KTM has turned its high-performance naked bike platform up a notch with the reveal of its new 1290 Super Duke RR, a limited range-topping variant that is sharpened for on-track performance.
Just 500 units will be built, with a small number available to pre-order in Australia from April 13, priced from $38,400 rideaway.
This is the first KTM model to wear the ‘RR’ badge, signifying the enhancements made over the standard Super Duke R naked sportsbike, with the Austrian brand calling it a ‘demonstration of what happens when your R&D department is allowed free rein’.
The bike retains a familiar 1301cc 75-degree V-twin generating 134kW (up 2kW) and 140Nm, however, a handful of weight saving measures has allowed KTM to achieve a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.
More specifically, the KTM 1290 Super Duke RR is nine kilograms lighter than the standard ‘R’ variant, weighing in at 180 kilograms to match its 180 horsepower output.
KTM also says the bike is more agile and stiffer due to a new fully adjustable WP suspension package, while lighter wheels are rapped in track-ready Michelin Power Cup2 tyres.
The Super Duke RR is positioned against the likes of the Aprilia Tuono X, a limited-edtion flagship version of its Tuono naked bike that strips weight and is sharpened for track performance.
However, the Super Duke RR has the particular advantage of being road registerable, while the Tuono X remains a track-only prospect.
“Make no mistake, this beast is all about track-ripping performance,” said KTM in a press release.
“It is a no-compromise hyper naked motorcycle that has been conjured up from the darkest depths of the performance lab to decimate lap records.”
The KTM 1290 Super Duke RR can be distinguished by new carbon-fibre components, including a new subframe and tail that incorporates a single seat, redesigned LED tail-lights and new LED indicators.
To improve track performance, the RR features a ‘quick-turn’ grip that reduces the rider’s wrist angle needed to fully open the throttle.
The advanced rider aid system is also tweaked to allow unlimited adjustability for rear-wheel slip, throttle response, launch control and the brand’s Motor Slip Regulation system.
An Akrapovic slip-on exhaust is fitted as standard, while a power boosting Akrapovic Evolution Line system can be fitted as an option.
The Australian allocation of KTM 1290 Super Duke RR units is expected to land from June onwards.
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.
