Thu. Apr 25th, 2024
KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RRImage Source: Press KTM

Hyper. Aggressive. Powerful. All these words can act as a synonym for the all-new KTM 1290 Super Duke RR. Yes, the Austrian brand has officially revealed its first bike with two Rs globally. It shares its powertrain with the younger sibling, the 1290 Super Duke R. However, it is the weight where this all-new mean machine outperforms.

To be precise, the bike manufacturer has managed to achieve an unbelievable one horsepower per kilogram figure. Looks like KTM wants to rule the naked superbike segment. Who does not want that!

KTM 1290 Super Duke RR will be limited to just 500 units globally. Want to know more about it? Here we are covering almost everything you need to know.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • KTM has revealed the powerful KTM 1290 Super Duke RR globally.
  • Only 500 units of the all-new naked superbike will be available worldwide.
  • It comes powered by a 1301cc twin-cylinder engine that produces a maximum output of 180HP.

KTM 1290 Super Duke RR

In terms of design, the all-new bike looks similar to what it is based upon. The fuel tank of the 1290 Super Duke RR looks muscular. Also, the stepped-up seat and aggressive front fascia add to that sportier look. Excessive use of carbon fibre can be witnessed at the rear end. Unlike the 1290 Super Duke R, this bike runs on the Michellin Power Cup 2 tyres.

Feature-wise, it comes with an LED headlight, TFT instrument console, cornering ABS, launch control, etc. to name a few. The all-new naked superbike also sports an Akrapovic exhaust system.

Powering the all-new KTM 1290 Super Duke is a 1301cc twin-cylinder engine. It is capable of producing 180HP alongside a peak torque of 140Nm. A 6-speed gearbox is available to handle transmission duties. Further, to alter the riding dynamics there are two ride modes, precisely – Track and Performance.

At the front, the recently revealed bike runs on WP APEX PRO 7548 close cartridge forks. Apart from this, an APEX PRO 7746 monoshock setup sourced by WP can be seen at the rear. The bike will also get disc brakes on both ends.

Alternatives

There are many powerful naked superbikes available globally. However, it is the BMW S 1000 R and Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 that is closest to the KTM 1290 Super Duke RR in terms of performance. For now, let’s take look at the BMW S 1000 R.

BMW S 1000 R

2021 BMW S1000R Side Profile
Image Source: Press BMW Group

BMW Motorrad revealed the 2021 BMW S 1000 R last year with multiple updates. In terms of features, the all-new bike gets almost all the modern features. The list includes a newly designed LED lighting setup, 6.5-inch TFT screen, cornering ABS and Smartphone connectivity with navigation. Further, the updated bike now comes with a Euro 5 compliant 999cc four-cylinder engine. It is capable of producing a massive 165HP alongside a peak torque of 114Nm.

Specifications

2021 BMW S 1000 R
Engine 999cc in-line four-cylinder
Power 165HP @ 11,000 RPM
Torque  114Nm
Key Highlights
  • 6.5-inch TFT screen
  • Multiple electronic aids
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • LED lighting setup

By Harsh Rana

Full-time management student and a part-time automobile enthusiast. Not much happy about EVs taking over the V8, V10 and V12 motors.