2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R unleashed

The evolution of KTM’s flagship naked bike continues, with the Austrian brand announcing details of its new 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R and 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO overnight.

Dubbed by KTM as ‘the Beast’, the latest iteration sees the model’s revised LC8 V-twin grow in capacity from 1301cc to 1350cc, thanks to a lift in bore to 110mm. The extra capacity delivers a hefty hike in maximum output from 179hp (132kW) at 9500rpm and 140Nm at 8000rpm on the old model to 190hp (140kW) at 10,000rpm and 145Nm at 8000rpm on the new, all while meeting Euro 5+ emissions compliance.

Curiously, however, the press information does not mention the overall weight of the new bike – the existing 1290 Super Duke RR weighs 189kg dry.

The new Beast has also benefitted from a styling revision, with a distinctive and lightweight new LED headlight, along with new tank spoilers and winglets for increased downforce, plus a reduced rear subframe cover. The result, says KTM, is a Super Duke R that looks “more muscular and aggressive than ever before”.

Feeding the Beast is a redesigned air intake and fuel tank, the latter now 17.5L in capacity – a lift of 1.5L that is said to afford a range of around 300km.

The new headlight unit is 700g lighter than the old one and features position and daytime running lights that auto adjust their intensity according to ambient light conditions. Meanwhile, a ‘Coming Home’ function sees the headlight remain on for a set duration after the ignition is switched off, illuminating the surrounding area.

The updated KTM 1390 Super Duke R also scores a new and fully adjustable WP APEX monoshock with separate high- and low-speed adjustment as well as a new 48mm WP APEX open cartridge fork with split function for optimised settings. And it rides on the latest Michelin Power GP rubber.

The 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO takes things up a notch with the latest-gen WP Semi-Active Technology (SAT), with electronically controlled magnetic valves for variable damping to suit a wide range of conditions, from sedate road riding to flat-out track sessions.

Other enhancements include updated Performance and Track ride modes, with lap timer and telemetry data, along with an optional Engine Brake Control and an updated Suspension Pro module for the EVO variant.

Both variants will be offered in Australia and New Zealand from March 2024 in ‘30 Years of Duke’ colour schemes and will launch with a full range of KTM PowerParts accessories and KTM PowerWear apparel. Pricing will be announced closer to the local launch.

Then again, why pay for a new KTM 1390 Super Duke R when you can win one instead? KTM Australia will be giving one away towards the end of this year – sign up for the KTM newsletter to be in with a chance.