KTM 990 DUKE R 2026 Review: Ergonomics and Riding Comfort
Rider: The seat, set at 840 mm, is profiled to encourage sporty riding. The position is front-biased, with rear-set and raised footpegs ensuring extreme ground clearance at lean.
Aerodynamic Protection: Like any pure naked bike, protection is minimal. Up to 120 km/h, air pressure is sustainable, but beyond that threshold, the lack of a windscreen makes highway stints tiring.
Vibrations: The LC8c engine is equipped with effective balancer shafts, but above 7,000 rpm, high-frequency tingling is felt through the handlebars and footpegs.
Heat: Heat from the radiator and headers is noticeable in urban riding, especially on the left side, but dissipates quickly once exceeding 50 km/h.
Passenger: The dedicated seat portion is small and lacks effective grab handles. The KTM 990 Duke R remains a rider-focused motorcycle.