KTM Unveils The Most Expensive Duke Ever Produced

Exactly 26 days ago, we brought you the KTM 1290 Super Duke RR test mule details. Now, KTM has officially unveiled the bike and it goes on sale tomorrow. So, what does the new model have on offer for 2021?

The 1290 Super Duke RR is powered by a 1,301cc LC8 75-degree V-twin belting out around 182PS and 140 Nm. While that doesn’t sound like a lot of power compared to the faired supersports, with just 180kg on the weight scale, the bike has a 1:1 power to weight ratio. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quickshifter.

For better throttle response, KTM has equipped the 1290 Super Duke RR with a new quick throttle. It gets a 65-degree opening angle, which is a 7-degree reduction over the standard KTM 1290 Super Duke R.

Additional weight savings come from the extensive use of carbon fibre components. The list includes a carbon front and rear fender, a new subframe with a carbon undertray, rear cowl and front brake cooling ducts. Furthermore, the Akrapovic slip-on with its titanium outer sleeve and carbon fibre end cap also helps shave weight. Moreover, the redesigned subframe has made way for a new tail section and tail light. Last but not the least, the lightweight lithium-ion battery saves almost 2.5kg of mass.

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In today’s day and age, big, brawny and powerful bikes need electronic nannies to keep their power in check. And the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke R gets a truck-load of them. You get five riding modes: Rain, Street, Sport, Performance and Track. Not to mention switchable traction control, Motor slip regulation, Supermoto ABS, cruise control, tyre-pressure monitoring system and keyless operation. Other prominent features include LED lights all around and smartphone connectivity via the KTM My Ride App. This lets you access turn by turn navigation, phone calls as well as music through the 5-inch angle-adjustable TFT display.

The 1290 Super Duke RR uses WP Apex PRO 7548 closed cartridge USD forks and a WP Apex Pro 7746 linked monoshock. Both the front and rear suspension are fully adjustable. Braking is handled by 320mm twin-front discs with 4-piston Brembo Stylema monobloc callipers and a 240mm rear unit.

Another aspect contributing to the 9kg of overall weight savings on the 1290 Super Duke RR are the 17-inch forged wheels wrapped in sticky 120/70 front and 200/55 rear Michelin Power Cup 2 slicks.

The price is set at GBP 21,499 (approximately Rs 22 lakh). Chances of KTM bringing the new Super Duke to India are very slim as the brand isn’t ready to commit to the litre-class segment in the country just yet.