Even as head office sorts out its financial affairs, KTM continues to release new motorcycles. Their latest for 2025 is the new 790 Duke, aka the Scalpel.
But what’s really new? Not much, it appears. KTM says the 790 Duke gets a new 5-inch TFT dashboard (the previous model had a 4.5-inch screen). Demo Mode returns, allowing riders to test-drive the bike’s more advanced electronic features before paying for them. There’s also an optional anti-wheelie function (six-way adjustable) and a telemetry screen.
The screen’s menus and graphics are also redesigned, supposedly making it easier for riders to navigate the system. The 790 Duke gets new switchgear to match the screen too.
Rain, Street and Sport modes are standard, Track and Performance modes are optional. The optional modes allow the rider to customize their traction and adjust their throttle control sensitivity, as well as tweaking the ABS intervention. Track mode now has 10 levels of selectable traction control interference, KTM says.
The bodywork is basically the same with a new headlight cover and a couple of new paint choices, as well as a full lineup of KTM’s official accessory parts. And perhaps most importantly: “Additionally, the 2025 KTM 790 DUKE comes with an exciting Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty of up to 4 years.”
Considering the issues with the first-generation 790 engines, a four-year warranty will be a strong marketing tool for KTM; they need it, to reassure customers. But still, there will be questions about KTM’s future until their current money woes are sorted out, because a four-year warranty is no good if a revised corporate structure won’t back up dealers down the road.
