The KTM 1290 Super Duke R, often referred to as “The Beast”, is a hyper naked streetfighter motorcycle from the Austrian manufacturer KTM. It is one of the most aggressive and meanest looking streetfighters ever made. This iconic streetfighter embodies raw power and cutting-edge engineering in a package that delivers thrills on every corner. Whether you’re carving through canyons or commuting through city streets, this bike demands respect and rewards skilled riders with an unforgettable experience. This beast is powered by an LC8, V-Twin engine that comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox. With the update in 2017, the motor is the most powerful LC8 engine ever built by KTM.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is not just a motorcycle, it is a statement. A statement of intent, a declaration of speed, and an embodiment of controlled aggression. This is a machine designed for riders who crave pure, adrenaline-pumping thrills with every twist of the throttle. From its menacing stance to its track-honed technology, the Super Duke R oozes performance.
KTM’s flagship naked motorcycle, the legendary 1290 Super Duke R, is a force to be reckoned with. Renowned for its raw, unapologetic power and razor-sharp handling, this hyper-naked is a testament to KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy. Let’s see the specifications, performance, design, riding characteristics and others that make the Super Duke R a true streetfighting icon.
Specifications
At the heart of the beast lies a fire-breathing 1301cc LC8 V-twin engine, renowned for its earth-shattering power and torque figures. This powerplant produces an eye-watering 180 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque, propelling the Super Duke R to license-shredding speeds in the blink of an eye. A sophisticated electronics suite, including ride modes, traction control, wheelie control, and cornering ABS, aids in harnessing this immense power.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is powered by a 1301 cc, LC8, V-Twin, DOHC engine with 8 valves. The engine has a bore and stroke of 108 mm × 71 mm. The fuel supply is managed by an Electronic Fuel Injection System. The cooling system is liquid-based, and the ignition is a twin spark ignition. The transmission is a 6-Speed Manual with a PASC Slipper Clutch. The final drive is a 525 X-Ring Chain. The bike complies with EU5 emission standards.
Highlights of Specification
- Engine: 1301cc, liquid-cooled, 75-degree V-twin engine
- Power: Approximately 180 horsepower (at the crank)
- Torque: Approximately 140 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed with quickshifter+
- Fuel Capacity: 18 liters (4.8 gallons)
- Seat Height: 835 mm (32.9 in)
- Dry Weight: 189 kg (417 lbs)
Power & Performance
The heart of the Super Duke R is its monstrous LC8 V-twin. This refined engine generates staggering horsepower figures and a tidal wave of torque that surges from the bottom of the rev range. The accompanying soundtrack is pure mechanical fury, with an exhaust note that roars with authority. However, the 1290 is not just about brute strength. Advanced engine mapping and a powerful ride-by-wire system deliver a refined throttle response, making it surprisingly tractable for an engine this potent.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R churns out a maximum power of 180 HP at 9,500 RPM and a peak torque of 140 Nm at 8,000 RPM. The ride by wire throttle body helps it accelerate from 0-100 km/h under 2.9 seconds.
Harnessing this power is a 6-speed transmission equipped with a seamless quickshifter+. This allows the rider to make lightning-fast gear changes without the need for the clutch, keeping the engine on the boil and making acceleration even more ferocious.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R’s performance is nothing short of explosive. Acceleration is brutal, with an unrelenting surge of power across the rev range. The seamless 6-speed quickshifter allows clutchless shifts, keeping you pinned to your seat as you blast through gears. Thanks to its advanced electronics, the Super Duke R manages to balance unbridled savagery with a degree of controllability, making it a weapon equally potent in skilled hands.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R Top Speed
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R, has a top speed of 174 mph or 280+ Km/h. This makes it one of the fastest bikes in the hyper naked streetfighter segment. It can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.75 seconds and 0-100km/h in 2.92 seconds, making it one of the fastest bikes in the hyper naked streetfighter segment.
Chassis, Suspension & Brakes
The Super Duke R’s trellis frame is a work of both structural and aesthetic beauty. Ultra-lightweight and rigid, it provides a rock-solid foundation allowing riders to maximize the bike’s handling potential Fully-adjustable, high-end WP suspension front to rear offers a wide range of tuning for both street and track riding. This allows for a setup perfectly tailored to personal riding preferences.
Bringing this beast to a halt is a potent braking package featuring dual Brembo radial calipers up front, matched to a single-piston rear caliper. This combination delivers exceptional stopping power and outstanding modulation at the lever, inspiring confidence at speed.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R features a Chrome-Moly Tubular Space Frame. The front suspension is a 48 mm WP Apex Inverted Fork, and the rear suspension is a WP Apex Monoshock. The front wheel travel is 125 mm, and the rear wheel travel is 140 mm. The bike is equipped with dual 320 mm Brembo Stylema Monobloc Callipers Disc brakes at the front wheel and a single 240 mm disc brake at the rear wheel. The bike also features 2-Channels Cornering ABS.
KTM has built its reputation on agile, race-ready chassis, and the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is no exception. A lightweight yet super-strong chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame provides incredible rigidity, enhancing precision and feedback. Top-of-the line WP APEX suspension, fully adjustable front and rear, absorbs bumps and imperfections with composure, delivering an incredibly planted ride. Powerful Brembo brakes with radially mounted calipers offer phenomenal stopping power and modulation, allowing you to reign in the beast when necessary.
Build & Design
The 1290 Super Duke R’s design is a perfect marriage of form and function. KTM’s signature orange livery and aggressive angles scream performance even at a standstill. Every component serves a purpose, with minimal bodywork giving the bike its naked streetfighter aesthetic. The sculpted fuel tank adds to its muscular stance, while the split LED headlight assembly provides both excellent visibility and a menacing glare at night.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a naked bike. The 2014–2016 models suspension was considered to be too soft, but the 2017 update has addressed this with stiffer springs. The bike comes with Cruise control as standard and has upgraded electronics such as lean angle sensitive traction control, ride by wire, and optional track mode along with the previous model’s cornering ABS, quickshifter, riding modes, etc.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R’s design is as aggressive as its performance. Its angular, muscular bodywork exudes a predatory aura. The characteristic split LED headlight adds to its intimidating presence. With premium components like the titanium Akrapovič exhaust, the Super Duke R visually shouts its performance potential. It’s a machine that demands attention, making no excuses for its single-minded focus on delivering the ultimate naked sportbike experience.
Riding Comfort
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R offers a reasonably upright and cozy riding position. Riders can customize the ergonomics to their preferences using adjustable handlebars and footpegs, making it appropriate for both aggressive riding and longer distances.
Despite its performance, the Super Duke R offers a surprisingly comfortable riding position. The seat is well-padded with room to move around, and the handlebar setup places the rider in a position that balances sport and everyday usability. While this is undoubtedly not a touring bike, it won’t leave you cramped and sore even after extended rides.
Although the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is unquestionably a performance-driven machine, it doesn’t neglect rider comfort altogether. The seat, while firm to provide ample support during hard riding, is well-shaped and surprisingly manageable for daily commutes or short blasts. The bike’s adjustable handlebars and footpegs offer some range for fine-tuning the rider’s position.
Still, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R doesn’t pretend to be a long-distance touring machine. The riding position will eventually become tiring for extended rides, and wind protection is minimal by design.
Electronics & Technology
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a technologically advanced motorcycle, equipped with a suite of electronic aids that enhance both performance and safety. It comes with three riding modes, including two optional track and performance modes. The bike features a Motorcycle Traction Control and Motor Slip Regulation system, which helps maintain control during aggressive acceleration and deceleration. It also has an advanced cornering ABS system with a supermoto mode. The bike’s electronics are further enhanced by a bi-directional quick shifter, adaptive brake light, and multiple riding modes. The TFT instrument console with a menu switch provides the rider with all the necessary information.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is brimming with advanced electronics and rider aids designed to make it both terrifyingly fast and surprisingly manageable:
- Ride Modes: The Super Duke R offers multiple ride modes (Rain, Street, Sport, and optional Track and Performance modes), which adjust throttle response, traction control sensitivity, and even anti-wheelie behavior for different conditions or riding styles.
- Cornering ABS and Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC): The Bosch-developed cornering ABS system enables safe and powerful braking even when leaned over, while MTC prevents unwanted slides and wheel spin.
- Motor Slip Regulation (MSR): MSR complements the MTC system by reducing engine braking when aggressive downshifts might otherwise unsettle the chassis – a track-focused feature.
- Supermoto Mode: Disengages rear-wheel ABS and lessens front-wheel intervention, aimed at riders who love to back it in and slide the rear tire with confidence.
- TFT Display: A full-color TFT display provides the rider with all essential information, as well as allowing for customization and on-the-fly adjustment of various settings.
- Optional Tech Pack: Further enhances the electronic arsenal with Quickshifter+ (clutchless up and down shifts), cruise control, hill-hold control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Service & Customization
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a highly customizable motorcycle. There are numerous aftermarket parts and accessories available for owners who wish to personalize their bikes. For instance, a custom KTM 1290 Super Duke R named “Caty M. Glam” was created by a custom motorcycle shop in Hamburg, Germany. The bike was heavily customized, with each individual component receiving custom treatment.
As for service, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R has a detailed maintenance schedule available in the owner’s manual. Regular service and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and performance of the bike.
Like any high-performance machine, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R needs regular attention to keep it roaring. KTM recommends service intervals every 15,000 km (9320 miles), helping ensure reliability. When it comes to customization, the Super Duke R shines with an extensive catalog of KTM PowerParts:
- Performance upgrades: Akrapovic exhausts, re-mapped ECUs, and air filter upgrades can unleash additional horsepower.
- Ergonomic modifications: Aftermarket seats, adjustable rear sets, and different handlebar options allow tailoring of riding position.
- Visual flare: Endless choices exist, from carbon fiber accents to custom graphics kits, to make the Super Duke R uniquely yours.
- Style & Protection: Carbon fiber components, frame sliders, and other visual upgrades.
- Luggage & Touring: Tank bags, tail bags, and even semi-rigid panniers for added practicality.
Servicing a high-performance machine like the Super Duke R often demands specialized knowledge, making it crucial to use qualified KTM technicians for proper maintenance.
Who Should Buy the KTM 1290 Super Duke R
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a motorcycle designed for riders who crave power, performance, and advanced technology. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy long-distance rides, thanks to its powerful engine and ergonomic design. However, it’s also a bike that requires a certain level of skill to fully exploit its potential. Therefore, it’s best suited for experienced riders who can handle its aggressive power delivery and advanced electronics.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is not a beginner’s motorcycle. Its potent mix of power and tech is best suited for these types of riders:
- Experienced Sportbike Enthusiasts: Riders looking for a more upright and visceral riding experience without sacrificing technology and performance.
- Track Day Regulars: The Super Duke R’s chassis and electronics are designed for high-speed cornering and maximum performance on the track.
- Thrill Seekers: Those craving pure, unfiltered riding excitement delivered with KTM’s characteristic no-nonsense attitude.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R Price
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a premium motorcycle, and its price reflects its high-end features and capabilities. The expected price of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R in India is around Rs 14 lakh or $18,000 USD. However, the actual price may vary depending on the region and any additional features or accessories chosen by the buyer.
Competitors of KTM 1290 Super Duke R
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R faces competition from several other high-performance motorcycles. Some of its top competitors include the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, BMW S 1000 RR, and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, etc. Each of these bikes offers its own unique set of features and capabilities, making the choice largely dependent on individual rider preferences.
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a premium motorcycle, and its price reflects that. The exact cost varies by location, but expect it to be near the top of its class. Here are some of its key rivals like 1390 Super Duke R:
- Ducati Streetfighter V4 S: The Italian icon rivals KTM with its breathtaking design and MotoGP-derived tech.
- Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory: Another Italian thoroughbred, famed for its sophisticated electronics suite.
- BMW S 1000 RR: The German powerhouse offers refined performance and tech-laden features.
- Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS: The British contender brings retro-inspired looks and thrilling triple-cylinder performance.
Conclusion
The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a motorcycle designed for experienced riders who crave adrenaline and visceral thrills. It’s a raw, unapologetic beast that demands respect and offers unparalleled performance for skilled hands. While not the most practical daily ride, its unmatched combination of power, precision, and aggressive styling makes it an iconic streetfighter and a worthy object of desire for any motorcycle enthusiast.
In short, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a beast of a machine, offering a blend of power, performance, and comfort. If raw power, razor-sharp handling, and an unapologetic character are what you crave, few motorcycles can match the visceral intensity of KTM’s Super Duke R. It stands as a testament to KTM’s engineering prowess and commitment to delivering high-performance motorcycles.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R FAQs
Is the KTM 1290 Super Duke R a good beginner bike?
Absolutely not. This is a high-performance bike for advanced riders.
Is KTM 1290 Super Duke R comfortable to ride?
Comfort isn’t its strong suit. It’s designed for performance, so the ergonomics are aggressive.
Does KTM 1290 Super Duke R require a lot of maintenance?
As a high-performance bike, expect more frequent maintenance intervals compared to less powerful bikes.
Is KTM 1290 Super Duke R a reliable motorcycle?
KTM’s have improved in reliability, but some issues can still crop up. Do your research and consider extended warranties.
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