KTM 790 Duke: The motorcycle industry has seen its share of controversial decisions, but few have sparked as much debate as KTM’s latest approach to technology monetization. The 2025 KTM 790 Duke, fondly known as “The Scalpel,” has arrived with significant updates that promise enhanced performance and cutting-edge features. However, it’s the introduction of the contentious Demo Mode that has riders and industry experts questioning the future direction of motorcycle ownership.

The Demo Mode Dilemma That’s Sparking Outrage

At the heart of the controversy lies KTM’s implementation of Demo Mode – a feature that provides riders with access to premium electronic functions for the first 1,500 kilometers before requiring payment to maintain access. This software-as-a-service approach, borrowed from the tech industry, gives new owners a taste of advanced features including multiple traction control modes, enhanced ride modes, cruise control, and slide mode functionality.

The concept operates similarly to smartphone app trials or Adobe Creative Suite subscriptions. After the initial 1,500-kilometer honeymoon period, riders must decide which features they’re willing to pay for permanently. While KTM positions this as providing choice and customization, critics argue it represents a troubling trend toward nickeling and diming customers for features that should be standard equipment.

This monetization strategy arrives at a particularly sensitive time for KTM, whose parent company Pierer Mobility has been navigating significant financial challenges. With reports of over 260,000 KTM motorcycles sitting unsold in dealerships worldwide, the Demo Mode appears to be an attempt to create additional revenue streams from existing products rather than developing genuinely new offerings.

Enhanced Technology That Actually Delivers Value

Beyond the controversial Demo Mode, the 2025 790 Duke introduces meaningful technological improvements that address real-world riding needs.(KTM 790 Duke)The centerpiece is a new 5-inch TFT display replacing the previous 4.5-inch unit, offering improved graphics, faster navigation, and enhanced usability. The larger screen provides clearer visibility in various lighting conditions while reducing the number of clicks required to access essential functions.

The updated display integrates seamlessly with KTM’s Connect App, enabling smartphone connectivity for navigation, audio management, and call handling. A USB-C charging port ensures riders can maintain device power during extended rides, while the telemetry screen logs lean angles and other performance metrics for track-focused riders.

New backlit switchgear complements the enhanced display, providing improved tactile feedback and visibility during low-light conditions. The Track Pack, available for $379.99, unlocks advanced features including six levels of anti-wheelie control, nine-level traction control adjustment, dedicated Track ride mode, and launch control functionality.

Engineering Excellence That Remains Unchanged

The mechanical foundation of the 790 Duke continues to impress, with the 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine delivering proven performance credentials. The Euro5+ compliant powerplant produces 105 horsepower at 9,500 rpm in international markets, while European A2 license-compatible versions generate 95 horsepower at 8,000 rpm. Both variants provide 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, ensuring robust mid-range performance.

Built in China through KTM’s partnership with CFMoto, the 790 Duke maintains its reputation for precise handling and aggressive cornering capabilities. WP Apex suspension at both ends provides the performance foundation, while the manageable 825mm seat height accommodates riders of varying statures. The lightweight chassis and compact engine configuration continue to deliver the scalpel-like precision that earned the model its nickname.

Market Positioning Amid Industry Turbulence

Priced at £7,999 in the UK market, the 2025 790 Duke maintains competitive positioning against rivals including the Yamaha MT-07, Suzuki GSX-8S, and Honda CB750 Hornet. The pricing strategy appears designed to maximize volume sales during KTM’s financial recovery period, offering genuine value in an increasingly expensive motorcycle market.

However, the model’s future in key markets remains uncertain. KTM has quietly removed the 790 Duke from its U.S. website amid concerns about potential tariffs on Chinese-manufactured products. With the previous U.S. pricing at $9,499, potential tariff implications could push prices beyond $12,000, severely impacting market competitiveness.

The extended four-year Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty represents a positive development, doubling the previous coverage period and providing additional confidence for potential buyers.(KTM 790 Duke)This enhancement suggests KTM’s commitment to supporting customers despite broader corporate challenges.

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Riding Experience That Justifies the Hype

Recent reviews consistently praise the 790 Duke’s exceptional “smiles-per-mile ratio,” combining accessibility with genuine thrills. The motorcycle delivers impressive performance on public roads while remaining manageable for riders transitioning from smaller displacement machines. Five ride modes (Rain, Street, Sport, with optional Track and Performance modes) provide customizable experiences for varying conditions and skill levels.

The aggressive naked styling receives minor updates for 2025, including a sharper headlight cowl and two new colorway options: traditional KTM orange and stealth-oriented all-black schemes. These aesthetic refinements maintain the model’s distinctive character while ensuring contemporary appeal.

KTM 790 Duke The Future of Motorcycle Ownership

The 2025 KTM 790 Duke represents more than just another model year update – it embodies the industry’s struggle to balance traditional ownership expectations with modern revenue generation strategies.(KTM 790 Duke)While the Demo Mode controversy overshadows many positive improvements, the underlying motorcycle continues delivering the performance and character that made the original so beloved.

For riders willing to overlook the monetization concerns, the 790 Duke offers exceptional value and proven performance in an increasingly competitive segment.