2017 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R
FIRST TEST
P64
feat made possible by the reso-
nator chambers mounted on the
cylinder heads that help to mas-
sage out power pulses below
5000 rpm, and the light mass
of the crank's flywheel. It's still
got that NASCAR-style grunt the
minute you crack the gas open—
KTM claims the engine has a
stonking 73 lb-ft of torque at just
2500 rpm—and yes, that's every
bit as fun and potentially license
crushing as it sounds.
Another welcome addition to
the ride experience is the op-
tional quickshifter. The previous
engine's gearbox action was one
of its shortcomings but now the
ratios slot in beautifully, although
I admit I find it annoying the
Super Duke's quickshifter is an
after purchase extra, consider-
ing the competition of Yamaha's
FZ-10, the BMW S 1000 R and
ELECTRONICS
Electronics now include optional
Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), three
different throttle modes of "Street,"
"Sport" and "Rain," as well as the
optional "Track Pack." This gives
access to the new nine-stage MTC
(Motorcycle Traction Control) system,
via the MTC Spin Adjuster. The
electronics also include anti-wheelie,
launch control, cruise control, tire
pressure monitoring, an optional
quickshifter, optional KTM MY Ride
and the Bosch Cornering ABS system
that can be turned off if required.
SUSPENSION
WP has fitted a heavier fork spring,
as well as revising the rear shock
damping characteristics to give a
firmer, sportier ride than the 2014-
'16 model. The shock comes with
high- and low-speed compression
damping, but there's still no preload
adjustment on the 48mm fork.
Compression and rebound damping
adjustments are split between left
and right fork legs.
Road manners
haven't been
compromised
for more track
prowess.
