KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

From a press release issued by KTM:

Meet the next generation of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT. At first glance, the 2019 “GT” betrays the distinct, extremely aggressive base of the 1290 SUPER DUKE R that became famous as the ‘THE BEAST’. Even though it was drafted as a separate model, the GT approaches touring from a sporty angle. No ifs, ands, or buts. And just to let you know up front: the core of the SUPER DUKE GT will always be incredible performance.

This KTM is the cutting-edge interpretation of a sport bike fit for travel. The 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is not a slimmed-down super tourer with racing stripes, it is an extremely sporty real-world champion, which for the first time masters the seemingly impossible split between mountainous twisties, comfortable long-distance highway travelling and breath-taking track day use, thanks to intelligent and innovative design and technology.

For 2019, the 1290 SUPER DUKE GT features a new LED headlight, handguards, improved wind protection, a 6.5 in full-color TFT Dashboard, a whole new shape of the front and many more details like storage compartments and connectivity features. The GT’s engine also saw updates including titanium inlet valves, resonator chamber technology and new mapping, resulting in even further refinement, speed and performance.

  Features

• UPDATED 1,301cc LC8 V-Twin engine now with titanium valves and intake resonator chambers sets the standard in the sports tourer segment in terms of horsepower and torque.
• NEW 6.5” Multifunctional TFT Dashboard with KTM MY RIDE Navigation displays all important information in a clear and bright display.
• NEW windscreen and height adjuster offers easy adjustment and better wind and weather protection.
• NEW Handguards developed for perfect aerodynamic integration provide excellent rider comfort in all riding conditions.
• NEW LED Headlight provides optimal visibility and illumination.
• NEW Cruise Control design features switches on the left side of the handlebar and a display in the TFT dashboard to intuitively set and change the requested speed.
• UPDATED WP Semi-Active Suspension introduces a new level in comfort and performance with three settings: Comfort, Street and Sport, while the damping rates adapt in real time.
• Ultra-lightweight chrome-molybdenum steel trellis frame with bolt-on rear trellis subframe is light yet strong.
• Pirelli Angel GTs offer eager steering with a broad grip range and fantastic stability.
• MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) with Cornering ABS by Bosch incl. Supermoto mode, Ride mode technology and multi-stage, lean angle sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC).
• Standard Quickshifter+ allows clutchless up- and downshifts under any load so the shift action is fast and smooth.
• KTM MY RIDE comes as standard and features a Bluetooth connection to the rider’s smart phone to control audio playback and to accept phone calls.
• KTM RACE ON keyless system for less hassle and increased security.
• Optional dealer-installed competition closed course only Track Pack with ‘Track’ ride mode which allows 3 Drive Modes, Anti-wheelie off, TC slip adjust and Launch control.
• Heated grips for cold riding weather comfort.
• Color-matched panniers with enough storage to fit most full-faced helmets.

ENGINE & EXHAUST
There’s no replacement for sheer displacement! Based on the advanced 1301 cc engine of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is clearly the Alpha within its segment. Featuring updates like titanium inlet valves and revised resonator chambers, this V-Twin packs a powerfully smooth punch. For fully-loaded tours, massive torque from the bottom up means there is less need for extensive gearshifts. Better yet, all this torque means mountain passes are easily dispatched even when fully loaded with a passenger.

ENGINE

CRUISE MISSILE
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s BEAST-derived powerplant perfectly fits its sovereign appearance. With massive horsepower and torque on command, it’s as much a superbike slayer as it is a coastal road cruiser. A unique mix of the highest quality components, such as titanium inlet valves, have also combined to create overall reliability and allowing for service intervals of 15,000 km. That’s a lot of touring!

EXHAUST

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s exhaust system is made entirely from rustproof stainless steel and is Euro4 homologated. Hundreds of test bench runs and complex simulations ensured that the exhaust system, which is using an exhaust flap, contributes decisively to the extremely smooth torque curve and excellent emission values of the powerful twin-cylinder. And did we mention the sound? While it whispers at low revs, it will take your breath away reaching for the high notes.

CHASSIS
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s chassis is a high-tech wonder. The challenge: house the immense V-twin power without compromising high-performance, long-distance capabilities, both on track or public roads. Using high-end components and cutting-edge technology, the almost impossible balancing task needed to create the GT was achieved thanks to complex chassis modelling, development and construction processes and technologies.

FRAME
BUILT FOR COMFORT
The hint is in the name. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is built for covering ground quickly and comfortably. Thanks to its refined ergonomics, electronically adjustable suspension and impressive tank range, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is the perfect travel companion.

SUSPENSION
INTELLIGENT SUSPENSION
Innovative WP semi-active suspension serves comfort, safety and adjustability on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT. This allows the rider to easily adjust suspension settings at the push of a button, with advanced sensor wizardry taking care of the details. Other than the expected “Comfort”, “Street” and “Sport” settings, the rider can also take extra pillion weight into account, with the SCU (Suspension Control Unit) adapting the damping, load and anti-dive rates in real-time. It also monitors rider position, using information provided by a set of stroke sensors and accelerometers to ensure optimal suspension performance in all conditions.

WHEELS
GUARDIAN ANGELS
The PIRELLI Angel GT’s fitted to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT offer a perfect mix of touring and sporting qualities. These tubeless sport touring tires are fitted on alloy rims, which are manufactured in a low-pressure die casting process. Not only do these featherweight wheels make the bike lighter overall, they also minimize the unsprung masses and moment of inertia for improved handling.

BRAKES
STOPPING POWER
More than adequate deceleration is ensured at the front wheel by the two radially mounted four-piston Monoblock calipers gripping floating 320 mm discs. The spacing between hand brake lever and handlebar is adjustable so that the lever is always 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 caliper. The enormous potential of the brakes can be exploited to the full thanks to its sportily tuned anti-lock…

FUEL TANK
HIT THE LONG ROAD
The 23 liter (6.1 gal), long range fuel tank, in combination with the low fuel consumption of the 1290 v-twin engine, easily provides hundreds of miles of exciting riding without caring about a fuel station; an important benefit for touring in desolate regions. The fuel tank also protects the rider’s lower body from wind and weather for added comfort mile after mile.

ERGONOMICS & COMFORT
Fit for purpose. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT concept of long-distance performance riding would never succeed if it could not balance high-performance riding with long-distance comfort. To achieve this, the GT is designed for ease of movement and simple adjustability while piloting the bike. Add in the flexibility needed to cater to either one or two riders and you’ll understand what makes the GT the ultimate long-distance cruise missile.

HANDLEBAR
COMMAND CENTRE
Arguably the most important part of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, the handlebars give the rider complete control, from small steering inputs to adjusting the suspension and ride modes at a push of a button. Even the handlebars themselves are multi-adjustable, with over 22 mm of movement and four positions. But best yet, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT comes fitted with heated grips as standard.

FOOTPEGS
CENTER POINT OF CONTROL
Riders can choose three positions for the brake and shift lever to accommodate a variety of boots sizes, or to simply find their perfect shifting or braking preference.

WINDSHIELD
9-WAY ADJUSTABLE WIND PROTECTION
A unique windshield design gives the rider maximum protection from the elements, and reduced wind noise at speed. An improved windscreen adjuster has also been developed, giving riders 9 positions of adjustability, while keeping one hand on the throttle.

BODYWORK & GRAPHICS
Designed to devour unlimited miles with optimum wind and weather protection, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is a bona fide grand tourer. Features such as tank side panels with storing compartments and a USB charging hub add to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s state-of-the-art finishing. It’s definitely one of a kind.

BODYWORK
BEASTLY MAKEOVER
An agressive headlight mask and screen give the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT a sporty, yet functional look.

INSTRUMENT
AWARD WINNING TFT
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT has a full color, tilt-adjustable 6.5″ TFT dashboard, derived from fellow stablemate, the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE. This gives riders a full view into all information pertaining to the motorcycle, from ride modes to turn-by-turn navigation via KTM MY RIDE. The display layout has also been designed specifically for the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT and finds the right balance between information and style. Oh, and have we mentioned that it’s an award-winning device?

SOFTWARE & ELECTRONICS
Keeping the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT under total control while you exploit its full potential – that’s what the unique electronics package of this motorcycle allows. Lean-angle sensitive electronics intervene to provide maximum grip and optimum traction under braking or acceleration – letting you hunt horizons and chase superbikes with confidence.

RIDER AIDS
FOR SAFER TOURING
A slew of advanced electronics are fitted to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, which enable the rider to explore the GT’s full potential.

MORE TOUR, MORE ROAR: 2019 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT & R
KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT

The most radical long-distance sports tourer on the market takes the best from ‘The Beast’; the phenomenal engine performance, street handling and race track capabilities of the ktm 1290superduker are brought into a machine that is as happy munching massive miles in comfort as it is carving up challenging corners.

Boasting the latest generation 1,301cc 75° V-twin LC8 engine as its potent ‘R’ sibling, the development from ktm engineers introduced revised resonator chambers, titanium inlet valves and a new mapping to give an incredible 175 hp and 141 Nm of torque. In short – power is always at hand – and now more effortless in its application. Along with the smoother performance at lower rpm, the addition of the Quickshifter+ provides clutchless and incredibly smooth up and down shifting – a benefit to rider and passenger.

The ktm 1290superdukegt is also a technical powerhouse as it utilizes the full suite of KTM’s best electronic performance and assistance systems. With lean-angle sensitivity for braking power and traction control and different ride modes – including the optional ‘Track’ mode that allows further adjustability of the electronic settings – these advanced systems enable riders to explore the full potential of the GT’s capabilities in the widest range of conditions and roads it can be pointed at – essential for a long distance capable machine.

Big changes for the 2019 GT can be found in the ‘dash’. Set behind the new aerodynamically developed windshield with multiple height positions and improved one-handed adjustability is a 6.5-inch TFT display. The award winning full color screen is visible in direct sunlight and features an exclusive layout; meaning the full status of the bike can be easily identified without distracting from the road ahead. Working through the bike’s various menus and extensive functions is intuitive and operated by the illuminated menu switch, found on the left bar, where the cruise control switch is now positioned.

An instantly recognizable DUKE family ‘face’ is a large part of the updated GT’s identity. Set within the redesigned front end is a powerful new LED headlight, where form and function are beautifully integrated. The central aluminum heatsink holds six forward-facing ultra-bright LEDs, while further LEDs create the daytime running light (DRL) to ensure the motorcycle is perceived better by other road users. When the journey continues after the sun sets, the fuel tank spoiler-mounted LED cornering lights provide impressive illumination to the inside of turns.

The latest generation WP semi-active chassis is the most sophisticated setup offered on a ktm so far, with deeper analyzing sensors automatically adapting to surface conditions so that the new ktm 1290superdukegt always delivers precise handling – no matter the load or road. Rider, passenger, luggage or all three, the GT’s preload can be adjusted for the bike’s ‘cargo’ at the push of a button – no need for tools. Also transformed with just fingertip control is the choice of damping to suit the mood and road: Comfort, Street and Sport.

Two color options – white or black – are available and on each side of the fuel tank spoilers new storage compartments also feature, creating easy access for essential small items, such as keys or toll cards. One side is fitted with a USB socket to charge and power favorite gadgets on the move and Heated Grips are fitted as standard.

KTM MY RIDE smartphone connectivity also adds another type of comfort over distance as the 2019 ktm 1290superdukegt is now navigation ready for onscreen turn-by-turn directions and audio prompts in 5 languages, via a separately available app. Also possible is the ability to receive or reject incoming calls with caller ID displayed, along with the option to toggle through tracks on a favorite music playlist.