2017 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R
FIRST TEST
P62
electronic leaders in the Aprilia
1100 Tuono and the BMW S
1000 R and upgrades the old
model from basic traction con-
trol, ABS and three ride modes.
It already had the engine: now
the most powerful V-twin in the
KTM lineup produces a claimed
177 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of
wheelie-inducing, front-tire-sav-
ing torque, and if you delve into
the heart of the beast, you'll find
evolutionary updates like new
pistons, a slightly altered crank,
intake work and a new exhaust.
There are subtle changes to
the suspension, the ride is a
touch more compact with the
one-piece handlebar moved low-
er and closer to the rider, there's
all-new styling with a new, super-
sharp LED headlight and colors
that give the Super Duke R an
even bigger "Get The F' Outta
my Way!" attitude than ever be-
fore with gnarly orange wheels
INTAKE WORKED
The new KTM 1290 Super Duke
R's intake funnels have been
shortened by 10mm and resonator
chambers have been fitted to the
intake tracts, all in the name of
giving smoother power below 5000
rpm. They also help to increase
power delivery across the whole
rev range, which is now 500 rpm
higher than the 2014-2016 model.
CYLINDER HEAD
GETS A WORKOVER
The dual-spark cylinder heads
get new DLC (Diamond Like
Carbon)-coated finger followers
and new titanium intake valves,
replacing the old steel units, that
save a claimed 20 grams each.
Compression has also been
increased from 13:2 to 13.6:1.
