KTM has officially unveiled the updated 2026 790 Duke through Chinese type-approval documents, confirming a major styling refresh for its middleweight street naked. Spy shots from Europe last year hinted at the changes, and now details emerge of sharper design cues, upgraded WP brake calipers, and production in China via KTM’s CFMoto joint venture – though no confirmation yet on India return.

Styling Overhaul Inspired by Flagship Dukes
The most striking updates are visual, aligning the 790 Duke with KTM’s larger siblings like the 990 Duke and 1390 Super Duke R. It sports a new slim LED headlight with flanking DRLs (distinct from bigger models), sharper fuel tank and shrouds for an even more aggressive stance. A redesigned subframe and all-new exhaust system (visible in side profiles) enhance the trellis frame’s look, promising better mass centralization and a fiercer road presence.
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Mechanical Tweaks and Core Carryover
Powertrain remains the proven 799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin, delivering around 95hp and 87Nm – punchy for urban blasts and canyon carving. WP suspension carries over unchanged, but braking sees a key upgrade to new WP calipers (replacing prior J.Juan units), potentially with revised discs and ABS tuning for sharper stopping. No major chassis revisions noted, keeping the agile handling intact.

Production and Market Outlook
Built at CFMoto’s facilities in China – explaining the early type-approval reveal – the 2026 790 Duke emphasizes cost efficiency while upholding KTM’s “Ready to Race” DNA. Global launch markets are unconfirmed, and its India fate hangs in balance amid KTM’s local challenges; previous 790 Duke was discontinued here post-BS6.

This refresh keeps the 790 Duke a value-packed weapon under Rs 10 lakh (estimated), blending savage style and performance. KTM fans, stay tuned for EICMA or official reveals