2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR breaks cover
Limited-edition, super-light and track-honed version of KTM's Beast assumes its place as the firm's new fangs-out street flagshipKTM has revealed the new flagship of its street range: the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR.
Based on the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, which was crowned 2020 bikesales Bike of the Year, the 2021 KTM Super Duke RR will be limited to a production run of just 500 units worldwide, and is the first KTM model to adopt an 'RR' suffix, denoting its focus on extreme performance.
Super light, super ready
In this instance, KTM has taken the 1290 Super Duke R and placed it on a diet, shedding nine kilograms to give a claimed dry weight of just 180kg.
While it appears the 1301cc V-twin engine is mechanically unchanged, with peak outputs of 180hp and 140Nm, the lighter format means the 'Beast' has achieved the holy grail of performance motorcycles: a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.
On top of the weight savings, the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR has upgraded and track-ready suspension, with a WP Apex Pro 7548 closed-cartridge fork mated to a WP Apex Pro 7746 monoshock. Stability is also aided by the inclusion of a WP Apex Pro 7117 steering damper.
The new forged wheels, offering an unsprung weight saving of 1.5kg, are shod with ultra-sticky Michelin Power Cup2 tyres, while carbon fibre has been used extensively, including for the new subframe and to create a new single-seat unit with new LED taillights integrated with new LED indicators.
Related reading:
2020 bikesales Bike of the Year Winner: KTM 1290 Super Duke R
2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Launch Review
2019 EICMA: KTM 1290 Super Duke R
Track electronics
Harnessing all this fury is a new quick-action throttle, with a 65-degree range of motion compared to the standard model's 72 degrees, along with what KTM terms as "the most complete track-oriented electronics suite ever seen on a KTM". This includes advanced Track and all-new Performance modes that allow the rider to tailor performance for the optimal blend of rear-wheel slip and throttle response, the system also incorporating Launch Control and Motor Slip Regulation.
Finishing off the package is an ultra-light titanium Akrapovic slip-on muffler with carbon fibre end cap. A full titanium Akrapovic system is available as an option, along with a host of other dedicated KTM PowerParts produced exclusively for the KTM 1290 Super Duke RR.
Pure performance
"Based on the latest KTM 1290 Super Duke R prototype, the RR is a demonstration of what happens when your R&D department is allowed free rein," says KTM.
"It's a true definition of READY TO RACE, with added exclusivity, exotic componentry, and premium workmanship.
"Make no mistake, this Beast is all about track-ripping performance. It is a no-compromise hyper naked motorcycle that has been conjured up from the darkest depths of the performance lab to decimate lap records."
While no pricing information has yet been released, the 500 examples of the new 2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR on offer will go on sale in Europe tomorrow (April 8) at 6:00pm (AEST) via an online portal.
KTM is urging interested buyers in other regions to contact their nearest KTM dealer, although curiously the model is not being offered for sale or purchase in the USA.
2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR key points:
• 9kg lighter (now 180kg dry)
• 1301cc V-twin engine, 180hp/140Nm
• WP Apex Pro fork, monoshock and steering damper
• New forged aluminium wheels
• Lightweight lithium-ion battery
• Various carbon fibre components, including the subframe and new solo seat/tailpiece
• Sophisticated track-oriented electronics, including Track and Performance ride modes
• Only 500 units available worldwide
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