EICMA 2015: KTM 1290 Super Duke GT and 1290 Super Duke R Special Edition launched

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is a machine that truly lives up to the name “The Beast”.  It could be an effective touring machine, if you could mount bags and a windscreen to it. Well that’s exactly what drove KTM with its latest model, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, which takes the 173hp streetfighter, and gives its bags, more fairing, and a windshield. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT increases its touring capability with the inclusion of pannier mounts that are integrated onto the GT, and a windshield that is adjustable. With fourth-gear power wheelies, no one can say that the KTM 1290 Super Duke R is slow, and the street fighter has a surprisingly comfortable riding triangle that makes going on longer trips a piece of cake. Similarly, the foot pegs are lower for better space for your legs, more fuel capacity has been added for longer trips on a full tank and you can adjust the handlebars by 22mm with its four different positions.



Suspension is handled by WP Suspension, and includes a semi-active electronic suspension system for the 2016 KTM Super Duke GT. Also included is a Bosch MSC “cornering ABS” system, LED cornering lights, tire pressure monitoring, automatic turn indicator reset, hill hold control, heated grips, cruise control, a quick-shifter, and a motor slip regulator, which works with the slipper clutch.



On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R Special Edition is an easy motorcycle to explain. You take the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, raid the KTM power parts catalog, slap some gold paint on the sucker, and call it done. The add-on’s include an Akrapovi? titanium exhaust, wave brake discs, stiffer triple clamps, adjustable hand levers, carbon fiber engine cover, and of course the orange anodized paint scheme. KTM says that the 2016 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Special Edition will be available only for a limited amount of time.