KTM 1290 Super Duke RR

Boasting 180 hp and 140 Nm, the 1,301 cc LC8, V-Twin, this beating heart of the BEAST deserves little introduction. However, due to the times, this engine is EURO5 homologated, but most importanly, and thanks to an overall weight reduction of 9 kg - the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR has an incredible power to weight ratio of 1:1.

Topfeeder injectors and 56 mm throttle bodies provide optimal air to fuel mixture at high rpms. This results in the perfect torque devliery and fuel economy throughout the rev range, making the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR not only a track-slaying elbow-dragger, but a usable street weapon too.

As PANKL is a trusted name in the performance gearbox business, it was the obvious choice to pair with the beheamoth V-Twin. Why? Quite simply - quicker shift times and lighter level action equals faster acceleration.  

Full throttle has never been easier as on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR. Thanks to an all-new race-derived quick turn throttle twist grip, the connection between wrist, throttle, and the engine is almost immediate. Providing a 7-degree reduction in twist-action over the stock KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, offering greatly improved throttle response, but also reducing rider wrist angle and elbow drop at full throttle.

To perform like a BEAST, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR needs to breath like a BEAST. Thanks to a ram air intake positioned in headlight mask, this ripsnorting arrangement maximizes air flow by forcing oxygen into the combustion chambers. This reduces the chance of low air pressure and increases the fuel burn rate for optimum performance. 

State-of-the-art, machined titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride PVD coating - how impressive does that sound? These feature a flat design, and weigh 19 grams less than steel inlet valves. When combined with the meticulously engineered cylinder heads and combustion chambers on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR, offering a compression ratio of 13.6:1, there is ultimately one outcome, pure power.

Thanks to the resonator chambers on the cylinder heads, which have been engineered to increase the torque output in the lower to mid-range rpms, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR pulls like a train, while keeping fuel consuption and CO² emissions in check.

While the pressure lubricated PASC slipper clutch allows for feather-light clutch modulation while accelerating, it's how it handles slowing down that's the really impressive bit. When the engine experiences extreme back-torque during aggressive downshifting from speed, the clutch opens to prevent the rear wheel locking, giving the rider full control and perfect entry speed while hunting apexes.

The Ride-by-Wire on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR goes the extra mile. It electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into the best throttle valve positions for the current riding situation. Choking, jolting and involuntary wheelies are a thing of the past. Voluntary ones, however, could easily be a thing of your future.

Formula1-inspired forged piston technology means we can push the limits of load capacity despite the extremely short and lightweight design. This results in minimized reciprocating weight and maximized responsiveness. The piston skirts also feature a state-of-the-art, hard anodized finish which minimizes friction, adding to the engine's free-revving nature. What's more, the hard-wearing durability of these parts add many years to an already impressive engine life.

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR is fitted with an Akrapovic Slip-On as standard. And as you'd expect from the best in the business, the muffler outer sleeve is made of lightweight titanium, while the end cap is made of carbon fiber. But for those wanting a bit more, the optional AKRAPOVIC "EVOLUTION LINE" is a full-titanium, MotoGP-derived masterpiece. But take heed - this is a race-track only option and is not street-legal.

Gone are the days of complicated air-filter maintainence. Thanks top an easy-to-access air filter box, swapping out your air filter for a fresh set of lungs is as easy as making sportsbike riders cry. 

The frame uses the engine as a means to increase torsional rigidity, meaning the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR is super stiff. This allows for an effortless, confidence-inspiring riding position, translating into an ultimately faster ride. This is achieved by maximizing the feedback from the chassis and the front tire. The frame also makes use of thick diameter tubes with thin walls for optimal stiffness and weight.

A race-derived WP APEX PRO 7117 steering damper has been fitted to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR, which is identical to that used by the WP racing teams. The WP APEX PRO 7117 allows riders to adjust the damping up to 30 clicks, helping them find the perfect setting for any condition. 

An all-new, lightweight carbon fiber undertray tips the scales at a mere 850 grams and combines a number of functions to save weight and increase functionality. The license plate holder and taillights bolt directly onto the subframe structure with no additional brackets or attachments needed, making for a sharper, more agressive look.

The lightweight, single-sided swingarm is designed for ground clearance, allowing the maximum lean angle when hunting sportbikes through apexes. Working with the position of the engine and the frame, the swingarm also combats unwanted squatting under hard acceleration, making sure you gain every inch you're fighting for.

Think of the suspension elements on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR as the muscles that work to get the power to the ground in best and most efficient way. Every component has been considered to improve the handling, adjustability, and performance of this track-shredding BEAST. 

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR has taken things pretty seriously upfront. Featuring WP APEX PRO 7548 Closed Cartridge forks, this is a different breed of BEAST. With improved performance and responsiveness of the front end damping, and is made from high-quality CNC, lightweight materials, the WP APEX PRO 7548 guarantees the best performance for race-oriented motorcyclists and professional racers.

The CNC-machined triple clamp is 320 grams lighter and stiffer than the standard KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R's forged aluminum unit. While maintaining the standard 32 mm offset, it guarantees more precise handling during hard braking, less friction of the fork in the clamping area, and improved pressure distribution. 

Taking charge of the rear, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR employs the use of a WP APEX PRO 7746 Shock, which has been custom-made according to the unique specifications of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR. Developed in close co-operation with current World Championship and factory riders, the WP APEX PRO 7746 Shock delivers unparalleled performance on track and street thanks to the new SCS Big Valve Technology. The WP APEX PRO 7746 Shock allows for high and low speed compression as well as rebound and pre-load adjustment and even allows the pilot to adjust the shock length from 353 mm to 360 mm.

Through the power of leverage, the linkage at the rear helps to smooth out rough roads, while still ensuring that full-attack track action remains uncompromised. The progressive damping character also ensures optimized damping and bottoming out resistance.

New 7-spoke 6,00"x17 and 3,5"x17 lightweight forged wheels adorn the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR. These have been developed from the same design standards as those found on the RC16 racer, tipping the scales a full 1,5 kgs less than the standard KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R wheels. The result? Less unsprung mass, better braking performance, acceleration and lighting-fast response when flicking through the bends.

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR is equipped with Michelin Power Cup2 tires, which represent the very best balance between pure track performance and street usability. Designed for 90% track use, these treaded slicks warm up remarkably quickly due to their unique dual-compounds architecture. The front tire size is a 120/70 ZR17, and the rear is a massive 200/55/ZR17.

Reigning this BEAST in comes courtesy of 4-piston BREMBO Stylema monobloc calipers clamping onto 320 mm floating discs up front, and a twin piston floating caliper biting a 240 mm disc at the rear.

Finding the optimal seating position is made easy with an adjustable 760 mm wide handlebar. Riders can tailor their preferred reach with 4 positions over 22 mm, front to back, making it easy to attack corners and crucial for hanging on down the straights.

A great deal of testing was done to develop the robust and intuitive motorcycle switchgear on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR, which incidentally, pushes all the right buttons. Riders can now adjust the wheel slip easily via paddle buttons on the switchgear, while in TRACK or PERFORMANCE MODE, or can set two programmable switches for fast access to favored features or setting of their choosing.

Due to its aggressive racing ergonomics, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR also features CNC-machined, adjustable folding brake, and clutch levers, with a front brake lever guard for good measure. 

Track-slaying weaponry requires the appropriate seating. For that reason, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR has an all-new seat, 10 mm taller than that of the standard SUPER DUKE R. However, thanks to the rear shock adjustable length the seat high can drop down to 835 mm. Matching the seat height of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R. The seat has been developed to provide riders with the absolute maximum grip, but still providing adequate movement and comfort. All of this is perfectly finished off with an "RR" logo. 

Developed for track use and finished with carbon heel guards, these CNC-machined aluminum footpegs are adjustable to 12 different positions for any rider to find their perfect fit. They also allow for a higher lean angle, and provide better foot grip than standard. What to switch things up and reverse your shifting pattern? No problem there either. 

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR has taken the NAKED bike ethos and stripped it down even more. In an unrelenting hunt to save grams, almost every single body panel is made from carbon fiber. Even the thickness of the panels was carefully scrutinized to ensure optimal weight saving. But, these aren't merely lightweight - they add stiffness and a more muscular, imposing look.

Thanks to an all-new, carbon fiber undertray, the tail end of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR incorporates the license plate holder and taillights seamlessly into a neat rear end - but maintains the expected sting in the tail.

Lighter, racier, and more rigid at speed than plastic, the carbon front fender adds a touch of factory race-bike flavor to the front-end of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR.

This is where this BEAST's lifeblood goes. A 16 litre steel vessel, shaped to support the rider when barreling down a full-throttle straightaway, and finished in swathes of carbon fiber. It's smart too, incorpoiorating KTM's signature RACE ON fuel cap for keyless fill-ups.

Up front, the LED headlight doubles as a ram air intake, with air being channelled between the lights, keeping them cool, while directing oxygen deep into the lungs of the BEAST, making for a more efficient burn.

In the animal kingdom, bright, visual aposematic signals act as warning signs. The brighter and more conspicuous the organism, the more you should back away slowly. When it comes to The KTM SUPER DUKE RR, there's no mistaking that this is the meanest, most extreme hypernaked motorcycle on the grid. Signature 'RR' graphics dominate, while a premium palate of unique, contrasting colors, tones, and textures set the muscled creases of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR off perfectly.

Like the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, the headlight mask doubles as an intake snorkel. Sharp, menacing lines enhance KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR's overall look while providing ample illumination when day turns to night. Speaking of, daytime running lights ensure you will get noticed, which not only makes you stand out in a crowd of sad sportsbike riders, but more importantly, makes you more visible to other road users.

A 5-inch angle-adjustable TFT screen dominates the dash, featuring a fresh design and innovative functionality. An intuitive menu structure also gives riders faster access to the various features and allows for more customization of preferred riding setups. The scratch-resistant bonded glass display also helps to combat glare - not that you'll be looking down here when barreling past the competition.

Many traditionalists might frown at the sight of electronic rider aids, saying they interfere with the purity of the ride. However, when it comes to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR, all electronic features have received an update, providing more feedback from the engine, and less intrusiveness from the safety systems. To say it simply - smarter systems, more performance.

The ride modes on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR have had a complete overhaul. This was done to provide improved feedback to the rider, without any obtrusive electronics cutting the fun, with traction control and anti-wheelie functions reacting in a smoother, less abrupt way. Rain Mode: "Rain mode" is the no-brainer setting for slippery conditions, resulting in maximum traction control, ultra-smooth throttle response, and power reduced to 130 hp. Street Mode: Just like it sounds, "Street mode" is made for the daily grind on everyday roads. Full power, default throttle response, and limited-slip traction control keep things controlled on the road. Sport Mode: Dialled in for a more spirited ride, "Sport mode" tightens up the throttle control, winds down the traction control slightly, and allows the front end to lift under hard acceleration. And of course - unleashes all the horsepower.Performance Mode: Standard on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR, "Performance Mode" is the ultimate aggressive street riding mode. It allows for some customization of traction control, with anti-wheelie being allowed to be switched off. Launch control can also be toggled, but with some creature comforts like cruise control and KTM MY RIDE too. Track Mode: For full-on track attacks, "Track mode" comes as standard on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR and allows the rider to customize a few features to best suit their riding style, like the level of slip allowed by the traction control, plus anti-wheelie can be switched off. TFT display visibility is also improved, only displaying the info you need. Cruise Control and KTM MY RIDE are disabled in this mode. 

PERFORMANCE MODE allows for a certain level of customization, allowing advanced riders to perfectly tailor their KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR to their riding styles. While Cruise control and KTM MY RIDE keep things civil, traction control levels can be adjusted, along with throttle control, with the ability to disengage Anti-wheelie. Of course, Launch Control is available to allow you to destroy any would-be challenger from the lights.  

Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control, or Cornering MTC for short, uses two different controllers to keep things in check. The most obvious of which is a wheelslip controller which regulates the amount of spin or break in traction at the rear wheel. A pitch angle controller identifies and regulates abrupt changes in front wheel lift. Each of these controllers work with individual strategies to ensure a seamless "behind-the-scenes" safety net. While the safety benefits are obvious, this also results in improved straight-line acceleration. Cornering MTC also works when lean angles get tested, reacting immediately if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the riding situation. Cornering MTC reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely noticeable intervention at the throttle valves, reducing slippage to optimum levels for the selected ride mode and lean angle. Depending on the selected riding mode, Cornering MTC allows different levels of traction slip at the rear wheel. And of course, Cornering MTC can be switched off completely for the full READY TO RACE experience.

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR is equipped with MSR (Motor Slip Regulation) and it works in the opposite direction of the Cornering MTC. Let's explain - If due to shifting down or abrupt off-throttle deceleration, the engine drag torque is too high, the ride-by-wire system balances the throttle exactly as much as is needed to ensure a controlled deceleration. MSR complements the slipper clutch and is especially effective in low grip situations. In TRACK and Supermoto ABS mode, MSR is deactivated for improved rider feel. 

Three things happen when riders select "Supermoto ABS". First, all ABS functionality is disabled on the rear wheel, allowing the riders to lock up the brakes and slide into corners. Secondly, the ABS system does not interfere in the event of the rear wheel lifting off the tarmac, allowing for stoppies. And thirdly, cornering ABS is disabled, allowing riders full control when barreling into fast corners with maximum brake pressure. All in all, the deactivation of these functions in "Supermoto ABS" gives the rider more control in extreme track scenarios and allows advanced riders to brake much harder for maximum apex-hunting sessions.

While it may be a track slaying BEAST, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR is still at home on any mountain pass or motorway. Easily activated and controlled by a switch on the left hand side of the handlebar, riders can set cruise control in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gear, between 40 km/h and 200 km/h. That's one way to save energy for the twisty bits.

As its name implies, the TPMS monitors tire pressure and warns riders of potential tire damage in the event of pressure loss on the TFT display. An added convenience when you want to spend more time on the road and less time checking air pressures.

Auto-cancelling turn signals are a big improvement in terms of safety, as it is now impossible to forget that they are activated and flashing into infinitum. Indicators stop flashing after 10 seconds and in 150 meters. 

It's never been easier to make your intentions known as with the all-new LED indicators fitted to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR. The trailight is integrated in these ultra-bright flashers give ample warning to traffic, while looking super cool in the process.

Ignition keys are old news. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR has a "keyless" transponder. No more forgetting your key in your pocket after you've put your gloves on. All you need is to have the key in close proximity to your bike, and you can start up, and hit the road.

TRACK MODE is 101% pure focus. While TRACK MODE allows the same level of customization as with PERFORMANCE MODE, the readability of the TFT is improved, icons and key data are displayed more prominently and any secondary, or distracting information, not displayed at all. Of course, Anti-wheelie can be switched off and, Launch Control is available for the perfect start off the grid. Cruise control and KTM MY RIDE are unavailable. 

KTM MY RIDE puts you in control of your smartphone, without losing control of the bars. By using a mobile app on your smart device, KTM MY RIDE givies you turn-by-turn navigation, access your music library and allows you to make and receive phone calls on the fly - right from your dashboard.