2017 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT
FIRST RIDE
P58
doodads do their thing. It's re-
markable how easy it is to get
used to the electronic safety net.
So that's the word on pure
road performance, where the GT
excels. But how are its touring
credentials? I'd say good, but
not spectacular.
The riding position is comfort-
able, with an upright stance and
perfect bar placement for my
6'1" frame. The footpegs offer a
decent amount of room, how-
ever, at the end of the ride my
knees started to ache. Having
said that, I'm inclined to give the
GT the benefit of the doubt in
this regard, as the previous day's
cross-country/Trans-Atlantic
flight no doubt contributed to
my leg discomfort. As for the
seat, there's nothing to complain
about—though some riders may
find the 32.8-inch height on the
tall side.
The GT's half-fairing and
adjustable windscreen provide
decent protection, but the
rider's head and shoulders are
exposed. I personally don't
mind this level of coverage on
a touring mount, provided the
wind that does channel through
to the rider isn't turbulent. In this
regard the GT does an admirable
job, with a steadying airflow
void of buffeting. It is curious,
however, that KTM didn't incor-
porate some handguards, which
can make a world of difference
in long-distance rider comfort.
However, the GT does feature
heated grips as standard kit, a
welcome feature on a touring rig.
The six-gallon tank ensures at
least a 200-mile range, another
touring plus.
While KTM describes it as
a sport-touring bike, the GT
doesn't pretend to be a true tour-
ing platform in the mold of the
traditional sport-touring models,
like the Yamaha FJR1300 or
BMW R 1200 RT. Instead it slots
in more with the "Adventure"
tourer designs, like the Ducati
Multistrada, Kawasaki Versys
1000, or the bike I think it is
most similar to—BMW's S 1000
XR. It may not be ideal touring
comfort, but would I want to pile
on 500-mile days touring aboard
the GT? Yes, absolutely.
The GT's panniers, which
come standard on the U.S.
model (optional in Europe),
are easy to open and operate.
Sport touring has come a long way.
