Renewed for 2019 are KTM’s pair of ultimate hooligan bikes, the 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke R naked sports and 1290 Super Duke GT sports-tourer. Starting with the Super Duke GT, graphics have been changed, along with a new aerodynamic windscreen that is easily adjusted with one hand.
The biggest change to the Super Duke GT is in the instrument panel where a larger 6.5-inch TFT-LCD screen takes the place of the previous 5-inch unit. Designed for clear viewing even under bright sunlight, the panel allows for connection to the optional KTM My Ride app for navigation and other functions using the rider’s smart phone.
Still carrying the same 75-degree V-twin LC8 engine with 1,301 cc, the 2019 Super Duke GT comes with an upgraded resonator box, new intake valves and revised mapping, giving 175 hp and 141 Nm of torque. Better performance is available at lower rpm and the six-speed gearbox is equipped with KTM’s Quickshifter+ which allows for up-and-down clutchless shifting.
As for the 1290 Super Duke R, most of the 2019 model updates are minor and cosmetic with the offering of two colour schemes – black or white. According to KTM, this is because the performance of the Super Duke R has just about been realised as a naked sports machine.
Engine performance remains the same as the previous year’s model at 177 hp along with the other rider conveniences like stability control and cornering ABS. Also included is fully-adjustable WP suspension, Quickshifter+, TFT-LCD instrument panel and Brembo brakes.
GALLERY: 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
GALLERY: 2019 1290 Super Duke GT
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