KTM 790 Duke Prototype –Â New Parallel Twin from KTM
Rumours of a parallel twin on the way from KTM have been confirmed with the unveiling of a 790 Duke prototype today in Milan.
KTM are calling the new engine LC8C. That LC8 designation has always been used for the Austrian company’s large capacity v-twin streetbike and adventure motorcycle range while the new parallel twin adds a ‘c’ suffix to that title to represent compact.
While the most rumoured use of such a new KTM twin was largely focussed on the adventure side of the motorcycling equation, this engine has instead broken first ground in this 790 Duke prototype.
In the 790 Duke prototype the new parallel twin is housed in a hand-welded steel piped frame and suspended by high spec WP forks and shock.
The subframe and tail cowl are milled from aluminium while the exhaust system and triple clamps were realised via a 3D printer.
KTM have stated that the prototype also boats a ride-by-wire throttle and a full suite of electronic safety aids.
While clearly KTM have made this statement to signal their parallel twin intentions but this engine will almost certainly grace a new lightweight adventure offering in the marketplace also. How long do we have to wait…? I would imagine it won’t be at least this time next year before production machines reach the light of day.
