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EICMA 2015: Thumping new 2016 KTM 690 Duke

Though Austrian brand KTM have already made headlines with its new 1290 Super Duke GT adventure-sport, the firm also had a sharpened new 2016 KTM 690 Duke naked model that made its debut as well.

690Duke_1

Previewed just weeks ago in prototype form, the new 2016 KTM 690 Duke boasts several enhanced new features and hardware starting with its powertrain. The heavily revised 690cc LC4 single-cylinder now thumps out a higher output of 73hp and 73.8Nm whilst gaining a powerband that is 1,000 rpm wider than before too.

690 DUKE R_Action_06

Part of the major changes made in the engine included the revised intake camshaft that now doubles up as an additional balancer shaft, resulting in lower vibrations. KTM states that both the intake and exhaust systems have been also been optimised for Euro4 emissions compliance too, making it KTM’s first engine to comply with Euro4 as well.

690DukeR_4

Apart from that comes the addition of new a cornering ABS suite, making the 2016 KTM 690 Duke the first bike in class to feature it. The naked also underpins a newly redesigned chassis frame with increased handling stability, followed by the adoption of new and re-profiled seats, LED rear lighting, as well as a nifty new TFT instrument display.

690DukeR_1

Sitting at the top of the range is the racier 2016 KTM 690 Duke R variant. Besides the offer of a bigger 75hp punch, it is set apart from the standard 690 Duke thanks to its orange-painted frame and wheels, not forgetting the signature Akrapovič exhausts system added into the package as well.

As it is, this is one nutty middleweight that we know many around the world will be anxiously waiting for.

2016 KTM 690 Duke

2016 KTM 690 Duke R

Sources: Asphaltandrubber / MCN / Visordown

Co-founder of Bikes Republic and a motoring journalist by night. He is a self described enthusiasts with a passion for speed but instead rides a Harley and a J300. A man of contradictions, he is just as passionate about time off in the quiets as he is about trail braking into turn one at Sepang Circuit on two or four wheels.

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