2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R

KTM’s original 1290 Super Duke R was dubbed The Beast when it was released in 2014. After it’s last comprehensive update in 2017 it became known as Beast 2.0 but for 2020 KTM are unleashing an essentially all-new Beast thanks to a new chassis and electronics harnessing a heavily revised version of the charismatic LC8 V-Twin.

KTM claim that almost every single component is lighter than before. Rims, brakes, swingarm are all lighter and a new aluminium-carbon composite sub-frame contributes to the weight savings. 

According to KTM the new main chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame has larger sectional diameters along with thinner walls and is a significant three-time more rigid than before.

An updated single-sided swing-arm is now activated via a new WP Apex shock through a linkage that then mounts directly to new crank-cases. The engine being used as a stressed member.

After thousands of testing kilometres to fine tune the frame, swing-arm, triple clamps and forks KTM claim more front end feel and stability at maximum lean angle. 

New additional top-feed shower injectors atop the 56 mm throttle bodies along with a new intake system, bigger spark and increased compression adds up to an output of 180 horsepower (132 kW) at 9500 rpm, and 140 Nm of torque at 8000 rpm.

The engine is Euro4 compliant and KTM claims the Pankl gearbox is now smoother shifting. 

A latest-generation traction control system with a 6-axis IMU aims to help keep things in check with lean-angle sensitive traction control and ABS along with completely updated mapping in all ride modes.

A new five-inch TFT display made of scratch and glare resistant glass is also adjustable for angle. 

KTM Australia expect their first stocks of the 2020 1290 Super Duke R to arrive sometime during the first quarter of 2020. 

2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Specifications