2017
KTM 790 Duke Prototype - Specifications & Review
Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 99369 |
|---|---|
| Category | Prototype-concept model |
| Make | KTM |
| Model | 790 Duke Prototype |
| Year | 2017 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coated |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Single disc |
| Frontsuspension | WP upside-down |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc |
| Rearsuspension | WP shock absorber with Pro-Lever linkage |
Engine & Transmission
| Clutch | APTC slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated |
|---|---|
| Coolingsystem | Liquid |
| Displacement | 790.00 ccm (48.21 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | Twin, four-stroke |
| Fuelsystem | Injection |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Chain |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Orange/black/white |
|---|---|
| Light | LED headlight |
| Starter | Electric |
About KTM
Country of Origin:
Austria
Founder:
Hans Trunkenpolz (later joined by Ernst Kronreif)
Best Known For:
Off-road/enduro supremacy, Dakar wins, Duke/RC streetbikes, and READY TO RACE ethos
Company History
KTM evolved from a postwar repair shop into a racing juggernaut by treating competition as R&D. Lightweight two-strokes made the brand a force in motocross and enduro; later four-strokes and advanced electronics cemented dominance. Dakar Rally victories showcased reliability under extreme conditions and fed the Adventure lineup—bikes that balance long-travel composure with startling pace. On the street, the Duke and RC families brought razor geometry and punchy singles/twins to license tiers worldwide, while the 1290 Super Duke and Adventure pushed the IMU-aided edge of performance. Corporate agility—acquisitions, platform sharing with Husqvarna/GASGAS—expanded reach without blurring identity. Historically, KTM changed expectations for chassis feedback and electronics integration in dirt and on road, proving that orange-painted ferocity could also be precise. The brand’s throughline is simple: build light, communicate grip, and let riders go fast safely. Few companies have turned a color and a slogan into such a reliable proxy for results.