Road Test: KTM 890 Duke R Motovlog Review

[@BikesofRye]

Hi all! Thanks for checking out my first ever review! Love to read all your comments and appreciate any feedback Cheers

[@SantiWax]

can you do an update?

[@rideoutlondon]

Wish they did this one in black as well like the standard 890

[@NudaMan]

Just carbon fiber the whole bike lol

[@cuzimaluzer777]

Yes. Me too

[@BikesofRye]

I agree

[@fraz172]

Good honest review. I traded a 2016 street in for the 890r. Best bike i have owned so far, You are right about the seat and switch gear also.

[@BikesofRye]

Thanks - still bet you love the bike

[@fynn8252]

I've been waiting for this!! Thank you.

[@BikesofRye]

you are welcome hope you enjoyed it

[@gsd32i]

I was torn between the 2 , having test ridden them both 🤦‍♂️hated the switch gear of the triumph and the toy town triumph dash too . Finish is better on the triumph and the engine noise , well no comparison, triumph wins . However I was impressed with the pull of the KTM engine and the way it road so I went for the KTM . Collect it next week . Comfort seat , Akro exhaust and screen fitted from power parts . I may live to regret it but you only live once . One of the best reviews I’ve seen of the KTM , ridden like it should be . Guessing there are a few out there on the fence lol 😂 . Well done 👍 ps your bike sounds awesome 👏

[@fynn8252]

They're both very good machines dude, you shouldn't regret anything! That KTM with the Akro is gonna be a beast.

[@BikesofRye]

honestly it would be so hard to chose between the two it would simply come down to an individual choice... You wouldn't go wrong with either that KTM of yours is going to be fun!

[@drewmorg.]

How you likin the KTM now buddy?

[@gsd32i]

@@drewmorg. great riders machine . Not perfect bit rides so well . I’ve done a few videos go and have a look 👀 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXuzoqmZpMiXaJY

[@drewmorg.]

@@gsd32i I will! Absolutely! Thanks

[@TheRealChetManley]

The bike comes with pillion seat and pegs in the accessories. You have to install them. Nice review, I am trying to decide between this and the triple. The triple is a much better looking bike. But the KTM has much better electronics and technology. I wish the triple had the IMU and cruise control. It would be a no brainer.

[@BikesofRye]

Ah good to know thanks.. I think the triple still has decent electronics only wish the traction control didn't act as wheelie control

[@padrescout]

@@BikesofRye We are fortunate in that we can pay the ...cough... nice people at KTM a fee to unlock that stuff in the electronics. I hear that's a major gripe with the 890 ADV guys, they have no way to turn off wheelie control. ever.

[@ROBM13666]

I've taken both the 765rs and the 890r out this week and although the triumph does feel more premium and in my head seems like the sensible choice i found that the 890r just felt more exciting right from the off.. The low down torque just made it a breeze whipping through town and traffic and then around some twisties it blasts out of the corners... More fun to me at much less speed and less chance of getting nicked revving it out to silly speeds..

[@BikesofRye]

Thats good to hear you haven't gone wrong with the 890 it is a superb bike

[@Alexlegrand294]

I agree with the torque available on the ktm at low rpm makes it super fun to drive without going too fast. I own the 890 R and I tried once the 765 R. The triumph is more premium but KTM is funnier to drive.

[@padrescout]

Years ago I had a bug-eye era Street Triple. I used to tell people that was the hands-down best motorcycle I've ever owned. Nowadays... it's a hard call between that and the 890 Duke. I think the Triumph is a better machine? But the Duke is just so outrageous it'll trick you, so ... hard call. I definitely think the Duke is the most fun motorcycle I've ever had... but "best" ... hmmmm. That's a thinker.

[@Andres-vo5tl]

@@padrescout curious on why do you think KTM not the best? Had a Triumph 675 and thinking about getting a Duke 890R

[@padrescout]

I think the Triumph was more comfortable and just generally a nicer fit and finish product. The Duke had way more performance (sold the Duke last year), no comparison - if you want the craziest turn speeds and acceleration the Duke is the way to go - but the Triumph was a better machine to have a relationship with. For example, the Triumph was a nice machine to ride slow, it was still engaging and felt good. If you wanted to go fast, the Triumph would absolutely deliver, but it didn't require you to stay in the gas to have fun. The Duke just ..wanted to go fast and felt numb until you were carrying a very quick pace. The Duke 890R reminded me a lot of the Big Ducati Monster 1200s in that regard, they don't like being ridden slowly either. I also thought the Triumph was a much prettier machine, and I like the sound the 675 made more. I never had any mechanical issues or anything with either bike, just in hindsight, I liked the Triumph more. From a emotional level my favorite machine I ever owned was a Moto Guzzi Griso, but that Triumph was probably the "best" by how I measure ownership. Hopefully you find this helpful, if I gave the impression the Duke 890R is a inferior machine in any way, I apologize, it's really a brilliant piece of engineering, just turns out not one I like very much. Have a great day! @@Andres-vo5tl

[@aldoshipley2881]

I had planned on buying the 890r,but after just spending 3 hours on a German KTM forum,and discovering out of 700 odd sold here in Germany up to now that 135 have have blown the engine to bits,sqeeky chains,loss of oil,loss of coolant,and even after the first 1000km inspection that theres metal filings in the oil..................i dont think i will bother...........And it looked so good aswell.

[@BikesofRye]

I have heard many stories like this which is a real shame. It feels so mechanically well built to ride

[@aldoshipley2881]

@@BikesofRye I checked out a German KTM page today for the first time.No shit the very first post was a bloke with his 890 r on a trailer cos the clutch has gone .........for the second time. Its got 2200km on the clock.All these stories have put me of completly.

[@drewmorg.]

@@aldoshipley2881 horrible

[@CDKB27]

I own a 790, it’s on its third motor

[@imsa15463]

Was never a decision for me. I bought a 2020 Triple RS . The looks of the Duke are what made the choice easy.

[@BikesofRye]

Its the one thing for me that lets the Duke down is its looks and colour combo

[@TheHuggmg]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...

[@debenhamdave4314]

I test rode the KTM 790 Duke, haven't ridden the 890, and chose the Street triple rs felt more of a serious bike.

[@BikesofRye]

The Street is more grown up both its looks and the way it performs

[@motovlogsbybillybob]

Was torn between duke 890 and street triple rs. After the cost breakdown and the amount of adds you need on the 890 wheelie mode and traction control it all started adding up. I went with street triple rs. Waiting for delivery next week. Can't wait.

[@debenhamdave4314]

@@motovlogsbybillybob you will love it, its a fantastic bike.

[@motovlogsbybillybob]

@@debenhamdave4314 I hope so as well. Upgrading from 2018 RC 390. I'm so excited that I got the accessories before the bike lol. Already have tail tidy, radiator guard, tire decals lol

[@daveferrara]

Thank you! Really nice seeing a review from a Street Triple owner!

[@BikesofRye]

Glad you liked it!

[@abymathew295]

Cant wait to see the upcoming Duke 990R....its gonna be a cracker...🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@BikesofRye]

Nice!! Didn't know about this that is very intriguing

[@abymathew295]

@@BikesofRye , they are already testing a 990 prototype somewhere in Europe...😍😍😍😍😍

[@BikesofRye]

I will be keeping a keen eye out for this!!

[@saivishwak5735]

I think KTM should've made a 690 parallel twin 270° crank engine in 790 Duke and kept the 890 Duke as it is, so it makes the 690 Duke as a lower middleweight kinda beginner friendly bike which should be less than 90bhp and kept the 890 Duke as it is, which makes it a upper middleweight bike.

[@BikesofRye]

I do wonder though if there is enough of a market for it really but sure I do see what you are saying. I believe manufactures are watching how the Aprilia RS660 achieves

[@scottgilmour2135]

I was dying to ride this bike and felt really let down with the quick shifter. Must have jammed about 20 times in an hour. Other than that it was awesome, first timer like you on KTM too. 👍🏻 765rs test riding coming Saturday 👍🏻

[@BikesofRye]

I found the quickshifter very good to be honest I loved how the gear peg felt too

[@scottgilmour2135]

@@BikesofRye maybe it was just the bike They let me borrow. Hemel are a great dealership too. They let me try the 790 which was great.

[@adamstratford6740]

Sup dude 👍🏻 great review 👏🏻👏🏻. I’m actually a secret 890 Duke R fan although ive never rode one ive watched endless reviews and everyone has the same outcome 🔥🔥🔥🔥. Definitely a middleweight naked id consider 🤔

[@BikesofRye]

Hey bro yeah what a bike! its obvious why it is so popular the dealer had sold 3 in a week after coming out of lockdown

[@steveharris7185]

Hi, I bought the street triple rs 2020 approx same time as you and then 890 came out and thought should I have waited, so pleased you rated the triple just that bit more. I agree the street looks more of a premium machine.

[@BikesofRye]

KTM have made a cracking bike in the Duke R I think even if you had waited you still wouldn't be disappointed. Probably be asking the other way around should you have got the STRS haha

[@Kirkish_Delight]

A less plasticy Husqvarna 901 version of this would be my perfect bike.

[@13endurance13]

It is a twoseater and comes with both options... The engine was in ride in mode because shiftlight came early...

[@BikesofRye]

I was in riding in sports mode

[@13endurance13]

@@BikesofRye first 1000km break in

[@jesus2400]

Great video just facts no drama

[@BikesofRye]

Are you the great almighty?

[@davidcalvo1205]

What do you think of this bike compared to your street triple rs? I am between these two bikes

[@BikesofRye]

I mention this at the end of the video :)

[@jasongaudreau2075]

I think it’s a great review. And I also believe the one down factor you had, being the motor and it’s top end snap…is reserved for the 1290 superduke R. That would have to be the perfect combo of handling and power.

[@BikesofRye]

I cannot wait to have a go on one someday

[@meganlauren4106]

I really want an 890 so bad but I’m genuinely concerned over the reliability of ktm in the US. My roomate has an MT09 and that is loads of fun but it just doesn’t handle as well as I think this one would

[@BikesofRye]

Yes reliability issues seem to be what put a lot of people off KTM it is well know.. that aside though I would take the 890 Duke R over the latest MT09SP personally due to the handling, suspension and brakes

[@makjak111]

I have the same concerns. I am leaning towards the mt09sp

[@NudaMan]

Rode a 2020 1290 SDR last Saturday, not gonna lie... the most fun I had on a KTM I know that for sure besides the 950 SM🤫

[@BikesofRye]

I am gonna need to get a go on the 1290

[@dg8062]

I'll take the thrill of Yamaha's CP3 they put in the MT09 & SP version. Just more soul.....I can guarantee!

[@matteiuscod]

I’m looking to change ma bike. Considering the street triple rs, ktm 890r and the new Ducati monster. What do you think about the new Ducati. Will you test it?

[@BikesofRye]

Have you considered the new 950 supersport? The Monster will not offer you what the Street and Duke R does

[@fabiocantarelli9925]

hello, nice video, nice test ... I'm interested in buying the street triple rs or maybe the 890R can I ask you how tall are you? thank you very much!!!👍👋

[@BikesofRye]

Hey I am 6ft and the Duke R is more roomy if that's what you were wondering (I own 2020 765rs)

[@fabiocantarelli9925]

@@BikesofRye exactly, I am 1.83 cm tall the same as you, and I have a street triple R 2010 and I am undecided between the two bikes .... because I would like something more "comfortable" but always sporty. I have to try them both. thank you very much

[@joshuabierenbroodspot8698]

If you buy the 890 duke r, you´re supposed to get the pillion pegs and seat with the bike

[@BikesofRye]

That is good to know thanks for sharing 👍🏼

[@tonisuredajuli7]

Hi, I'm Toni from Barcelona! Are you thinking of changing the Triumph for another upper-mid-range motorcycle? And the ktm, what do you feel about the triumph? Thank you!

[@BikesofRye]

Hi Toni thanks for watching from Barcelona it is always great to reach people far and wide!! This year I will keep the Triumph Street Triple I am more than happy with this bike. Cheers

[@tonisuredajuli7]

@@BikesofRye hahaha I love your videos! I also have the triumph! but between the ktm the mt 09 sp and the triumph for you is the street triple better? by the way the speed triple rs 1200 has to be the bomb!

[@BikesofRye]

@toni sureda juli in my opinion yes the Street is the best out of the three as an all round package. I will be getting out on the Speed Triple 1200 RS soon 👍

[@iamleoooo]

Was the bike speedometer set on miles?

[@BikesofRye]

Yes it was

[@MaceJuanDu]

Jeez... I had one of these in mind until today: I went to a Triumph dealer and found the Street Triple RS to look gorgeous in person. Unfortunately I cannot test ride them as I'm still waiting to get my A licence :(

[@BikesofRye]

Yes the Street in the silver is beautiful in person the paint is very metallic isn't it

[@MaceJuanDu]

@@BikesofRye Not just the colour actually. What cut it to me was the attention to details and perceived build quality, but most of all the size of the headlight unit: it looks too small/odd in photos which I thought hurt the look of the bike, but more proportionate in person thus way better :D

[@freebehindbars8654]

I love the bikes, but KTM electronics scare me. I’ve owned two Dukes (390/790) with both having electronic issues. Complete ECU failure on the 390, 790 had to be restarted every so often. *There is a reason the electronics are not covered under the warranty, KTM is the only major manufacturer that doesn’t cover it.

[@BikesofRye]

Does seem like a really issue for KTM they need to look at sorting this over time and no doubt they will. Surprised they don't cover the electronics under warranty though that would put me off

[@drewmorg.]

Wow that is huge to know. Thanks Gorilla

[@johnDukemaster]

Sure? Is that UK only?

[@ulaskvlcm]

What do u think when u compare Duke 890 R vs new MT 09 SP? Which one is better?

[@BikesofRye]

So hard to answer really what is better because it depends what you're personally after. Duke 890 R handles better, suspension is incredible and the brakes are brilliant. Though to look at and sit on it doesn't seem it should be worth so much but to ride it absolutely is worth it. It is a more aggressive focused bike. The MT-09SP is more of an every day bike and just hard to really not like but it just doesn't do anything to really stand out. MT09 looks better and more of a bling factor I also prefer the MT09 engine... I know that doesn't really help but I think you would understand if you test rode them both ;)

[@ulaskvlcm]

@@BikesofRye thank u. I ordered a normal MT 09, however arrival date is so late(waiting since November). Then ı cancelled the order and just bought KTM 890 Duke R,but not ride yet. I guess ı won’t regret it.

[@BikesofRye]

You will find the KTM amazing to ride for sure

[@himeshkumarv3346]

I’ll take Street Triple RS anyday instead of any bike in that segment

[@BikesofRye]

Hey bro - I plan on trying the others but yes believe the Street is such an amazing bike

[@himeshkumarv3346]

@@BikesofRye why don’t you try some litre class supersport bikes.

[@BikesofRye]

@@himeshkumarv3346 I will eventually bro just sticking to bikes in the same class for now so I can provide fair open mind opinions and also build up a relationship with the dealers

[@RideSubs]

@@BikesofRye A review of the new Ducati Monster would also be awesome!

[@dry509]

How is the wind at highway speeds on your bike?

[@BikesofRye]

High speeds? Well speed limit it OK but after all it is a naked so you will eventually feel it but tbh it doesn't even really come to mind when I am riding

[@TheSoberOne4444]

I’m 5’ 8” would I have any issue on this bike @Bikes of Rye

[@BikesofRye]

I would say you would be on your toes however keep in mind this bike is light. The seat height is 32.8inchs

[@fraz172]

same height as you, i own the 890r, no issues for me.

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

I'm 5'8" too. The size of the bike is perfect. Yes you are on your toes standing still. but the bike feels light so it's no problem at all.

[@dry509]

Like this better than MT-09 SP?

[@BikesofRye]

Answered in other video

[@jumavilsiona2029]

Nice bike

[@BikesofRye]

Brilliant bike

[@isblijkbaarnodig]

When I bought my 790 I never considered a triumph. You’re comparing a bike with least vs maximum appeal. In my subjective mind of course.

[@BikesofRye]

You should try the 890 out its fantastic

[@isblijkbaarnodig]

I’ve added a lot of parts to it to make suitable for my length and daily commute like comfort seat, crash bobbins, pillion, rear bag, dashcam front and rear, usb… But maybe the parts can be moved on a new one. Another concern why I also didn’t try out the new one is that there might be a little less leg room. And also would 10hp more be worthwhile? But why not give it a try, good idea 👍🏻

[@glennkrick]

I hate that the the gear indicator disappears when you turn on the signal light just when you may need it most! Does anyone have the code to reset the service interval when you change the oil your self? This is a total rip off by KTM! Night mode on the display pops on way to soon and way to often very annoying. Engine mechanical clatter is very loud and sounds like it will self destruct any minute!

[@makjak111]

This or the 2021 mt09sp?

[@BikesofRye]

Difficult but I would have to say for how a bike makes you feel then I believe the Duke R with its handling, suspension and brakes over the MT09SP... Though the MT09SP has a better engine, better looking and no doubt a lot more reliable!!

[@AcmeRocket]

Very, very very very good!! 😂😂👍

[@BikesofRye]

Yes 😎

[@CookingwithChefDai]

The 390 duke, 790 duke and 1290 super duke all look great. The 890 just looks ugly to me

[@BikesofRye]

Love the look of the superduke

[@DukeOfTwist]

The 790 & the 890R are identical panels only thing that changes the look is the colours & you can swap the panels if you really want, so how can an 890 be uglier than a 790?

[@PeterOlexa_]

What was the fuel consumption?

[@BikesofRye]

I honestly cannot comment on that I didn't notice it

[@ElPickadool]

How tall are you? im 195cm and afraid im to tall for it or will look stupid on one ;D

[@BikesofRye]

182cm... don't worry about how you look worry about how you feel

[@user-vu4tf3eb9l]

This or regular 890??

[@BikesofRye]

This

[@rolan2dr]

No false neutral on a KTM?!?!

[@tigerick7291]

Street Triple RS all day long.

[@BikesofRye]

Still happy with mine :)

[@mrshillong9842]

What do you like about the triple more

[@tigerick7291]

I love the Triumph Triple engines for the way they deliver power. The build quality of the Triumph is better than the KTM. And I think it looks better.

[@mrshillong9842]

@@tigerick7291 the 890 r is pretty powerful though, and the look is beyond gorgeous.

[@Emtbwebb]

Looks like the bmw s1000r beat them all! His new bike is unreal best i have seen so far

[@MaceJuanDu]

10:13 not particularly nice??? Blaaaasphemy!!!! 🤣

[@BikesofRye]

I await to hear one with the Akra on it :)

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

This bike is porn

[@BikesofRye]

It's a piece of kit

[@mrd4335]

The KTM is cheap n chintzy!! and ready to explode at top-end with a iron-man's arm for n exhaust and a Lady-bum head light !!. The Mt-09 is bags of fun but has had early rust issues.!! The Street sounds 100x better than the above with a slightly sporting feel. Great tool if you don't mind the pair of Bol*cks for head lights grafted on as an after thought ?? Humm choices choices ? " Test ride guys and follow your heart " 💓

[@tonykartracer8032]

Save yourself some headaches and do yourself a favor....... get a Yamaha MT-09. Avoid European junk at all cost.

[@BikesofRye]

I am riding the 2021 MT09-SP this saturday

[@mrshillong9842]

When it comes to bikes Australian bikes are good

[@rudramain]

@@mrshillong9842 *Austrian.

[@mrshillong9842]

@@rudramain thank you

[@mrshillong9842]

I just bought a 2021 890 duke r and love it