Brutal! The KTM 1290 Super Duke RR is even more beast with 180 hp, better equipment and 9 kg less

KTM 1290 Super Duke RR: the real beast of Mattighofen

The KTM 1290 Super Duke R has always been a beast, but for some not enough. In addition, the arrival of other extreme contenders such as the Ducati Streetfighter V4 have left the Austrian a bit cornered. KTM has reacted conveniently with the presentation of this KTM 1290 Super Duke RR.

To create something that was one step further, the guys at KTM have taken the basis of their sporty naked… sort of. As the brand itself explains, they have decided to market a non-cream version of the Super Duke R, a prototype that was initially too radical. Up to now.

The engine is the same two-cylinder block in vee at 65º with 1,301 cubic centimeters and it generates 180 hp plus a powerful 140 Nm of torque. All for a final weight of 180 kg dry, that is, 9 kg less than the 1290 Super Duke R. Less weight is always more fun.

In order to lower this figure, exclusive elements have been used such as a body with carbon fiber parts such as the single-seater rear subframe, 1.5 kg lighter forged wheels and shod with ultra-sports tires. Michelin Power Cup2 homologated for the street but with a clear vocation of circuit.

In the cycle part the modifications are extended notably with a set of WP suspensions, but this time with an inverted fork WP APEX PRO 7548 Closed Cartridge and full adjustment, as well as a WP APEX PRO 7746 rear monoshock and an APEX PRO 7117 steering damper. There are slight changes in the geometry with a somewhat wider steering angle of 65.6º (previously 64.8º) and a height of the seat that rises 2mm (837mm) through the new subframe and seat assembly.

Other changes also include a Faster throttle with 7º less travel (65º instead of 72º) and a standard Akrapovic titanium and carbon fiber exhaust silencer, which can be replaced by a complete Akrapovic Evolution Line.

The electronics also brings news with the new Track and Performance riding modes where to adjust each parameter at will, from the allowable slip on the rear wheel to the throttle response or engine retention.

The only downside is that there will only be 500 units of the KTM 1290 Super Duke RR, so it will be a difficult bike to see in Spain. European stakeholders will have to resort to an exclusive online portal to place their orders at a price that we do not know at the moment.