KTM 690 Duke - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 KTM 690 Duke is a lightweight naked bike powered by a potent 654cc single-cylinder engine delivering 64 horsepower, making it ideal for riders seeking agile handling and spirited performance. Known for its minimalist design, precise engineering, and accessible power delivery, the Duke suits both experienced enthusiasts and talented novices looking for a thrilling yet manageable everyday motorcycle.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2008
ModelKTM 690 Duke

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemStainless steel underfloor silencer with integrated catalytic converter
ClutchAPTC Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemPressure lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps
Ignition2 X keihin
Fuel controlOHC
Fuel systemCarburettor
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke102.0 x 80.0 mm (4.0 x 3.1 inches)
Compression11.8:1
Torque67.00 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs) @ 5500
Power64.36
Engine typeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Capacity:654.00 ccm (39.91 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre dimensions160/60-17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-17
Rear suspension travel210 mm (8.3 inches)
Rear suspensionWP monoshock
Front suspension travel200 mm (7.9 inches)
Front suspensionWP USD
Frame typeChromium-molybdenum trellis frame, powder-coated
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity13.50 litres (3.57 gallons)
Wheelbase1,472 mm (58.0 inches)
Ground clearance155 mm (6.1 inches)
Seat height865 mm (34.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.4334 HP/kg
Dry weight148.5 kg (327.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

64.4 hp
Peak Power
3.9s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track58%
City80%
Cornering85%
Daily Riding72%
Touring32%
Passenger38%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest for intermediate to experienced riders who enjoy a lively single-cylinder character; the tall seat and punchy delivery reward confident, active riding.
PurposeA sharp, minimalist streetfighter built for backroad carving, spirited city blasts and quick B-road runs rather than long-haul mileage.
Rider FitVery light (148kg dry) with a lofty 865mm seat and upright, roomy naked-bike stance; slim, flickable and easy to muscle for taller riders.
CharacterA single-cylinder hooligan: torquey thumper punch, razor-sharp handling and no-nonsense KTM attitude packed into a featherweight trellis chassis.
Not Ideal ForNot for tourers, two-up cruisers, or riders wanting all-day comfort, a low seat, or smooth long-distance highway manners.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 KTM 690 Duke Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 865mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 2008 KTM 690 Duke, with a relaxed knee angle of around 135 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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