2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Spotted Once Again

Last month, we got our first look at the near production-ready 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R. However, it seems like KTM is still giving its flagship naked motorcycle some finishing touches before its international launch. New spy shots have emerged on the internet, giving us a closer look at the motorcycle.

On the design front, the 2020 iteration looks much sleeker than the current-gen model thanks to the new tank extensions and restyled tail panels. The upcoming motorcycle could also get a fully digital TFT instrument cluster with smartphone integration and navigation. Other design changes include restyled alloy wheels.

Apart from these changes, the 2020 1290 Super Duke R is likely to look similar to the current-gen model. Under the skin, there are some considerable changes though. For instance, the 1,301cc mill seems to have moved a bit upwards to accommodate the new exhaust system. These changes hint that the upcoming motorcycle will comply with the new European emission norms.

While the fully-adjustable 48mm WP inverted front fork seems to be similar to the current model, the rear monoshock has been replaced with a linked unit. Braking hardware on the 1290 Duke R remains the same as its predecessor: 320mm Brembo discs up front and a 240mm rear disc.

In terms of rivals, the 1290 Super Duke R goes head to head with the MV Agusta Brutale Serie Oro, Honda CB1000R, Yamaha MT-10, the upcoming Ducati Streetfighter V4 and the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory. Looking at this near production-ready model, we expect KTM to unveil the insane 1290 Super Duke R at the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show later this year.

We don’t think KTM will be bringing it to our shores any time soon as the Austrian company is currently focusing on the Indian launch of the 790 Duke.

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