Mystery KTM twin-cylinder ADV and Duke spotted testing

Recent spy shots showcase a KTM ADV and naked motorcycle being tested. While international outlets are calling it the new "790 Adventure" undergoing testing, we believe this label is likely misleading. Here is what we think these test mules could be. 

1. KTM test mules equipped with single front disc
2. Motor appears to be a smaller capacity twin-cylinder

KTM Adventure and Duke spy shot details

These bikes sport just one front brake disc which is unusual for the 790 range.

The lack of a twin-disc setup at the front strongly suggests that this is not an actual 790 model but rather a smaller-capacity twin-cylinder prototype. The spy images have sparked speculation that KTM is testing an all-new entry-mid-size twin. However, careful observers point out that the single front disc removed any direct link to the established 790 Adventure, hinting instead at a smaller twin configuration.

Former CEO Stefan Pierer in an interrview back in 2018 had revealed that KTM shelved its earlier RC490 (or 500 cc) single-cylinder plans and pivoted toward a twin-cylinder engine derived from the 790 platform.

Additionally, the company had confirmed back in 2018 that both 500cc and 800cc parallel-twin engines are under development, with production slated within the next three years, with India as a manufacturing hub to lower import costs. Instead of branding it as a 790, this prototype is likely to be KTM’s long-anticipated smaller-displacement twin-cylinder motorcycles, aligning with plans to downscale the LC8c architecture for more affordable, accessible motorcycles.

Image credits - www.motorrad-magazin.at

Also see: 2026 KTM 690 Enduro R, 690 SMC R unveiled

from Autocar India https://ift.tt/3LzdohU