If it is half as good as the original 990 SMT, it will be ace. The only negative is the exhaust can position, which is just too high for pannier options. The KTM offering are way too wide for a bike as nimble as this. To fit after market, slimmer types, fitted more closely to the bike, will be problematic. The touring aspect has been emphasised, but unless you are happy to fit kit which is as wide as a small car, then it falls rather short - pity as otherwise it looks the perfect bike.
I'd like to see it compared to a BMW F900XR. Both are ADV styled parallel twin Sport Tourers, with one leaning more towards the sport and the other leaning more towards the tour.
I love the idea of this bike I currently own 890 Duke R. Also having 1190 Adventure r. I would like to see the engine tuned closer to my Duke R though, because the power and the torque are just intoxicating as well as the handling makes me look like a better Rider than what I probably am. Not happy with KTMs blood-sucking extra monies for trakpak and such. But I am intrigued by this bike I love the parallel-twin engine that KTM made
I have a 890 duke R and a 1090 Adventure R. This bike does both jobs. I like having the motorcycle equivalent of a jeep and a race car, but im sure its a blast.
Brilliant review! I'm in love with the bike already, can't wait to ride one; this might find a place in my garage, I'm that tempted! Seems like a bike tailor made for me and what I want and do on a motorcycle. I also love the supermoto "aesthetics" and attitude, I think the ergos are spot on and it's a good balance between performance and practicality. This engine is also a peach, it has to be said. Curious to see how it will resonate with the general public; this seems to be a "niche" motorcycle, perhaps too much of a jack of all trades for most folks...
@@KnoxArmour I hope it translates well in terms of sales figures; that's the only language manufacturers understand. Personally, I think we need more bikes like this KTM or like a Ducati Hypermotard... I really feel like it's an untapped segment.
The best KTM for years. Slightly spoiled by the fairing [viewed from the side. I think it juts too far forward.] and the angle of the raised mudguard. It could do with looking like the one on the BMW Urban G/S. The 890 is the perfect engine for a bike like this.
Agree, its a really top notch bike. A lot of press seem to think its quite niche and won't be popular, but I'm not sure i agree. I think a lot of "would be" adventure bike riders dont ride off road and would appreciate all that the SMT delivers. Thanks Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour spot on! I love the ducati multistrada pikes peak, however the cost is a deterrent from purchasing. Now the 890 SMT seems like a well balanced machine with a more reasonable price.
@@atticushexcel9567 I don't have to like having features removed from a bike after purchase. Believe it or not, people are allowed to have different opinions than you. Welcome to the internet.
It's beautiful ❤️😍😍
Great review!
If it is half as good as the original 990 SMT, it will be ace. The only negative is the exhaust can position, which is just too high for pannier options. The KTM offering are way too wide for a bike as nimble as this. To fit after market, slimmer types, fitted more closely to the bike, will be problematic. The touring aspect has been emphasised, but unless you are happy to fit kit which is as wide as a small car, then it falls rather short - pity as otherwise it looks the perfect bike.
I'd like to see it compared to a BMW F900XR. Both are ADV styled parallel twin Sport Tourers, with one leaning more towards the sport and the other leaning more towards the tour.
I love the idea of this bike I currently own 890 Duke R. Also having 1190 Adventure r. I would like to see the engine tuned closer to my Duke R though, because the power and the torque are just intoxicating as well as the handling makes me look like a better Rider than what I probably am. Not happy with KTMs blood-sucking extra monies for trakpak and such. But I am intrigued by this bike I love the parallel-twin engine that KTM made
I have a 890 duke R and a 1090 Adventure R. This bike does both jobs. I like having the motorcycle equivalent of a jeep and a race car, but im sure its a blast.
It really was a great bike! Aaron KNOX
Brilliant review!
I'm in love with the bike already, can't wait to ride one; this might find a place in my garage, I'm that tempted! Seems like a bike tailor made for me and what I want and do on a motorcycle. I also love the supermoto "aesthetics" and attitude, I think the ergos are spot on and it's a good balance between performance and practicality. This engine is also a peach, it has to be said. Curious to see how it will resonate with the general public; this seems to be a "niche" motorcycle, perhaps too much of a jack of all trades for most folks...
Genuinely think people will love it if they get the chance to ride one. Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour I hope it translates well in terms of sales figures; that's the only language manufacturers understand. Personally, I think we need more bikes like this KTM or like a Ducati Hypermotard... I really feel like it's an untapped segment.
Any info about 2024 Duke 890 R? Will there be one or is KTM planning to discontinue it after introducing the new 990 Duke?
No news ive heard of, but sure a 990 duke r would be amazing if thats on the cards! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour Alright, thanks for answer 🙂
I'd love to see a comparison betewwn this and the Tracer GT+, they're about the same price when full spec'd
Great idea for a group test! Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour Thanks! I'll be waiting with much interest :)
The best KTM for years. Slightly spoiled by the fairing [viewed from the side. I think it juts too far forward.] and the angle of the raised mudguard. It could do with looking like the one on the BMW Urban G/S. The 890 is the perfect engine for a bike like this.
Agree, its a really top notch bike. A lot of press seem to think its quite niche and won't be popular, but I'm not sure i agree. I think a lot of "would be" adventure bike riders dont ride off road and would appreciate all that the SMT delivers. Thanks Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour I agree with you.
@@KnoxArmour spot on! I love the ducati multistrada pikes peak, however the cost is a deterrent from purchasing. Now the 890 SMT seems like a well balanced machine with a more reasonable price.
high performance adventure bike? thats the 890 adv r friend
Dear KTM, you can have my wallet, unfortunately the cash inside is on demo mode. Swing and a scummy miss.
@@atticushexcel9567 I don't have to like having features removed from a bike after purchase. Believe it or not, people are allowed to have different opinions than you. Welcome to the internet.
heavier and less power that the original. They've also stuck the non R engine in it. massive disappointment.