KTM launches new model range: 490 Duke takes on the mid-range

There is a gap in KTM’s model range – a gap between the premium mid-range naked bike, the 790 Duke, and the 390 series. It was with the latter that KTM achieved its breakthrough in the mass market 15 years ago. At the same time, the brand used it to finally gain a foothold in the Asian market – now indispensable for all motorbike manufacturers – and laid the foundations for sales figures in a segment that has since become indispensable in the Western world too. The model with which the Austrians are targeting the market in the price and performance segment above the LC4c family could also take on a similar significance for KTM: the engineers are currently working feverishly on a technical platform for the lower mid-range, which will form a model family comprising at least three members. In true KTM style, the range will be launched with a naked bike, which is to be complemented by a touring enduro, whilst an affordable, fully faired sports bike will not be long in following. Common to all three models is a newly developed in-line twin-cylinder engine with a 270-degree crankshaft offset, which is expected to deliver a displacement of just under 500 cubic centimetres from its two cylinders. This should generally be sufficient for between 55 and 65 PS, and an A2-compliant version is expected.

The naked bike is the furthest along in the development process; in line with the Innviertel nomenclature, it will bear the name 490 Duke and can be seen in our photos taken during test rides. Its full-grown stature is evident – no surprise, as the main frame on the prototype shown in our photos bears similarities to that of its big sisters, the 790 and 990 Duke. The rear suspension of the 490 Duke draws on solutions from the 990 Duke and RC models: For example, the banana-shaped swingarm on the right-hand side, which winds its way around a collector situated in front of the rear silencer, bears a visual resemblance but has been developed entirely from scratch for use in the 490 series. The chassis, featuring WP spring and damper components, is also new, as is the exhaust design. The front wheel is braked by a brake disc, with the brakes supplied by the in-house manufacturer WP Braking Systems.

Gut zu erkennen: Neu entwickelter Reihenzweizylinder in neuem Chassis

Foto: BMHoehne

Stylistically, the rear silencer is a blend of the 990 and the new 790 Duke. However, parts of the fairing are still missing from the prototype we were shown, and the front headlight surround is still the same as that of the 390 Duke – due to the stage of development of the prototype on display. The final motorcycle will feature a unique design in these areas. The rear subframe consists of a steel tube construction, and the rear lights are integrated into the indicators, in keeping with current trends.

The question remains as to the launch date: rumour has it that the platform is set to be officially unveiled for the first time at the end of 2027. It is unclear, however, whether only the 490 Duke will be presented initially, or whether the Duke and 490 Adventure will arrive at dealerships at the same time. The answer to this should be available in showrooms by spring 2028 at the latest.