With more performance than the regular R model and a higher price tag to match, KTM’s 1290 Super Duke RR is back in the lineup for 2023. The Super Duke RR is 11kg lighter than the Super Duke R Evo.
This limited-edition hyper naked bike was initially revealed in 2021 as a mutation of the normal Super Duke, with bolted carbon-fiber parts to reduce weight, a set of incredibly sticky tires, and more control-tricky software. KTM made the addition to allow. In short, it was a naked bike designed for the racecourse. The 500-unit production runs sold out within 48 minutes due to widespread public acclaim.
KTM 1290 Super Duke RR
The bike is back in production for 2023 with a fresh batch of 500 units. Like the original RR, this year’s model features forged wheels, a Li-ion battery, and other weight-reducing components, which, according to the manufacturer, give the bike a “spectacular 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.”
The machine only makes 177 bhp (or 180 bhp, according to KTM Motorcycles; maybe the Akrapovic exhaust adds some muscle?), the same as any other KTM 1290 Duke, and the reported 180 kg weight doesn’t include fluids. It’s close enough, however, that we can probably ignore this claim. There are undoubtedly many positive aspects to this apart from the power-to-weight ratio.
KTM 1290 Super Duke RR: New Updates
KTM updated the bike with Apex Pro 7746 shocks, and WP Apex Pro 7548 cartridges were made specifically for it. WP also offers an adjustable 30-click Apex Pro 7117 steering damper. Your track day performance will improve because the machine weighs about 25 pounds less than the traditional Super Duke R Evo. If you didn’t get the hint, the day’s focus is track riding.
Brembcalipers calipers get 320mm petal discs and carbon-fiber cooling ducts, and the gearbox features a switchable race shift pattern. The motorcycle tyres made by Michelin Power Cup 2 are ideal. Footpeg Gills are 12-position adjustable models. The RR also gets “the most comprehensive track-oriented electronics pack ever on a KTM along with track and performance modes-motorbike” along with track and performance modes. Also, if you want to go further, you can spend the money on an Akrapovic EVO exhaust system.
You can have all this fun for €26,990 MSRP, roughly $29,000. Even though KTM claims that they will sell the product worldwide, if you are interested, call your preferred dealer immediately, as there are good chances that nothing will be left if you hesitate.
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