Upcoming KTM 1290 Super Duke RR Spotted Testing Ahead Of Its Official Launch

It’s been an open secret that KTM was eyeing to launch the 1290 Super Duke RR. But now, with spy shots of the test bike surfacing, it’s all the more indicative of KTM debuting it soon. So what can we expect from the upcoming 1290 Super Duke RR?

One crucial factor that KTM is looking at is weight reduction. The test mule has a lot of carbon fibre bits along with titanium and magnesium to keep the 1290 Super Duke RR’s weight in check. The front fender, front brake cooling ducts, fuel-tank extensions, and the rear subframe, all seem to be made of carbon. Oh, and KTM thinks there’s no need for a pillion seat. In other words, more saddle time without the missus. Compared to the 1290 Super Duke R’s rear section, the 1290 Super Duke RR’s tail looks quite aggressive.

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Next on the weight reduction list is the full system Akrapovic titanium exhaust and the forged aluminium wheels. But what about the monstrous motor? Well, KTM will likely keep the 1301cc LC8 V-twin engine as it is, of course with a few tweaks to comply with strict emission regulations. The outgoing version made 181PS of power and 140Nm of torque.

On the electronics front, expect the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Duke RR to get the full enchilada, including multiple rider modes ( Rain, Street, Sport, and Track), various traction control levels, switchable ABS, tyre pressure monitoring, anti-wheelie control, bi-directional quickshifter, keyless ignition, and a navigation system.

While there’s no official word on the price of the bike, we reckon the use of lightweight components and the choice of material on the 1290 Super Duke RR will surely cost a pretty penny.

Moreover, it will be a limited-edition model, with only 500 units to be made and sold worldwide. Don’t expect KTM to bring the 1290 Super Duke RR to India anytime soon, considering the bikemaker isn’t ready to commit to the litre-class market just yet. KTM will, however, offer the BS6 790 Duke in India later this year.

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