KTM’s surprise debut of two new 890 Duke models has been quite the letdown, as today we get our first glimpse of the 2022 KTM 890 Duke GP.
What does the KTM 890 Duke GP come with to earn those extra two letters at the end of its name? Some orange paint.
We’re not quite sure that “bold new graphics” warrant a separate model designation in KTM’s lineup, especially when the KTM 890 Duke R is becoming a popular track tool and race bike, and could use some kit for that purpose, but here we are.
The Austrians see the world differently, of course, and they are painting their world with an orange brush.
As such, the big ticket items on the 2022 KTM 890 Duke GP include a “GP-derived livery” (squint and you’ll see it) along with a new passenger seat cover. Rather disappointing.
The good news though is that powering the KTM 890 Duke GP motorcycle is the same 890cc parallel-twin engine found in the rest of the base model 890 Duke. This means 114hp (85 kW) with 69 lbs•ft (92 Nm) of torque are cranking from the motor, packaged into a bike that weighs 373 lbs (169 kg) sans fuel.
The peppy and fun motor comes with a lightweight and agile chassis, which makes the KTM 890 Duke and its progeny potent weapons on the street, in the canyons, and on the track.
Make no mistake, the KTM 890 Duke remains one of our favorite sport bikes on the market right, providing a great bang-for-the-buck value to riders.
That being said, we are not sure what is going on in KTM’s marketing department with these 890 Duke releases – the GP name being an especially interesting decision.
The bike launched today is a bit of a miss, in terms of a meaningful release, but hopefully some of the missed expectations that I am sure will be voiced in the comments below will show KTM that there are 890 Duke riders who want a track/race-ready version of this machine.
As for price and availability, there is no word yet, but we would expect a modest bump to the KTM 890 Duke base model that this mode is based upon.
Source: KTM North America
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