sorry for my bad english, but if you compare it to the 950 Hypermotard SP, what would you say? Wich one is more powerful and wich one is more agile?

[@seneznoe4123]

Awesome review ! I'm concidering 2 bikes the Ktm duke 890 r and the street triple 765 rs 2020. The thing is i already own a Ktm duke 390 and i wanted something diferent and i suppose the 890r isn't it, for my riding style the RS 765 would be perfect, well equiped, attention to détails, awesome build quality and the triple sound👍for the same price as the 890r. Thank you for your honest review i really apreciate it.

[@bazza8947]

Would be a good idea for you to ride both and make up your own mind.

[@jimbo1485]

Yeh you need to make up your own mind and ride them both. I have a 2019 street triple RS. If I had to choose now that I’d take the 890 duke. The RS makes all its power up high which is really annoying for the road. I really like torque down low in the rev range that’s why I’d choose the 890. You should ride both for sure.

[@RealOrbit-Australia]

You might want to check some comparison reviews....even between the 790 and the mid range triple

[@stefanobianchini1550]

I've rode both the 790(which I think is pretty similar to the actual 890) and the Street triple RS 765, the 790 feels like an hybrid Naked/Motard super fun inside the city, test rode it with my girlfriend and she was laughing the whole time, since i was always on one wheel most of the time, the 765 on the other hand is so much different it feels like a sportbike without fairings actually it really drives like a sportbike, it corner like an ss, and for 120hp it's fucking fast, the position on the saddle, the power comes at higher RPM btw so on the road it's less fun, different bikes for the different purposes

[@greyrock551]

@@jimbo1485 Get the R, that has the torque you want without giving up much of anything at the top end. Or better yet, the 2020 RS which has the previous R's torque and RS top end.

[@markpeter1968]

wow, very high praise indeed. basically the best , most fun, agile sporty supermoto road bike that money can buy. wouldn't keep up in the straights in the TT tho

[@dry509]

Good review.

[@mechanich1249]

I have some concerns about those tires in the uk.

[@gdmacdonald]

In the market for a new bike - might need to book at test ride with KTM!

[@Chris-bd6uc]

Never once mentioned the tech pack? Doe the Duke 890 r have that as standard or do you need to pay to have it fitted/activated

[@jesus2400]

Great video love KTM

[@future62]

Just can't do a twin over a triple. The world needs more triples

[@GaryJohnWalker1]

Triumph need to make more use of that 765 triple - think of the vast array of Bonnies in 900 or 1200. Yet just 3 (?) very similar STs. They need something more upright, prettier styled, more every day with that 765 - even if that takes away sales from the speed twin.

[@trevorphillips3055]

@@GaryJohnWalker1 isn't that where the tiger 900 comes in?

[@jerichom11x]

Had a 765 rs and have a 890R now. 890 motor is waaaaay more fun and generally feels more powerful.

[@Carlos_500]

Which Alpinestars jacket were you wearing on the bike?

[@bearclaw5115]

What the world needs right now is a middle weight naked round up review, headed up by the best motorcycle reviewer in the business -Michael Neeves!

[@desidudev]

I went on my 2014 Triumph Street triple 675 to test ride a duke 790 in January. I am 5'8 tall 62 kg , tall seat height on the 790. 890 is taller! The 790 felt awkwardly long while riding. Light and agile but the engine on the 790 felt too eager and very tiring. The ergonomics were also weird, neither proper super motard, nor proper street. Apparently this new duke 890 has slightly more of everything from the 790. And for that reason I am out, If it ever comes here 😁

[@skrrt1321]

Ur featherweight

[@jasonbosworth8549]

Love to see a load of real rider, durability reviews..

[@ptrhattingh]

Youve got that review completly wrong. Ive done everything on my 790. 2 up, inter track days, touring, commuting etc. I reckon youve not had enough time on it.

[@neevesybikes]

You're completely right, Pieter, it will do all those things, but then so will most bikes. You can take a GS on trackday, go two-up on a supermoto and take a Panigale touring...

[@ehtikhet]

It’s all possible but it’s not optimised for those pursuits.

[@790duke8]

I bought 790 to powerdrift on gravel roads. I have ridden more off pavement than on pavement.

[@Thizlamic]

My buddy just got his 890 in and let me take it for a spin.....I wouldn't trade my Versys for it.

[@bearclaw5115]

Why not?

[@bazza8947]

lol Versys....the Toyota Camry of the motorcycle world

[@RealOrbit-Australia]

Lol...I wouldn't trade a 390 for a Versys!

[@Thizlamic]

​@@bearclaw5115 Not a everyday bike at all. At least not for me...I rode a KTM Duke 2 for years. Can't sacrifice comfort for fun anymore lol

[@Thizlamic]

@@bazza8947 Ol' trusty has never left me stranded....Kinda like my old CBR F4. My back like the Versys more lol

[@paulleggett9735]

i'm confiused - its a one trick pony that is great round town, easy to ride too slow for a track day but as quick as a duke 1290. i love Neavesy's reviews but this didn't make sense to me. This is a 900CC 120 bhp naked loaded with electronics - id rather ride this than my old ZX7R and wouldn't hesitate to take that on a track. it actually seems like its a great bike for everything except touring and as has been said before - you can tour on anything,

[@neevesybikes]

Hi Paul, yes you can tour and trackway on absolutely anything, but if you;'re going to either regularly there are better bikes for the job. Here's the thing with trackdays. If you're in a group with lots of fast 600s and 1000s they're going to blast you on the straights and hold you up in the corners. On a clear lap, it's not a problem and you can enjoy the 890 to the full, but the rest of the time it'll be frustrating and any overtake you make will be the mother of all lunges, which isn't ideal.

[@Statek63]

@@neevesybikes Not everyone can afford a dedicated bike for track days, another for touring - and this naked KTM seems a great one street/track bike for many riders, with an occasional longer trip if equipped with a luggage rack...

[@paulleggett9735]

@@neevesybikes thanks for replying Neevesy. All understood. Perhaps the bike it should have been compared too was the 790 duke for about 3k less

[@andrewspooner8146]

@@neevesybikes but doesn't this make more torque and power than the 600s?

[@neevesybikes]

Andrew Spooner it’s a bit down on a 600, but with no fairing will be a fair chunk slower down the straights.

[@kramnam4716]

Best motorcycle reviewer👏👏

[@badger4361]

I loved my 990 SD but I always felt it was a bit heavy for back roads, and too exposed for fast 'A' roads, I think this bike may be the answer, this or a Husqvarna 701 SM. 🙂

[@markthompson1479]

Your what a trick pony made me think of Bruce Lee..."Dont fear the man who practices 10,000 blows ...fear the man who practices one blow 10,000 times" ...something like that ... Thanks for yet another great review

[@Fee.1]

Which alpine stars jacket is that in the riding clips ?

[@vm4554]

I think it would be a great middle weight sport tourer with a small windscreen and saddle bags

[@josephsaia5527]

Buffalo leather saddlebags? JJ😄

[@MrTrek164]

It's gonna be great on track just like the 790 ,yes monstered down the straights but it was designed on a track and that's why it has track modes . Totally agree it's not an all rounder like the ktm . Yes there are still niggles that ktm should have sorted by now but they have not .

[@thenakedtriple1077]

Great review as usual. I’d love to take it on a track. And I’d happily let others overtake me 😂 it’s all for fun.

[@afandou1966]

...just to pass them back in the turns.

[@bazza8947]

Loved the review! I would happily tour on my 790 Duke to be honest although I wish it had cruise control. The forks on the 890 are much better than the 790 forks but they also don't have preload adjustment

[@pankinyek]

Didn't he just say that they are fully adjustable now?

[@scottyspeedoo5885]

We’ve been looking at this for an all “rounder” including some light sport touring duty. You can purchase factory cruise control as an accessory and also luggage and a windscreen albeit a small one. KTM actually has some nice kit available (heated grips) but the price definitely goes up as you start adding. But at least They have the options if you want them. We’ve had a street triple for years but this might be our next ride.

[@bazza8947]

@@pankinyek He did but he is wrong

[@bazza8947]

@@scottyspeedoo5885 Worth a look at and a very fun bike.

[@SconradP]

@@scottyspeedoo5885 I had a STR 675 .I now have a KTM 790 and it is my only Motorcycle,can only afford one at a time so it will be doing all duties.

[@steveman1982]

"Best of the best suspension components" But the forks have to make do without preload adjustment though? So if you're a little lighter or heavier than the intended rider... Off to the suspension shop you must go.

[@sigberetta72]

Exactly! Why do the reviews always say “fully adjustable “... when they are not for pre-load?

[@MB3Drift]

Preload is the only « non-setting » adjustment. But it’s not tweaking the suspension, it’s only adjusting the length of it. That’s why there isn’t any « preload adjustable » forks. Because you just have to slide the tubes up or down in the triple clamp and here you go. On a rear shock, adjustable preload is just a way to raise or lower the whole bike, to adjust the sitting of the bike and keep the geometry of the bike straight and true. It doesn’t have any impact on the hydraulic settings, and neither on the spring too.

[@RandomShart]

@@MB3Drift not sure I followed this but I'm no suspension expert! My bike has pre load adjustment on the fork and I thought many other premium setups also have it. I also thought adjusting the fork position in the triple clamp was more about handling / turn in / stability, rather than just adjusting ride height / travel.

[@dry509]

We don’t get the Mt-09 SP in the US. And the Ktm is over $12000.00 here? What would you get instead? The Triumpd RS is expensive also.

[@llerradish]

He didn't say you couldn't take it to the track, in fact he said it would probably do just fine on a smaller track. The point was, if you like going to track there are better bikes for that. Even though it a impressive high performance bike, it's not going to be in it's not going to be all that impressive on a track.

[@muertinix]

Can't wait for the 890smc

[@muertinix]

I know it's coming, I can feel it.

[@sigberetta72]

Hope so

[@swaziau]

Nice review but I think Chris Fillmore would disagree after winning 2018 Pikes Peak mid class on a 790.These are build for tracks where there are lots of corners and short straights. Be hard to find a bike in this range that could keep up and with some mods ang a good rider👍Those twisters would leave a lot behind

[@neevesybikes]

You're right. It'll be brilliant on a circuit in isolation, but when you're buried deep in a fast group trackway with race bikes and fast 1000s and 600s around you, you're going to be a mobile chicane and that's when things can go wrong...

[@Szlejer]

Is it better than the 790 at leaking oil and coolant or worse? :D Reliability issues was the main reason I went for the MT-09 instead.

[@bazza8947]

Minor issues in reality. The oil leaks were either the valve cover gasket or countershaft seal. The coolant leak was just jubilee clip that needed to be tightened.

[@remigusker6024]

Let's be real though. Put decent suspension and a good tune on the MT-09 and you've a better bike by virtually every metric. You'll spend the same amount of money or less and end up with an overall better machine.

[@bazza8947]

@@remigusker6024 Electronics and brakes are in a completely different league on the KTM

[@abymathew295]

I dont care if KTM is reliable or not, but on the saddle its the funnest bike on the road...period...

[@bazza8947]

@Sérgio Gonçalves Resorted to childish comments already? What I said was accurate if you have half a clue

[@13conair]

I think we have rode/own 2 different bikes here ! where are you getting it has no pillion seat ! when you buy it you get a choice of pillion seat or single seat cowl ! and i can assure you my mrs loves riding it and being on the back so pillion wise no problems at all, you say these 890 wont see the track lmao you dont goto the same tracks i go to then ! theres orange everywhere ! and this 890 takes the piss out of superbikes thru thru the twisties ! i agree the brembo's on the 890 are a tad better than the 790 as the mrs has the 790, all in all the 890 is a wicked all round bike does everything i want it to. Problems wise on both the 790/890 we have had none and name 1 bike manufacturer that has a perfect bike that has never had problems ! keep an eye out for big discounts on these aswell, the mrs got a new 2020 790 for £6249 ! hard to say no at that price.

[@edgeyt1]

I want a GT version.

[@robertdavis4761]

Amazing review!! I would definitely change out the stock exhaust to an akrapovic full titanium exhaust. I bet that would look and sound great!!

[@glenwhyte2555]

Could you fit a kreiga bag on the back if you wanted to ??

[@GrtSatan]

I was cautioned by the dealer that the stock tires would probably be worn out after 3000 kilometers, and they were. A third of the life of these wonderful tires was expended during break-in when I couldn't push the machine to its limits. Thousand dollar replacement cost. I live in the real world , not on a racing team , and this was a real shock. Great bike but KTM has a lot to learn about customer service.

[@hstefan]

Where do you live if the rear tire costs 1000 dollars? 😮😮

[@robertsvulpes]

Your the best. I really like your facts on bikes. So this is not for me i learned 👍👍

[@richardrimmer5095]

That or a second hand speed triple rs only just broken in🤔 well if i wait until winter

[@stefaandeswert5849]

I am looking to buy my first bike. I hear a lot about first bikes and too much power. But i just can't get around this bike.. the looks, weight, specz.. i love it. Do you reckon it's top much to start out on or is it possible? This one and the hypermotard 950 look too good..

[@michaelkurdelski5317]

do yourself, your life and your licence a favour and don't get this as a first bike, not that its vicious or hard to ride, quite the opposite.You will be paying a lot of money for a lot of bike you won't use and if you try and use what its got you will be caught out by your inexperience. A 390 or 690 duke or 690 smc would be a much better first bike, but still a lot of fun.

[@stefaandeswert5849]

@@michaelkurdelski5317 thanks for the honest reply. Appreciate it. I know i will never that much bike and it costs a lot. But i just like the looks a lot. Same for the ducati hypermotard 950. I've got expensive taste 😅

[@nicholasloh8342]

just get a 390 duke looks just as good amd is the perfect starter

[@thomasm.7769]

comparison to the Street Triple RS !?!?!

[@s1mv1d]

890 or 790? Want to move on from my 690 (which I love and do trackdays on!). But need more poke. I've had 600s etc.

[@greyrock551]

Superbike brakes, super sticky tyres, magical chassis/suspension, great throttle connection... actually sounds like a perfect track bike, not sure what the concern is? Only reservation I'd have is if that is your game, the Daytona-with-bars Street Triple 765 gen is likely better still (this review says otherwise, but reviews of new bikes always exaggerate their capabilities), for the same price. Incidentally, at the last track day I did there wasn't a single bike more numerous in number than the 765 RS. People have really figured out what a weapon that is.

[@neevesybikes]

Hi there. It would be great on track - perfect, even, but when you catch that 1000 or 600 up in the corners and can't get past for the rest of the session, or get your stickers ripped off by a close-passing superbike, that's where the 890 will struggle. On a clear lap it would be amazing, though.

[@greyrock551]

@@neevesybikes Hi Michael, honoured to get a reply from the greatest road tester alive (I mean that). Love your reviews and work! I guess it would depend on the level at which you ride. In fastest group riding, you know best and I can see how you'd be right. But I'd argue those people all ride dedicated track bikes anyway. Personally, I love the 'second/third slowest' groups (out of 4), where there is a lot of mixed machinery (especially second slowest). A bike like this would rock for that. Lots of people in that category ride Street Triples and other nakeds anyway where I live, so you're not even really at a disadvantage in terms of aero and straight line speed. Seeing how you can't really buy an affordable 600 from anyone but Kawa anymore nowadays (R6 is great but very pricy so doesn't sell), this is probably what the future of trackday enthusiasts looks like anyway: crazy computer-controlled 1000s for those with superpowers, and a lot of 700-900cc sporty nakeds for the rest of us. Really hoping Aprilia knock it out of the park with the RS660, but not sure they really designed it with the track in mind and price is likely going to be an issue as well.

[@domichan80]

will you consider Hyper950 a competitor as well?

[@_rubberbandit3697]

Not really unless you’ve got another £4000, in which case you’re now in very lightly used Tuono 1100 v4 territory.

[@markreynolds8630]

How does it compare to the Ducati Hypermotard?

[@Juuul89]

That's actually a good comparison I hadn't thought of that :o

[@markreynolds8630]

These are the two bikes that interest me. I would like to go to the Pico mountains in Northern Spain, and rat around on either one for a good while. I'm totally prepared to sacrifice touring ability for fun in the tight twisties once there.

[@stephencastledine6800]

Ktm 690 supermoto smcr or this 890 ?

[@stefaandeswert5849]

Would you call the torque too much for less experienced riders? Because i'm absolute head over heels for this thing 😁

[@ajmotovideos6779]

Just dont twist the throttle so far until you get use to it.

[@vacateistheword]

Wonder how this would be in RC form, with fairing and wind protection

[@cranky1812]

Check out Kramer motorcycles, they make race chassis for 790 and 890 with all fairing kit.

[@crankshootvlogs5295]

Exactly

[@dominic9279]

I'm just wondering what do you mean by toy like? Good review

[@Markycarandbikestuff]

I kind of get what he means, i have a Ducati Monster which is a similar bike, it just doesn't feel practical or a bike i'd ride all day, ok for a short commute, around town or 1 hour blast, feel like a hooligan riding it (i'm 50 lol), it sounds amazing. My Kawasaki Versys feels totally different, and i seem to ride it differently, could ride it all day, got luggage so it's practical and a screen so it's comfortable at speed on the motorways. I absolutely love the Monster but glad it's not my only bike.

[@alexandercavendishsimson3962]

Love it ❤️, but that exhaust can 🙈🙈

[@watchdancing]

How do you compare it to the Hypermotards? You had a 821 Hyperstrada for some time and I'm sure you've ridden a 939 (SP).

[@user-kd2of1ed2v]

Hyper is more of a supermoto, this is more street oriented. Comparison videos prefer the 890 over the hyper

[@watchdancing]

@@user-kd2of1ed2v I just sold my KTM 690 SM so I like those supermoto-naked hybrids, but I especially like low weight. I guess a KTM 890 SM would be my bike but I will still have to wait for it. Spend the time until then on a 890 Duke or a Hypermotard or even a Dorsoduro (too heavy). That is the question : )

[@TheRealChetManley]

1. It comes with pillion seat and pegs that can be installed if needed 2. Not a track day bike? Plenty of people are running these on track days. Lots of videos out there as well. Perfectly fine for a track day...

[@xcg1234]

The price in united states is It is about 13k after some add on configuration. For same price I can buy a 2018 brand new aprilia tuono 1100 rr at the same dealer.

[@_rubberbandit3697]

How is 2018 brand new?

[@xcg1234]

@@_rubberbandit3697 overstock

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

2018 is 3 years old

[@xcg1234]

@@jimbojonesporfavor don't matter as long as it's new

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

@@xcg1234 but 3 years old product..

[@dry509]

Would this get tiring at some point? Or not?

[@clashcityrocker2051]

I test rode a 790 duke and had as much fun as this for £6900 brand new ... so the brakes are super amazing instead of just amazing, a few bhp more and a couple of adjusters on the suspension that you will probably twiddle and mess up the settings!! I actually ordered one from ktm Northampton but they messed me about to the point that I cancelled it, but that’s another story... shame, never got round to getting one then Covid hit!!!

[@SteeeveO]

I'm in Northampton & was thinking of trading in my STR 675 for a 790 this year - how did they let you down? They seem to get good reviews.

[@clashcityrocker2051]

I went and test rode it and loved it, did the deal , paid my deposit and was hoping to pick it up on 1st March on a new 20 Reg. I had poor communication from them leading up to collection and then they told me it would be the week after, maybe 3rd or 4th of March. I was a bit disappointed not to get it on the first. This would probably be the only new vehicle I will buy and would of been nice to pick up on the 1st which is a Sunday and they don’t open Sundays. I rang them on the Sunday out of curiosity and the guy told me that they were open because “it’s an exciting day and everyone was picking up there new bikes!!!!! This led to me blowing a fuse and telling them to poke it. I was pissed off as everyone else got the full experience except me...😢

[@jimbojonesporfavor]

@@clashcityrocker2051 Sorry you wanted to pickup a bike on the 1st of the month, and when you had to wait a day or 2 you cancelled the whole deal? Is that correct?

[@clashcityrocker2051]

@@jimbojonesporfavor . Yes Jimmy. don’t like to be mugged off.. All’s well that ends well because I bought a 1290 superduke from Coventry, Kestrel KTM..top fellas.

[@Firestorm637]

You can see why KTM is growing so fast and largest European manufacturer. KTM approaching number 3, Kawasaki

[@vector409]

I think he likes it :)

[@wakedaze1]

KTM 890 Duke R or Ducati Hypermotard 950SP?

[@The.JZA.]

Does it make sense to go from a Duke 390 to a Duke 890 or should I look at something in the middle? I'm 6ft4", 100+kg, 34 years old. A bit apprehensive about getting such a powerful bike. I'm sure I can handle it and get used to it but just dunno if I am setting myself up for danger. Maybe I should just stick to the Duke 390. I mainly just use it for commuting anyway and the 390 is fantastic for that.

[@stuartcmorrison]

How much do KTM spend on advertising with MCN/Bauer Media? That is all.

[@petermccann2561]

Did the TFT dash fog? Reports abound on TFT problems on many models, going back as far as 2012 that I've seen, and KTM continue to do nothing about it, unless you count selling unimproved replacements for $1153.00USD

[@mickstick2830]

To me it’s strange that you say it will be passed by many bikes. The 790 even has a pikes peak record. I bet this one would demolish that one... Am i missing something here?

[@andydtkd]

These things are kicking ass in the Roland Sands Super Hooligan class... Just sayin : )

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Feels like a 2nd bike in so many ways when Neeves describes it. Not as much an all-rounder in the category with such company as the MT-09, Z900, 765R, or a few others.

[@michaelkurdelski5317]

Having owned an Mt09 and ridden the others, I can say its just as much of an all-rounder just lighter and more agile and far better handling. Also the wife also recons it is more comfortable on the back. It is just so so easy to ride.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@michaelkurdelski5317 I've ridden the 790 on demo. Was a total barrel of monkeys, grunt and charisma, very good handling. What I was referring to, Neeves seems to think it's too focused to be as much an all-rounder. Sure it's premium in every way but if you could slap the same level of brakes and suspension on the MT or Z or CB in this category, wouldn't they also be a bit more broadly focused? Curious about this angle.

[@888jackflash]

Great report, very enlightening. PS - People might want to know that KTM twin motors, (including this one), are now being produced in CHINA .

[@davidbeattie6466]

Would this bike cope with long distance runs?

[@Evil.Turkey]

MT09SP, Z900, Triple-RS or Duke890R?

[@stephenpierce2726]

Yes.

[@DMSparky]

Stephen Pierce correct.

[@RutgerSmets]

Don't think you can make a bad choice tbh

[@banestock]

Was waiting for this one for a long time! I think it's the best middle weight naked bike available currently!

[@johnnydrama7603]

Anyone else want this bike with a fairing and clip-ons?

[@kasperkjrsgaard1447]

Johnny Drama I was just thinking the same this very second. You could find a suitable fairing - maybe from a 90’s 250 cc racing bike - and make your own 890 RR.

[@cranky1812]

You should check out Kramer motorcycles, they actually make race chassis for 790 and 890 with proper fairing.