KTM has been working on the Duke 990 for quite some time, and the test mule was also spotted a few months ago. While the brand already has the 790 and 890 Duke, the development of a larger 990 Duke might be necessary owing to the present strict emission and noise regulations. A new set of spy photos of the KTM 990 Duke have emerged on the internet, and this time, the bike appears to be in the final stages of testing. This test mule had new bodywork, unlike the last time when it resembled the Duke 890.
Aside from some changes to accommodate the slightly larger engine and an all-new swingarm, the chassis design is essentially the same. The new aluminium swingarm seems to be muscular, but it also appears to be completely different, implying that it will be lighter and besotted with a new design to adjust the new exhaust positioning. The new bodywork includes a new front mudguard, new radiator shrouds, and sharper tank shrouds to give it a more belligerent appearance.
The KTM 990 Duke is expected to receive a heavily revamped version of the 890 Duke’s engine. There is no confirmed information about its power figures, but it will undoubtedly outperform the 890. In addition, the front suspension has been replaced with a fully adjustable WP unit. The braking hardware appears to have been upgraded to Brembo style units as well. We anticipate that the Austrian manufacturer will also upgrade the bike’s electronic suite.
Despite having new bodywork and appearing to be closer to production, the KTM 990 Duke is unlikely to hit the streets before 2024. As far as the KTM Duke 990’s launch in the Indian market is concerned, it doesn’t seem to be coming to our shores anytime soon.
Images Source: MCN
