EICMA 2015: KTM’s new Dukes
Led by the long-haul inviting Super Duke GTKTM’s new 690 Duke and 690 Duke R were shown in its final form at EICMA alongside a special edition version of the 1290 Super Duke, but most intriguing was the firm’s unveiling of the Super Duke GT.
While pictures of the bike have been circling for a couple of months, specific details have now been confirmed and while the 1301cc V-twin engine has been detuned slightly for an output of 173hp compared to the standard version’s 177hp), the same peak torque’s range has been widened —
so if anything it should feel as if it has more punch.
Since you’ll be travelling further on the GT, the fuel tank has been increased to 23 litres and the subframe has been modified to accept more weight and a pannier system.
Technology wise, there’s cruise control, hill start assist, heated grips and tyre pressure sensors, all just to remind you you’re actually riding a 228kg (wet) touring bike.
The 690 Duke R now pumps out almost 72hp (54kW) thanks to heavy engine mods required to meet Euro4 limits. And what’s offered as options on the standard model comes fitted to the up-spec R model and, as well as the expected top-shelf WP and Brembo components, the differences are mostly software in the form of traction control, motor slip regulation and what KTM calls supermoto mode.
The special edition of the 1290 Super Duke is purely aesthetic with petal discs, Akrapovic exhaust, trick bar clamps and levers and, of course, the paint.
The 690 Duke R and 1290 Super Duke Special Edition will arrive in March while the 1290 Super Duke GT will arrive in May.
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