Another enjoyable review . Try the 890R , that is a total giggle machine . I love mine . Bizarrely there are still riders out there who don’t adjust suspension, gear lever position etc etc to get the bike dialled in for them and their general road conditions. For instance I’ve dialled my 890r suspension to be on the softer side and the ride is so plush . I may have to put the original can back on mine to hear the pops as from new I’ve had the Akra can on it . Ride safe and keep up the reviews 👍
Thank you! It's a weapon! I loved how nimble it was. Just think about where you want to go and you're there! Haha yes. I wonder if it's because people are worried about messing it up. Thanks for watching and ride safe!
Rode one of theses recently They are so so good. All my bike are older stuff with a first gen mille rsv r being my modern bike and I’ve got a Gilera Saturno and a Duc F1 so pretty ancient stuff by comparison.. I was so so impressed with the 890 . Plenty of grunt incredibly light yet stable it really was a joy to ride. Really the first time in a long time I’ve been tempted by newer bikes. I’d have one in a heartbeat problem is I can’t part with anything I’ve got because I could never afford to replace them with the way prices have gone for the older stuff. Nice video subbed
They really are great bikes arent they! I didn't expect it to be a preference over the SuperDuke as that bike is a monster, but the lightweight, precise riding is addictive! Sounds like you have a really nice collection of bikes! Thank you!
I bought this bike in May 21, sometimes I wish I got the R but for everyday commuter use, I think I made the right choice. It really does have a heap of torque with that twin engine.
Excellent review totally agree with you👍 it makes you feel great every time you go out on it, it’s such a fun bike with all the grunt you really need on today’s roads and it takes every corner in its stride. 👍👍👍
My thoughts on this bike were identical to yours. So much so , I ditched my deposit I had down on the new MT09 for this bike. Absolutely ZERO regrets. I feel like a 10 year old at Xmas every time I start her up ! 😆
Ahh amazing!! I've heard great things about the MT09... but that KTM hooligan factor is just unrivalled! It's such a laugh. Glad to hear you're still loving it! And thanks for watching
@@SamVBikes The MT09 is an absolute beast , and probably more practical for everyday use. But line the 2 up , I’d jump on the KTM on nearly every occasion. So much character and I actually prefer the thumper parallel twin. Either way , it’s a great time to be a rider. Thanks for the awesome video. I look forward to watching more in the future. Ride safe 😎
Great review again Sam, I love your enthusiasm and am inclined to agree. The superduke and others of that ilk, carry the real possibility of going to jail as you are holding it back rather than enjoying the ride. I like the speed triples but think the older 1050 makes more sense than the 1200, for road use.
Thank you bud! They are cracking bikes, but having that much power on the roads just means even if you're being sensible, its VERY easy to not be doing sensible speeds without really meaning to! Something like this is so quick, but its a proper experience to ride! Really surprised me! (saying that a lot recently haha)
@@SamVBikes I think I would end up doing silly speeds and end up getting pulled at some point. Some bikes are very quick but easy to ride sensibly, I think the superduke would necessitate drilling holes in my crash helmet for when the horns pop out 😂
Hahaha! I've had to have a chat with myself a few times on my Super Adventure... "Sam... you keep riding like that, you're not going to have a license for very long" 😂 but that noise... and Torque is just addictive haha
@@SamVBikes I know that feeling well and with the increase of all types of speed camera it would be a matter of when I lose my licence. I was looking at the triumph retros yesterday and the make more sense the older I get 😂
Spent a good month waiting for that dreaded brown envelope dropping through the letter box haha! Those T120s are awesome things! Definitely give them a go mate, Emma is obsessed with them
I couldn't find a way to turn wheelie control off alone, so assumed like most bikes it's tied to traction control. It's tied to traction control on my Super Adventure. I know a lot of bikes do it differently though
Have you tried a R since ? Could you feel the 4hp difference ? Wondering between the gp and r. Ridden the R but not the GP and not sure I warrant the suss and brakes of the R.
The brakes would be worth the extra money. For the road, the suspension isn't a mind blowing difference, but it will be on track. The power difference isn't really noticeable
Cheers for that. I think it's either going to be the standard R or the GP with some extra on - but then do I go for power/race spec or a very cool looking bike with fancy extras ;) that will never see a track@@SamVBikes
I'd go for the cool looking with extras! Race spec is always great fun but it will get boring for the town riding etc. Either way.. it will be an incredible bike
my old 690 duke is the best handling bike i have ever ridden. i have been interested in the new 890 r. i suppose it handles even better with almost 2 times the power (119 vs. 69 HP). the only thing i do not like about my 690 is the sound of the single. it sounds slightly louder than a scooter. i am not willing to buy a new exhaust system to improve the sound. i would rather sell it and get the new 890 r or the better looking new monster as i hear it is toe to toe in overall performance. the new monster is a grand more expensive than the 890 r.
That's very true! I haven't ridden the new Monster yet but will be interesting to see what it is like. The KTM's seem to handle really well and also have that hooligan factor so will depend if the Ducati has that same feeling about it. If it doesn't, personally I'd rather just save the money and get the KTM. Having said that, they are already in talks about releasing the 990 range of KTM's so that might take it up one stage again.
@@meattooth1303 Very true! I think the lightweight bikes are great regardless of bhp, but it does show on the higher speed roads like you say. I'll have to get myself on the new Monster to see how things are!
This one is much smoother than the 790 I rode before! I'd be tempted to wait for the next generation coming out next year though. Hopefully they will have the better switchgear on that too
I'm around 176cm, although I know a few taller people have no issues on the 1290 Super Duke R. A step up from this but had a bit more space to move about
@@SamVBikes no doubt, but for the spec-sheet warriors who know the quarks of both and just want to hear the comparisons. You have a good vlog - I was just getting impatient. I watched the full thing though ^_^
Appreciate you watching the full thing! Haha! Too many spec sheet warriors nowadays! Bikes are about how they feel and ride, not the numbers on paper imo
@@SamVBikes atleast around around me, ktm dealers don't do test drives. You buy it site on seen hoping you'll love it, or trade it in for a minor loss.
I crash my 890 Duke R 2 weeks ago - Massive Tank Slapper turned into a high side, lucky I'd just Bought a 2021 Tuono V4 1100 base model. vids on my channel.
The fact you are saying you’d have this over the 1290 SDR but can’t distinguish this bike from the 890R, disqualifies you from making this assessment 🫠
Realistically, the only real noticeable difference between the R and non-R is the power output (barely down) and the brakes, but they are still Brembo. The R is slightly lighter and comes with different tyres. Riding the bike, whether its the R or not, is still a more daily usable bike for most, than the SDR.
@@SamVBikes 890r has more HP. 9-10hp is significant (on a motorcycle of this weight). It has Brembo stylema brakes, MCS master cylinder, WP suspension (front and rear) and has a more aggressive geometry. Big difference.
Of course it will make a difference, I'm not saying otherwise. The average rider using it for road riding, staying within speed limits and not chasing track times, isn't really going to notice a substantial difference (unless riding back to back). Obviously more experienced riders will. IMO, the 890, in any guise, is a more useable, fun weekend bike, than a 1290SDR
“Like you’re riding an absolute lunatic…… a throwback to some of my exes” 😂….. subbed!
😂😂 thanks for the sub!
Another enjoyable review . Try the 890R , that is a total giggle machine . I love mine . Bizarrely there are still riders out there who don’t adjust suspension, gear lever position etc etc to get the bike dialled in for them and their general road conditions. For instance I’ve dialled my 890r suspension to be on the softer side and the ride is so plush . I may have to put the original can back on mine to hear the pops as from new I’ve had the Akra can on it . Ride safe and keep up the reviews 👍
Thank you! It's a weapon! I loved how nimble it was. Just think about where you want to go and you're there! Haha yes. I wonder if it's because people are worried about messing it up. Thanks for watching and ride safe!
You lose the pops by installing a louder slipon?
Rode one of theses recently They are so so good. All my bike are older stuff with a first gen mille rsv r being my modern bike and I’ve got a Gilera Saturno and a Duc F1 so pretty ancient stuff by comparison.. I was so so impressed with the 890 . Plenty of grunt incredibly light yet stable it really was a joy to ride. Really the first time in a long time I’ve been tempted by newer bikes. I’d have one in a heartbeat problem is I can’t part with anything I’ve got because I could never afford to replace them with the way prices have gone for the older stuff. Nice video subbed
They really are great bikes arent they! I didn't expect it to be a preference over the SuperDuke as that bike is a monster, but the lightweight, precise riding is addictive! Sounds like you have a really nice collection of bikes! Thank you!
I bought this bike in May 21, sometimes I wish I got the R but for everyday commuter use, I think I made the right choice. It really does have a heap of torque with that twin engine.
The R would be nice with the beefier brakes etc but this was still such a laugh to ride! So nimble and torquey! It was great
do you still think you shouldve got an R ? im decding betwteen the 2 and picking up it this weekeed!!!
Excellent review totally agree with you👍 it makes you feel great every time you go out on it, it’s such a fun bike with all the grunt you really need on today’s roads and it takes every corner in its stride. 👍👍👍
Thank you!! It's an awesome machine! Couldn't believe how nimble it was! Thanks for watching
My thoughts on this bike were identical to yours. So much so , I ditched my deposit I had down on the new MT09 for this bike. Absolutely ZERO regrets. I feel like a 10 year old at Xmas every time I start her up ! 😆
Ahh amazing!! I've heard great things about the MT09... but that KTM hooligan factor is just unrivalled! It's such a laugh. Glad to hear you're still loving it! And thanks for watching
@@SamVBikes The MT09 is an absolute beast , and probably more practical for everyday use. But line the 2 up , I’d jump on the KTM on nearly every occasion. So much character and I actually prefer the thumper parallel twin. Either way , it’s a great time to be a rider. Thanks for the awesome video. I look forward to watching more in the future. Ride safe 😎
@@shanemeek81 Definitely agree! You made a wise choice! No problem, ride safe too!
Great review again Sam, I love your enthusiasm and am inclined to agree. The superduke and others of that ilk, carry the real possibility of going to jail as you are holding it back rather than enjoying the ride. I like the speed triples but think the older 1050 makes more sense than the 1200, for road use.
Thank you bud! They are cracking bikes, but having that much power on the roads just means even if you're being sensible, its VERY easy to not be doing sensible speeds without really meaning to! Something like this is so quick, but its a proper experience to ride! Really surprised me! (saying that a lot recently haha)
@@SamVBikes I think I would end up doing silly speeds and end up getting pulled at some point. Some bikes are very quick but easy to ride sensibly, I think the superduke would necessitate drilling holes in my crash helmet for when the horns pop out 😂
Hahaha! I've had to have a chat with myself a few times on my Super Adventure... "Sam... you keep riding like that, you're not going to have a license for very long" 😂 but that noise... and Torque is just addictive haha
@@SamVBikes I know that feeling well and with the increase of all types of speed camera it would be a matter of when I lose my licence. I was looking at the triumph retros yesterday and the make more sense the older I get 😂
Spent a good month waiting for that dreaded brown envelope dropping through the letter box haha! Those T120s are awesome things! Definitely give them a go mate, Emma is obsessed with them
Another good review, amazing how good the mid size bikes are. I loved my 990 adventure how good would that bike have been with this engine!
Thank you! It was such a good bike, loads of power and very nimble. Definitely would have been, looking forward to their new 990 adventure next year!
Turning tc off doesn’t allow wheelies. Just voids your insurance. Turn it down to 2-4 instead of off.
Wheelie control allows wheelies.
I couldn't find a way to turn wheelie control off alone, so assumed like most bikes it's tied to traction control. It's tied to traction control on my Super Adventure. I know a lot of bikes do it differently though
@@SamVBikes it might not have had the tech pack.
Possibly not! I think the 890 R has that option. I know you can do it on the 1290 SDR
Voids your insurance? Really? There is no clause in my policy that states that.
Bought the 890r switched the can and it went from pop pop pop to bang bang bang!!!
Have you tried a R since ? Could you feel the 4hp difference ? Wondering between the gp and r. Ridden the R but not the GP and not sure I warrant the suss and brakes of the R.
The brakes would be worth the extra money. For the road, the suspension isn't a mind blowing difference, but it will be on track. The power difference isn't really noticeable
Cheers for that. I think it's either going to be the standard R or the GP with some extra on - but then do I go for power/race spec or a very cool looking bike with fancy extras ;) that will never see a track@@SamVBikes
I'd go for the cool looking with extras! Race spec is always great fun but it will get boring for the town riding etc. Either way.. it will be an incredible bike
Good review. I have the 890r. Best handling bike i have owned.
Such a good bike! Couldn't believe how good it was
my old 690 duke is the best handling bike i have ever ridden. i have been interested in the new 890 r. i suppose it handles even better with almost 2 times the power (119 vs. 69 HP). the only thing i do not like about my 690 is the sound of the single. it sounds slightly louder than a scooter. i am not willing to buy a new exhaust system to improve the sound. i would rather sell it and get the new 890 r or the better looking new monster as i hear it is toe to toe in overall performance. the new monster is a grand more expensive than the 890 r.
That's very true! I haven't ridden the new Monster yet but will be interesting to see what it is like. The KTM's seem to handle really well and also have that hooligan factor so will depend if the Ducati has that same feeling about it. If it doesn't, personally I'd rather just save the money and get the KTM. Having said that, they are already in talks about releasing the 990 range of KTM's so that might take it up one stage again.
@@SamVBikes once you take me over 100 HP on a
@@meattooth1303 Very true! I think the lightweight bikes are great regardless of bhp, but it does show on the higher speed roads like you say. I'll have to get myself on the new Monster to see how things are!
1:42 the figures shown here are for the 890R. The non R (ridden in this video) produces 115hp and 92nm of torque
Thanks for that! I thought they were the same
Nice review. Go and try the 890r and compare it.
Thank you! Definitely. Looking forward to trying the updated models coming out next year too
KTM IS ALREADY TESTING A DUKE 990R SOMEWHERE IN EUROPE....THATS GONNA BE INSAAAAAAAAANNE...😍😍😍😍😍😍
I cant wait!! Will be so good to see
@@SamVBikes , absolutely...imagine a light, nimble Duke with around 150 bhp....😍😍😍😍😍
These new middle-weight options are becoming like the old big class! So much more usable that 190bhp+
@@SamVBikes , Precisely...👍
Its not the R, that one has an orange frame i believe
What a great video!
Thank you sir!
Sweet bike!
Definitely!!
I want one of these but the fuelling was so bad on the 790 duke. If they have fixed that I’d buy one
This one is much smoother than the 790 I rode before! I'd be tempted to wait for the next generation coming out next year though. Hopefully they will have the better switchgear on that too
How tall are you? I’m 195cm and worried about being too cramped.
I'm around 176cm, although I know a few taller people have no issues on the 1290 Super Duke R. A step up from this but had a bit more space to move about
How does this compare to the new Ducati Monster?
I'm yet to ride the monster yet! It's on my list though!
8:19 he finally starts talking about why he likes it more than the 1290.
Would be a crime to talk about the bike before coming to a conclusion
@@SamVBikes no doubt, but for the spec-sheet warriors who know the quarks of both and just want to hear the comparisons. You have a good vlog - I was just getting impatient. I watched the full thing though ^_^
Appreciate you watching the full thing! Haha! Too many spec sheet warriors nowadays! Bikes are about how they feel and ride, not the numbers on paper imo
@@SamVBikes atleast around around me, ktm dealers don't do test drives. You buy it site on seen hoping you'll love it, or trade it in for a minor loss.
Thanks shocking! How can they expect anyone to part with money without testing. Like marrying your wife before you've even met her... madness!
what leather jacket is that?
Richa Daytona 60s jacket in the tan (cognac) colour. Love it!
Great vid :D
Thank you!
I love the bike but find it too small.thks.
It's definitely a bike you sit on, rather than in if that makes sense!
I crash my 890 Duke R 2 weeks ago - Massive Tank Slapper turned into a high side, lucky I'd just Bought a 2021 Tuono V4 1100 base model. vids on my channel.
Sorry to hear about the crash! Love the Tuono though!
The tuono would lift much easier than the ktm
@@petersajkic6749 Yeah, I now own 3 Tuono's no more KTM's
@@zed5129 Hell NO! I was accelerating at 140 Kph uphill and hit multiple 100mm ripples/waves in the road which caused the tank slapper n high side.
The fact you are saying you’d have this over the 1290 SDR but can’t distinguish this bike from the 890R, disqualifies you from making this assessment 🫠
Realistically, the only real noticeable difference between the R and non-R is the power output (barely down) and the brakes, but they are still Brembo. The R is slightly lighter and comes with different tyres. Riding the bike, whether its the R or not, is still a more daily usable bike for most, than the SDR.
@@SamVBikes 890r has more HP. 9-10hp is significant (on a motorcycle of this weight). It has Brembo stylema brakes, MCS master cylinder, WP suspension (front and rear) and has a more aggressive geometry.
Big difference.
Of course it will make a difference, I'm not saying otherwise. The average rider using it for road riding, staying within speed limits and not chasing track times, isn't really going to notice a substantial difference (unless riding back to back). Obviously more experienced riders will. IMO, the 890, in any guise, is a more useable, fun weekend bike, than a 1290SDR
Smaller is better (if you are experienced)…