I have a 790 Duke so its very similiar to the non R 890. I love it as a daily and a weekend bike. I've ridden a few of the older model MT-09/FZ-09 and while they definitely have more power than the Duke, the Duke is a much more exciting bike even when doing mundane things. 44,000km on it and it's been all over Ontario, Pennsylvania and Deal's Gap.
As for reliability concerns, yes, there are a few worry spots but its not the end of the world if you have any mechanical inclination. Nothing that is an immediate show stopper that would make you afraid to take it out of the garage.
The engine characteristic is a huge amount of mid range grunt and with the changes to the 890, decent rpm limit. It is nimble, sharp but forgiving with Ontario road conditions. The riding position is very relaxed but with the very narrow tank, you have a ton of space on the bike to move around. I got the powerparts Ergo seat and its a very good compromise between comfort and grip. It's literally the same profile as the stock seat but gel filled. Leathers grip to it well.
Electronics are excellent. The TC has saved me a few times. Lets say that doing a twisty in a canyon in Amish country Pennsylvania I found out there's literally horse sh on the apex. An almost high side from a rock on the road at Devil's Triangle where only my left hand was touching the bike at one point, saw the bike pick itself up from lean so I landed almost on the seat just in time to tip in on the next bend. Yeah, all common sense avoidable but I did say the TC saved me!
Otherwise, the TC doesn't get in the way. Sure, the anti-wheelie fights with the throttle when accelerating from stop but I think its more about grabbing more than a wrist full in 2nd gear than it is the anti-wheelie being too aggressive. You can always turn it off too.
The up and down quick shifter is very nice and smooth. A little game I like to play is no hands to the red. From normal traffic speed, hands on hips, using just the auto blip and the rear brake, come as close to a full stop in first gear without stalling. The gearing is pretty short, so you'll always have the opportunity to bang through the gears.
For aftermarket, I couldn't tell you. I have mine relatively stock as its my do everything bike but not my track bike. I'm also a firm believer of seen not heard when it comes to annoucing my presence. This is not a loud pipes comment but an unwanted attention statement. It's nice to have a few roads in Toronto where you can keep your tire profile from being squared off.
With the stock pegs and bar, you can stand up like its an ADV bike if you aren't too tall. You can tuck on the tank no problem. It's not rear-sets but I don't personally see the Duke as a track bike where they are needed.
Any other questions about the 790?
Adrian @ AceMoto with it on the dyno. Another of it in the wild after a run.
