Third Time's a Charm: How KTM is Keeping the Scalpel Alive with the CFMOTO-Built 2027 790 Duke
The 2027 KTM 790 Duke Returns: Not Old Stock, Just New, Smarter Strategic Manufacturing
KTM has officially pulled the wraps off the heavily updated 2027 KTM 790 Duke. Originally launched in 2017 and relaunched in 2023, this marks the third debut of the "Scalpel." If you're wondering if these are just old warehouse stocks being cleared out, they aren't. This is a legitimate, freshly manufactured facelift featuring new bodywork, upgraded suspension, and an all-new braking system.
Features & Specs
- Engine: 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine producing 105 hp at 9,500 rpm and 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm.
- Weight Reduction: The chassis shed 2 kg, bringing the bike down to a nimble 185 kg wet weight.
- Aggressive Aesthetics: Features a new "Predator" front LED headlight with floating DRLs inspired by the 1390 Super Duke R.
- Ergonomic Overhaul: Flatter handlebar angle, reshaped 13.5-liter steel tank, and repositioned footpegs for better knee support.
- Upgraded Suspension: Fully adjustable 43 mm WP Apex forks (5-click toolless) and a 5 mm longer rear WP Apex shock for 20 mm more travel.
- In-House Braking: Debuts KTM’s new proprietary radial WP brake system (twin 300 mm discs, 4-piston calipers), replacing the J.Juan setup.
- Rider Tech: A new 5-inch bonded-glass TFT dashboard with simplified menu navigation. The controversial paywalled "Demo Mode" is entirely gone.
- Premium Rubber: Upgraded from standard factory rubber to high-performance Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires.
The China Connection: Why Relaunch a 9-Year-Old Platform?
Rising manufacturing costs and fierce pricing pressure in the middleweight segment, KTM shifted global production of the 790 platform to Hangzhou, China, leveraging their joint venture facility (CFMOTO-KTMR2R).
Having visited the CFMOTO factory back in 2023 and observed the KTM production line firsthand, it is clear this isn't a downgrade. The Chinese manufacturing processes have highly refined the 799cc LC8c architecture. In fact, it is the exact same proven platform that currently powers CFMOTO's successful 800cc lineup, including the 800MT, 800MTX and 800NK.
The Bajaj Takeover
While CFMOTO handles the physical manufacturing of the 790, the corporate control has drastically shifted. Following severe financial restructuring throughout 2024 and 2025, Bajaj Auto executed an €800 million rescue package. Bajaj now holds a 74.9% controlling majority stake over the company. Pierer Mobility AG is currently transitioning to the name Bajaj Mobility AG, firmly cementing the Indian giant as the absolute owner of the brand.
What is the Status of the 990 Duke?
The 990 Duke was originally expected to replace the 790 and 890 entirely, but that strategy pivoted. The 990 Duke (123 hp) and 990 Duke R (130 hp) pushed the platform significantly upmarket. The 990 remains very much alive as KTM's premium, high-performance middleweight. By keeping the 790 alive at 105 hp, KTM captures the budget-conscious, sub-premium market without cannibalizing 990 sales.
The Current Status of KTM in the Philippines
This global takeover directly triggered a massive shift in the Philippine market. KTM operations are no longer with Ayala (ACPI). After a brief transitional stint under Lucky MAPI (Motor Ace Philippines) in late 2024 and 2025, the exclusive distributorship for KTM and Husqvarna was officially awarded to Trimotors Technology Corporation (TTC) in early 2026.
TTC has been the long-time distributor of Bajaj motorcycles and three-wheelers in the country. Their takeover of KTM locally aligns perfectly with Bajaj’s new global ownership of the Austrian brand, establishing a unified pipeline for the new 2027 models to enter the country.
The 790 Duke was a very strong seller in the local market largely due to aggressive pricing under Ayala's Mobility Access Philippines Ventures Inc. (MAPVI) during its inital launch. Pre-pandemic units retailed at an estimated price PHP 499,000 because they are locally assembled at the KTM Asia Motorcycle Manufacturing Inc. (KAMMI) plant in Laguna, which handled domestic demand and ASEAN exports.
The newly refined CFMOTO-built units, and arrival in the Philippines remains to be officially announced.
