KTM 1290 Super Duke R review, test ride

KTM's new flagship, the 1290 Super Duke R, is ready to race. We head to Spain for quick ride.

Published on Oct 21, 2013 04:36:00 PM

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The handling of the Super Duke R sweetens the experience further. Light steering, comfortable seating and well sorted suspension make this brawny motorcycle fun and usable in a wide range of circumstances. We rode on motorways, over mountain roads and even around a race track, and the new 1290 felt as friendly as possible, and enjoyable everywhere.

The second weapon in this brawny street naked’s arsenal is its sophisticated electronics. Traction control and engine modes have been wrapped into three riding modes; Rain is the softest mode you can pick, Street is best for more punch and finally, Sport mode offers immediate acceleration and more slip. The traction control steps in with a smoothness that lets you focus on the pleasure of riding the Super Duke, while skipping the painful bits. The new KTM also comes equipped with a Bosch ABS system, although this has been given a distinctly KTM flavour thanks to ‘Supermoto’ mode. This setting unhooks the rear brake from the system so that you can lock the rear to get the big R to slide into corners!

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R is an incredible machine, one with the ability to make an impression in an instant. It’s raw and macho to look at, with the power to match. The Super Duke R is, however, quite far from uncivilized. With its formidable array of electronics, “the beast” knows when to put its best foot forward and behave. Despite that, it is all so rewarding and enjoyable for experienced riders.

If your hunger for excitement is insatiable, then just take a deep breath and switch the electronics off. Then it’s just you and “the beast”. One thing is for sure, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R will relish the opportunity.