KTM’s flagship street motorcycle underwent its most radical re-invention in 2020.Boasting several tweaks and engineering improvements.
The 2020 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R underwent dramatic weight savings with a reworked LC8 engine.
The electronics package gets updated. Making THE BEAST one of the most technologically advanced naked motorcycles in the segment.
For the model year 2022. KTM has launched a new KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R incarnation that delivers precisely what riders are looking for.
KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO
Dubbed the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO and drawing on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R’s already legendary status among riders. The EVO brings more tech to the fore, adding 2nd generation WP APEX semi-active suspension from WP.
With new Semi-Active Technology (SAT). The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO retains its class-leading hyper-naked ferocity. But gains an even more comprehensive range of usability.
It allows THE BEAST to go from a comfortable rocket on poor road surfaces. To a hardened track-ready apex-splitting weapon – at a simple click of a switch.
MODES
Three different damping modes – COMFORT, STREET, SPORT are available as standard.
In addition, the spring preload of the rear suspension can be set via the TFT menu to up to 20 mm in 10 steps. Depending on the rider’s requirements. In this case, the adjustability setting ranges from 0% to 100%, in 10% or 2mm increments.
SUSPENSION PRO
In addition to the standard suspension settings. The optional SUSPENSION PRO package offers three more damping modes. Namely TRACK, ADVANCED, and AUTO.
- TRACK provides the stiffest available setting developed internally by KTM test riders to give the ideal setting for track days. And specifically for faster race tracks where you need additional support under hard braking.
- ADVANCED allows the rider to select the level of damping for the fork and shock on a scale from 1 to 8. It suits more technical riders looking for minor marginal gains. And fine-tune and tailor their suspension settings for their riding styles.
AUTO is the most intelligent trio and capable of detecting different riding styles and automatically adapting the suspension damping. Being softer and more comfortable when cruising through the city.
And harder and more focused when riding aggressively on a fast mountain pass. This auto adjustment between modes happens almost instantly without any interference in the ride.
SUSPENSION PRO also offers three automatic preload auto-levelling settings LOW, STANDARD, and HIGH. In this instance. The suspension can adjust the preload automatically by the weight of the rider and recreate three defined geometries:
- AUTO-STANDARD: neutral and balanced geometry
- AUTO-LOW: relaxed, less aggressive, more comfortable geometry, with a lower seat height
- AUTO-HIGH: aggressive, agile track attack geometry, with a more loaded front end
Another optional feature on Suspension Pro is an anti-diving setting keeps the front-end high under hard braking. As with most electronic functions, you can switch them off if desired.
RIDE MODES
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R and KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO continue to feature the RAIN, STREET, SPORT. And optional TRACK and PERFORMANCE ride modes affording riders improved feedback about what the engine is doing, with less intrusive traction control and anti-wheelie mitigation.
Selecting any of the above settings can be performed on the fly.
Throttle response is given a further boost with the addition of a new quick-turn throttle twist grip.Reduced by 7 degrees to 65 degrees.
KTM R&D developed this solution to offer a faster and more responsive throttle. And reduce the rider wrist angle as well as the elbow drop at full throttle.
In terms of looks, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R. And KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO retain an aggressive street presence but introduce two new colourways.
A familiar blue and orange livery arrives flanked by an all-new silver. And orange, which complement the aggressive and hard-hitting appeal of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R.
The signature KTM orange frame – reserved only for KTM’ R’ models.And hot orange wheels give a visible warning to competitors: this BEAST is ready to attack.
A full range of specially created KTM PowerParts to personalize and further intensify your ride. A dedicated range of KTM PowerWear ensures the rider can give everything they’ve got and boosts their READY TO RACE performance.
The 2022 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R and KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R EVO will arrive on authorized KTM dealer floors from January 2022 onwards.
For more information, visit ktm.com.
