2018 KTM 790 Duke Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in KTM's naked motorcycle lineup, the 2018 KTM 790 Duke pairs a 790 cc (48.2 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 105 HP (76.6 kW), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 132.9 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the 790 Duke measures 169 kg (373 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.62 HP/kg (1.61 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 825 mm (32.5 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,475 mm (58.1 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's KTM archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 2018 to 2026, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
132.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.62 HP/kg (1.61 kg/HP)
Standover Height
825 mm (32.5 in)
Engine
Displacement790.0 ccm (48.21 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power105.0 HP (76.6 kW))
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 65.7 mm (3.5 x 2.6 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection
IgnitionBosch EMS with RBW
LubricationForced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchAPTC slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated
Chassis
Frame TypeChromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder coated
Rake24.0°
Front SuspensionWP upside-down
Front Travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear SuspensionWP shock absorber with Pro-Lever linkage
Rear Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Wheelbase1475 mm (58.1 inches)
Ground Clearance186 mm (7.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front BrakesSingle disc. ABS
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. ABS
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
WheelsMaxxis Supermaxx ST tires
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight169.0 kg (372.6 pounds)
Power/Weight0.6213 HP/kg
Seat Height825 mm (32.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
