2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Goes Bonkers at EICMA

2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R 10

2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R gets exterior makeovers to stand in line with new Adventure range; the updated 1,301cc V-Twin now makes 177 horsepower

Since KTM launched the 1290 Super Duke R in the international markets a few years ago, it has been the big daddy of them all. Reluctant to give in its spotlight, the 1290 will see a slew of new updates for next year in the super naked category. With all gratitude to KTM for not having us waited, the updated beast has been revealed at the rather wild EICMA 2016 in Milan.

The visual makeover to the 2017 Super Duke R includes the addition of a new LED headlamp and surrounding Daytime Running Lights as the design comes in coherence with the revised adventure models. With a new set of bodywork, the sharper stance of the Super Duke has been accentuated with revised air intakes and tank spoilers. In pursuit of improved handling, KTM engineers have made the bike wider and lower and moved it slightly forward.

Also Read: New KTM 1290 Super Adventure Series Unveiled

2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R

One could be deceived with the cosmetic updates and start thinking no changes are made mechanical-wise but it was not the case. KTM has brought several revisions to the 1,301 cc LC8 V-Twin engine as well which witnesses a power hike from 170 horsepower to 177 hp. For improved ride quality, the velocity stacks are shortened to widen the power band. For smoother power deliver in lower rev range, the resonator chambers on the cylinder heads are brand new.

The increased compression ratio to 13.6:1 is enabled by the newly designed titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride coating. The new 48 mm USD WP forks separates damping circuits and features stiffer fork springs with adjustable sportier settings. The new WP shocks gets heavier springs while the Bosch powered Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) offers multi-stage ABS and traction control.

Also Read: Ultra Aggressive KTM 790 Duke Prototype Showcased at EICMA

2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R 5

The Supermoto mode disables the lean angle sensitive ABS at the rear. The performance pack boasts quickshifter, motor slip regulation and KTM MY RIDE smartphone integration while track pack gives adjustable settings for the purpose of fun track riding. It further gets full-colour TFT display along with cruise control and a new keyless system for conventional riders trying to use “the beast” on daily riding rather than just embarrassing opponents on track days.

2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Images