KTM 1290 Super Duke R

CHASSIS

The trellis frame uses wide diameter tubes, and the LCBengine remains a stressed member. The new cast aluminium sub-frame is shorter than previously and weighs less than 1.5kg. The sexy singlesided swing-arm remains.

RIDER AIDS

In full spec as tested, five rider modes: rain, street, sport, performance and track. Cornering ABS with a Supermoto option, traction control, and anti-wheelie come as standard. However, the quickshifter is optional, as is the MSR(motor slip regulation), and adaptive brake light.

SUSPENSION

WP,owned by KTM, have it covered. New fully adjustable 48mm forks up front, with a fully adjustable WP unit on the rear, with low and high-speed compression. Preload is manually changeable without tools, thanks to easy access.

ENGINE

The LCBis now EuroScompliant, yet KTM has managed to squeeze even more from the V-twin, 177bhp @ 9500rpm and 103lb-ft@ B000rpm, and it's even lighter by 1kg.

WHEELS/TYRES

The wheels have reduced in weight by almost 300 grams. Specially designed Bridgestone 522 rubber, which features a specific rear carcass to deal with the huge amount of torque.

DASH

An adjustable all-new Sin full-colour TFT unit, with Bluetooth connectivity accessed by the new switchgear. The paddle shift on the left bar allows the change of rider modes on the move.

BRAKES

The Brembo MS0 radial monobloc calipers have been replaced by new Brembo Stylema items, saving 90g of unsprung weight. Disc size remains the same at 320mm.