KTM Duke 790 Problems – Serious Issues of a Serious Motorcycle

KTM's Duke 790 has been a highly divisive motorcycle since its introduction. It boasts fantastic performance, an excellent engine, and an exciting and engaging ride - but it also has several faults that have left owners dissatisfied.

There appear to be some issues with the bike, which owners have been complaining about online. The problems range from strange noises to engine shutdowns and many more

Nevertheless, they are minimal concerns that, depending on the nature of the issue at hand, can be addressed and handled in a relatively short amount of time.

If you want a complete and excellent evaluation of the KTM Duke 790, including some of the typical difficulties, you've come to the right place. This article will look at common problems and repairs for the KTM Duke 790, so let's get started!

Brief History of the KTM Duke 790

KTM began production of the naked parallel-twin motorbike known as the 790 Duke in 2017, and the company continues to produce it today. The KTM Duke 790 has a style that is both simple and aggressive at the same time, and this appearance is transmitted from every angle that the bike is seen.

It boasts KTM's distinctive split-LED headlight unit, a full-color TFT display, and a high-set exhaust canister, which gives it a hooligan appeal. All of these features give it a sporty but aggressive appearance.

The 790 Duke gets its power from a 799cc parallel-twin engine that KTM has tweaked to churn out some interesting statistics. The frame of the 790 Duke is built on a steel trellis, while the sub-frame is made of aluminum.

Additionally, the Duke is the first middleweight naked motorcycle to have an inertial measurement unit as part of its electronic components. These electronic components include ride-by-wire, fuel modes, and multi-level traction control. In addition, it has a rapid shifter that works in both directions.

The motorcycle's suspension system comprises a WP 43mm upside-down fork and a WP mono-shock with 12 different levels of preload adjustment. 

In addition to that, both of these suspension components are manufactured by WP. The 790 Duke is held down by dual disc brakes measuring 300 millimeters in front and a single disc measuring 240 millimeters in the back.

Specification of the KTM Duke 790

In the following paragraphs, we are going to talk about the KTM Duke 790's many technical specs.

How Reliable Is the KTM Duke 790

The KTM 790 Duke is an excellent choice to consider in today's ever-expanding market for naked middleweight motorcycles.

It provides a terrific and competitive collection of features that shouldn't be sneered at in any way, shape, or form. It is available in both a version with full power and one that is A2 compliant (KTM 790L Duke).

The fact that it is a speedy bike concerning its size and power is unaffected by the petty issues and criticisms that we will go over in the following paragraphs; in fact, nothing can take away from the fact that it has these characteristics.

The rolling chassis of the 790 Duke is constructed from components that have been tried and proven in the past, and the engine has been put through testing equivalent to more than a half million miles.

The KTM 790 Duke is a highly dependable motorcycle. It is more affordable than the Yamaha MT-09SP and a Street Triple R. Although it is more expensive than the value-oriented MT-07, MT-09, and base-model Street Triple S, the KTM offers an exceptional amount of value for the money.

On the other hand, the KTM 790 comes equipped with several electrical features that aren't even found on certain Japanese superbikes, much alone middleweight naked: a lean-sensitive anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction and engine braking control, an up/down blipper, and four riding modes (Sport, Street, Rain, Track)

In addition to this, the KTM LC8c engine is unique. It generates 105 horsepower and 64.2 lb-ft of torque, making it a little parallel pumper that packs a significant punch in terms of street cred and top performance.

The KTM will most likely seem to be underpowered in comparison to the 765 Street Triple R and the MT-09SP; yet, there won't be a significant gap between these three motorcycles in terms of their dynamic speed and acceleration.

Common Problems and Complaints of the KTM Duke 790

In the following section, we will talk about some of the most typical issues that arise with the KTM DUKE 790, as well as specific solutions and preventative measures.

• Fuel Tank Rust

Gasoline tank rust is widespread in all motorcycles, including the KTM duke 790, due to metal oxidation induced by the interaction of water and oxygen in the fuel tank.

At high temperatures, gasoline vaporizes and gets saturated with water. The liquid condenses and deposits as the temperature drops. In addition, corrosion is encouraged by the high humidity atmosphere.

In addition, the safest approach for removing chemical rust requires filling the tank with vinegar and baking soda. Allow the mixture to rest until the rust particles cause it to bubble and change color. Then, it must be rinsed appropriately to guarantee that it is empty.

To prevent this, avoid leaving your KTM Duke 790's empty gas tanks exposed to rainwater/debris and maintain the fuel system with regular service, check the injection system and air filter condition regularly, and keep the engine compartment clean and clear of debris.

• Vacuum Leaks

If more air is allowed to enter your KTM Duke 790, you may have a vacuum leak. This often occurs near the injector.

When overlooked, vacuum leaks may cause significant problems for your KTM Duke 790. If you continue to drive with a vacuum leak for an extended period, the increased temperatures caused by operating a low air-fuel ratio might cause damage to your engine.

Explosions may occur when lean mixes are present, causing damage to the bearings and pistons. Exhaust temperatures much higher than average might potentially cause the melting of the catalytic converter.

If you are unsure about the problem with your bike, we strongly suggest you take it to a local, reputable technician so that it may be properly diagnosed and repaired.

• The Injection System

Because injectors are such complicated engine components, almost all older motorcycles will eventually have issues with them. To keep the engine operating smoothly, the system sprinkles gasoline to mix it with the air in the combustion chamber.

People often blame bad or dirty injectors for problems like hard starting, hesitation, stalling, rough idle, flooding, idling too fast, and bad gas mileage.

As with most mechanical components, they deteriorate with time, which might result in the injector failing.

If the components have been worn down or if there is anything like a seal that needs to be replaced, it is essential to have this work done by a skilled specialist.

• Engine Oil Leaks

The oil holes in the engine compartment of your KTM Duke 790 cause engine oil leaks. These oil leaks are not only a nuisance but also present the motorbike owner with some significant issues.

If the leak is not repaired, it not only causes damage to the KTM Duke 790, but it may also lead to accidents.

If you see a leak emanating from the engine compartment of your bike, take note of its position and size. This information may then be used to determine the source of the leak.

Before attempting to remedy the problem, you must ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment.

Check that your toolbox has a wrench, pliers, screwdriver, hammer, flashlight, needle-nose pliers, duct tape, and sandpaper.

Use the appropriate tools for the task, whether solving a seemingly basic issue or something more complex.

On the other hand, it is essential to take it to a specialist specializing in bikes like the KTM duke 790 to diagnose and repair engine difficulties properly.

Conclusion

The KTM Duke 790 is an excellent motorbike in almost every respect. It features an outstanding engine, a sturdy chassis, and attractive styling, making it an appealing buy.

In addition, the Duke is the first naked motorbike in its weight class to use an inertial measurement unit. The electrical components include ride-by-wire, fuel modes, and traction control with many levels. Additionally, it includes a quick shifter.

We hope this article has helped you understand some of the most common KTM Duke 790 problems. Although there are no straightforward solutions, it's best to take your bike to a technician if you're unsure, which may extend its life.