KTM has revealed the updated 2026 KTM 790 Duke through type-approval documents filed in China, offering the clearest look yet at the next iteration of its middleweight naked motorcycle.
While the Austrian brand has not made an official global announcement, the documents confirm that the 790 Duke is set for a visual refresh along with a few component-level updates, while its core mechanical package remains largely unchanged.
The updated model is expected to be introduced as the 2026 KTM 790 Duke.
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New Design Inspired by Bigger Dukes
The most noticeable changes are in the styling. The updated 2026 KTM 790 Duke draws strong inspiration from KTM’s larger naked motorcycles, particularly the KTM 990 Duke and the flagship KTM 1390 Super Duke R.
At the front, the motorcycle gets a new headlight setup featuring a central LED unit flanked by LED daytime running lights. While the overall layout mirrors the newer KTM design language, the headlight unit itself is unique to the 790 Duke and not a direct carryover from the bigger models.
The fuel tank and tank shrouds have also been reworked, appearing sharper and more angular than before. These updates bring the 790 Duke visually closer to KTM’s latest lineup, giving it a more aggressive stance compared to the outgoing version.
New Subframe and Revised Exhaust
Another important update is the introduction of an all-new subframe. Although the Chinese approval images only show one side of the motorcycle, earlier test mule sightings in Europe had already hinted at this change.
Those spy images also revealed a redesigned exhaust system, which appears to be more compact than the current setup. While KTM has not released detailed specifications, the revised subframe and exhaust could offer minor gains in packaging or weight distribution.
Braking Hardware Updated
On the mechanical front, major changes are limited, but there is a notable update to the braking system. The 2026 KTM 790 Duke will now use WP brake calipers, replacing the KTM-branded J.Juan units seen on the previous generation.
It is not yet clear whether KTM has made changes to the brake discs or ABS hardware to complement the new calipers. However, WP is already a familiar name within the KTM ecosystem, and this switch could help standardise components across models.
The WP suspension setup appears to be carried over, as is the steel trellis frame, which continues to be a defining feature of the Duke range.
2026 KTM 790 Duke Engine Remains Unchanged
Powering the updated 2026 KTM 790 Duke is the same 799cc parallel-twin engine. According to the documents, the motor remains mechanically unchanged, which means output figures are expected to stay around 95hp and 87Nm.
For most riders, this will not be a concern, as the current 790 Duke is already known for its strong mid-range performance and lively character. The focus of the update seems to be on refreshing the design rather than re-engineering the drivetrain.
Made in China, Global Plans Unclear
The new 790 Duke will be manufactured in China as part of KTM’s joint venture with CFMoto. This explains why the motorcycle surfaced first in Chinese type-approval filings.
As of now, KTM has not confirmed which international markets will receive the updated 790 Duke. There is also no official word on whether the model will make a return to India, where the previous-generation 790 Duke had a limited and premium positioning.
What This Means for India
For Indian enthusiasts, the updated 790 Duke’s reveal keeps hopes alive, but uncertainty remains. KTM’s current focus in India is on the locally manufactured 390 and 250 platforms. A return of the 790 Duke would likely depend on pricing strategy, import routes, and demand for higher-capacity naked motorcycles.
If launched, the refreshed styling and updated components could help the 790 Duke stay competitive against rivals in the middleweight segment.
Conclusion- 2026 KTM 790 Duke
The 2026 KTM 790 Duke update is primarily a design-led refresh that aligns the motorcycle with KTM’s latest styling direction. With sharper looks, a new subframe, updated brakes, and the same proven engine, KTM appears to be refining rather than reinventing the middleweight Duke.
While global launch details are still awaited, the reveal confirms that the 790 Duke remains an important part of KTM’s future lineup.
Disclaimer: Details are based on type-approval documents and reports; final specifications and market availability may vary at launch.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.