KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R 2020

When it comes to burning fuel efficiently, two sparks are better than one. The twin spark ignition system makes use of more powerful ignition coils and two sparkplugs in each cylinder head. This makes for an optimized firing sequence, resulting in more power, better control, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

State-of-the-art, machined titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride PVD coating – how impressive does that sound? These feature a flat design, and weigh 19 grams less than steel inlet valves. When combined with the smaller combustion chamber on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, offer a compression ratio of 13.6:1, and ultimately, more power.

Not only does the slipper clutch open when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it also assists when you open up the throttle. The former prevents destabilizing rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating; the latter reduces the hand force required for changing gear, allowing the clutch to be controlled with one trigger happy […]

The Ride-by-Wire on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R goes the extra mile. It electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into the best throttle valve positions for the current riding situation. Choking, jolting and involuntary wheelies are a thing of the past. Voluntary ones, however, could easily be a thing of your future.

Formula1-inspired forged piston technology means we can push the limits of load capacity despite the extremely short and lightweight design. This results in minimized reciprocating weight and maximized responsiveness. The piston skirts also feature a state-of-the-art, hard anodized finish which minimizes friction, adding to the engine’s free-revving nature. What’s more, the hard-wearing durability of these […]

While the pressure lubricated PASC slipper clutch allows for feather-light clutch modulation while accelerating, it’s how it handles slowing down that’s the really impressive bit. When the engine experiences extreme back-torque during aggressive downshifting from speed, the clutch opens to prevent the rear wheel locking, giving the rider full control and perfect entry speed while […]

An intake flange is more than the plumbing that connects the throttle body to the ports in the cylinder head. It is an integral part of the induction system and has to match the airflow characteristics of the cylinder head and camshaft, as well as the displacement and rpm range of the engine. KTM developed […]

New topfeeder injectors and 56 mm throttle bodies provide an improved air to fuel mixture at high rpms. This results in more torque and better fuel economy throughout the rev range.

You don’t always need big changes to make big differences. In fact, when it comes to the PANKL gearbox, we’ve made a few small tweaks which have resulted in quicker shift times, shorter shift action and lighter lever modulation. Smoother shift action also comes courtesy of an improved spline shaft and bronzed copper coating on […]

This is not a case of “bark being worse than bite” – this BEAST roars! Up to 60 mm of drainpipe-like dimensions at the headers optimize gas flow, while 2 catalytic converters control emissions, without compromising the V-twin engine note or horsepower.

Thinner engine casings and revised water and oil cooler mounts have resulted in a 0.8 kg weight saving. Oil delivery has also been improved by way of a lightweight aluminum oil line, eliminating the need for a double wall system. Additionally, the engine carrier bracket and linkage mount have been integrated into the engine case, […]

Thanks to the resonator chambers on the cylinder heads, which have been engineered to increase the torque output in the lower to mid-range rpms, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R power train runs smoother, consumes less fuel and cuts down on CO² emissions by around 10%.

The responsiveness and free-revving nature of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R’s engine are also enhanced by the very low reciprocating weight of its crankshaft. Moreover, the flow-optimized shape of the crank webs boosts the particularly low-loss running of the crank drive. For motor stability, the thickness of the crankshaft’s cone has now been increased […]

In the battle of physics and blasting holes in the space-time continuum, lighter is faster. But when you’re working with a pure naked BEAST, finding the places to trim fat is often a challenge. Weight has been shaved off the crankcases, by making them marginally thinner, which, when combined with a new water pump and […]

To perform like a BEAST, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R needs to breathe like a BEAST. Thanks to an all-new ram air intake positioned in the new headlight mast, this rip snorting arrangement maximizes airflow into an all-new CFD optimized airbox with new, smaller resonator chambers. This arrangement maximizes flow by forcing air into […]

To perform like a BEAST, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R needs to breath like a BEAST. Thanks to an all-new ram air intake positioned in the new headlight mask, this rip snorting arrangement maximizes flow by forcing air into the combustion chambers. This in turn reduces the chance of low air pressure and increases […]

These wheels didn’t just happen by the grace of a designer’s pen – they are the product of a sophisticated CAD system, which determines the best shape in terms of strength and lightness. What that means is that these wheels are engineered down to the finest detail, they are lighter than before and look great.

New, lighter forged aluminum triple clamps with an offset of 32 mm have been matched to an aluminum steering column for added weight savings. Essentially, this is the bit that connects the nut holding the handlebars to the front end.

Brand-new BRIDGESTONE S22 tires – 120/70/17 in the front and 200/55/17 in the rear – have been specifically developed for the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R. Featuring a fine-particle silica compound, they offer much-improved grip in wet weather conditions, making for exceptional characteristics on the road but also phenomenal handling on the track.

With its multiple setting options for spring rebound, compression and damping, the extremely torsion-resistant upside-down telescopic fork from WP Suspension provides you with a personalized suspension set-up. Not only can rebound and compression damping be set separately, but also completely independently from each other thanks to the ‘split principle’ (the left fork tube controls compression […]

To increase feel and traction, the pivot point of the single-sided swingarm has been repositioned 5mm higher relative to the output sprocket for more control when putting the power down. Combined with the repositioning of the engine in the frame, a steeper swingarm angle has been achieved, increasing anti-squat.

Think of the suspension elements on THE BEAST as the muscles that work to get the power to the ground in the best way possible. Every component has been considered to improve the handling, adjustability and performance.

Multi-dexterity is the name of the game when it comes to this BEAST’s tail. An all-new and lighter composite subframe combines a number of functions to save weight and increase functionality. The passenger seat, license plate holder and taillights bolt directly onto the subframe structure with no additional brackets or attachments needed.

With so much propulsive power, the front wheel could become very light, which might lead to unpleasant kick-back on uneven roads or following a slight stimulus at the handlebar. The 1290 SUPER DUKE R prevents this safely with a reliable and sensitive WP steering damper.

The newly developed WP APEX rear shock absorber features separate gas and oil reservoirs, making it lighter and more compact than its predecessor. It is also fully adjustable, with individual high- and low-speed adjusters and a ‘no-tools-needed’ manual preload dial for the ultimate in rear shock set-up.

Through the power of leverage, the new linkage at the rear helps to smooth out rough roads, while still ensuring that full-attack track action remains uncompromised. The progressive damping character also ensures optimized damping and bottoming out resistance.

Lighter and fully adjustable WP APEX forks feature split function compression and rebound settings. This allows riders to fine-tune the front end for full-blown apex attacks, or to achieve perfect plushness for long hours on the road. And if that isn’t enough to find the razor-edge of handling, adjustable preload settings will help you find […]

A new frame concept, which uses the engine as a means to increase torsional rigidity, has resulted in the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R being 3 times stiffer than its predecessor. This allows for an effortless, confidence-inspiring riding position which translate into an ultimately faster ride. This is achieved by maximizing the feedback from the […]

Reigning in THE BEAST comes courtesy of 4-piston BREMBO Stylema monobloc calipers clamping onto 320 mm floating discs up front, and a twin piston floating caliper biting a 240 mm disc at the rear.

There’s no doubting THE BEAST’s performance credentials. But that doesn’t mean riders have to sacrifice long-distance comfort either. While the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R is at home on the track, it’s a naked street bike first. This means passenger comfort has been thoroughly thought-out and has been designed to allow for real-world, 2-up riding.

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R boasts an all-new TFT dashboard with increased functionality. To access this, a great deal of testing was done to develop robust and intuitive motorcycle switchgear, which incidentally pushes all the right buttons. Riders can now adjust the wheel slip easily via paddle buttons on the switchgear, while in TRACK […]

Big lean angles come as standard, thanks to smart positioning of the foot pegs, which also allow for comfort on the road. However, further refinement is also possible with two positions, which lift the pegs higher and further backwards for a more aggressive stance. And as can be expected, the gear shift pattern can be […]

A multicolor combination of relevant information, presented in a clear-cut, uncluttered way. As you rev the engine, the display bars change color, either spurring you on or telling you to back off when the engine’s still cold. The display also automatically adapts its illumination to the ambient light and gets racy when the optional track […]

Completely new and made of steel, the 16 litre fuel tank has been crafted to bulk up THE BEAST’s haunches. Also, the new shape and angle have been designed to support the rider on street and on the track.

Thanks to an all-new, lighter composite subframe, the passenger seat, license plate holder and taillights could be seamlessly incorporated into a neat rear end, which keeps a little sting in the tail.

Form and function are integrated beautifully in the 1290 SUPER DUKE R. Take the headlight for example, a highlight in this bike’s design. The central aluminum heat sink holds the LEDs and keeps the unit cool while it’s busy combining optimal illumination of the near field with maximum light output. And the daytime running lights, […]

There’s no mistaking that this is the meanest bike on the block. A high-quality application process has been used to ensure the signature ‘R’ graphics stay put and never fade, while contrasting colors, tones and textures set the muscled creases of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R off perfectly.

Almost mantis-like, the new LED headlight doubles as a ram air intake, with air being channelled between the lights, keeping them cool, and directly into the airbox, making for a more efficient burn. Besides looking great, the dual-functionality resulted in cleaner, more compact lines and less overall weight.

The optional “Track mode” allows riders to customize wheel slip levels and throttle response to suit their own individual tastes or track conditions. Traction control can be tweaked over 9 levels of slip while MSC is disabled completely. Anti-wheelie can also be disabled completely for those who like to hoist the front wheel across the […]

As its name implies, the TPMS monitors tire pressure and warns riders of potential tire damage in the event of pressure loss on the TFT display. An added convenience when you want to spend more time on the road and less time checking air pressures.

A new angle-adjustable 5 inch TFT screen takes center stage ahead of the rider, featuring a fresh design and innovative new functionality. An updated menu structure gives riders faster access to the various features and allows for more customization of preferred riding setups. The scratch resistant bonded glass display also helps to combat glare.

Three things happen when riders select “Supermoto ABS”. First, all ABS functionality is disabled on the rear wheel, allowing the riders to lock up the brakes and slide into corners. Secondly, the ABS system does not interfere in the event of the rear wheel lifting off the tarmac, allowing for stoppies. And thirdly, cornering ABS […]

Many traditionalists might frown at the sight of electronic rider aids, saying they interfere with the purity of the ride. However, when it comes to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, all electronic features have received an update, providing more feedback from the engine, and less intrusiveness from the safety systems. This means improved Quickshifter+ […]

In a bid to give riders more feedback and ultimately control, the ride modes have been completely reworked and updated. This has resulted in less intrusive traction control in all modes and smoother anti-wheelie functions. Rain mode “Rain mode” is the no-brainer setting for slippery conditions, resulting in maximum traction control, ultra-smooth throttle response and […]

An optional “Performance mode” takes the basic concept of “Track mode” but adapts it for the street. Riders are still able to adjust throttle response, wheel slip and anti-wheelie functions, but retain typical street functions such as Cruise Control and KTM MY RIDE.

Introducing a completely new generation of motorcycle traction control – MTC for short – which uses two different controllers to keep things in check. The most obvious of which is a wheelslip controller which regulates the amount of spin or break in traction at the rear wheel. A pitch angle controller identifies and regulates abrupt […]

Unlike MTC which works when the power gets rolled on, MSR works when the power is wound off. MSR (optional), or Motor Slip Regulation, works with the slipper clutch to balance the throttle, ensuring super-smooth deceleration in the harshest conditions without any unwanted rear wheel lockup. This is deactivated in “Track” and “Supermoto ABS” modes, […]

Based on the state-of-the-art 9.1 MP modulator,the comprehensive Bosch MSC assistance package unites the talents of efficient braking and lightning-quick, efficient pressure modulation with the high quality Brembo hardware to make the most advanced braking system on the market. No one brakes more progressively or safely, even at extreme lean angles. If required, not only […]

While the all-new headlight mask doubles as an intake snorkel, it’s the twin LED headlights that really shine. Sharp, menacing lines enhance THE BEAST’s overall look, while providing ample illumination when it gets dark. Daytime running lights also ensure you will get noticed, which not only earns you kudos when it comes to street cred, […]

Forget about ignition keys and mechanically locked fuel caps, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R features KTM RACE ON! All you need is the transponder key in your pocket and you can unlock THE BEAST.

KTM MY RIDE puts you in control of your smartphone, without losing control of the bars. By using a mobile app. KTM MY RIDE syncs to your smartphone giving you turn-by-turn navigation and access your music library and allows you to make and receive phone calls on the fly.

Long motorway journeys are easily dispatched with the SUPER DUKE R’s cruise control system. Easily activated and controlled by a switch on the left hand side of the handlebar, riders can set cruise control in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gear, between 40 km/h and 200 km/h. That’s one way to save energy for the […]

Auto-cancelling turn signals are a big improvement in terms of safety, as it is now impossible to for forget that they are activated and flashing into infinitum. Indicators stop flashing after 10 seconds and in 150 meters.

An optional Adaptive Brake Light system adds a little more visibility to extreme braking situations, by illuminating an additional light when braking hard or suddenly.