This is our punk record - pure, raw and straight to the point: speed. Its V-twin, the most powerful one we ever muscled into a street bike, beats the battle drums at 177 hp, while its purebred chassis is set to stay ahead when the straight is devoured. When corners become prey. Even on a bad day, thanks to state-of-the-art rider assistance systems. No, scratch that. Grin amplifiers.

Engine
Fast just became faster. This engine, in its latest incarnation, pumps out an arm wrenching 177 hp while its torque figures reach for the sky between 6,750 rpm (140 Nm) and 7,000 rpm (141 Nm). So it’s stronger than ever, but we made it run smoother than ever as well thanks to overhauled resonator chambers. All in all, weighing in at around 62 kg, the extremely slim 4-valve unit is one of the lightest big twins in the world.

10 mm shorter intake flange
An intake flange is more than the plumbing that connects the throttle body to the ports in the cylinder head. It is an integral part of the induction system and has to match the airflow characteristics of the cylinder head and camshaft, as well as the displacement and rpm range of the engine. KTM developed a 10 mm shorter intake flange that perfectly caters to the engine’s needs, enhancing the power output and widening its powerband by 500 rpm. Thunder along and surf its torque or whip it hard and meet the Beast.

Titanium inlet valves
Another reason for the outstanding performance of the 1290 SUPER DUKE R 75° V-twin are the state-of-the-art, machined titanium inlet valves with chromium nitride PVD coating. Their flat design combined with the smaller combustion chamber now offer an increased compression ratio of 13,6:1. Interesting fact: The titanium valves only weigh 39 grams each, which is 19 grams less than the steel inlet valves we used before.

Cylinder heads
Thanks to new resonator chambers on the cylinder heads, designed to polish the torque output in the lower to mid-range rpms, the 1290 SUPER DUKE R power train runs smoother, consumes less fuel and cuts down on CO² emissions by about 10%.

Exhaust system
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R’s new exhaust system is made entirely from rustproof stainless steel and is Euro 4 homologated. Hundreds of test bench runs and complex simulations ensured that the exhaust system, which uses a new exhaust flap, contributes decisively to the extremely smooth torque curve and excellent emission values of this powerful V-twin. And did we mention the sound? While it whispers at low revs, it will take your breath away reaching for the high notes.

Ride by wire
Instead of the electronic injection system's throttle valves being controlled by cables, ride by wire generally processes throttle twist grip movements with the help of electronic sensors and activates the throttle valves accordingly using servo motors. However, our ride by wire on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R goes the extra mile: It electronically translates the throttle commands of the rider into the best throttle valve positions for the current riding situation. Choking, jolting and involuntary wheelies are a thing of the past. Voluntary ones, however, could easily be a thing of your future.

Slipper clutch
Not only does the slipper clutch open when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it also assists when you open up the throttle. The former prevents destabilizing rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating; the latter reduces the hand force required for changing gear, allowing the clutch to be controlled with one trigger happy finger.

Crankshaft
The responsiveness and free-revving nature of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R’s engine are also enhanced by the very low reciprocating weight of its crankshaft. Moreover, the flow-optimized shape of the crank webs boosts the particularly low-loss running of the crank drive. For motor stability, the thickness of the crankshaft’s cone has now been increased by 3 mm.

Pistons
The forged piston structure on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, borrowed from Formula 1 technology, results in a high loading capacity, despite the extremely short and lightweight design. Reciprocating weight is minimized, thereby maximizing the rev-happy nature of the engine. Furthermore, the piston skirts have a state-of-the-art, hard-anodized finish. Not only does this minimize friction, it is also extremely hardwearing.

Chassis
With its ultra-lightweight yet extremely stable trellis frame, a beautifully manufactured single-sided swingarm and state-of-the-art WP suspension components, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R exceeds all requirements for stability and control. Tubeless wheels, 17-inch front and rear, with the latest Metzeler M7RR tires offer tremendous traction on asphalt and let you exploit the bike’s capabilities to the fullest. Unrivaled braking from world market leader Brembo and assistance systems (MSC with MTC and lean-angle sensitive ABS), developed in close collaboration with Bosch, round off the package and help the 1290 SUPER DUKE R into a clear lead straight from the start in terms of ride dynamics and safety. Feedback? Check. Safety? Check. Fun? Double check.

Telescopic fork
With its multiple setting options for spring rebound, compression and damping, the extremely torsion-resistant upside-down telescopic fork from WP Suspension provides you with a personalized suspension set-up. Not only can rebound and compression damping be set separately, but also completely independently from each other thanks to the 'split principle' (the left fork tube controls compression and the right one rebound damping). This allows riders to find their dream set-up with speed and precision – key words at KTM.

Shock absorber
The directly articulated, high-quality WP pressurized-gas central shock absorber with external remote reservoir offers numerous setting options over a wide set-up range. Compression and rebound damping can be regulated independently – with separate settings for high-speed and low-speed compression damping. In addition, the spring preload can be adjusted by hand. For MY2017 the Beast is equipped with a harder fork spring than its predecessor (10,0 N/mm), while the preload of the shock absorber as well as the set-up of the fork and the shock absorber have been revised for high-speed excellence.

Frame and subframe
Mechanics can be so beautiful – above all, when designers can draw on unlimited resources. Take this chrome-molybdenum stainless steel trellis frame, which makes a major contribution to the bike’s excellent chassis geometry, for example. It’s a rugged, laser-cut, robot-welded thing of beauty with a glorious surface finish. And at only 9 kg, it helps to keep the dry weight at a spectacular 195 kg.

Brakes
More than adequate deceleration is ensured at the front wheel on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R by the two radially mounted Brembo M50 Monobloc four-piston fixed calipers with 320 mm twin-disc brake with two floating discs and a radial hand pump. The spacing between hand brake lever and handlebar is adjustable so that the lever is within easy reach for every rider. The front brake receives effective support from the disc brake on the rear wheel, which features a 240 mm diameter disc and a two-piston Brembo caliper. The enormous potential of the Brembo brakes can be exploited to the full on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R thanks to its sportily tuned and lean-angle sensitive anti-lock braking system.

Steering damper
With so much propulsive power, the front wheel could become very light, which might lead to unpleasant kick-back on uneven roads or following a slight stimulus at the handlebar. The 1290 SUPER DUKE R prevents this safely with a reliable and sensitive WP steering damper.

Single-sided swingarm
The jaw-droppingly beautiful, light alloy, single-sided swingarm on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R is not only extremely lightweight, but also precisely manufactured and generously dimensioned – a potent partner when the SUPER DUKE R unleashes its torque and riding dynamics. The rear wheel is fitted to an axle 50 mm in diameter and bolted in place with a 60 mm central wheel nut. The design of the swing arm is adapted optimally to the tubular trellis frame in terms of flexural behavior and stiffness. A high-precision, eccentric adjustment is used for tensioning the chain.

Wheels and tires
The tailor-made Metzeler M7RR tires on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R enter new technological territory. Derived from Metzeler’s experience in Road Racing activities, including the “Isle of Man TT”, they feature completely new profiles, structure materials, compounds and tread pattern. Even for wear, perfect steering behavior, grip in every situation and fantastic ride stability. The tubeless sport tires are fitted on extremely lightweight, light-alloy wheels manufactured in a low-pressure die casting process. Not only do the lightweight wheels make the bike lighter overall, they also minimize the unsprung masses and moment of inertia, with a positive impact on the handling and ride dynamics of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R.

MSC with cornering ABS
One component of the comprehensive Bosch MSC assistance package is the world's first lean-angle sensitive cornering ABS. Based on the state-of-the-art 9.1 MP modulator, it unites the talents of combined braking and lightning-quick, efficient pressure modulation with the high quality Brembo hardware to make the most advanced braking system on the market. No one brakes more progressively or safely, even at extreme lean angles. When the front brake lever is actuated, the rear brake is applied simultaneously to optimize stability. If required, not only can it be switched off, but also be placed in Supermoto mode.

Supermoto mode
The fun-loving Supermoto mode allows the rider to block the rear wheel - a prerequisite for committed Supermoto riding and deliberately executed slides. The ABS function remains active on the front wheel, even in this mode.

Ride mode technology
Ride mode technology provides the rider with a choice of three ride modes on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, which can be selected quickly and simply with the menu switch on the handlebar. In conjunction with ride by wire, the selected ride mode influences the general responsiveness of the engine, its maximum peak power and MTC intervention. "Street" and "Sport" modes deliver a full 177 hp and appropriately potent power development with a sporty traction setting. By contrast, "Rain" mode limits the maximum output to 100 hp with smoother performance and early traction control intervention.

MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control)
The Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), a lean-angle sensitive traction control system, reacts immediately if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the riding situation. In a matter of milliseconds, MTC reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention at the throttle valves, until the system has reduced slippage to optimum proportions for the selected ride mode and current angle of lean. Depending on the selected ride mode, MTC allows three different levels of traction slip at the rear wheel. ‘Sport’ is up for respectable drifts and a perceptible amount of slippage, ‘Street’ keeps things smooth for comfortable, controllable riding with full engine power, ‘Rain’ is all about early intervention and maximum grip in the wet. And that’s not the end of it. Daredevils, we give you: the off-switch.

MSR (Motor Slip Regulator)
The optionally available MSR (Motor Slip Regulation) works in the opposite direction of the MTC. If, due to quick downshifts or abrupt throttle chopping, the engine drag torque is too high, the ride by wire opens the throttle exactly as much as is needed to prevent the rear wheel from drifting. With the help of MSC, this system is also lean-angle sensitive. Safety first, but pleasure that comes with it is always a very close second at KTM.

Quickshifter +
Upon your request, the 1290 SUPER DUKE R can be equipped with a quickshifter + that allows slick, clutchless up- and downshifts under any load. It reads and responds to your riding, so the shift action is fast when you are, but buttery smooth at half-throttle. A sensor placed inside the engine housing detects the pressure on the gear shift lever rod when the rider upshifts and the system cuts the ignition instantaneously. As soon as the system detects the gear engagement it reapplies the injection and opens the butterfly valve, ensuring fast and smooth action at all throttle openings and engine speeds. When downshifting, the system matches the engine speed to the speed of the lower gear. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of old school, you can just switch the system off.

TRACK RIDE MODE
TRACK ride modeWith the optional ‘Track Pack’, the track ride mode offers unlimited thrills. It features launch control, spin adjuster, free engine map selection and allows you to pull epic wheelies. Anti-wheelie offThis setting disables the anti-wheelie function of the MTC while letting the rider enjoy a beastly wheelie session. The function still guarantees quick acceleration thanks to the heightened traction control of the MTC. Launch controlThe 1290 SUPER DUKE R is the very first KTM motorcycle ever to be equipped with launch control, which actively supports the rider during a racing start in the “Track” ride mode. Before takeoff, it keeps the engine rpm pitch perfect at the 6,500 mark. To rocket off into the distance, the rider just releases the clutch and keeps the throttle pinned. The launch control will maintain an optimum level of engine output, while limiting rear wheel spin and front wheel lift to ensure maximum acceleration. Fire in the hole! Spin adjusterStandard traction control limits the engine torque when the system detects too much slippage at the rear wheel. The spin adjuster was developed so advanced riders on racetracks can use wheelspin to create drive out of corners when (slick) tires start to wear down. The system allows the rider to choose 9 levels of intervention of the traction control.» Level 1 (minimum intervention) allows advanced riders to spin the rear tire at a level very close to riding without traction control while keeping the safety net of the traction control.» Modes 2 to 8 allow the rider to adjust the maximum wheelspin to his or her personal taste.» Level 9 (Rain) (maximum intervention) allows very little wheelspin and is an application for rain tires in the wet. Free engine map selectionThe free engine map selection allows the rider to configure the EFI mapping and as a result the throttle response. The system provides a choice of 3 levels: Track, Sport or Street, with Track being the most aggressive one. After the mapping selection, the rider can also adjust the slippage of the rear wheel, as well as the wheelie mode and launch control and keep it stored in the system even after turning off the ignition.

TFT COLOR DISPLAY
A multicolor combination of relevant information, presented in a clear-cut, uncluttered way. As you rev the engine, the display bars change color, either spurring you on or telling you to back off when the engine’s still cold. The display also automatically adapts its illumination to the ambient light and gets racy when the optional track ride mode is selected.

Race on system
Forget about ignition keys and mechanically locked fuel caps. All you need is this transponder in your pocket and your bike within arm’s reach.

Menu switch
Different modes for the various assistance systems can be selected using a new, illuminated menu switch on the left side of the handlebar. It's very simple and intuitive: "up" and "down" through the menu selection, select the desired menu item with the right button, confirm it with the right. The cruise control switch is now mounted on the left hand side in this cluster, right within thumb’s reach.

Cruise control
Equipped as standard with cruise control, long motorway journeys become a piece of cake. The system works in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gear between 60 km/h and 200 km/h and is controlled by a switch on the left hand side of the handlebar. Press it and the cruise control screen comes alive in the TFT display unit. A downward push sets the speed and up or down manages it for you, so you’ll arrive at the fun bits with energy to spare.

KTM MY RIDE
A smartphone can be tethered wirelessly to the bike, giving you full control over incoming calls and an audio player. All the information pops up on the bike´s display as you manage this optional extra with the menu switch, keeping your hands where they belong. On the handlebar.

ATIR (Automatic Turn Indicator Reset)
After 10 seconds of movement and 150 meters of riding distance, the turn signal will stop automatically. If pressed meanwhile, it counts from zero again. A big improvement in terms of safety, as it is now impossible to forget to reset the turn signals.

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
As its name implies, the TPMS monitors tire pressure (visible in the display) and warns the rider in the event of pressure loss, for example due to tire damage.

Super equipped
The new 1290 SUPER DUKE R has very extensive standard and optional equipment, with functions that the competition doesn't even offer as optional extras:

» LED headlight with DRL (daytime running light)

» TFT display

» MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control)

» Lean-angle sensitive ABS (cornering ABS) with Supermoto mode

» MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control)

» Race on system

» Cruise control

» LED turn signals with ATIR(Automatic Turn Indicator Reset

)» Immobilizer

» TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

» Quickshifter + (up/down shift)*

» KTM MY RIDE*

» MSR (Motor Slip Regulation)*

» ‘Track’ ride mode*- Anti-wheelie off*- Launch control*- Spin adjuster*- Free engine map selection*

*Optional equipment

Field of use
The powerful and cultivated engine enables either super-sporty propulsion or, when required, relaxed and comfortable riding – with every conceivable level in between. The chassis combines lightness with outstanding geometry and fantastic suspension, which, together with every feasible electronic riding aid, allow undreamed riding pleasure in all conditions and whatever speed you desire, from very relaxed to very, very fast.

Ergonomics

The 20 mm wider handlebar has been positioned 5 mm lower and 18,5 mm more to the front, so you’re READY TO RACE all the time. The ergonomics can also be adjusted in many ways to suit riders of any stature:

» Handlebar: 22 mm adjustment range with four positions

» Brake and gear shift lever: three positions for the gear shift & brake lever

» Adjustable hand levers

LED headlight
Form and function are integrated beautifully in the 1290 SUPER DUKE R. Take the headlight for example, a highlight in this bike’s design. The central aluminum heat sink holds the LEDs and keeps the unit cool while it’s busy combining optimal illumination of the near field with maximum light output. And the daytime running lights, which consist of 6 LEDs, ensure that the motorcycle is perceived better and is more differentiated by other traffic users, thus offering massive safety benefits.

Sharper rear end
The slim and high tail section emphasizes the compact silhouette. Round shapes made way for straight lines, clarity and the promise of a radically thrilling ride. Which this bike actually delivers.

New side fairings and air intakes
It was essential that the increased performance of this second generation is visible at the very first glance. Therefore, the side fairings are extended more towards the front in order to emphasize the predatory nature of the new Beast. The ‘R’ on its flanks really does stand for its roar.

User value
Surprises are best when nobody expects them. For example, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R is very fuel efficient and additionally, it only needs to be serviced every 15,000 km