KTM 1290 Super Duke R, or the “Beast,” is a naked high-performance motorcycle, with raw power combined with the latest technology and agile handling. One of KTM’s stars in the range, this flagship is for those who want the ultimate riding experience, be it on roads or on the track. The 2024 version of the Super Duke R remains stiff-necked true to its identity as a monster of naked bike, honing the ergonomics, suspension, and electronics to an even finer point than before.
Engine and Performance:
Inside of 1290 Super KTM Duke R, sits KTM’s 1,301cc, 75-degree V-twin engine, part of the LC8 engine architecture. This creature has hit the charts at 177 horsepower (130 kW), and 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) of torque at just 6,500 rpm. The power train includes a 6-speed transmission and slipper clutch to downshift without incurring wheel lockup at the rear. KTM has set the power delivery in such a way that it is linear yet invigorating with acceleration. This leaves room for the Super Duke R to achieve scorching straight line speeds while still showing unparalleled tractability in low gears.
Chassis and Suspension:
The chassis of the 1290 Super KTM Duke R has a steel trellis frame, with an allowance for high levels of supporting rigidity, stability, and pretty precise handling with great feel and feedback from the road or track. The weight is optimized to maintain an agile bike with necessary stability at high speeds.
Of the highest order are the suspension systems: wp apex fully adjustable suspension components at both ends. With a 48mm WP APEX USD fork up front and a WP APEX shock in the rear, it is, of course, all digital and ridden ally available for adjustment via ride modes: Sport, Street, Track, etc. It is what makes the Super Duke R just as comfortable on city streets as it is razor-sharp on a race track. The suspension is set up with optimal handling dynamics: excellent balance, adequate feedback, and excellent control even at extreme lean angles.
Braking System:
Braking for the 1290 Super KTM Duke R has been monumental, with dual 320 mm front discs, Bemba Style callipers, and a 265mm rear disc, the latter featuring a Brembo caliper. It’s not every day that you can find this level of vigorous braking combined with cornering ABS, which adjusts on the fly the amount of braking to avoid locking up at extreme lean angles. The electronics allow for full configurability of the system, and it is available in both track and street settings to vary levels of intervention. The brakes are designed to offer excellent feel and stopping power with superb modulation for both aggressive braking and smooth, controlled stops.
Electronics and Ride Modes:
One of the most impressive features of the Super KTM Duke R is the suite of high-tech electronics, which includes multiple ride modes, a full-colour TFT display, and an advanced traction control system.
1. Ride Modes: There are ride modes selectable by the bike from four options: Sport, Street, Track and Rain. The modes determine the adjustments to throttle response, power delivery as well as traction control. The Track mode will deliver razor-sharp acceleration or on a racetrack allowing the rider to have a harder power delivery with fewer interferences from electronics. The Rain mode is targeting wet or slippery conditions by the reduced sensitivity of the throttle and hence providing the rider a better control in adverse weather conditions.
2. MSR (Motor Slip Regulation) This feature prevents the slipping of the rear wheel during a sharp downshift by modulating the engine’s torque and thereby giving it more stability in hard braking conditions.
3. TC (Traction Control) and ABS: The Super Duke R boasts lean-sensitive traction control with cornering ABS that work well in harmony for maximum stability and safety during extreme riding. The system lets the rider have their preference for intervention or completely disable some functions in Track mode for full freedom.
4. Quick shifter+: Quick shifter+ is a system with the potential for clutch-less operation, and in this mode, it provides long-travel upshift and downshift smoothness to allow for utterly unhesitant changes of gear at maximum speed with rather minimal power loss. This is particularly useful on hard riding or on track use.
Design and Ergonomics:
The Super KTM Duke R has an aggressive, muscular design that reflects the raw power. It features a sculpted fuel tank, sharp bodywork, and an exposed frame that forms underlines of the minimalist “beastly” aesthetic. A large, angular headlight has been incorporated along with a strong dominating posture and a pronounced tail section on this bike.
The ergonomics are quite sport-oriented, yet it can be comfortable enough for the day-to-day ride. It has a handlebar in higher position, which offers neutral riding posture, providing the rider with much control on long rides or in an urban jungle. Foot pegs are set at mid-to-rearward position, giving aggressive riding stance, and the seat offers reasonable comfort even on longer journeys.
At 835mm tall to the saddle, it shouldn’t be a problem for riders with average inseam lengths; those with shorter inseams might find it a bit too tall, though. The 16-liter/4.2-gallon fuel tank should be adequate for long-distance touring, but tourers the Kawasaki is not- it’s much more performance- and handling-oriented.
Technology and Instrumentation:
The 1290 Super KTM Duke R comes fitted with this full-color TFT display, showing you all those details you need-qua-essential information, such as the speed, engine RPM, fuel level, selected gear, and trip info. It also happens to be integrated with KTM MY RIDE; it connects your smartphone for navigation and music control while on the move.
Weight and Dimensions:
The curb weight of the 1290 Super KTM Duke R comes in at about 189 kg (417 lbs); that’s pretty light for a motorcycle with this engine and power output. With the lightweight, rigid chassis and sporty suspension setup, the Super Duke R offers one of the dynamic responses and the most naked bikes for riders. The wheelbase measures 1,470 mm to ensure even stability at higher speed yet tight corner holding.
Conclusion:
This is the power of a true naked bike: uncompromising power, cutting-edge electronics, and precise handling that can be experienced only on special motorcycles like the KTM 1290 Super Duke R. Suitable for riders seeking an immersive and intense riding experience whether on twisty mountain roads, urban streets, or racing circuit. Super KTM Duke R impresses with a powerful V-twin, high-grade electronics, perfect suspension and braking arrangements, and will long remain one of the best naked bikes available, embodying KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy-a machine for thrills, for control, and for perfect performance in a variety of riding situations.