The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R has arrived, and the motorcycle packs several visual and mechanical changes in its latest, Euro-V compliant avatar. The flagship vehicle from KTM’s product portfolio shared the stage at EICMA 2019 with the new 890 Duke R and the much-awaited 390 Adventure.
Also Read: New KTM 250 Adventure revealed
In terms of styling, the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R retains the headlight design and the silhouette of the outgoing version. However, the underpinnings have been heavily revised, and the 2020 model has a new steel trellis frame that uses the engine as the stressed member. The primary frame is bolted to a cast aluminium sub-frame.
The front fascia witnesses a revision in the form of a smoked flyscreen that joins the package as a part of the MY2020 upgrade. The fuel tank on the latest model is noticeably different from the outgoing version. The fuel tank features a few design changes for a refreshed look in Euro-V guise. More changes come to attention as you venture past the new tank. The updated saddle, for example, is quite different from the previous model, and the rider seat no longer extends towards the lower-sides of the fuel tank.
Bigger changes come to the motor that, in its latest guise, is compliant to the Euro-V emission norms. The 75-degree V-twin cylinder, liquid-cooled, 8-valve (4-valves per cylinder), DOHC engine retains the 1,301 cc displacement, although the performance numbers have gone up. While the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke misses the 200 hp mark, it still pumps out a commendable 180 hp of peak power at 9,500 rpm and a peak torque of 140 Nm at 8,000 rpm. In comparison, the outgoing model's Euro-IV version made 173.5 hp (176 PS) of peak power.
How does it stack up against the rivals? Check out the numbers below:
| Model | KTM 1290 Super Duke R | Ducati Streetfighter V4 | Kawasaki Z H2 | MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR |
| Engine | 1,301 cc 75-degree V-twin cylinder, liquid-cooled, 8-valve, DOHC | 1,103 cc 90-degree V4 cylinder, liquid-cooled, 16-Valve DOHC | 998cc inline-four, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, Supercharged engine | 998 cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 16-valve, DOHC |
| Maximum Power | 180 hp at 9,500 rpm | 208 hp at 12,750 rpm | 197 hp (without Ram Air) at 11,000 rpm | 208 hp at 13,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 140 Nm at 8,000 rpm | 123 Nm at 11,500 rpm | 137 Nm at 8,500 rpm. | 116.5 Nm at 11,000 rpm |
The performance numbers are slightly lower. However, the peak torque output stands at a colossal 140 Nm that’s available at 8,000 rpm. Other changes to the engine include re-routed exhaust pipes that make space for a larger radiator. The exhaust system includes stainless steel primary and secondary silencer with two catalytic converters.
Shock absorption hardware comprises 48 mm inverted forks at the front and a mono-shock at the back – both WP APEX branded and fully adjustable. Braking department is handled by twin 320 mm rotors with Brembo Stylema four-piston, radially mounted callipers at the front and a 240 mm single disc that works with a Brembo two-piston, fixed calliper at the rear.
Electronic rider aids include Bosch 9.1 MP 2.0 ABS (cornering ABS and Supermoto ABS), lean-sensitive traction control (3-levels and disengageable), Quickshifter+ (up- and down-shifts), anti-wheelie and cruise control. Three riding modes (Rain, Street and Sport) come as standard, while two other (Track and Performance) are available as an option.
The Track Mode gives access to nine levels of Motor Slip Regulation. Anti-wheelie function can also be turned off in this mode. The Performance mode continues to provide adjustable throttle response, wheel slip and anti-wheelie functions while retaining street functions such as Cruise Control and KTM MY RIDE.
The updated cockpit includes a new, angle-adjustable 5-inch TFT screen. KTM has also updated the menu structure to give faster access to the various features.
Also Read: World Exclusive - Husqvarna 1301 series to feature KTM LC8 V-Twin derived motor
The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R is not coming to India any time soon.
