ROAD NEWS
KTM 1290 SUPER DUKES EVOLVE
KTM has debuted its new and improved 1290 Super Duke range , with the bike the Austrian ’ s like to call “ the beast ” evolving into a leaner and meaner variant in the form of the 1290 Super Duke R Evo . Starting off with perhaps the least beastly – but still rip-your-face-off angry – 1290 Super Duke GT , KTM has given its grand tourer model a tech refresh featuring new WP APEX semi-active suspension with touring focussed tuning logic , a new 7-inch TFT display and lighter wheels pinched from the 1290 Super Duke R . At its centre is the 175hp , 1301cc , LC8 V-twin which KTM evocatively claims “ is the class leader when it comes to punching a hole in the atmosphere or hauling in the horizon .” Nice . With many semi-active suspension systems needing a degree to use , KTM has simplified the experience for the Super Duke GT with four different real-life riding situations as easy to set options . These being Rider , Rider and Pillion , Rider and Luggage , or Rider , Pillion and Luggage .
The bike then sorts out preload at the rear for the varying degree of weight aboard . On top of that , KTM has built-in anti-dive functionality as standard equipment . Also part of the new handling package , KTM has saved 1kg of unsprung mass with the new wheels to help improve overall handling . As part of the new 7-inch TFT display ’ s functionality , the Super Duke GT will debut an allnew navigation system called Turn-by-turn PLUS which KTM says will further enhance the bike ’ s touring experience . The system will be available via the KTM Connect smartphone app and will allow the rider to keep their phone in their pocket and access the full functionality of TBT + straight off the bike ’ s dash . EVO When it comes to provocative words in the motoring world , few conjure the same awe as “ EVO ”. Now KTM has its own EVO model with the 1290 Super Duke R EVO taking the top step from the lesser ( and still in production ) 1290 Super
20 KIWI RIDER