Huge shout out to AF1 Racing for tolerating my shenanigans! Check out the bike yourself if you want a low IQ wheelie monster in your life (cuz we all do!): www.af1racingaustin.com/used-inventory/2020-ktm-890-duke-r
If you can - can you do the sister model 890 adventure? I curious how it compares being an 890 adv. If you're ever in the north & want to trade bikes for the day, I do have the non-r model.
About Time! 2 years after making a “So you want a 790/890” video with that bald guy. I’m 5’6” 180lb and ride it at least once a week. Believe you exaggerate on performance or I’ve become used to it.
I have been waiting for you to ride this bike since you talked about it in “So you want a 790/890” with that dude I don't watch anymore. I can't belive you didn't wheelie that thing. Set it to track mode and roll on at idle in first and you can power wheelie that thing through all the gears. Most fun bike I have ever owned. When you buying one Spite?
There's always this sense of energy that makes you feel like it's a vivd living animal called KTM between your legs, no matter it's a 390 or 890 or 1290, it's just a KTM thing. Keep up the good videos Spite!
A buddy of mine talked me into getting a 390 back in 2018.We've both had a bunch of bikes over the years and I wasn't really interested. He bought one and kept talking it up. I gave in and bought one too, figuring on just keeping it for the summer and selling it. I still have it. For a small cheap bike, it is pretty entertaining, has pretty good range and so far hasn't had issues. Only downsides are it could use a bit more poke for the highway, and you have to look down to see the dash. It's a pretty big jump to the 890, so I was sad that the rumoured 490 was cancelled.
Riding the same and also fee it lacks midrange punch so thinking to upgrade but also wouldn’t trust myself with the 890 on the street, apparently KTM will launch new 690 Duke & ADV models later this year, for me personally this is the sweet spot for road riding power so I couldn’t be happier. Can’t wait. Which 690 though-bloody tough choice. Spike-you’re fucking awesome, love your happy character and laugh, keep up the good work Sir, in my humble opinion Yammie Nob was too jealous of your glorious mane and you’re doing better solo now anyway 😆
Shhhhh… Spite, nice to see someone else like myself who forgets to cancel their turn signals. Most of your twisty run had it on the whole time. Another great video, thank you!
My takeaway from this video is that the Duke 890R is the thinking mans hooligan bike, and that it has such mind warping torque that you'll forget to cancel your indicators. Twice. I want one!
Im glad you were able to ride this bike! I bought this as my second bike and describing the engine torque and power are extremely hard. Your giggles is how I describe the feel! Great job on the raw feelings. Such a great and nimble bike! Love the content!
I have this bike and I love it. To me, it’s very comfortable, even with the seat. It’s fast enough to keep up with nose super sports, but it’s actually comfortable to ride around town. The ergonomics are just fantastic.
How does it handle on the highway for 30 minute - 1 hour long rides? My commute’s around that tike and I’m thinking about getting an 890 but also considering a fully faired bike because of highway comfortability.
@@zyonbarreto1 I'll tell you next summer, as I just bought one to substitute my 690 with which, BTW, I do around 1.000 km in a day before my ass hurts too much to keep on riding, so the 890 should be better... 🙂
@@zyonbarreto1 biggest gripe will not be the bike but the lack of wind protection. You can make it better with a puig windscreen, but a naked will never be a decent highway cruiser. You’ll be better served by an ADV or touring bike with a tall windscreen. I do 30min every day on my duke 390 with a puig windscreen and I’d say it’s fine, but never great. It’s still moee fun to ride below 100 in local backroads or mountain passes.
That bike is set up from the factory with a target rider weight of 165-185lbs. I am right there fully geared and was able to get the recommended sag of 43mm rear and have the front at 43mm as well. Valving is a bit agressive but, overall I love it. The Track Mode (with Tech or Track pack) is even a bit more direct in throttle response than Sport Mode. Great review as always.
Hey Spite, Love the Channel! I ordered a Duke 890 R last year without being able to test ride it so I was so surprise with how it rides. I am really looking forward to seeing how you react to using the track mode where you can turn the throttle response even higher, adjust the motor slip, activate super moto mode, and turn off the anti-wheelie. I was a long time cruiser guy until I moved to an area with twisty roads so I needed a change. I'm glad to see another review of this bike as it seems it is a forgotten bike in KTM's line up.
The wheelie control does a great job of not letting the bike get away from you if you get on the throttle too quickly. The front will still come up but only a few inches. And the traction control does a good job if you get on it too hard mid turn. Tire will spin a little but won’t shoot out from under you.
The Austrians at KTM called the 890R the Super Scalpel (and Scalpel for the regular Duke 890). Probably the best sub 900cc bike for twisties. Great review Spite and you are having so much fun on it. This engine in a KTM road legal sportsbike could be fun for the streets.
An absolute weapon of a bike, perfect balance of torqy power and weight. So much fun in the twisties with knife sharp handling provided by great suspension and brakes. Sold my Panigale V2 and ordered a 890 Duke R 🔥
How's the riding on the 890? Crazy to see you sell a Ducati for it but I'm also a massive fan of the 890R. Working on mine has been so fun, the SC S1 really takes the sound to the next level.
I have the 2021 1290r. And bought the 890r Duke to see what all the fuss was about OMG this bike is so much fun. The gearing is perfect, it so fun to run up and down the gears. The breaks are actually better on this bike than the 1290r. But nothing beats the torque on the 1290r. My friends keep asking me if I’m selling the 1290r. Not a chance. Love both bikes. The 890 for its lightness and razor sharp handling and torquey motor. And the 1290 for being the hooligan beast of all motorcycles that handle well when setup properly.
The 890Duke R is my first bike, got it last year and put a 1,000 miles before winter hit (Missouri weather) and the bike is absolutely amazing! I grew up riding 2-stroke torquey dirt bikes so it has not been too much to handle, just the perfect balance of gnarly power but also the ability to cruise and be relaxed. It’s a very confidence inspiring bike which can get someone in trouble in the corners. The tech pack stuff is annoying, and you’re right on a lot of points, kind of a tall bike and I’m 5’11. Ton of head wind but it’s a naked. Questionable reliability (already had to drop it off at the shop when it almost left me stranded once). Overall the bike is amazing, some reliability concerns but if it proves reliable it’s a 10/10.
I’ll add I’m around 240 pounds so I think mine and Spites weight help keep the bike grounded. If a smaller person weighing like 130 I could see them being thrown around😂
Great video Spite, it's cool to see my bike being reviewed! '22 890R and I had the same impressions on my test ride. You want to be in Street mode if you're finding the throttle too squirrely. It'll let you ride like more of a hooligan without worrying about looping it.
I can relate to your "Oh, s*t!/That was cool" laugh when you were surprised by the insane torque...I had the exact same reaction the first time I hammered the throttle on a Zero SR/S in sport mode. Equal parts fun/adrenaline/fear with a nice dose of "Do that again!" at the end.
For at this point 890 is great but too light. My 21 MT 09 is starting to feel light and that 417 lbs. I love my bike but have to be careful feathering the throttle on twisty roads. Great video. Looking forward to the next one.
Great review, I looked up "getting duked" and it means getting punched which seems appropriate given the hit of torque! I've grown to enjoy the "Waspenator" styling.
Been riding mine for almost two years now. And not a moment's regret. It's a nuclear weapon with the accuracy of a surgeon. I think it has broken all other bikes for me.
I have a 390 and would eventually like to get the 890. The way ktm has these things tuned tho it just screams drive me like I'm stolen. I'm so used to mashing the 390 tho it scares me to think about the 890. Idk... Maybe someday.
Nice! I really like this bike! Sometimes I think I shoulda bought this bike instead of my SMCR but then I ride the supermoto and those thoughts float away
Bought one of the first just before the pandemic hit Europe. It's like a happy puppy! Very agile and with the R's small changes it suites me much better than the non R.
I remember watching the 44teeth review of this bike against a street triple 765, and the way that the twin in that bike is, is absolutely crazy. It does make me want to see which you would take if you rode it back to back with the 1290, given that a lot of the torque on that bike is right down the bottom end. Whichever way you look at it tho, KTM manage to create some absolute animals
nice to see they went to a 2cyl finally, much smoother ride, I am disappointed they didn't put cruise control on this bike though. let's be honest, you get to a certain age and you want some basic luxuries even from a naked bike
I have a MY21 KTM 890DUKE R it's snatchy in sport I run mine in mostly Road mode the best power is in Race but it takes away any of the normal dashboard stuff and the up and down buttons are for traction control settings
Great video. Sharp looking but. Maybe its to much power and the costs for that bike. Maybe the 790R is a better bang for your bucks. Would like to see a comparison video between those bikes and your thoughts. Dont like the extra costs to unlock all the goodies.
He leaves both turn signal running for ages, then at 9:38 does a right hand turn without any signal. If only he had an oil light warning on the dash he’d damage an engine cause he ignores them. Does he just look at gear and speed?
I have a KTM890 Adventure S. Same engine, slightly detuned, on a heavier bike and it's sick. On a drag start I'm rev limiting before I can get my feet up and shifted to second gear. I can't imagine that engine at full tune on a lighter, shorter chassis.
Spite, if you find yourself in the DFW area, I have an 890R with the track pack and full race exhaust if you want to see what it does with the nannies turned off.
I own this bike now for 4 months and did 6200Km , I love it ! About the seat : I have the KTM ergo seat and that's gives much more comfort , you can also order it 2cm lower or 2cm higher , about the suspension , I set it up to the sport settings and that suites me well , about the torque and power , yes it's a lot but you get really quick used to it and that's why I'm thinking about selling it and buy a 1290 evo super duke , that's a real animal !
I love my 890 duke. In sport mode it actually helps with downshifting as well then just street mode. I'm still wondering what all it changes. My conclusion is that in sport mode anywhere north of 6k it will feel like it has no lag in throttle response. I also think engine braking is affected cuz down shifting in street mode is harsh if not rev matched and it is not the same in sport mode. It does feel like it has more power than it should and I got in trouble riding mine today cuz of it. All good just had a wet seat afterwards. Lol
I got to ride my buddy's Duke 890 on track and on some local backrounds. Fun bike!! THe torque didn't blow me away cause my current main bike is a SV1000 (that I've geared down). But that Duke is so light, and feels like there's nothing in front of you. Suspension felt surprisingly good too, speaking as a big dude. Overall the bike feels like they started with a supermoto, put that silly engine in it, then started changing only what they had to to accommodate a 120hp motor, without the bike constantly looping or doing tankslappers on the freeway.
So the big Suzuki twin is roughly comparable to MT09 and Duke 890? I keep waffling back and forth between them, but a super cheap budget option might sway me, as well...
@@Drunken_Hamster The main attraction for these bikes is that you get a supermoto type riding position but with a beast of an engine in it. I think they all pull that off. Personally I like the cheaper options because no matter which bike I get I will need to alter the suspension for my size and riding style. Even tho above I said the 890's suspension felt good I would still need to respring it eventually. I'd feel much better about doing that to the budget bike, than paying Duke 890R money and then still having to sink $$$ into the suspension. THat's just me tho.
@@thesuzukimethod Sounds like you're telling me to look for an SV1000, heh. Though I gotta admit I also dig the MT09... What I really want, though, would be something akin to Dan Gurney's AAR Aligator, but with a Duke 890/the 2024 990 motor, or a CP3 motor. Too bad nobody's gonna make anything close to that. Bike industry really is stagnant at this point.
@@Drunken_Hamster You can't really go wrong with any sv. The 1000 is a brute of a sportbike, lots of torque right off idle. It hangs with all those newer bikes everywhere except really tight twisty roads, since it's a little heftier, harder to transition from full lean on one side to full lean on the other. Still hella fun to ride through those kinda roads tho, and that's where I spend most my time on it, haha. That Gator looks wild! Closest thing I can think of to that would be like a Burgman 650. But then you're in scooter land. Cool bikes but not really built for hooning, if that's what you're looking for.
KTM race ready with a race bike maintenance schedule. The 1290SA is the only motorcycle that truly disturbs me mostly because they didn't exist 30-40yrs ago .
Good Video. I have the 790 (couldn't justify the price jump to the 890R) and its a bike where I find myself changing riding modes all the time. Other bikes I used to leave in full/sport mode while the 790 I find I use road mode for commuting and just general relaxed riding as the throttle open is much smoother. Then when I hit the twists and want to get spirited into sport mode it goes for that instant torque hit. You can also customise the up and down buttons to bring you straight to whichever menu you want. On mine I have up straight to power modes so I can easily change on the fly. Down is good old trip 1 computer. Look forward to the full review :)
@Duke Of Twist its highly situational. For the 890r I would have had to buy brand new, while near new second hands of the 790 could be picked up for half the price of a 890r. I figured I could spend the difference in price on aftermarket parts if needed. I don't ride hard these days, just to have fun when i get the rare free morning or afternoon. The 790 well and truly ticks that box.
I hope you could have got the wrench out and adjusted the spring for you as well as scroll through the menus and get it down to say a rain profile where the engine response wasn't so immediate, but your review was a bunch of fun. Clearly, KTM has built a motorcycle for the enthusiast in mind. Kind of like Yamaha, with the MT-09.
The 890R is THE most fun bike to ride in the city and just as good around twisties, two lads at our club bought them but were plagued by faults including leaking oil through faulty engine castings and losing gears, both bikes spent more time in the workshop than on the road and some bikes manufactured between certain dates were also recalled, ironically both lads had 790 Dukes prior to the 890s and they were completely trouble free, hopefully these faults are confined to a specific manufacturing block number because otherwise the 890R is the most fun you can have with your clothes on. also Jeremy McWilliams who was the leading development rider said he was consistently at least a second per lap faster on the 890R than he was on the 1290R beast.
I could cash down my mates 1290R except when he'd gap me on big straights the 890R didn't run out of legs just didn't pull as hard past legal limits. So I bought an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 now the 1290 has no chance lol
After riding an 890 for a little over a year, im going to sell mine next year and step up to a super duke. My only complaint with the 890, and ive seen other riders have the problem too, is that the thermostat housing starts to leak coolant. Not a lot, but you will notice a wet spot after you ride and let it sit for a few hours. Bad design imo. It sits about 2 inches away from the exhaust header and is made out or some sort of plastic.
Get the 20mm power parts seat it's lush, Trust me, I purchased the power parts bars also because they has a 20mm rise to equal out the geometry, game changer
@@just_N_case same it is tall, it doesn't make a huge difference, but in comport is night and day, you gota go 20mm one though cus its basically more padding
My 890 R had a valve cover gasket leak, css leak, coolant leak, moisture in tft, electrical fault code, and quick shifter stopped working before I had put 2500 miles on it. First and last KTM I will ever own.
This happens to me constantly too. Early season riding at 70 degrees and my knees were shattering against the side, I thought it was the temp but it kept up when I got home lol. I love it so much
It has traction control and anti wheelie from the factory. The Tech Pack allows you to disable anti wheelie and control a whole bunch of traction and braking stuff among other things.
So here is the real question is after riding it do you want one? This bike has been on my short list for the new ride this year really torn between this an MT07 or a Ducati Monster. I'm wondering if the power is overkill I won't do track days just some mountain riding.
I own an mt07 and I can tell you it’s a really nice and amazing bike torque, low weight, nice sound. The 890 is in another league, much more horsepower and more torque, better suspension, more expensive, but the downside is Maintenence, they’re very fragile, and the electronics mess up a lot, so if u don’t mind tight maintenances and electrical niggles, and mose important cost get the 890. The mt07 is bulletproof. If you have the money for a Ktm 890r, get the mt09 sp more bang for your buck
@@MrWolf2212 Thanks I'm not sure those are what I'm looking for though. Power isn't everything to me I want something light and manageable with just enough power to have some fun. The KTM maybe overkill as well after watching this but looks fun.
@@muhammadmoussalli376 Thanks what I like about the 890 over the MT09 is the weight difference though. Power isn't as big a deal I would probably lean toward an MT07 over a MT09 but being honest I have never driven either. I know the MT07 has a little better suspension but I'm no pro rider probably not likely I will push the bike hard enough to make a difference. I'm hopping to do some light touring this year so comfort will matter as I would like to do the entire Blueridge Parkway start to finish.
i mean i would say go for an mt 09/ mt09sp not the mt 07 it doesn't really compare to the duke 890 and the mt 07 has a far worse suspension and handling set up compared to the new gen mt 09s
Good video! :) It sounds like a really good bike that would suit my riding style. However the seat height is a major issue for me and the sound of the exhaust/muffler is a deal killer. I hate that sound!
I was under the impression that none of the dukes besides the early 790 models came stock with auto bliipper/quick shifter and track pack included. its always been an add on $$$
I unno about this one I’m 5’6 and feel extremely comfortable with the height and I’m coming off the 390 duke and really don’t feel like the torque on the 890 in sport mode or even track mode in 4 is that much honestly. But ie only had long term experience with Ktm dukes so I might biased I don’t know.
I was seriously considering buying a KTM Superduke R back in 2021, but after sitting on one I found the seat way too tall. I ended up getting a Dark Stealth Streetfighter V4S instead, which fits me much better at 5’ 9” tall.
If sport mode feels like too much bike I’m dying to know what you would have said about track mode lol. I’ve thrown mine in track mode a handful of times and the power and acceleration is absolutely bonkers. It pretty much lives in street mode these days.
Will the Duke 890R feature the Demo mode? Is the quick-shifter and auto-blip going to disappear after 1500 kilometers? I hope not because this bike looks attractive to me. I am going to be 68 on May 5th and I am looking for something lighter than my 'busa and ZX14R, but I still want a powerful bike that really rips.
Huge shout out to AF1 Racing for tolerating my shenanigans! Check out the bike yourself if you want a low IQ wheelie monster in your life (cuz we all do!): www.af1racingaustin.com/used-inventory/2020-ktm-890-duke-r
If you can - can you do the sister model 890 adventure? I curious how it compares being an 890 adv. If you're ever in the north & want to trade bikes for the day, I do have the non-r model.
About Time! 2 years after making a “So you want a 790/890” video with that bald guy. I’m 5’6” 180lb and ride it at least once a week. Believe you exaggerate on performance or I’ve become used to it.
I have been waiting for you to ride this bike since you talked about it in “So you want a 790/890” with that dude I don't watch anymore. I can't belive you didn't wheelie that thing. Set it to track mode and roll on at idle in first and you can power wheelie that thing through all the gears. Most fun bike I have ever owned. When you buying one Spite?
Hey Spite, nice vid! What gloves are u wearing?
still leaving the indicator on i see 😹
KTM power bands are supposed to make you nervous. That's a feature.
And yet, it's irresponsible to make sport bikes lol
@@spitescorner fairings are dangerous.
On a demo ride with a KTM crew, I got my knee down on a 1190 Adventure chasing the lead up over 100 mph. Yes. He did that.
I got my 890 r yesterday and I'm with this guy, first pull on the throttle scared me, almost threw me off. I'm so excited to get used to it
@@OneBigPuzzleHell Yeah Brother! 🎉
There's always this sense of energy that makes you feel like it's a vivd living animal called KTM between your legs, no matter it's a 390 or 890 or 1290, it's just a KTM thing. Keep up the good videos Spite!
A buddy of mine talked me into getting a 390 back in 2018.We've both had a bunch of bikes over the years and I wasn't really interested. He bought one and kept talking it up. I gave in and bought one too, figuring on just keeping it for the summer and selling it. I still have it. For a small cheap bike, it is pretty entertaining, has pretty good range and so far hasn't had issues.
Only downsides are it could use a bit more poke for the highway, and you have to look down to see the dash. It's a pretty big jump to the 890, so I was sad that the rumoured 490 was cancelled.
Love my 390!!!
@@SirOsisofLiver I had a 390, I’ve had a 1050 triple, a V4 Factory and now have a 1290. Get the 890r. You’ll be fine.
A ktm thing to break
Riding the same and also fee it lacks midrange punch so thinking to upgrade but also wouldn’t trust myself with the 890 on the street, apparently KTM will launch new 690 Duke & ADV models later this year, for me personally this is the sweet spot for road riding power so I couldn’t be happier. Can’t wait. Which 690 though-bloody tough choice. Spike-you’re fucking awesome, love your happy character and laugh, keep up the good work Sir, in my humble opinion Yammie Nob was too jealous of your glorious mane and you’re doing better solo now anyway 😆
Shhhhh… Spite, nice to see someone else like myself who forgets to cancel their turn signals. Most of your twisty run had it on the whole time. Another great video, thank you!
It generates comments :)
Came here to say that lmao 😂
🤣😂🤣😂priceless
Don't worry man,we all done it at some point... ;-)
@@salvatoredigrigoli3210 it’s a Harley guy thing pretty sure lol
My takeaway from this video is that the Duke 890R is the thinking mans hooligan bike, and that it has such mind warping torque that you'll forget to cancel your indicators. Twice.
I want one!
i noticed the indicators too. also "like piloting nothing" and im thinking of the crazy frog invisible motorcycle...
@@SummitCoyote Hopefully you weren't picturing Spite doing the full Crazy Frog - pantsless with his junk hanging out. 😂
@@ADingoTookMyDasco I will neither confirm nor deny
@@SummitCoyote 🤣
"Thinking man's hooligan bike" is genius, and the perfect way to describe it. I'm definitely going to give you credit when I use that.
From Harleys to sport bikes, definitely appreciate your diversity man! All bikes have something to offer. Your channel is duked!
Been waiting over 2 yrs to see this. Didn't disappoint either. You pretty much summed up my feelings towards my 890R on your 1st ride too
As a 790 duke owner of 2 years I cannot agree more with what was said in this video. Different bike but very very similar to the 790.
Im glad you were able to ride this bike! I bought this as my second bike and describing the engine torque and power are extremely hard. Your giggles is how I describe the feel! Great job on the raw feelings. Such a great and nimble bike! Love the content!
I have this bike and I love it. To me, it’s very comfortable, even with the seat. It’s fast enough to keep up with nose super sports, but it’s actually comfortable to ride around town. The ergonomics are just fantastic.
have you ever ridden it with a second person on the backseat? is it possible with this bike?
How does it handle on the highway for 30 minute - 1 hour long rides? My commute’s around that tike and I’m thinking about getting an 890 but also considering a fully faired bike because of highway comfortability.
@@zyonbarreto1 I'll tell you next summer, as I just bought one to substitute my 690 with which, BTW, I do around 1.000 km in a day before my ass hurts too much to keep on riding, so the 890 should be better... 🙂
@@zyonbarreto1 biggest gripe will not be the bike but the lack of wind protection. You can make it better with a puig windscreen, but a naked will never be a decent highway cruiser. You’ll be better served by an ADV or touring bike with a tall windscreen. I do 30min every day on my duke 390 with a puig windscreen and I’d say it’s fine, but never great. It’s still moee fun to ride below 100 in local backroads or mountain passes.
That bike is set up from the factory with a target rider weight of 165-185lbs. I am right there fully geared and was able to get the recommended sag of 43mm rear and have the front at 43mm as well. Valving is a bit agressive but, overall I love it.
The Track Mode (with Tech or Track pack) is even a bit more direct in throttle response than Sport Mode.
Great review as always.
Hey Spite, Love the Channel! I ordered a Duke 890 R last year without being able to test ride it so I was so surprise with how it rides. I am really looking forward to seeing how you react to using the track mode where you can turn the throttle response even higher, adjust the motor slip, activate super moto mode, and turn off the anti-wheelie. I was a long time cruiser guy until I moved to an area with twisty roads so I needed a change. I'm glad to see another review of this bike as it seems it is a forgotten bike in KTM's line up.
Forgotten? Maybe it’s because all I search for is this bike; but there’s always people riding it
Only 90 miles in on mine and I love it!!!
The wheelie control does a great job of not letting the bike get away from you if you get on the throttle too quickly. The front will still come up but only a few inches. And the traction control does a good job if you get on it too hard mid turn. Tire will spin a little but won’t shoot out from under you.
Austin Racing exhausts on this bike sound absolutely incredible. Highly recommend if you're thinking of grabbing a 790/890!
The Austrians at KTM called the 890R the Super Scalpel (and Scalpel for the regular Duke 890). Probably the best sub 900cc bike for twisties. Great review Spite and you are having so much fun on it. This engine in a KTM road legal sportsbike could be fun for the streets.
so 790 is not the scalpel
Yeah and the 790 is the original Scalpel
An absolute weapon of a bike, perfect balance of torqy power and weight. So much fun in the twisties with knife sharp handling provided by great suspension and brakes. Sold my Panigale V2 and ordered a 890 Duke R 🔥
How's the riding on the 890? Crazy to see you sell a Ducati for it but I'm also a massive fan of the 890R. Working on mine has been so fun, the SC S1 really takes the sound to the next level.
@@AlejandrosEngineeredLifestyle Great, so much fun and usable power. Not really, 890 duke r is a way better bike than the panigale v2 on the road.
Since the big change of channels.. your content has gotten much better.. keep up the good work.
I have the 2021 1290r. And bought the 890r Duke to see what all the fuss was about OMG this bike is so much fun. The gearing is perfect, it so fun to run up and down the gears. The breaks are actually better on this bike than the 1290r. But nothing beats the torque on the 1290r. My friends keep asking me if I’m selling the 1290r. Not a chance. Love both bikes. The 890 for its lightness and razor sharp handling and torquey motor. And the 1290 for being the hooligan beast of all motorcycles that handle well when setup properly.
I love my 390 Duke, but I sure do wish that an 890 could fit in my budget. Just fantastic bikes to have fun on.
The 890Duke R is my first bike, got it last year and put a 1,000 miles before winter hit (Missouri weather) and the bike is absolutely amazing! I grew up riding 2-stroke torquey dirt bikes so it has not been too much to handle, just the perfect balance of gnarly power but also the ability to cruise and be relaxed.
It’s a very confidence inspiring bike which can get someone in trouble in the corners. The tech pack stuff is annoying, and you’re right on a lot of points, kind of a tall bike and I’m 5’11. Ton of head wind but it’s a naked. Questionable reliability (already had to drop it off at the shop when it almost left me stranded once).
Overall the bike is amazing, some reliability concerns but if it proves reliable it’s a 10/10.
I’ll add I’m around 240 pounds so I think mine and Spites weight help keep the bike grounded. If a smaller person weighing like 130 I could see them being thrown around😂
awesome video spite. i own a ktm 390 duke. that little sucker has pull too! cant imagine the torque on this monster!!
Great video Spite, it's cool to see my bike being reviewed! '22 890R and I had the same impressions on my test ride. You want to be in Street mode if you're finding the throttle too squirrely. It'll let you ride like more of a hooligan without worrying about looping it.
I can relate to your "Oh, s*t!/That was cool" laugh when you were surprised by the insane torque...I had the exact same reaction the first time I hammered the throttle on a Zero SR/S in sport mode. Equal parts fun/adrenaline/fear with a nice dose of "Do that again!" at the end.
For at this point 890 is great but too light. My 21 MT 09 is starting to feel light and that 417 lbs. I love my bike but have to be careful feathering the throttle on twisty roads. Great video. Looking forward to the next one.
Nice Review Spite! This is one of the next bikes I'm considering, if I can ever bring myself to part with my VFR.
Never part with your vfr it will outlive even you lol
Dude you always give such honest reviews, always fun to watch.
Great review, I looked up "getting duked" and it means getting punched which seems appropriate given the hit of torque! I've grown to enjoy the "Waspenator" styling.
Been riding mine for almost two years now. And not a moment's regret. It's a nuclear weapon with the accuracy of a surgeon. I think it has broken all other bikes for me.
ayy perfect timing. Literally looking to upgrade to the 890 from my 390
I have a 390 and would eventually like to get the 890. The way ktm has these things tuned tho it just screams drive me like I'm stolen. I'm so used to mashing the 390 tho it scares me to think about the 890. Idk... Maybe someday.
Nice! I really like this bike! Sometimes I think I shoulda bought this bike instead of my SMCR but then I ride the supermoto and those thoughts float away
I have both and if I had to get rid of one......that would be a tough decision. Both are fantastic bikes!
@@ironken1796 I can imagine that would be a tough decision! I m sure they r both amazing when in there element!
I love my 890 Duke R! Glad you know now, too!
Bought one of the first just before the pandemic hit Europe. It's like a happy puppy! Very agile and with the R's small changes it suites me much better than the non R.
I remember watching the 44teeth review of this bike against a street triple 765, and the way that the twin in that bike is, is absolutely crazy. It does make me want to see which you would take if you rode it back to back with the 1290, given that a lot of the torque on that bike is right down the bottom end. Whichever way you look at it tho, KTM manage to create some absolute animals
nice to see they went to a 2cyl finally, much smoother ride, I am disappointed they didn't put cruise control on this bike though. let's be honest, you get to a certain age and you want some basic luxuries even from a naked bike
I installed CC. Dealer has to enable it in the ECM and the combination switch has to be swapped out. Works very well.
the Duke is my 4th bike and I think I finally found my long term bike. Had it for about a year now and its just as fun each time.
I have a MY21 KTM 890DUKE R it's snatchy in sport I run mine in mostly Road mode the best power is in Race but it takes away any of the normal dashboard stuff and the up and down buttons are for traction control settings
Great video. Sharp looking but. Maybe its to much power and the costs for that bike. Maybe the 790R is a better bang for your bucks. Would like to see a comparison video between those bikes and your thoughts. Dont like the extra costs to unlock all the goodies.
He leaves both turn signal running for ages, then at 9:38 does a right hand turn without any signal. If only he had an oil light warning on the dash he’d damage an engine cause he ignores them. Does he just look at gear and speed?
I have a KTM890 Adventure S. Same engine, slightly detuned, on a heavier bike and it's sick. On a drag start I'm rev limiting before I can get my feet up and shifted to second gear. I can't imagine that engine at full tune on a lighter, shorter chassis.
Those winds are why I switched to a supersport since I do mostly highway riding
The KTM 890 Duke R is my dream bike, currently on a Ninja 650 but I've still got some learning to do. Such a sexy bike.
IDK if you have done it or not but I would love to see you review an XSR900
Got this bike a few days ago and yes it is a monster for what it is lol, that torque on it is pretty crazy
How's the Monster 937 compare?
Spite, if you find yourself in the DFW area, I have an 890R with the track pack and full race exhaust if you want to see what it does with the nannies turned off.
Only question I have for you is this
KTM Duke 890 R or Yamaha MT-09 SP?
I want also to know this
I own this bike now for 4 months and did 6200Km , I love it ! About the seat : I have the KTM ergo seat and that's gives much more comfort , you can also order it 2cm lower or 2cm higher , about the suspension , I set it up to the sport settings and that suites me well , about the torque and power , yes it's a lot but you get really quick used to it and that's why I'm thinking about selling it and buy a 1290 evo super duke , that's a real animal !
Hey spite do share your thought on Duke 890, MT09 and Hypermottard 950/939 🤗
can you make a review video for duke 390 and z900
I love my 890 duke. In sport mode it actually helps with downshifting as well then just street mode. I'm still wondering what all it changes. My conclusion is that in sport mode anywhere north of 6k it will feel like it has no lag in throttle response. I also think engine braking is affected cuz down shifting in street mode is harsh if not rev matched and it is not the same in sport mode. It does feel like it has more power than it should and I got in trouble riding mine today cuz of it. All good just had a wet seat afterwards. Lol
I looked at an 890 Duke R when I purchased my Vitpillen 701…. BTW, the crank pins aren’t at 270, it’s 285 crank spacing….
I got to ride my buddy's Duke 890 on track and on some local backrounds. Fun bike!! THe torque didn't blow me away cause my current main bike is a SV1000 (that I've geared down). But that Duke is so light, and feels like there's nothing in front of you. Suspension felt surprisingly good too, speaking as a big dude.
Overall the bike feels like they started with a supermoto, put that silly engine in it, then started changing only what they had to to accommodate a 120hp motor, without the bike constantly looping or doing tankslappers on the freeway.
So the big Suzuki twin is roughly comparable to MT09 and Duke 890? I keep waffling back and forth between them, but a super cheap budget option might sway me, as well...
@@Drunken_Hamster The main attraction for these bikes is that you get a supermoto type riding position but with a beast of an engine in it. I think they all pull that off. Personally I like the cheaper options because no matter which bike I get I will need to alter the suspension for my size and riding style.
Even tho above I said the 890's suspension felt good I would still need to respring it eventually.
I'd feel much better about doing that to the budget bike, than paying Duke 890R money and then still having to sink $$$ into the suspension. THat's just me tho.
@@thesuzukimethod Sounds like you're telling me to look for an SV1000, heh. Though I gotta admit I also dig the MT09... What I really want, though, would be something akin to Dan Gurney's AAR Aligator, but with a Duke 890/the 2024 990 motor, or a CP3 motor. Too bad nobody's gonna make anything close to that. Bike industry really is stagnant at this point.
@@Drunken_Hamster You can't really go wrong with any sv. The 1000 is a brute of a sportbike, lots of torque right off idle. It hangs with all those newer bikes everywhere except really tight twisty roads, since it's a little heftier, harder to transition from full lean on one side to full lean on the other. Still hella fun to ride through those kinda roads tho, and that's where I spend most my time on it, haha.
That Gator looks wild! Closest thing I can think of to that would be like a Burgman 650. But then you're in scooter land. Cool bikes but not really built for hooning, if that's what you're looking for.
Put it in Track mode, #3 tire slip, sport throttle response 😁 wheelie control off! Love it
KTM race ready with a race bike maintenance schedule. The 1290SA is the only motorcycle that truly disturbs me mostly because they didn't exist 30-40yrs ago .
Finally some KTM
It's time bud. It's been the other orange brand for too long.
Good Video. I have the 790 (couldn't justify the price jump to the 890R) and its a bike where I find myself changing riding modes all the time. Other bikes I used to leave in full/sport mode while the 790 I find I use road mode for commuting and just general relaxed riding as the throttle open is much smoother. Then when I hit the twists and want to get spirited into sport mode it goes for that instant torque hit. You can also customise the up and down buttons to bring you straight to whichever menu you want. On mine I have up straight to power modes so I can easily change on the fly. Down is good old trip 1 computer. Look forward to the full review :)
790 / 890R are chalk n cheese, I've owned both 890R is a huge step up in all areas easily worth the price difference.
@Duke Of Twist its highly situational. For the 890r I would have had to buy brand new, while near new second hands of the 790 could be picked up for half the price of a 890r. I figured I could spend the difference in price on aftermarket parts if needed. I don't ride hard these days, just to have fun when i get the rare free morning or afternoon. The 790 well and truly ticks that box.
Finally get to see you ride one had mine a year now and it surprises me every day. 1000s are way less scary 🤣
The power delivery you described reminds me of thr MT09 yamaha.
I am grateful that mine has connected me to my inner hooligan. Best machine I have ever ridden and perfectly reliable. The brakes are a marvel.
Hey Spite, great video could you do a comparison between your hyper and the 890. I currently have a 821sp and maybe the 890 duke will be my next bike
I was keen on buying one of these last year, (well the standard 890 in black/orange) but I got a different bike instead. I still kind of want one.
I had a ktm lc 640, a 2014 Duke 690, and just sold my 2020 790. AMAZING bikes. I will get another one again. Prob 890 or super duke.
thanks for reviewing my dream bike!, being waiting for this video for months😁
I hope you could have got the wrench out and adjusted the spring for you as well as scroll through the menus and get it down to say a rain profile where the engine response wasn't so immediate, but your review was a bunch of fun. Clearly, KTM has built a motorcycle for the enthusiast in mind. Kind of like Yamaha, with the MT-09.
I bought a 890 Duke in December, love it! Makes me laugh so much in my helmet!
I really need to try one of these out. It seems like the power/weight would be similar to the 1290.
The 890R is THE most fun bike to ride in the city and just as good around twisties, two lads at our club bought them but were plagued by faults including leaking oil through faulty engine castings and losing gears, both bikes spent more time in the workshop than on the road and some bikes manufactured between certain dates were also recalled, ironically both lads had 790 Dukes prior to the 890s and they were completely trouble free, hopefully these faults are confined to a specific manufacturing block number because otherwise the 890R is the most fun you can have with your clothes on. also Jeremy McWilliams who was the leading development rider said he was consistently at least a second per lap faster on the 890R than he was on the 1290R beast.
I could cash down my mates 1290R except when he'd gap me on big straights the 890R didn't run out of legs just didn't pull as hard past legal limits. So I bought an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 now the 1290 has no chance lol
It's about time I haven't watched this yet, but I owned one for over a year and it is hard to believe you won't like it.
I've heard that it is a 285 degree crank to sound like 75 deg V-twin
Same like w my Vitpilen - KTM will not put LEDs for turn signals. Europe models have them...
Euro LEDs will bolt right on the Duke. You do have to have the dealer enable LED mode or it will display a fault.
After riding an 890 for a little over a year, im going to sell mine next year and step up to a super duke. My only complaint with the 890, and ive seen other riders have the problem too, is that the thermostat housing starts to leak coolant. Not a lot, but you will notice a wet spot after you ride and let it sit for a few hours. Bad design imo. It sits about 2 inches away from the exhaust header and is made out or some sort of plastic.
I have this bike and I absolutely love this bike. The seat might be hard but once your legs are up it’s surprisingly comfortable
Get the 20mm power parts seat it's lush, Trust me, I purchased the power parts bars also because they has a 20mm rise to equal out the geometry, game changer
@@thejudge3040 I want to get one but I’m 5’8”-5’9” and that bike is tall enough as it is lol
@@just_N_case same it is tall, it doesn't make a huge difference, but in comport is night and day, you gota go 20mm one though cus its basically more padding
Spite!!! Not really a fan of bike reviews outside of Cali for obvious reason. But I enjoy yours a lot. Keep it up.
My 890 R had a valve cover gasket leak, css leak, coolant leak, moisture in tft, electrical fault code, and quick shifter stopped working before I had put 2500 miles on it. First and last KTM I will ever own.
Imagine how it felt when I jumped on mine after riding a 125cc for 2 years😂😂 I swear my knees were shaking after the first ride😂😂
This happens to me constantly too. Early season riding at 70 degrees and my knees were shattering against the side, I thought it was the temp but it kept up when I got home lol. I love it so much
Did you have to pay extra for the traction control?
With KTM, I never know.
It has traction control and anti wheelie from the factory. The Tech Pack allows you to disable anti wheelie and control a whole bunch of traction and braking stuff among other things.
@@ironken1796 It's predatory to offer those in demo mode.
So here is the real question is after riding it do you want one? This bike has been on my short list for the new ride this year really torn between this an MT07 or a Ducati Monster. I'm wondering if the power is overkill I won't do track days just some mountain riding.
Skip the MT07 and get MT09 or MT10 if you can afford. You won't be disappointed.
I own an mt07 and I can tell you it’s a really nice and amazing bike torque, low weight, nice sound. The 890 is in another league, much more horsepower and more torque, better suspension, more expensive, but the downside is Maintenence, they’re very fragile, and the electronics mess up a lot, so if u don’t mind tight maintenances and electrical niggles, and mose important cost get the 890. The mt07 is bulletproof. If you have the money for a Ktm 890r, get the mt09 sp more bang for your buck
@@MrWolf2212 Thanks I'm not sure those are what I'm looking for though. Power isn't everything to me I want something light and manageable with just enough power to have some fun. The KTM maybe overkill as well after watching this but looks fun.
@@muhammadmoussalli376 Thanks what I like about the 890 over the MT09 is the weight difference though. Power isn't as big a deal I would probably lean toward an MT07 over a MT09 but being honest I have never driven either. I know the MT07 has a little better suspension but I'm no pro rider probably not likely I will push the bike hard enough to make a difference. I'm hopping to do some light touring this year so comfort will matter as I would like to do the entire Blueridge Parkway start to finish.
i mean i would say go for an mt 09/ mt09sp not the mt 07 it doesn't really compare to the duke 890 and the mt 07 has a far worse suspension and handling set up compared to the new gen mt 09s
Great video man they are amazing bikes I got mine two days ago I love it
Great review Spite, thanks for the upload
Now I have to go to my dealer and look at one. It looks like fun nice review.
Nothing better than when a motorcycle surprises you.
Spite, that crosswind is all the way from Mexico to central Florida. I was getting hammered by it today on my 750
Highway wind was brutal on this guy. Could've used a few extra pounds to keep it stable
well, when you think sportmode is agressive, you should try out track mode...... just another level too 🙂
Good video! :) It sounds like a really good bike that would suit my riding style. However the seat height is a major issue for me and the sound of the exhaust/muffler is a deal killer. I hate that sound!
Agreed. It sounds like a dirt bike, it should sound like a vtwin at the very least.
Love KTM Dukes only ridden the smaller ones though and they're great, comfortable, agile and fast enough even the smaller ones.
I was under the impression that none of the dukes besides the early 790 models came stock with auto bliipper/quick shifter and track pack included. its always been an add on $$$
Throw it in track mode, turn down the slip control to 1, disable anti-wheelie mode and abs…. You’ll really be nervous 😬. It’s fricken awesome.
It’s an amazing machine…and don’t forget how incredible the brakes are!!
Has saved my life countless times. They are excellent
What kind of jacket is that? Also what were the temps when you made this run. Just looking for an good warm protected jacket. Yours looks really nice!
I unno about this one I’m 5’6 and feel extremely comfortable with the height and I’m coming off the 390 duke and really don’t feel like the torque on the 890 in sport mode or even track mode in 4 is that much honestly. But ie only had long term experience with Ktm dukes so I might biased I don’t know.
I was seriously considering buying a KTM Superduke R back in 2021, but after sitting on one I found the seat way too tall. I ended up getting a Dark Stealth Streetfighter V4S instead, which fits me much better at 5’ 9” tall.
this must have been today. it was really windy in Austin today
If sport mode feels like too much bike I’m dying to know what you would have said about track mode lol.
I’ve thrown mine in track mode a handful of times and the power and acceleration is absolutely bonkers. It pretty much lives in street mode these days.
Will the Duke 890R feature the Demo mode? Is the quick-shifter and auto-blip going to disappear after 1500 kilometers? I hope not because this bike looks attractive to me. I am going to be 68 on May 5th and I am looking for something lighter than my 'busa and ZX14R, but I still want a powerful bike that really rips.
6:14 Thumbs up for all of us riders forgetting to turn of our turnsignals from time to time XD
I wonder if you’d prefer this over Ducati hypermotard
5:14 it has a steering damper.
Hey Spite, would you be interested in doing a 890 adventure review?
Super Scalpel! Another amazing video Mr. Spite!
Great to see your opinions on the 890r. Can you do a video on the triumph street triple 765 👍