KTM did not wait until the Milan Motorcycle Show to introduce its all-new 2014 1290 Super Duke R, instead surprising naked bike enthusiasts with a global premiere online back in October.


Familiar, yet beefier engine powers the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Derived from the RC8 R superbike, the big 1,300cc V-twin promises blistering acceleration on a machine that weighs just 180 kg. In fact, with 180 hp at 8,890 rpm, the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R becomes the world's most powerful street fighter, just ahead of the Aprilia Tuono V4 R APRC and the highly anticipated BMW S1000R.

Keihin engine management with twin throttle valves regulates the modern electronic fuel-injection system, while a slipper clutch automatically takes the pressure from the clutch plates when engine back-torque becomes too high, thus preventing rear-wheel chatter when braking sharply. Unsurprisingly, the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R gets hydraulic controls like most of its siblings.

True KTM design on the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Styling is clean and racy, with a generous dose of bright orange in typical KTM fashion. The fork head emulates the design found on the RC8 R, while a pair of MX-style radiator cowls enhance the sharp-looking tank. The 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R packs a visual punch that opens the adrenaline floodgates like no other naked bikes.

The tubular space frame, made from chromoly steel, attaches to a 48mm upside-down fork and single rear shock (both supplied by WP). A superb, single-sided swingarm stretches the 990 Super Duke wheelbase by 32 mm, while aggressive Dunlop tires ensure all the engine's power effectively transfers to the ground for optimum traction.

Considering the impressive power-to-weight ratio of the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R and the risks of speed wobbling, engineers wisely fitted a steering damper as standard equipment (under the lower fork crown). Meanwhile, the brakes rival those of a superbike with dual 320mm front discs and the best callipers around: Brembo M50s.

New electronic riding aids for 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R riders
The 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R offers three riding modes including:

• Rain mode limits maximum output to 100 hp, reduces low- and mid-range torque, and makes full use of ABS and traction control;
• Street mode delivers all 180 hp, but with smooth throttle response and medium traction control intervention;
• Sport mode offers full power and sharp throttle response, with ABS limited to the front wheel, and traction control allowing slight power slides out of corners.

Riders can switch from one mode to another on the fly provided they keep the throttle closed. However, the bike must be stopped if you want to disengage ABS and traction control.

Summing up the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Sleek, racy, and ultra-powerful, the new 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R has all the ammunition and displacement to overwhelm the competition. We pity the fool who tries to stand in its way.