2017 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT
FIRST RIDE
P56
slipper clutch. Both times the
electronics cut in and corrected
the problem immediately.
The GT's transmission pack-
age features a light clutch lever
pull and well-sorted six-speed
gearbox. A standard issue
quickshifter delivers seamless
upshifts, while the aforemen-
tioned MSR and slipper clutch
are so smooth in operation that
the absence of an autoblipping
downshifter isn't worth grip-
ing about—except that they are
found on some of the GT's sales
competition.
Engine performance is im-
pressive to be sure, but in my
estimation it's the GT's handling
that distinguishes this new KTM.
The GT is surefooted, turns in
with precision and tracks effort-
lessly. I'd rate it is as one of the
best handling bikes I've ever
ridden. And the credit is owed
in large part to the semi-active
Don't let the
word touring
scare you,
there's plenty of
sport in the GT.
"ENGINE
PERFORMANCE IS
IMPRESSIVE TO
BE SURE, BUT IN
MY ESTIMATION
IT'S THE GT'S
HANDLING THAT
DISTINGUISHES
THIS NEW KTM."
