KTM will release fresh colour schemes for its 1290 Super Duke R naked bike in February, as well as a high-spec Evo variant to sit atop the range with enhanced semi-active suspension.
Pricing for the 2022 range has yet to be locked in, however, the addition of second-generation WP Apex semi-active suspension is expected to position the ‘highly limited’ KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo somewhere above the $30,000 mark. For reference, the base Super Duke R launched from $28,095 rideaway, while a limited-run Super Duke RR was available for a limited time this year from $38,400.
The 2022 models are distinguished by a new silver and orange colour scheme to join a familiar orange and blue design, and gain a revised ‘quick-turn’ throttle grip to improve response.
A new suspension package reserved for the Evo variant adds significantly more adjustability, and offers three damping modes that can be toggled via the bike’s TFT display.
Both bikes carry over KTM’s 1301cc 75-degree V-twin, generating 132kW and 140Nm, as well as its strong electronics suite with advanced traction control, cornering ABS, a standard up/down quickshifter and rider modes.
For 2022, optional rider modes dubbed Track and Performance will be available for the first time, which give access to ‘less intrusive’ rider aid settings.
KTM is expected to release pricing information for the 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Evo in the coming months.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
