Just as we’d started to get used to the brutal power and naked looks of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, the Austrian company’s added a new headlight and instrument cluster and given the engine a thorough breathing over.
That new headlight is an LED unit, and it will be shared with all KTM’s adventure bikes. Compare it with the old unit here.
Costa wasn’t too complimentary about the old instrument cluster, either, but the new one is supposedly much improved.
The engine still makes 177 hp, but it’s been tweaked for better and smoother response. According to KTM, here’s what the engineers did:
- 10 mm shorter velocity stack to enhance power and broaden the usable powerband
- New resonator chambers placed on the cylinder head for smoother power at low RPM
- Higher compression ratio of 13.6:1 thanks to the flat design of machined titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride coating
- New 48 mm USD split front forks by WP suspension with separate damping circuits with stiffer fork springs and sportier settings
- New WP shock absorber with a stiffer spring for a more balanced chassis
- Metzeler M7RR super sport tires for high levels of grip and handling
- Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) with cornering ABS by Bosch including Supermoto mode
- Optional dealer-installed Performance Pack combines Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), Quickshifter (up and down), and KTM MY RIDE
- Optional dealer-installed Track Pack with ‘Track’ ride mode, which allows three drive modes, anti-wheelie off, TC slip adjust, and launch control
- Cruise control for long distance convenience
- Keyless system for less hassle and security
The KTM 1290 Duke R upgrades prove the naked bike segment is stronger than ever.
