KTM 1290 super duke r
this month i have mostly been… “Trying to lose weight...”
Ihaven’t clocked-up many miles this month, what with Sportsbike of the Year and other trips abroad. But we ride our longtermers throughout the year regardless of weather. Having use of a bike for this length of time offers a perfect test of machinery and unearths shoddy build quality, furry bolts and plenty of cleaning opportunities.
But one thing I did do this month is make the short ride over to Bristol on the Super Duke R to see the guys and gals at Racebolt; manufacturers of quality, er, race bolts, who’ve been supplying components to the race industry for the past 15 years. They’re now selling directly to the public, and it’s nice to see a British engineering firm punting quality British-made produce, rather than imported far-eastern cheap crap that’ll rot at the first sign of autumn.
We’ve come up with a plan for evaluation purposes to change one side of the KTM’s bolts and fasteners to highlight deterioration over the coming months, while leaving the other side as KTM intended. As good as the stock kit is, it’s also handy getting rid of the awkward torque bolts that KTM insists on using.
Of course, no motorcycle manufacturer utilises titanium bolts (because they’re not cheap) but the visual improvement is clearly evident – as is the important bit, the weight saving. Racebolt replaced a total of 80 bolts on the SD-R, with a weight saving of 0.7kg. If the other side
Racebolt replaced a total of 80 bolts on one side, with a weight saving of 700 grams...”
was changed, we’d be looking at shedding 1.5kg; a sizeable chunk when you think about it.
The retail cost for the titanium bolts is £358.22, whereas the equivalent bolts in stainless is £194.32. Weight saving aside, the longevity of the bolts is key for road riding all year round. It also ensures that your bike’s residual value remains high. Furry bolts are the first sign that negotiating on a used price is about to happen. Get rid of the ugly ones and you can almost recoup the money you spend on the aftermarket bolts in the first place. We’ll be keeping you updated throughout the year with the two sides’ progress, but I’m hoping that the rejigged weight distribution won’t hurt the wheelies...
Speaking of which, in other news I still haven’t been arrested. It seems as though coppers don’t look twice at a speeding naked sportsbike. Because of the relaxed, upright body position, it’s almost like you’re viewed as a valued member of society, rather than a hooligan with only naughty thoughts going through your mind. And long may that continue. If it doesn’t, I’m in trouble!