With the introduction of the 390 Adventure in 2020, KTM established a new benchmark for the small-capacity adventure category. While many of the 390’s competitors spring for budget-conscious componentry, the House of Mattighofen equipped the ADV to dominate the trail and the tarmac. It builds on those firm foundations with select updates on the 2022 KTM 390 Adventure.
KTM’s liquid-cooled, 373.2cc single-cylinder returns to power the adventure bike in 2022, but new Street and Off-Road traction control modes keep the thumper’s power pulses in check in all situations and conditions. In Off-Road mode, the system allows more rear wheel slip for traversing tricky terrain. User-friendly features like cornering ABS and a slipper clutch further cater to new riders while the optional quickshifter appeals to the performance-minded.
KTM packs all that performance and tech into the same lightweight trellis frame suspended by a WP APEX inverted fork and WP APEX shock absorber. The 43mm front end offers 6.7 inches of travel along with compression and rebound damping adjustments. The monoshock provides 6.9 inches of rear wheel travel and users can dial the spring preload and rebound. To take on the toughest trails, KTM outfits the 390 Adventure with a stronger five-spoke 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel. Shod in Continental TKC 70 tires, the new wheelset boasts the best blend of performance in the dirt and on the asphalt.
The Bybre 4-piston radially-mounted front caliper mated to a 320mm disc and a 2-piston floating rear clamper paired to a 260mm rotor completes the chassis. In addition to cornering ABS, the Bybre system also touts Off-Road ABS, which deactivates ABS on the rear wheel and reduces intervention on the front. A windscreen, tapered aluminum handlebars, and an ergonomically-shaped 3.8-gallon tank enhance comfort while LED lighting, a 5-inch TFT display, and Bluetooth connectivity provide modern convenience.
Fresh new graphics align the 390 Adventure with KTM’s Dakar-winning Factory Rally team. Available in black and blue liveries with orange accents, the new rally-inspired colorways relay the small-bore ADV’s off-road ambitions. The 2022 KTM 390 Adventure will hit showrooms in February 2022. KTM hasn’t announced pricing yet, but we expect a reasonable increase over the 2021 model’s $6,199 MSRP.
For more information or to find a KTM dealer near you, visit ktm.com.
In 2017, KTM split its 1290 Super Adventure into two variants. The R trim favors off-road exploration while the S model takes to the tarmac. The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has been updated with even more tech, comfort, and performance for the open road.
KTM’s vaunted LC8 V-Twin loses 3.5 pounds thanks to thinner cases and a new oil circuit. The liquid-cooled, 1,301cc engine also benefits from a new dual-radiator system that shuttles hot air away from the rider while cooling each cylinder more efficiently. KTM integrates the radiators into redesigned bodywork including a low-slung, 6.1-gallon gas tank. A lower seat delivers all-day comfort with 0.8 inch of adjustability while riders can shift the wind tunnel-tested windscreen up by 2.2 inches.
Under the new bodywork, KTM tweaked the chromoly steel frame, shifting the steering head rearward by 0.6 inch. Further aft, the new aluminum subframe balances the 1290 Super Adventure S’s weight distribution for optimal agility and stability. An extended open lattice swingarm also steadies the big-bore ADV at high speeds and under acceleration. WP APEX Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension automatically adjusts damping parameters on the fly in Comfort, Street, and Sport modes. Owners can expand the SAT functions with optional Off-Road, Auto, and Advanced suspension modes.
A new WP APEX rear shock now offers 7.9 inches of travel with 10 steps of hydraulic preload adjustment. Customers can also spring for KTM’s optional automatic leveling system, which adapts the suspension to High, Low, and Standard settings according to added weight. While KTM equips the Super Adventure S for the road, Off-Road ABS lets riders lock up the rear for slides and mitigates ABS intervention on the front wheel.
The 1290 Super Adventure has always been on the technological forefront and the 2022 S model ups the ante with radar-assisted adaptive cruise control (ACC). The Bosch-developed system automatically adjusts speed based on the traffic ahead and users can tailor following distance with five settings. Street, Sport, Off-Road, and Rain ride modes are even more refined with a six-axis lean angle sensor and a less intrusive traction control system. Users can also add KTM’s Rally ride mode, hill hold control, motor slip regulation, and a quickshifter as options.
The new 7-inch TFT display features a user-friendly interface along with KTM My Ride Bluetooth connectivity. A waterproof smartphone compartment protects the user’s devices against the elements while providing USB charging. KTM’s new Race On system also allows the rider to start the adventure bike, lock the steering column, and open the gas cap without using a key. The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S sets a new benchmark for performance and technology, but there’s no word yet on availability or pricing.
For more information or to find a KTM dealer near you, visit ktm.com.
Since it first emerged from the dark corners of northern Austria, “The Beast” has steadily grown stronger and more fierce. From its humble origins in 2007 as the 990 Super Duke to the 180-horsepower 1290 Super Duke R that stomped onto the scene for 2015, KTM’s mighty streetfighter commands respect.
For 2022, “The Beast” has evolved into the 1290 Super Duke R Evo. It features new WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension, with damping adjusted in real-time based on conditions in three preset modes: Sport, Street, and Comfort. Rear spring preload can be set via the TFT display’s menu over a 20mm range in 2mm increments.
An optional Suspension Pro package adds three additional modes (Track, Advanced, and Auto) as well as automatic preload adjustment with three levels (Low, Standard, and High).
The 1290 Super Duke R Evo is powered by the same liquid-cooled, 1,301cc V-Twin with titanium inlet valves and resonator chambers on the cylinder heads that makes a claimed 180 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. When we tested a 2021 1290 Super Duke R, it sent 166 horsepower at 10,100 rpm 94 lb-ft of torque at 8,300 rpm to the rear wheel on Jett Tuning’s dyno.
A ram air intake positioned in the headlight mask maximizes air flow to the combustion chambers, and top-feeder injectors and 56 mm throttle bodies provide optimal air to fuel mixture at high rpm. A PANKL 6-speed gearbox provides quick shift times and light lever modulation. An optional dealer-installed Performance Pack combines Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) and Quickshifter+.
For 2022, the throttle-by-wire system features a new 65-degree quick-turn throttle (reduced by 7 degrees) for a faster and more responsive throttle while also reducing rider wrist angle as well as elbow drop at full throttle. Ride modes include Sport, Street, Rain, and optional Track mode, which adds launch control, 9-level spin adjuster, an aggressive engine map, and anti-wheelie off function.
Optional Performance mode takes the Track mode concept and but adapts it for the street. Riders are still able to adjust throttle response, wheel slip, and anti-wheelie functions, but retain typical street functions such as cruise control and KTM MY RIDE.
Equipped with a 6-axis IMU, the 1290 Super Duke R Evo’s standard electronic rider aids include MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) with cornering ABS by Bosch (including Supermoto mode) and multi-stage, lean-angle sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC).
As before, The Beast’s skeleton is an ultra-lightweight chrome-molybdenum steel frame that uses the engine as a stressed member. It has a light composite subframe and a single-sided swingarm positioned close to the output sprocket for more control and less squat under acceleration. Cast 17-inch wheels are shod with Bridgestone Battlax HyperSport S22 tires developed with a specific carcass on the rear that’s said to offer a more stable ride in corners, improving grip and performance.
A color TFT display provides pertinent info and easy menu navigation, and standard KTM MY RIDE allows smartphone pairing via Bluetooth to control audio playback and to accept phone calls.
The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo has more aggressive bodywork and two new colorways. Pricing and availability are TBD.
For more information or to find a KTM dealer near you, visit ktm.com.
KTM’s line of naked bikes has steadily evolved over the past 25 years. We assembled the latest lineup of Dukes (left to right: 200 Duke, 390 Duke, 890 Duke, and 1290 Super Duke R) for a side-by-side evaluation. Photos by Kevin Wing.
KTM rose to prominence with its competition-winning two-stroke dirtbikes, but in 1994 the Austrian manufacturer made its first foray into the four-stroke streetbike market with the 620 Duke. The original Duke arrived on the scene just as supermoto replicas were booming in popularity. The tall, powerful machines with wide bars, much like enduro bikes but running on 17-inch road tires, were a blast to ride. Packing 50 horses, the light and lithe 620 Duke was the most powerful thumper on the street at the time, earning it a hooligan reputation.
KTM has come a long way since then, but the early Duke DNA – wide bars, a tall stance, and exhilarating power – carries over to the current lineup. Every model – 200 Duke, 390 Duke, 890 Duke (an R model is also available), and 1290 Super Duke R (shown left to right above) – is a naked bike with an upright seating position and a wide, flat seat, and most are versatile enough for urban riding, canyon carving, and even sport-touring. With styling by Kiska, they share bold, angular bodywork and typically favor KTM’s trademark orange on powdercoated frames and bodywork. The split headlight on the three largest Dukes also split the opinion of our test riders.
What are the four Dukes like, and what sort of buyers will they appeal to? We rode them back-to-back to find out.
200 Duke: Scrappy Underdog
Both the smaller Dukes possess thrilling riding characteristics that belie their diminutive displacements. The 200 has a highway-ready top speed and lightning-quick handling.
Though powered by a 200cc Single that made just 22 horsepower and 13 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel on Jett Tuning’s dyno, the 200 Duke is more substantial than the numbers suggest and didn’t appear out of place among its larger siblings. It has the same physical dimensions and 3.5-gallon tank as the 390, but weighs 20 pounds less and its seat is an inch lower. Like all of the Dukes, the 200 has a chromoly tubular-steel trellis frame, and our test bike had a black main frame, a white subframe, and orange wheels.
Suspension is proficiently handled by a non-adjustable WP Apex inverted fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. Single-disc brakes front and rear include Bybre (an abbreviation of “by Brembo,” a subsidiary focused on smaller machines) calipers, and ABS is standard and can be disabled at the rear wheel. The monochrome LCD instrument panel looks dated, and the one on our test bike needed to be unplugged and reset to fix a glitch. The 200 is the only Duke with a non-LED headlight and the only one that doesn’t have the split design.
The 200 Duke’s exhaust exits from a box below the swingarm pivot, distinguishing it from the traditional mufflers on the larger Dukes.
It’s only natural to label the 200 as an entry-level bike, and it’s well-suited for that role with unintimidating power and brakes that aren’t grabby and won’t easily lock up. With a flat torque curve and six gears, the 200 is more than capable of cruising at over 70 mph on the freeway, with a top speed approaching 85 mph. The chassis and suspension are well matched, and the 200 is light and exceptionally agile, making it exciting on curvy roads. At full tilt, the brakes could do with more muscle, and aggressive or larger riders will yearn for more power, especially going uphill. Our testing team was unanimous in concluding that the 200 exceeded expectations, especially on the fun scale.
The 200 is a perfect first motorcycle, and it offers more performance than entry-level bikes like the Honda Grom (see test on page 58) and the Royal Enfield Meteor 350. But new riders may outgrow the 200 quickly and trade up to – or even start off with – the 390.
390 Duke: Fierce Featherweight
In the right hands, the 390 will readily embarrass larger, more powerful machines on tight, technical roads.
The 390 is a considerable step up from the 200, and the extra $1,700 is worth the investment. Despite its small size, the 390 is a rider’s motorcycle. Its 373cc Single pumps out 42 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel. The suspension and brakes have a similar specification as the 200, but the fork and shock have about an inch more travel and feel better damped, and with its larger front rotor (320mm vs. 300) the 390’s brakes feel stronger and more precise. An LED headlight, a color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, and adjustable levers are welcome upgrades over the 200.
The 390 Duke is a blast to ride and punches well above its weight class. Tipping the scales at just 359 pounds wet and offering outstanding maneuverability and usable performance, the 390 will appeal to a broad spectrum of riders and was universally loved by our testers. Despite its power deficit, the 390 was able to keep up with the larger Dukes on tight, twisty sections of road, only falling behind when the pavement straightened out.
As with the 200, the 390 has a single-disc brakes on both wheels, but with a larger 320mm rotor. ABS is standard and can be switched off at the rear wheel (Supermoto mode).
New riders, including those who want to go fast, will have years of enjoyment ahead of them on the 390 Duke. This is the sleeper bike, the one that might get overlooked by seasoned riders but packs a ton of fun into a small, affordable package. It can be a carefree, fuel-efficient commuter during the week, and on weekends it’s just a throttle twist away from being a canyon-carving dragon slayer.
890 Duke: Super Middleweight
The 890 channels the hooligan attitude of the original 620 Duke.
Nicknamed the “Scalpel,” the 890 Duke hews closest to the original Duke formula: light, agile, and capable of hair-on-fire thrills. Its 889cc parallel-Twin is good for 111 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel in a bike that weighs just 405 pounds wet. Compared to the 390, you get 164% more power and just 13% more weight, but you’ll pay nearly twice as much in the bargain.
That’s a big jump in price, but everything is better. The WP Apex suspension, with a non-adjustable inverted fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock, offers better damping and more travel. (The 890 Duke R is equipped with higher-spec adjustable suspension.) The triple-disc brakes with multi-mode cornering ABS are precise and reassuring. It also has riding modes, multi-level traction control, and wheelie control, allowing our testers to tailor the riding experience as desired. Our test bike was fitted with the dealer-installed Tech Pack ($750), which includes the Track Pack (Track mode, 9-level TC, anti-wheelie off, and launch control), Motor Slip Regulation, and up/down Quickshifter+.
The 890 embodies the essential qualities of KTM’s naked bike philosophy: raw power coupled with sharp handling and equally sharp styling.
None of us were immune to the 890’s charms. We praised its dart-like handling, eager yet smooth power delivery, strong, progressive brakes, and sure-footed chassis. The Twin’s 270-degree firing order delivers a broad spread of torque for blasting out of corners and adds a pleasing crackle on downshifts. The 890 is a standout machine that encourages you to test its handling and your nerve, and it consistently rewards the rider with confidence-inspiring feel and agility or a gentle prod where lesser machines fall short.
The 890 is no show pony. It is a mustang, wild at heart, straining at the bit, and embodies the essence of the Duke series: immediate power and razor-sharp cornering stripped down to the barest of essentials. When it comes to performance and handling, nothing is superfluous in the 890, and nothing is wanting. Experienced riders with even the slightest inclination toward spirited riding will never tire of putting the 890 Duke through its paces, and yet it remains friendly and forgiving enough for jaunts around the city or sport-touring with some soft luggage. Just point it at the twistiest road you can find and open the throttle.
1290 Super Duke R: When Too Much is Not Enough
The 1290 Duke turns the knob up to 11 and makes itself heard in the sporty streetfighter category.
Introduced in 2014, the 1290 Super Duke R – known as “The Beast” – is the pointy end of KTM’s streetbike spear. Updated last year, it’s more powerful and lighter than ever, with its 1,301cc V-Twin churning out an asphalt-buckling 166 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel.
Fully adjustable WP Apex suspension is tuned to handle the Super Duke’s immense power, and it delivers a firm but confident ride. Brembo Stylema front brake calipers feel like they came off an airliner, such is their awesome strength, and while some in the test group felt they had too much initial bite, others raved about them. Riding modes and a full suite of six-axis IMU-enabled electronic riding aids allow The Beast to be tamed or unleashed, and our test bike was equipped with the dealer-installed Tech Pack ($750). The LED headlight incorporates an air intake, but overall styling remains much the same – angular, aggressive, looking for a fight. Creature comforts include self-canceling turnsignals, cruise control, and keyless ignition, steering lock, and gas cap.
The 1290 Duke is imposing, but is undeniably nimble.
The Super Duke elicited the most controversy when it came to the post-riding discussions. Like a silver-backed gorilla, it packs serious punch, but if you treat the 1290 with respect, it will respond in kind. The ocean of torque allows for lazy meandering along open roads, as well as controlled spurts of acceleration and braking demanded by dense traffic. But should you decide to be aggressive with the Super Duke, be sure to have your senses, skills, and reactions at peak readiness, as it comes by its Beast moniker honestly.
The bike feels tall and, with its humpback tank, a little imposing, but its 441-pound curb weight is quite manageable. Although the steering is heavier than on the 890 due to its lazier rake and slightly longer wheelbase, the 1290 is nonetheless nimble and responsive. For a couple of our testers, the difference was partly psychological. Whereas the 890 felt in alignment with their skill set, the 1290’s capabilities felt beyond them. Part of the excitement of riding a motorcycle is the ability to give it full throttle, but doing so on the 1290 is short-lived at best and more appropriate for wide-open roads or even the racetrack.
When considering potential owners for this exceptional machine, it is best suited for those with a high level of riding skills and experience. Some buyers just want the best, or the most, or both, and the 1290 Super Duke R will deliver on those promises. This horse will carry like a Clydesdale and run like a thoroughbred. Beyond that, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R defies reason, in the sense that it offers almost too much of everything, which you could argue is precisely what a Super Duke should do. For most riders, however, the 890 is probably a better fit and will be more enjoyable to ride. Like Dirty Harry said, riders must know their limitations.
All in the Family
Their styling may be polarizing, but KTM’s ability to maximize performance and minimize weight ensures that the current crop of Dukes are worthy successors to the name.
Within the KTM Duke range, from the $3,999 200 Duke to the $18,699 1290 Super Duke R, there is a bike for nearly every rider, from those just starting out to those at the top of their game, from commuters to weekend warriors to track-day junkies. While only the 200 and 390 are likely to be cross-shopped by potential buyers, we found the 390 and 890 to be the most broadly appealing of the four. For experienced riders, the 200 may be too little, and for some, the 1290 may be out of reach, but every bike here earned the respect of our testing team.
2021 KTM Duke Lineup Specs
2021 KTM 200 Duke Specs
Base Price: $3,999 Warranty: 2 yrs., 24,000 miles Website: ktm.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse Single, DOHC w/ 4 valves Displacement: 200cc Bore x Stroke: 72.0 x 49.0mm Compression Ratio: 11.5:1 Valve Insp. Interval: 9,300 miles Fuel Delivery: EFI, 38mm throttle body Lubrication System: Wet sump, 1.6 qt. cap. Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch Final Drive: X-ring chain
Chassis Frame: Chromoly steel trellis & cast aluminum swingarm Wheelbase: 53.4 in. ± 0.6 in. Rake/Trail: 25 degrees/3.7 in. Seat Height: 31.6 in. Suspension, Front: 43mm inv. fork, no adj., 4.6 in. travel Rear: Single shock, adj. preload, 5.0 in. travel Brakes, Front: Single 300mm disc w/ radial 4-piston caliper & ABS Rear: Single 230mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.00 x 17 in. Rear: Cast aluminum, 4.00 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 110/70-ZR17 Rear: 150/60-ZR17 Wet Weight: 339 lbs.
The LCD on the 200 (top left) falls short of the full-color TFTs on the larger Dukes, which provide clear, readable information, with a tach, speedo, gear position, and more. In low light, the displays change from a white background (shown on the 390) to black (shown on the 890) or orange (only on the 1290).
Our first Motorcycle of the Year was awarded to the 1990 BMW K1, and for the past 31 years we’ve limited contenders to current model-year motorcycles that are new or significantly updated. In recent years, however, production timing and model-year designations have become more fluid.
And then there’s the economic shutdown last year caused by the pandemic, which disrupted the global supply chain for everything from toilet paper to semiconductors. Some manufacturers were forced to delay the release of certain models, while others skipped the 2021 model year altogether.
We’ve posted announcements of new/updated 2022 models as early as January of this year. And so far, we’ve ridden 2022 motorcycles from BMW, Honda, Indian, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha. To give all makes and models a fair shake during the calendar year when they are released and most relevant, eligible contenders for this year’s MOTY include any new/updated motorcycle released since last year’s award that are available for testing.
There were plenty of motorcycles to consider, and we’ve narrowed them down to 10 contenders and one winner. Without further ado…
THE CONTENDERS
1) BMW R 18 B/Transcontinental
2022 BMW R 18 Transcontinental (Photo by Kevin Wing)
BMW entered the traditional cruiser segment in 2021 with the standard R 18 and windshield-and-saddlebags-equipped R 18 Classic, built around the 1,802cc “Big Boxer.” The 2022 R 18 B “Bagger” and R 18 Transcontinental are touring-ready with a batwing-style fairing, infotainment system, hard saddlebags, and a passenger seat, and the TC adds a top trunk with a passenger backrest.
2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special (Photo by Kevin Wing)
Yes, pigs – or more accurately, hogs – can fly. The Motor Company shook up the hyper-competitive ADV segment when it introduced the 2021 Pan America 1250/Special. Powered by a 150-horsepower V-Twin and fully equipped with all the latest bells and whistles, it proved itself to be highly capable on- and off-road, and the optional Adaptive Ride Height is its killer app.
2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT (Photo by Drew Ruiz)
Honda’s GL1800 won Rider’s MOTY when it debuted in 2001 and again when it was thoroughly overhauled in 2018. Updates for 2021 may seem minor, but they make all the difference when it comes to the two-up touring the Wing was designed for. The larger trunk holds more stuff, the improved passenger accommodations are appreciated, and the audio and styling updates add refinement.
The all-new Rebel 1100 is the sort of cruiser only Honda could make. It has styling like its smaller Rebel 300/500 siblings, a powerful engine adapted from the Africa Twin CRF1100L (including an optional 6-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission), ride modes and other electronics, well-damped suspension, good cornering clearance, modest weight, and a base price of just $9,299 (add $700 for DCT).
The KLR is dead, long live the KLR! After a two-year absence, Kawasaki’s legendary dual-sport returns for 2022 with fuel injection (at last!), optional ABS, and other updates aimed at improving reliability, comfort, stability, load capacity, and user-friendliness. It remains one of the best deals on two wheels with a base price of $6,699.
KTM’s street-oriented 790 Adventure and off-road-ready 790 Adventure R shared Rider’s 2019 MOTY. Just two years later, the folks in Mattighofen kicked it up a notch with a larger, more powerful engine from the 890 Duke R, chassis updates, and tweaks to the suspension, brakes, and electronics, all of which contribute to the 890 Adventure R’s all-terrain capability.
2022 Indian Super Chief Limited (Photo by Jordan Pay)
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the original Chief, Indian revamped its entire Chief lineup, with six models that strike a balance between old-school style and new-school technology. Powered by the Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin, the all-new Super Chief Limited has a quick-release windscreen, saddlebags, a two-up seat, ABS, and a Ride Command-equipped display.
2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 (Photo by Kevin Wing)
Yes, the Meteor 350’s air-/oil-cooled Single makes just 18 horsepower and 18 lb-ft of torque. But rarely have we encountered a motorcycle that offers so much substance for so little money. In top-spec Supernova trim, the Meteor comes with ABS, turn-by-turn navigation, a two-up seat with a passenger backrest, a windshield, and a two-tone paint scheme for just $4,599.
The former winner of the late-’90s top-speed wars got its first major update since 2008. Thanks to more grunt in the midrange, the Hayabusa’s updated 187-horsepower 1,340cc inline-Four helps it accelerate faster than ever before. Refined and reworked from nose to tail, the ’Busa has more aerodynamic bodywork, a full suite of IMU-enabled electronics, and much more.
Designed to be equally capable on- and off-road, Yamaha’s middleweight adventure bike is powered by a liquid-cooled, 689cc CP2 parallel-Twin and has a durable tubular-steel frame, adjustable long-travel suspension, switchable ABS, and spoked wheels in 21-inch front/18-inch rear sizes. Contributor Arden Kysely liked the T7 so much, he bought our test bike from Yamaha.
2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (Photos by Joseph Agustin)
For the better part of the past decade, the adventure bike segment has been the darling of the motorcycle industry, growing while other segments have been flat or declining and siphoning off R&D resources. With some adventure bikes making 150 horsepower or more, traditional sport-tourers have been all but neglected. Stalwarts such as the Honda ST1300, Kawasaki Concours 14, and Yamaha FJR1300 haven’t been updated in years.
That’s what makes the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT such a breath of fresh air. At less than 500 pounds fully fueled, it’s much easier to handle than the 600-plus-pound S-T bikes on the market. And with a claimed 115 horsepower on tap, there are few motorcycles that will leave it behind.
We first tested the bike that would evolve into the Tracer 9 GT when Yamaha introduced the FJ-09 for 2015. At its heart was the liquid-cooled 847cc CP3 Triple from the FZ-09 – an absolute ripper of a motor. It had an ADV-ish upright seating position and wind-blocking handguards but rolled on 17-inch wheels with sport-touring rubber, while its windscreen, centerstand, and optional 22-liter saddlebags added touring capability. The FJ-09 was light and fun to ride, but it was held back by fueling issues, poorly damped suspension, and weak brakes.
Yamaha did its homework and gave its middleweight sport-tourer an overhaul for 2019, renaming it the Tracer 900 GT in the process. Updates included better throttle response, a longer swingarm for more stability, higher-quality suspension, a new TFT color display, and a larger, one-hand-adjustable windscreen. The saddlebags were made standard as were other features, such as cruise control, heated grips, and a quickshifter.
Two years later, Yamaha went even further. For 2021, the new Tracer 9 GT gets the larger 890cc CP3 Triple from the MT-09, which is lighter, more fuel efficient, and more powerful. An all-new lightweight aluminum frame is made using a controlled-fill diecast process that reduces mass and increases rigidity. A new aluminum swingarm is longer and stronger, and a new steel subframe increases load capacity to 425 pounds and allows an accessory top trunk to be mounted along with the larger 30-liter saddlebags. New spinforged wheels reduce unsprung weight, and they’re shod with grippy Bridgestone Battlax T32 GT sport-touring tires.
In addition to updated throttle response modes and all-new KYB semi-active suspension, the Tracer 9 GT now has a 6-axis IMU that enables a suite of electronic rider aids adapted from the YZF-R1, including lean-angle-sensitive traction control, ABS, slide control, and lift control. It also has full LED lighting (including cornering lights) and a new dual-screen TFT display. The rider/passenger seats have been upgraded, and the rider’s ergonomics are adjustable.
We had an opportunity to test the Tracer 9 GT just before the MOTY polls closed, and it swept the field. Thanks to steady evolution and improvement over three generations, Yamaha has demonstrated just how good a modern sport-tourer can be, especially for riders who value agility over couch-like luxury. Performance, sophistication, comfort, versatility, load/luggage capacity – the Tracer checks all the right boxes and leaves nothing on the table.
Congratulations to Yamaha for the Tracer 9 GT, Rider’s 2021 Motorcycle of the Year!
The 2022 KTM RC 390 has been thoroughly updated with a lighter chassis, advanced electronics, new bodywork and instrumentation, and more.
KTM has announced the release of its an update to its lightweight sportbike, the 2022 RC 390. KTM says the race-derived chassis and high-end electronics will be standout items in the small-displacement sportbike class, and the new generation KTM RC 390 has been redesigned with track intentions in mind. The bodywork has received Grand Prix-inspired styling, which not only looks the part but promises improved aerodynamics and performance, thanks to a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) design process.
New inner and out panel placements are designed to optimize wind and weather protection, and enhanced heat management by directing airflow away from the rider. The rear section has been reduced as much as possible for a more aggressive profile and reveals more of the redesigned steel trellis subframe.
KTM has paid special attention to improving ergonomics to enhance comfort without compromising on-track performance. The knee area was designed to be as narrow as possible with the largest possible contact area, allowing for fluid rider movement.
An all-new two-part cockpit and windscreen holder makes use of a cast aluminum upper area and a lower composite part that secures the headlight, while a larger 3.6-gallon fuel tank has been added for improved range. The new bodywork is easily removable, with a reduced number of attaching screws and a redesigned mounting system, which makes swapping out the street-legal bodywork for race-ready panels more practical.
The 2022 KTM RC 390 was developed with a focus on weight savings, particularly throughout the chassis. An all-new wheel design sheds 7.5 pounds of unsprung weight versus the previous model, while the new ByBre braking system saves another 2.1 pounds and the 3.3-pounds-lighter frame promises extremely agile handling.
The suspension has also been updated with an adjustable open-cartridge WP APEX inverted fork, featuring 30 clicks of both compression and rebound adjustment. A WP APEX rear shock is adjustable for preload and rebound.
The KTM RC 390 is powered by a liquid-cooled 373cc Single with DOHC, four valves per cylinder, and electronic fuel injection. For 2022, it delivers more torque than the previous model thanks to a new engine mapping and airbox design.
The new generation is now equipped with several rider aids that rarely make an appearance in the lightweight class and include: cornering ABS with supermoto mode, cornering traction control, and an optional quickshifter.
The new TFT color display enables riders to access information at a glance, and the display can be customized to show desired data sets and automatically adapts to ambient light levels. It offers Bluetooth connectivity to the KTM My Ride app.
Pricing and availability for the 2022 KTM RC 390 have not yet been announced. For more information, visit
2022 KTM RC 390 Specs
Base Price: NA Website:ktm.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse Single, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 373cc Bore x Stroke: 60 x 89mm Horsepower: 43 hp (claimed, at the crank) Torque: NA Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: X-ring chain Wheelbase: NA Rake/Trail: 23.5 degrees/NA Seat Height: NA Suspension, Front: 43mm inverted fork, adj. compression & rebound Rear: Single shock, adj. rebound & spring preload Brakes, Front: Single 320mm disc w/ radial 4-piston caliper & ABS Rear: Single 230mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Tires, Front: 110/70 x 17 Rear: 150/60 x 17 Wet Weight: NA Fuel Capacity: 3.6 gals.
This 2021 motorcycle buyers guide includes new or significantly updated street-legal models available in the U.S. It includes bikes in many categories, including adventure, cafe racer, cruiser, sport, sport-touring, retro, touring, and others.
Organized in alphabetical order by manufacturer, it includes photos and links to details or, when available, first rides and road test reviews of each motorcycle. Due to the pandemic and supply chain disruptions, some manufacturers skipped the 2021 model year. Stay tuned for our 2022 Motorcycle Buyers Guide.
Aprilia‘s RS 660 is the first of three models — the RS 660 sportbike, the Tuono 660 naked bike (below), and the not-yet-released Tuareg 660 adventure bike — built on a new engine platform, a liquid-cooled 659cc parallel-Twin with a 270-degree firing order that makes a claimed 100 horsepower at 10,500 rpm and 49.4 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm. The RS 660 is equipped with the IMU-enabled APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronics package with five ride modes, 3-level cornering ABS, 3-level traction control, wheelie control, cruise control, and engine braking management. Pricing starts at $11,299.
2021 Aprilia RSV4 Factory (Photo by Larry Chen Photo)
Aprilia is an Italian brand known for performance, and the RSV4 and RSV4 Factory are at the pointy end of the company’s go-fast spear. Both are powered by a 1,099cc, 65-degree V-4 that Aprilia says cranks out an eye-watering 217 horsepower at 13,000 rpm and 92 lb-ft of torque at 10,500 rpm, even while meeting strict Euro 5 emissions regulations. And both are equipped with a 6-axis IMU and the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) suite of rider aids. Whereas the standard RSV4 features fully adjustable Sachs suspension, the RSV4 Factory is equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension, with a 43mm NIX upside-down fork, a TTX rear shock, and an electronic steering damper. The RSV4 has cast wheels and the RSV4 Factory has lighter and stronger forged wheels. MSRP for the RSV4 is $18,999 and MSRP for the RSV4 Factory is $25,999.
2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 (Photo by Larry Chen Photo)
Based on the RS 660 (above), the Aprilia Tuono 660 is a semi-naked sportbike with a more upright seating position, and more street-oriented steering geometry. Its base price is $10,499.
The Tuono name has always been associated with top-of-the-line street performance, and the Aprilia Tuono V4 and Tuono V4 Factory carry the cred with a 1,077cc V-4 that produces 175 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque at the crank (claimed). The Tuono V4 is the more street-focused of the two, with a taller windscreen, a higher handlebar, and optional saddlebags (as shown above), and it is equipped with fully adjustable Sachs suspension. The Tuono V4 Factory is equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension. Both models feature a six-axis IMU that supports the APRC electronics suite. MSRP for the Tuono V4 is $15,999 and MSRP for the Tuono V4 Factory is $19,499.
The Benelli Leoncino (“little lion”) is an Italian-designed, Chinese-manufactured roadster powered by a liquid-cooled 500cc parallel-Twin also found in the TRK502X adventure bike (below). In the U.S., the Leoncino is part of a two-bike lineup, which includes the standard street-biased roadster model (shown above) and the Leoncino Trail, a scrambler variant with more suspension travel and spoked wheels with a 19-inch front and 90/10 adventure tires. The Leoncino comes with standard ABS and is priced at $6,199, while the Leoncino Trail is $7,199.
Like the Leoncino above, the Benelli TRK502X is an Italian-designed, Chinese-manufactured adventure bike powered by a liquid-cooled 500cc parallel-Twin. It has a comfortable and upright seating position, a good windscreen, 90/10 adventure tires with a 19-inch front, spoked wheels, ABS, hand and engine guards, and enough luggage capacity to go the distance (aluminum panniers and top box are standard). MSRP is $7,398.
The BMW R 18 is a cruiser powered by a massive 1,802cc OHV air/oil-cooled 4-valve opposed Twin that’s the largest “boxer” engine the German company has ever produced. Part of BMW’s Heritage line, the R 18 has styling inspired by the 1930s-era R 5. Despite its classic looks, the long, low cruiser is equipped with fully modern electronics, brakes, suspension, and other features. Base price is $17,495. BMW recently announced two touring versions for the 2022 model year, the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental, both with a fairing, hard saddlebags, and an infotainment system; the Transcontinental adds a trunk with an integrated passenger backrest.
2021 Ducati Monster (Photo by Gregor Halenda and Mike Levin)
The Ducati Monster is one of the Italian manufacturer’s most iconic and best-selling models. Gone is the trademark tubular-steel trellis frame, replaced with a front-frame design that uses the engine as a structural member of the chassis, as on the Panigale and Streetfighter V4 models. Compared to the previous Monster 821, the new model weighs 40 pounds less and is equipped with a more powerful 937cc Testastretta 11-degree L-Twin engine and top-shelf electronics. New styling and more make this an all-new Monster. Pricing starts at $11,895 for the Monster and $12,195 for the Monster+, which adds a flyscreen and passenger seat cover.
Another top-selling Ducati is the Multistrada adventure bike. For 2021, it is now the Multistrada V4 and it is powered by the 1,158cc 90-degree V4 Grandturismo engine that makes 170 horsepower at 10,500 rpm and stomping 92 lb-ft torque at 8,750 rpm (claimed). Ducati Skyhook semi-active suspension and a full suite of IMU-supported electronics are standard, and S models are equipped with a radar system that enables Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection. New for 2021 is a 19-inch front wheel. Pricing starts at $19,995 for the Multistrada V4 and $24,095 for the Multistrada V4 S.
Updates to the Ducati SuperSport 950 include new styling inspired by the Panigale V4, an IMU-enabled electronics package, and improved comfort. The seat is flatter and has more padding, the handlebar is higher, and the footpegs are lower. The SuperSport 950 is powered by a 937cc Testastretta L-Twin that makes 110 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 68.6 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm (claimed, at the crank). The SuperSport 950 is available in Ducati Red for $13,995. The SuperSport 950 S, which is equipped with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension and a passenger seat cover, is available in Ducati Red and Arctic White Silk starting at $16,195.
2021 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Revival
2021 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Revival
Earlier this year Harley-Davidson announced its new Icons Collection. The first model in the collection is the stunning Electra Glide Revival, which is inspired by the 1969 Electra Glide, the first Harley-Davidson motorcycle available with an accessory “batwing” fairing. Though retro in style, the Electra Glide Revival is powered by a Milwaukee Eight 114 V-twin and is equipped with RDRS Safety Enhancements and a Boom! Box infotainment system. Global production of the Electra Glide Revival is limited to a one-time build of 1,500 serialized examples, with an MSRP of $29,199.
With its iconic solid aluminum 18-inch Lakester wheels, for 2021 Harley-Davidson gave the Fat Boy 114 a new look with lots of chrome and bright work. Powering the Fat Boy is none other than the torquey Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine, equipped with a 6-speed gearbox and putting down a claimed 119 ft-lb of torque at just 3,000 rpm. Pricing starts at $19,999.
2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 / Pan America 1250 Special
2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 (Photo by Kevin Wing)
A competitive, state-of-the-art, 150-horsepower adventure bike built by Harley-Davidson? Yea, right, when pigs fly! Well, the Motor Company came out swinging with its Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special. Powered by the all-new Revolution Max 1250, a liquid-cooled, 1,252cc, 60-degree V-Twin with DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, and variable valve timing. The killer app is the optional Adaptive Ride Height, which lowers the higher-spec Pan America 1250 Special (which is equipped with semi-active Showa suspension) by 1 to 2 inches when the bike comes to a stop. Pricing starts at $17,319 for the Pan America 1250 and $19,999 for the Pan America 1250 Special.
For Harley-Davidson Touring models like the Road Glide, Road King, and Street Glide, there are Special models that offer a slammed look and 119 lb-ft of torque from the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin. The 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special is available with new two-tone paint options, and with a choice of a blacked-out or bright chrome styling treatments. All Special models are now equipped with the high-performance Ventilator air cleaner with a washable filter element, and a new low-profile engine guard. Pricing starts at $26,699.
2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S
2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S
The (air-cooled) Sportster is dead, long live the (liquid-cooled) Sportster! Visually similar to the 1250 Custom teased several years ago, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S represents a new era for the legendary Sportster line. Since the introduction of the XL model family in 1957, Sportsters have always been stripped-down motorcycles powered by air-cooled V-Twins. Harley calls the new Sportster S a “sport custom motorcycle,” and at the heart of the machine is a 121-horsepower Revolution Max 1250T V-Twin, a lightweight chassis, and premium suspension. Pricing starts at $14,999.
The Street Bob, with its mini-ape handlebar, mid-mount controls, and bobber-style fenders, has become a fan favorite among those looking for a minimalist American V-twin to customize. The 2021 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114 packs more punch, thanks to the larger, torque-rich Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine. Pricing starts at $14,999.
With a slammed look and 119 lb-ft of torque from the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special is available with new two-tone paint options, and with a choice of a blacked-out or bright chrome styling treatments. All Special models are now equipped with the high-performance Ventilator air cleaner with a washable filter element, and a new low-profile engine guard. Pricing starts at $27,099.
The 2021 Honda ADV150 is an ADV-styled scooter, essentially a Honda PCX150 with longer travel Showa suspension (5.1/4.7 inches front/rear) and a larger ABS-equipped 240mm disc brake at the bow and a drum brake without ABS in the stern. Its powered by a liquid-cooled 149cc Single and has an automatic V-matic transmission. Pricing starts at $4,199.
2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP (Photo by Kevin Wing)
Well-mannered motorcycles seldom make racing history, and the 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP was developed with one uncompromising goal — win superbike races at all costs. It’s powered by an inline-Four that we dyno tested at 175 horsepower at the rear wheel, and it’s equipped with Öhlins semi-active suspension, IMU-enabled electronics, and top-shelf braking hardware. And it’s street legal and available for purchase from your local Honda dealer. MSRP is $28,500.
The 2021 Honda CRF300L (above) and CRF300L Rally (below) dual-sports share the same powerplant, a liquid-cooled 286cc Single which boasts 15% more displacement, power, and torque than its 250cc predecessor. They have a new slip/assist clutch, revised steering geometry, less weight, and a new LCD meter. The CRF300L has a base price of $5,249 (add $300 for ABS), weighs 309 pounds, has a 2.1-gallon tank, and has a 34.7-inch seat height.
The 2021 Honda CRF300L and CRF300L Rally (above) dual-sports share the same powerplant, a liquid-cooled 286cc Single which boasts 15% more displacement, power, and torque than its 250cc predecessor. They have a new slip/assist clutch, revised steering geometry, less weight, and a new LCD meter. The CRF300L Rally, which has a windscreen, handlebar weights, rubber footpeg inserts, a larger front brake rotor, more seat padding, and a larger fuel tank (3.4 gallons vs. 2.1) than the CRF300L, has a base price of $5,999 (add $300 for ABS), weighs 333 pounds, and has a 35.2-inch seat height.
The Honda CRF450L debuted for 2019, bringing CRF450R motocross performance to a street-legal dual-sport. Its lightweight, compact, liquid-cooled 449cc single has a 12:1 compression ratio and a Unicam SOHC valve train with titanium valves. For 2021, Honda added an “R” to the model name (CRF450RL), lowered the price to $9,999 (from $10,399), revised the ECU and fuel-injection settings for better throttle response, and added new hand guards and fresh graphics.
The Gold Wing has been Honda‘s flagship touring model for more than 40 years. It entered its sixth generation for the 2018 model year, with a complete overhaul to the GL1800 platform that made it lighter, sportier, and more technologically advanced. The standard Gold Wing (above) and trunk-equipped Gold Wing Tour (below) won Rider‘s 2018 Motorcycle of the Year award. Gold Wing updates for 2021 include a suede-like seat cover, colored seat piping, audio improvements, and red rear turnsignals. Pricing starts at $23,800 for the Gold Wing and $25,100 for the Gold Wing DCT (with 7-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission).
2021 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT (Photo by Drew Ruiz)
Updates for the Honda Gold Wing Tour include the same ones listed above for the standard Gold Wing: a suede-like seat cover, colored seat piping, audio improvements, and red rear turnsignals. But the Tour also got a larger top trunk (61 liters, up from 50) that now easily accepts two full-face helmets; total storage capacity is now 121 liters. The passenger seat’s backrest features a more relaxed angle, thicker foam, and a taller profile. Pricing starts at $23,800 for the Gold Wing and $25,100 for the Gold Wing DCT (with 7-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission).
Joining the Rebel 300 and Rebel 500 in Honda‘s cruiser lineup for 2021 is the all-new Rebel 1100, which is powered by powered by a version of the liquid-cooled 1,084cc parallel-twin used in the 2020 Africa Twin, which uses a Unicam SOHC valve train and is available with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission. Standard equipment includes four ride modes (Standard, Sport, Rain and User, which is customizable), Honda Selectable Torque Control (aka traction control, which has integrated wheelie control), engine brake control, and cruise control. Pricing starts at $9,299 for the Rebel 1100 and $9,999 for the Rebel 1100 DCT.
The latest addition to Honda‘s miniMOTO lineup is the Trail 125 ABS, which is powered by the same air-cooled 125cc Single found in the Grom, Monkey, and Super Cub C125. Like the Monkey and Super Cub, the Trail plays the retro card, pulling at heartstrings for a bike beloved by many decades ago. Just like its forefathers, the 2021 Honda Trail 125 proudly carries on the tradition of being a quaint and understated dual-sport, with a steel backbone frame, upright handlebar, square turnsignals, upswept exhaust, high-mount snorkel, and luggage rack. MSRP is $3,899.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited (Photo by Kevin Wing)
For 2021, the Indian Roadmaster Limited gets the larger 116ci Thunder Stroke V-Twin versus the original 111, and it has a modern streamlined fairing, open front fender, and slammed saddlebags. As a premium touring model, the Roadmaster Limited also gets Indian’s heated and cooled ClimaCommand seats and other upgrades. Pricing starts at $30,749.
Like the Honda CRF300L above, Kawasaki‘s entry-level dual-sport got a displacement boost, which warranted a name change from KLX250 to KLX300. The 2021 KLX300 makes more thanks to a larger 292cc Single, which is liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, and has DOHC with four valves. It also uses more aggressive cam profiles, making it livelier than its predecessor. All of that is paired to a 6-speed gearbox and 14/40 final drive. Pricing starts at $5,599. And joining the KLX300 is a supermoto version, the KLX300SM (below).
Joining the KLX300 dual-sport (above) in Kawasaki‘s 2021 lineup is an all-new supermoto version, the KLX300SM. It has street-oriented 17-inch wire-spoke wheels and IRC Road Winner RX-01 rubber, and the suspension is stiffer with slightly abbreviated travel. The KLX300SM also has taller final-drive gearing and a larger front brake rotor. Pricing starts at $5,599.
Speaking of supermoto, KTM‘s track-only, race-ready 450 SMR is back for 2021. Using the 450 SX-F motocross racer as its foundation, the SMR shares its 63-horsepower 450cc single-cylinder SOHC engine, lightweight steel frame, and cast-aluminum swingarm. To suit its supermoto purpose, wider triple clamps with a 16mm offset accommodate tubeless Alpina wheels (16.5-inch front and 17-inch rear) fitted with ultra-sticky Bridgestone Battlax Supermoto slicks. The WP Xact suspension is updated, reducing suspension travel to an ample 11.2 inches in the front and 10.5 inches in the rear, lowering the bike’s center of gravity and improving handling. A radially mounted Brembo M50 front caliper squeezes a 310mm Galfer floating rotor to deliver all the braking power you’ll ever need on a bike that weighs just 232 pounds wet. MSRP is $11,299.
We selected the KTM 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R as Rider‘s 2019 Motorcycle of the Year. Just two years later, KTM has updated the platform. Adapted from the 890 Duke R, the engine now has more displacement, a higher compression ratio, and other improvements. And like the 890 Duke R, the Adventure R has better throttle-by-wire response, a beefed-up clutch and a shortened shift lever stroke and lighter shift-detent spring for faster shifting. Chassis updates include an aluminum head tube, a lighter swingarm, revised suspension settings, and refinements to the braking system. Pricing starts at $14,199.
The limited-edition KTM 890 Adventure R Rally received the same updates as the 890 Adventure R (above), but is loaded with race-spec inspired components. Its development utilized feedback from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team riders, Toby Price, and Sam Sunderland. Only 700 units of the 890 Adventure R Rally will be produced worldwide, with 200 slated for the North American market. Pricing starKTM 8ts at $19,999.
Powering the 2021 KTM 890 Duke is the same punchy, rip-roaring 889cc parallel-Twin producing a claimed 115 horsepower and 67.9 lb-ft of torque that’s also found in the 890 Duke R and 890 Adventure (above). Shared amongst the middleweight Duke family is a chromoly-steel frame, lightweight one-piece aluminum subframe and cast aluminum swingarm. By using the 889cc engine as a stressed member, the 890 Duke flaunts a mere 372-pound dry weight. We recently completed a comparison test of the 2021 KTM Duke lineup (200, 390, 890, and 1290), which will be posted soon.
2021 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone (Photo by Larry Chen Photo)
On March 15, 2021, Moto Guzzi celebrated its 100th anniversary of continuous production at its headquarters in Mandello del Lario, Italy. One of Moto Guzzi’s most iconic models, the V7, was updated for 2021, and is available in more modern V7 Stone and classic V7 Special versions. Both have a larger 853cc V-Twin derived from engine, variations of which are found in the V9 and V85 TT. They also get reduced effort from the single-disc dry clutch, a stiffer frame, a bigger swingarm with a new bevel gear for the cardan shaft drive, revised damping and a longer stroke for the preload-adjustable rear shocks, an updated ABS module, a wider rear tire, vibration-damping footpegs, and a thicker passenger seat. MSRP for the V7 Stone is $8,990, or $9,190 for the Centenario edition (shown above).
The 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 Special gets the same updates as the V7 Stone above. Whereas the V7 Stone has matte finishes, a single all-digital gauge, black exhausts, cast wheels, and an eagle-shaped LED set into the headlight, the V7 Special is classically styled, with spoked wheels, chrome finishes, dual analog gauges, and a traditional headlight. MSRP is $9,490.
For 2021, the Moto Guzzi V85 TT gets some updates to its air-cooled 853cc 90-degree V-Twin. The revised powerplant offers more torque at low to midrange rpm thanks to optimized lift of the pushrod-and-rockers timing cams and tweaks to the engine control electronics. New spoked rims now mount tubeless tires, reducing unsprung weight by 3.3 pounds for better handling and facilitating plug-and-go flat repairs. Two new riding modes—Sport and Custom—join the existing three (Street, Rain, Off-road) to provide more flexibility in managing throttle response, traction control and ABS to suit rider preferences. Cruise control and the color TFT instrument panel also come standard. The 2021 V85 TT Adventure ($12,990) has standard saddlebags. The 2021 V85 TT Travel ($13,390) includes a Touring windscreen, side panniers from the Urban series, auxiliary LED lights, heated hand grips, and the Moto Guzzi MIA multimedia platform.
For 2021, the Royal Enfield Himalayan adventure bike, which is powered by an air-cooled 411cc Single, get several updates, including switchable ABS to help riders when riding off-road, a revised rear brake that is said to improve braking performance, a redesigned sidestand, and a new hazard light switch. MSRP is $4,999.
2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 (Photo by Kevin Wing)
For 2021, the Royal Enfield family gets a new addition — the Meteor 350, a light, affordable cruiser powered by an all-new air-cooled 349cc single with SOHC actuating two valves. Available in three budget-friendly trim packages, variants include the base-model Fireball ($4,399) with a black exhaust system; the Stellar ($4,499), with a chrome exhaust and a passenger backrest; and the Supernova ($4,599), which adds a windshield and a two-tone paint scheme.
2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS (Photo by Kevin Wing)
Triumph‘s Speed Triple is one of the original hooligan bikes. It has evolved over the years since its introduction in 1994, and for 2021 the Speed Triple 1200 RS is the lightest, most powerful, highest-spec version yet. Its all-new 1,160cc Triple (up from 1,050cc) makes 165 horsepower at the rear wheel, and the RS is equipped with state-of-the-art electronics, fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, Brembo Stylema front calipers, and much more. Pricing starts at $18,300.
2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport (Photo by Kevin Wing)
The 2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport, a street-focused adventure bike powered by the same liquid-cooled 888cc in-line triple as the Tiger 900 models, but it has been detuned to 82 horsepower at 8,400 rpm and 58 lb-ft of torque at 6,700 rpm at the rear wheel, as measured on Jett Tuning‘s dyno, which is about 10 horsepower lower. To keep the price down, Triumph also reduced the number of ride modes to two (Road and Rain) and limited suspension adjustability to rear preload. But this is no bargain-bin special. It has Marzocchi suspension front and rear, and it has Brembo brakes, with Stylema front calipers and a radial front master cylinder. ABS is standard but not switchable, and traction control is also standard but is switchable.
The 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is a triple-cylinder-powered roadster in the the twin-cylinder-dominated middleweight class. It’s powered by a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 660cc inline-Triple making a claimed 79.9 horsepower at 10,250 rpm and 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm, and it is equipped with ABS, switchable traction control, and selectable ride modes. MSRP is $7,995.
Updates for 2021 to the Yamaha MT-07, its best-selling middleweight naked sportbike, include revisions to the 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 (Cross Plane 2-cylinder) parallel-Twin engine to meet Euro 5 regulations and to improve low-rpm throttle response. The MT-07 has a new 2-into-1 exhaust, revisions to the 6-speed gearbox to improve shifting feel, LED lighting all around, new instrumentation, revised ergonomics, and new styling that brings it closer in appearance to the larger MT-09 (below). Base price is $7,699, and three color choices are available: Storm Fluo, Matte Raven Black, and Team Yamaha Blue.
Now in its third generation, fully 90% of the Yamaha MT-09 naked sportbike is new for 2021. Its has an entirely new 890cc CP3 (Cross Plane 3-cylinder) inline-Triple engine, a thoroughly updated and significantly stiffer chassis, state-of-the-art electronics, and a fresh look that results in the most refined MT-09 yet. The base price increased by $400 to $9,399, but the four extra Benjamins are worth it. The MT-09 is available in Storm Fluo (shown above), Matte Raven Black, and Team Yamaha Blue. There’s also an MT-09 SP ($10,999) with exclusive special-edition coloring, premium KYB and Öhlins suspension, and cruise control.
After being teased for several years, Yamaha‘s highly anticipated Ténéré 700 adventure bike made its U.S. debut in the summer of 2021, bringing some excitement during a challenging pandemic year. It’s powered by the versatile 689cc liquid-cooled CP2 (Cross Plane 2-cylinder) parallel-Twin engine from the MT-07 (above), modified for adventure duty with a new airbox with a higher snorkel, a revised cooling system, an upswept exhaust, and a final gear ratio of 46/15 vs. 43/16. The rest of the bike is all-new, including the narrow double-cradle tubular-steel frame, triangulated (welded-on) subframe, double braced steering head and aluminum swingarm, adjustable long-travel suspension, switchable ABS, and more. Base price is $9,999 and its available in Ceramic Ice, Intensity White (shown above), and Matte Black.
Now in its third generation, Yamaha’s middleweight sport-tourer — now called the Tracer 9 GT — is new from the ground up for 2021. It has a larger, more powerful engine, a new frame, and a state-of-the-art electronics package that includes semi-active suspension. With these updates comes a higher price, and MSRP is now $14,899. It’s available in Liquid Metal (shown above) and Redline.
New for 2021, Zero has taken the existing frame from the FX and added a redesigned body. The starkly modern, supermoto styling is very similar in appearance to the FXS – tall, slim and sporting a raised front mudguard. However, the FXE is capable of a claimed 100-mile range on a full battery charge and costs $11,795, which can be bought down to around $10,000 depending upon available EV rebates and credits.
Compared to many of its heavier, more expensive competitors the FXE is a lightweight and thrilling runabout, and what it gives up in range it makes up for in accessibility and potential for fun. The FXE makes for a credible commuter bike, capable of taking to the highway but ideal to zip around town on.
I was recently lucky enough to spend three days riding some of the awesome trails around the Capertee Valley west of Sydney as part of the local launch of the new 890 Adventure R. It was one for the books. Cold mornings dawning into perfect clear Autumn skies each day as we took in the stunning countryside on the edge of the blue mountains. Covering 700 kilometres that included a mix of urban traffic, highways, backroad tarmac sweepers, gravel roads, logging tracks and tighter forest tracks. We had sandy sections, rocky sections, tricky climbs, slippery rocky descents, fern lined creek crossings, bog holes, decent rock hits and drop offs, erosion mound jumps… you get the idea.
Wayne makes a splash on the 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
You name it, we tackled it. Basically covering off every type of adventure riding we’re likely to encounter down under. And what an adventure it was: One of the group suffered a hernia, one came down with case of gall stones, another T-boned a kamikaze Roo – and managed to stay upright! There were three bogs (two of them mine), zero dropped bikes and countless skids, wheelies, smiles and utterings of ‘how good was that?’.
Robbo goes alright…
We were aptly chaperoned by a couple of semi riding gods who both have 790 Rs in their shed. Steve ‘Robbo’ Robertson was lead rider and route planner. Robbo qualified as one of two Australian rep’s for the 2019 KTM Ultimate Race which saw 12 riders from six countries compete on 790 Adventure R’s in a special class at the Merzouga Rally in Morocco. And Will Dangar was on sweep duty. Both stupidly talented, bloody funny and all around top humans. Pretty handy to have two relative locals who are intimately familiar with the outgoing 790 when planning an event for the new 890 Adventure R.
A handy group to go riding with
The new 890 is more than just a minor update. The three big things that stand out and really take the bike to a new level over the old bike are the motor changes, the electronics and the suspension upgrades. They’ve taken all that was great with the old bike and added more. More power, more torque, more poise. And its all the better for it. With another 100 cc of displacement, reworked electronics, seriously top spec suspension set-up and a number of chassis alterations it delivers a dramatic increase in capability. All while being even easier to ride. Austrian witchcraft I tells ya. It’s mind bendingly good in the dirt. They really do take the #Adventureharder tag seriously.
Wayne gets a rise out of the 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
This is a bike very much at the off road end of the Adventure spectrum. It’s essentially an Enduro-Adventure bike. In fact KTM themselves are marketing this as the most travel capable off-road bike, as opposed to an off road capable Adventure bike. They’re not wrong.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Motor updates first – the obvious bump in capacity to 889cc brings a corresponding lift to 105 hp at 8,000 rpm (up from 95 hp in the 790) and more noticeably 100 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm (up from 88 Nm). The orange crew added twenty percent more weight to the reciprocating mass ie – crankshaft aiding low down lugging rideability and increasing gyroscopic force which helps stability. They’ve also reduced ten percent from oscillating mass with lighter forged pistons and redesigned rods to help linear power delivery (and its Euro 5 compliant). It’s not just a capacity increase though – there’s an increase in compression, an additional oil feed per cylinder and a larger oil cooler, new crank cases, larger valves, a knock sensor, a whole bunch of stuff.. it’s not just a big bore kit…. Still comes with 15,000 km service intervals too.
Lots been changed inside those crankcases…
While it might only seem like a modest step up, the reality is very different. It’s hugely willing – right off the bottom. Wheelie fiends like myself will rejoice. It’ll pop the front in second and third without the clutch. And do so in total ease. The bottom and midrange are just superb, I only occasionally felt the need to rev it right out and bounce off the limiter when being silly or using it more as an over rev if a gearshift was just not quite required, but it’s silky smooth all the way to the 10,000 redline.
Wheelie good at wheelies
I need to talk about the electronics here too, because I reckon they’re the new segment benchmark. With the optional Tech pack as ridden (more on that later), you get access to Rally mode. It gives you another ride mode and throttle map to choose from on top of street and off road that’s even more aggressive, which might seem counterintuitive – but it’s essentially sport mode, sitting above street. Super direct mapping and throttle, which you can select individually. For instance, I personally found that Rally ‘mode’, with Street ‘throttle’ was the sweet spot. The slightly softer street setting for throttle was perfect even in the dirt. I left ABS in off road mode too for what it’s worth, which deactivates the rear.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
You can still choose off-road throttle for really slick, snotty stuff which cuts a bit more power and response, but I found that just leaving it in that Rally-street combo and adjusting the TC on the go as needed was the bomb. The TC adjustment works so well via the two buttons on the left switch block that you barely need to look down to check what you’re doing. And you don’t need to reset it to your preferred settings every time you turn the key off! It remembers! Hel-ay-lu-ya! Other manufacturers please take note. My tip, TC set to 1 (the minimum) will allow wheelies on the tar. Bump it up a little more to 6 or 7 for creek crossings and slipperier stuff, while 9 is the max buzz kill mode.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
I ran it mostly between 3 and 5 while off-road depending on the conditions, which still allowed lofting the front in the dirt. It also allowed ludicrously long near lock to lock drifts while not letting the rear get too sideways when firing out of lower speed corners. Day three had a bit of a highlight on a smooth flowy hard pack-but sandy surfaced back road when I slipped into skid mode. On corner exit, you can light it up and drift from one lock to the other in third, holding it pretty much until it’s time to shut down for the next bend… I’m a simple man. Give me a bike that handles well, does wheelies and skids and I’m generally happy. This thing rips.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
The clutch and gearbox get updates to match the power increase with new friction material in the slipper clutch and revised shifting with a shorter throw lever and glass beading in the top three cogs. The quick shifter as ridden is also revised for quicker shifts. I still found myself clutch past neutral out of habit but it shifts damn well. I only had a handful of missed shifts over the three days, almost all in the higher gears and I attributed all to my lazy foot not really engaging the quick shifter properly. Has a nice auto rev matching on downshifts which combined with the slipper clutch meant compression locks just don’t happen.
Suspension wise the new 890 Adventure R gets updated serious spec WP EXPLOR forks and shock with 240 mm of travel at both ends. And they’re remarkable. Out of the entire group on the launch, with riders ranging in weight from probably 80 to over 115 kegs, not one asked for any suspension changes. I find that incredible. While at first sit and bounce on the bike they feel firm, they have an uncanny amount of feel and absolute reluctance to bottom out. Super controlled and progressive.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
We took some seriously hard impacts. Rocks, ledges, jumps. Everything was handled without fuss. I managed to bottom out when arriving at one of the more serious erosion mounds several degrees too hot and landing on an uphill slope on the other side. Even that wasn’t the hard hit you’d associate with normally bottoming out. No squirrelling or bouncing offline. Just a gentle stop. Overwhelmingly the whole bike feels super stable and confidence inspiring. The way it carries its weight low translates to a bike that happily flicks from side to side beneath you and feels significantly lighter than the 196 kgs as per the spec sheet.
In fact the only time you do feel the weight is if you happen to be silly enough to bury it in a bog hole.
Twice.
Within 5 minutes of each other.
I maintain that I was testing every facet of the bike’s ability and it wasn’t just a shit line choice. Ahem. Thanks to the two semi pros for each helping me haul it out. Legends.
Pretty forking good
Back to the suspension, because it is integral to the whole package. You get to trust the front end almost immediately. It steers so well. Come in a bit overcooked or need to change line mid corner when you spot an obstacle? No problem. And even when you do push too hard and it lets go, it does so in a way that’s easily catchable. It’s so well balanced front to rear, you can pick the front up whenever you need to, even on surfaces where the traction isn’t great. Bloody hard to fault.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Actually, for those not familiar with the 790 Adventure, I should explain that the fuel tank wraps over and down each side of the engine keeping the centre of gravity as low as possible. While it might seem at first to be exposed out there, that doesn’t seem to be the case. The tank’s made of pretty tough stuff anyway… and has additional protection available (which I’d probably opt for just for piece of mind). On the move, I only had one moment where the tank location even popped into my mind where I flew past a partially hidden stump pretty close to the pegs at a decent speed while ducking around some water. Other than that, it didn’t enter my mind. 20 litre capacity by the way, which will be good enough to see you out to 400 clicks.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Updated brakes are excellent too. That front ABS is just mega, allowing you to trail brake deep into corners even while leant over. Out back I found myself locking the rear slightly more than expected on low grip downhill/off camber corners. To be fair I think it was probably due to how effective the front was and how much weight was being transferred forward. Things never went pear shaped because the front was hauling things up so well that the rear never got out of shape. That said, I’d probably look to experiment with rear pads to try and find something with a smidgen more feel. Could be just me.
Top stoppers
Ergo-wise, I rate it big time. I actually really like the width between the legs. Super comfortable and the overall riding position just feels sorted, standing or sitting – with plenty of room when moving your weight around the bike. I did find myself slowly sliding forward on some of the steeper downhills, but nearly everyone else on the launch was already standing at that point… I sit a bit more than most, it just feels more natural to me. So take that with a grain of salt. That said, there’s a nice flat seat in the power parts catalogue that the Adventure R Rally model comes with standard that would probably be worth a look for some. That’s what Robbo and Will were both running… Speaking of powerparts. There’s a big list of options, you could go nuts. I did like the look of the more hardcore carbon tank protectors and probably couldn’t go past a slip on…
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
I don’t need to talk about the dash or controls because the five-inch TFT was pretty great on the 790 and hasn’t changed. Some other manufacturers could take note… But it is worth pointing out that the front screen is two position adjustable with about 40 mm difference between low and high. I’m six-foot and found the higher setting gave better highway speed wind protection without being in the way in the dirt. And for those wanting to run an even taller one – the higher screen from the Adventure (non R model) is interchangeable.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Now I’ve talked a lot about it’s off road prowess, so you might be thinking that it’s less than awesome on the tar? Not so. Steers surprisingly well on that 21-inch front. Even on the tractionator knobbies. Heaps of fun lofting the front in second and third, flicks from side to side beautifully and feels utterly composed when cranked over. Seemed ok in the saddle too even on longer highway stints. It’s not as plush as the Tiger 900, but that’s not the 890 Adventure R’s main game…
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
So where does that leave us? As a package, it’s a pretty clear winner for me if you’re after something with an off road focus. Nothing else comes close in terms of capability in the segment. Sure, it’s more expensive than the Tenere 7, but then everything is simply on another level to the popular Yammie. Better engine, better suspension, better balance, better electronics.. If you want the best, then here it is. You ride to your capability on the 890 Adventuer R, you’re not riding to the bike’s limitations. You can’t say that for anything else in the class. BMW’s F 850 GS is at the other end of the Adventure spectrum and simply isn’t nearly as inspiring or poised. And the Tiger 900 (which I love), does everything well and has arguably more creature comforts that make it a better road mile eater, but feels bigger and heavier and just not as nimble off-road, if that’s your main focus.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Bear in mind that the bikes we were on were fitted with Tractionator Rally tyres (they come standard with Metzeler Karoo tyres which would last longer, but not offer as much grip as the Tractionators) and were running the optional Tech pack which includes the Rally mode and map selection, quick shifter plus, traction control and cruise control. I can’t see anyone NOT wanting the tech pack to be honest. This bumps the price up an additional $1,200 to what I think is a competitive $25,500 ride away.
Bloody hell. Another bike that I need in my shed.
2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
Why I like it:
Best in class off-road ability
Additional grunt transforms the bottom and mid-range
Suspension and electronics packages are next level. On the fly adjustable TC is brilliant
Overall feeling is so stable yet agile. Never gets out of shape and still does whatever you want it to.
I’d like it more if:
A smidgen more rear pedal feel in the dirt wouldn’t hurt
Heated grips would have been nice on a -1 degree morning too…
Personally I’d like the headlight assembly ‘joined’ to the side fairing for a more cohesive side profile like the 1290 Super Adventure. Looks a bit like a beak sticking out there on its own as it is (though I hear you can get aftermarket bits to achieve the look?)
I can’t finish without thanking KTMs Marketing Manager for Oz and NZ, Rosie Lalonde for organising the whole thing and not only being a champion but riding like one too. Turns out she used to race enduros.. so that explains the latter. Shout outs also to Lewie Landrigan for our 4WD Support over the few days and to Jordan and Andy from Flightcraft for the ripper stills and videos. These guys weren’t scared to get wet or muddy to get the shot and almost make me look like I know what I’m doing. Kudos lads.
Rosie gives Wayne the kind of briefing he likes, wheelies and skids!
If you’re a person of culture and sophistication, you’ll agree that action movies of the ’80s and ’90s are the pinnacle of American cinema. Never mind distractions like plots or character development; these gems of the silver screen thrill us with explosions, high-flying hijinks and protagonists who dispatch bad guys while delivering cheeky one-liners.
Like the best action flicks, supermoto distills all the excitement of motorcycling into one no-holds-barred blockbuster. And after an all-day closed-course matinee on the race-ready 2021 KTM 450 SMR, I can say it packs one helluva punch!
The 2021 KTM 450 SMR.
Supermoto is a discipline that I have precious little experience with, but what’s not to love — a lightweight motocross machine fitted with smaller, racing-slick-shod wheels, ready to tackle twisty kart tracks and dirt jump sections in equal measure. KTM showcased its new 450 SMR at Apex Racing Center in Perris, California, and now I’m hooked.
After a seven-year hiatus, which is about how long it takes Hollywood to pump out two or three profit-making sequels, the KTM 450 SMR is back. Using the 450 SX-F motocross racer as its foundation, the SMR shares its 63-horsepower 450cc single-cylinder SOHC engine, lightweight steel frame and cast-aluminum swingarm.
The 450cc thumper pumps out a rip-roaring 63 horsepower. It also features an updated connecting rod with a new upper copper-beryllium bushing, reducing internal friction and improving its ability to rev.
To suit its supermoto purpose, wider triple clamps with a 16mm offset accommodate tubeless Alpina wheels (16.5-inch front and 17-inch rear) fitted with ultra-sticky Bridgestone Battlax Supermoto slicks. The WP Xact suspension is updated, reducing suspension travel to an ample 11.2 inches in the front and 10.5 inches in the rear, lowering the bike’s center of gravity and improving handling. Lastly, a radially mounted Brembo M50 front caliper squeezes a 310mm Galfer floating rotor to deliver all the braking power you’ll ever need on a bike that weighs just 232 pounds wet.
Any motorcycle with this kind of power-to-weight ratio is a recipe for a good time, but riding the SMR is like mainlining pure adrenaline at every turn. And in the tight, close-quarters layout of a kart track, there are endless opportunities to chase that high while stretching the 450’s throttle cables.
Catapulting you from one apex to the next is the punchy 450cc engine that offers plenty of low-down grunt and midrange puff to hover the front wheel during hard-charging corner exits. It’s topped off with a short burst of top-end power and plenty of over-rev, should you need to wring it out through a corner. The extra-crisp throttle requires a tempered wrist, and I treated it with respect while getting to know the thumper’s exciting and free-revving personality. Of the two fuel maps that alter the engine’s character, I preferred Map 1’s softer power delivery to Map 2’s more aggressive response.
Clicking through the precise Pankl-built 5-speed gearbox is a treat made even sweeter by the excellent Suter slipper clutch. Any wheel hop is eliminated while grabbing multiple downshifts and barreling into a corner hard on the brakes. It’s exactly the kind of kit you’ll need when backing it in like the pros, though I’m not quite there yet.
The WP Xact suspension soaks up hits well and stays composed when riding aggressively.
Top MotoGP and World Superbike racers train by riding supermoto, a fact that didn’t take hold until I experienced the 450 SMR’s extremely communicative chassis. The amount of feedback is excellent, where every ounce of traction is translated so loud and clear that it might as well be blared through a megaphone. What’s more is that you’re learning to flirt with grip at lower speeds, which lowers risk while being directly applicable to riding sportbikes on the track.
Thanks to its feathery weight, the SMR responds to any input immediately, flicking through chicanes with ease, and stays remarkably planted while cranked over on the edge of the tire, encouraging you to push harder. Its wafer-thin motocross chassis is eager to turn, even requiring some recalibration when coming from heavier street-legal motorcycles. As if that isn’t enough inspiration to crack the whip, traction control is standard and doesn’t step in prematurely. Launch control is included too, should you ever find yourself lining up on a starting grid.
Aiding in the chassis cause is the fully adjustable WP Xact air fork and conventional shock. The air fork, which still uses traditional cartridge damping in one leg, gleefully soaks up every hit and begs for more while also staying composed under hard braking. Same goes for the fully adjustable shock, though my taco-laden diet probably calls for a slightly heavier spring rate. If you’re buying a competition supermoto, you’ll customize it for your particular needs.
After catching my breath between sessions, the only thought I could muster is, “I need to ride supermoto more often.” The pool for production-competition supermotos is limited, with KTM, Husqvarna and TM Racing being the only contenders, but just like a good action flick, you know exactly what you’re getting — unadulterated fun from the first brap to the last. The only thing left to say about the 2021 KTM 450 SMR and supermoto is, “I’ll be back.”
The 200 Duke’s hand-me-down steel-trellis frame with a detachable and replaceable subframe came from its big brother, the 390 Duke. It also snatched up the 390’s WP suspension, specifically updated for the 200 Duke. Photos courtesy of KTM.
Dubbed the “light heavyweight” by its Austrian creators, the entry-level 2020 KTM 200 Duke should wear the great Muhammad Ali’s quote, “Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee” on its sleeve, with its nimble handling and rev-happy 199.5cc single-cylinder engine. But its price is the real haymaker — at $3,999, KTM hopes that the 200 Duke will get serious attention from a new generation of riders.
High-quality Michelin Road 5 tires are standard fitment in the U.S. market and worlds above the typical OEM tire choices found in this class.
Manufactured in India, the 200 Duke has been available in other countries since 2012, but has never made an appearance in the United States until now. This year also marks the platform’s first major update — it gets the 390 Duke’s entire chassis, revamped styling in the current Duke family image and an all-new Euro 5 compliant engine.
Non-adjustable levers are common on motorcycles at this price point. I wear a medium glove and found the reach acceptable, but adjustability is always appreciated.
Toss a leg over the Dukette and you’re met with backswept handlebars that prop the rider up in a neutral position, still allowing you to get your elbows out in the corners, and a low 31.6-inch seat height that’s unique to the U.S., European and Philippine markets.
The LCD instrument panel is busy and difficult to read in direct sunlight. Luckily, mph and gear position can be identified at a quick glance, while the complex things like rpm are more challenging.
That’s one-inch lower than the 390 Duke’s seat, thanks to a shorter shock spring and reduced fork stroke. Combine that spec-sheet figure with the slender chassis and my 32-inch inseam can reach terra firma easily, which is attractive for new and shorter-statured riders. However, I did notice more knee-bend than I’d normally like with my boots on the grippy rubber-covered footpegs.
The 200 Duke offers the riding position and experience of a full-sized motorcycle, in a light, affordable package.
Plastics are shared between the 200 and 390 Duke, and the 200 also boasts the predatory headlight design first seen on the mighty 1290 Super Duke R. As a cost saving measure, the 200 also features an LED daytime running light and a halogen bulb for illumination.
The Super Duke R inspired headlight features an LED running light and halogen bulb.
Although the 199.5cc displacement is the same as the prior generation, the peppy thumper engine is all-new for 2020. The dual overhead camshafts are paired with ultra-hard, carbon-coated cam followers that help reduce weight in the valve train and contribute to the thumper’s free-revving, lively personality.
Most of the claimed 26 horsepower and 14.4 lb-ft of torque live above the 6,000-rpm mark, but considering how quickly 200’s engine wicks up, it’s a great companion when darting around city streets to work or school. It’s also freeway legal and topped out at an indicated 86 mph, which is impressive for a bike of this size. Crank-driven counterbalancers do their best to hide vibration, but some buzz is felt when wringing its neck. A completely updated exhaust system with dual catalysts is said to make the wee-Duke meet stringent emissions standards.
The 199.5cc single spools up quickly and offers performance perfect for new riders. We saw an indicated 86 mph – not too shabby.
It’s hard not twist to the grip and grin riding the 200 Duke, which encourages riders to whack through its 6-speed gearbox. It shifts well, but doesn’t have the same precision as its costlier brothers in the Duke family, nor is the clutch pull as light or refined as some other lightweight bikes that feature slip-and-assist clutches.
Both the non-adjustable 43mm WP fork with 4.6-inches of travel and WP shock featuring 5.0-inches of travel and spring preload adjustment are damped for comfort, soaking up rough urban tarmac well. Between the compliant suspension and communicative steel trellis frame, the 200 Duke is wonderfully agile, yet stays composed when cornering or hard on the binders.
A radially mounted ByBre 4-piston brake caliper clamps onto a 300mm rotor up front, with plenty of stopping power for the speeds you can achieve, and decent feel at the lever. In the rear, a single-piston floating caliper grabs upon a 230mm disc with a relaxed bite and good stopping power. ABS is standard, as is a Supermoto Mode that disables ABS in the rear only — KTM is never one to shy away from hooliganism.
In 2020, the prospective rider has a wide variety of awesome bikes to choose from. Save for a few unrefined points, the KTM 200 Duke’s proposition is a strong one, with its spunky single-cylinder engine, great handling and ergonomics that are neophyte friendly — not to mention the serious $3,999 value.
