Recent news highlights exciting developments from KTM and TVS, along with a leadership change in American Flat Track. Design filings suggest KTM is updating its 790 Duke, while TVS is reportedly developing a factory-built stunt bike. Additionally, Chris Carr has been named the new Series Director for American Flat Track.
KTM 790 Duke Redesign Emerges
Design filings indicate that KTM is preparing a significant update to its 790 Duke, often called the "Original Scalpel", according to webbikeworld.com. The redesign aims to comply with Euro 5+ regulations while moving the bike towards a more premium feel, bridging the gap between the 790 and the larger 990 Duke.
- The 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine remains, but the chassis receives significant attention.
- A redesigned steel trellis frame and a new gravity-die-cast aluminum subframe, similar to the 990 Duke, are expected to increase stiffness and reduce weight.
- Visually, the design includes the modern Duke family's "hollow" LED headlight.
- A new underslung exhaust system and a sculpted fuel tank with larger air intakes are also apparent in the filings, potentially to meet Euro 5+ emissions standards without sacrificing mid-range performance.
The updated chassis and technology suggest KTM's intent to offer a higher-performance middleweight option, providing agility without the price of the Super Duke range, webbikeworld.com reports.
Bajaj Auto took majority control of KTM from Pierer Mobility AG in early 2025. Despite a revenue dip in 2025 due to inventory reduction, the brand is reportedly in a more stable financial position, allowing for the introduction of new models.
TVS Developing Factory-Built Stunt Bike
TVS Motor Company appears to be developing a factory-built stunt bike based on the RTR HyprStunt concept that debuted at EICMA 2025, according to webbikeworld.com. Initial speculation dismissed it as a modified Apache RTR 310, but new filings suggest a dedicated stunt platform.
The sketches reveal specialized hardware for technical maneuvers:
- A "pro-only" cockpit featuring wide, tapered handlebars.
- A left-hand master cylinder for a hand-operated rear brake.
- A V-shaped, cushioned seat for easy position changes.
- Upward-angled tank shrouds for stable standing during stunts.
The bike is expected to feature the RT-XD4 liquid-cooled engine, likely the 312cc unit from the Apache RTX 300, mounted in an evolved Apache trellis frame. The absence of a traditional headlight suggests a focus on competition or a limited "off-road only" release, according to webbikeworld.com.
TVS is experiencing strong financial performance, with record-breaking sales and revenue growth. This allows them to invest in niche products like the HyprStunt, potentially shaping culture rather than just pursuing sales volume, webbikeworld.com suggests.
Chris Carr Appointed AFT Series Director
Seven-time Grand National Champion Chris Carr has been named the Series Director for American Flat Track (AFT), as stated by webbikeworld.com.
