KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT

ADVANCED SPORTS TOURING

The 2019 KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT builds on the proven long-distance capabilities of its predecessor and enhances them further with additional improvements. The same ferocious combination of the previous SUPER DUKE GT’s interstellar V-twin power from THE BEAST, paired with the comfort and equipment needed for all-day riding, is now amplified with further enhancements, refinements, and new features that boost performance while adding to its long-range hunting prowess.

ENGINE

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s powerplant, derived from THE BEAST, perfectly matches its aggressive appearance. Boasting 175 hp and 141 Nm of torque, it’s as much a superbike slayer as it is a coastal cruiser. A unique combination of top-tier components, such as titanium intake valves, ensures overall reliability and service intervals of 15,000 km. That’s a lot of touring!

CYLINDER HEAD

An absolutely critical element in the outstanding performance and smooth response of the 1301 cc 75° V-twin is its advanced four-valve cylinder heads. These feature dual spark ignition, flow-optimized ports, lightweight titanium valves, and resonator chambers, delivering the smoothest twin in town.

CRANKSHAFT

The responsive and free-revving nature of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s engine is driven by the low reciprocating weight of its crankshaft.

DUAL IGNITION

The dual-plug ignition system independently controls two differently sized spark plugs in each cylinder head, ensuring more efficient combustion and a smoother, optimally controlled combustion sequence. The result: more power, better control, lower fuel consumption, and reduced emissions.

ELECTRONIC THROTTLE

The Ride-By-Wire system on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT goes the extra mile. By electronically translating throttle commands into optimal throttle valve positions for the current riding situation, it processes throttle twist grip movements via electronic sensors and actuates the throttle valves using servo motors. This delivers smoother throttle response, reducing low-rpm jerkiness and unintentional wheelies. Voluntary front-wheel antics, however, could easily become part of your future.

SLIPPER CLUTCH

The slipper clutch disengages not only when engine back-torque is too high but also when opening the throttle. The former prevents destabilizing rear-wheel chatter during hard braking or deceleration; the latter reduces the hand force required for gear shifts, allowing clutch control with just one happy trigger finger.

PISTONS

We borrowed Formula 1 technology for the pistons in the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT. The forged piston structure ensures high load capacity despite an extremely short and lightweight design. Additionally, the piston skirts feature a state-of-the-art anodized coating, reducing friction and offering exceptional wear resistance, positively impacting durability.

EXHAUST SYSTEM

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s exhaust system, made entirely of rust-resistant stainless steel, complies with Euro IV standards. Hundreds of test bench runs and complex simulations ensured that the exhaust system, utilizing an exhaust flap, contributes significantly to an extremely smooth torque curve and excellent emission values of the powerful twin-cylinder engine. And did we mention the sound? It whispers at low RPMs but takes your breath away as it hits high notes.

CHASSIS

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s chassis is a high-tech marvel. The challenge: house the immense V-twin power without compromising high-performance long-distance capabilities on both racetracks and public roads. Using top-tier components and cutting-edge technology, the near-impossible task of balancing the requirements for a GT was achieved through sophisticated chassis simulation, development, and construction processes.

FRAME

The clue is in the name. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is built for covering ground quickly and comfortably. With improved ergonomics, electronically adjustable suspension, and an impressive tank range, the SUPER DUKE GT is the ultimate travel companion.

SUBFRAME

The subframe on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, designed to support heavy loads and full-sized panniers, is marked by key hyper-touring features.

SWINGARM

The single-sided swingarm on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is not only the lightest in its class but also meticulously crafted and generously designed, offering a reassuring nod to spirited long-distance journeys.

SUSPENSION

The innovative WP semi-active suspension with new settings for perfect comfort, safety, and adjustability on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT allows the rider to tweak suspension settings with a single button press, while an advanced sensor wizard handles the details. Beyond the expected Comfort, Street, and Sport settings, the rider can also account for additional passenger weight, and the SCU (Suspension Control Unit) adapts damping rates, preload, and anti-dive settings in real time. It also monitors the rider’s position using data from stroke sensors and accelerometers to ensure optimal suspension performance in all conditions.

WHEELS

The Pirelli Angel GT tires fitted on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT offer a perfect blend of touring and sporty qualities. These tubeless sport-touring tires are mounted on alloy wheels manufactured using a low-pressure casting process. These semi-lightweight wheels not only reduce the bike’s overall weight but also minimize unsprung masses and moment of inertia for improved and safer handling.

BRAKES

More than adequate deceleration at the front wheel is provided by two radially mounted four-piston monoblock calipers gripping 320 mm floating discs. The distance between the hand brake lever and handlebar is adjustable, ensuring the lever is always within easy reach for every rider. The front brake is effectively supported by a rear disc brake with a 240 mm disc and a two-piston caliper. The brakes’ immense potential is fully harnessed thanks to a sport-tuned ABS system, which even includes a supermoto mode for when you absolutely want to let loose on vacation.

FUEL TANK

The 23-liter long-range fuel tank, combined with the V-twin engine’s low fuel consumption, easily provides hundreds of kilometers of exhilarating riding without worrying about gas stations—an important advantage for tours in remote regions. The fuel tank also shields the rider’s lower body from wind and weather for added comfort mile after mile.

ERGONOMICS AND COMFORT

Fit for purpose. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s long-distance racing concept would never have succeeded without balancing high-performance riding with long-range comfort. To achieve this, the GT is designed for easy movement and simple adjustments while riding. Add the flexibility to accommodate one or two riders, and you’ll understand what makes the GT the ultimate long-range winged missile.

HANDLEBAR

Arguably the most critical component of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, the handlebars give the rider full control, from subtle steering inputs to adjusting suspension and riding modes with a button press. The handlebar is even self-adjusting, offering over 22 mm of movement and four positions. Better yet, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT comes standard with heated grips.

FOOTPEGS

Riders can choose three positions for the brake and shift levers to accommodate different boot sizes or simply find their ideal shifting or braking preference.

WINDSHIELD

A completely new windshield design provides the rider with maximum protection from the elements and reduces wind noise at speed. An improved windshield adjuster allows the rider to select from nine positions while keeping one hand on the throttle.

BODYWORK AND GRAPHICS

Designed to devour unlimited kilometers with optimal wind and weather protection, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is a true grand tourer. New tank side panels with storage compartments and a USB charger complement the modern finish of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT. It’s undeniably one of a kind.

LED TURN SIGNALS

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT features turn signals integrated into the fuel tank. These consist of three LED segments triggered by the MSC system’s lean angle sensor. Depending on the lean angle, the KTM turn signal can utilize up to all three segments, always ensuring the rider has a perfect view of their direction. The turn signals also incorporate LED indicators, giving the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT a unique and exclusive look.

COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTING SOLUTION

Hard panniers, such as KTM PowerParts, can be easily mounted on the motorcycle’s integrated mounting system, maintaining its sporty look and unique style. Remove the panniers in an instant.

DASHBOARD

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is equipped with a full-color, tilt-adjustable 6.5-inch TFT dashboard, borrowed from its stablemate, the SUPER ADVENTURE 1290. This provides riders with a complete overview of all motorcycle-related information, from riding modes to turn-by-turn navigation via KTM MY RIDE. The display layout has been newly designed for the 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, striking the right balance between information and style. Oh, and did we mention it’s an award-winning device?

SOFTWARE AND ELECTRONICS

Keep the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT under full control while unleashing its full potential—that’s what this motorcycle’s unique electronics package enables. Lean-angle-sensitive electronics ensure maximum grip and optimal braking or acceleration, allowing you to confidently chase horizons and hunt superbikes.

RIDER AIDS

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is equipped with a host of advanced electronics that allow the rider to fully unleash the GT’s potential.

MSC (MOTORCYCLE STABILITY CONTROL) WITH C-ABS

Maximum safe deceleration. One component of the comprehensive BOSCH MSC assistance package is lean-angle-sensitive ABS. Based on a high-quality 9ME modulator, it combines the talents of front and rear wheel combined braking with lightning-fast, efficient pressure modulation and top-tier Brembo hardware to create the most advanced braking system on the market—no one brakes more progressively or safely, even at extreme lean angles.

TPMS (TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM)

As the name suggests, TPMS monitors tire pressure and displays the current pressure on the TFT dashboard. In case of sudden pressure loss, such as from tire damage, a warning appears on the dashboard.

QUICKSHIFTER+

The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is equipped with a race-derived Quickshifter+, allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts. It reads and responds to your riding, ensuring shifts are as quick as you are.

CRUISE CONTROL

Long highway rides are made even easier with the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s standard cruise control. Switches on the left handlebar and a display on the TFT dashboard allow the rider to intuitively set and adjust the desired speed, so you’ll have energy left for the fun parts.

HEATED GRIPS

The 1290 SUPER DUKE GT comes equipped with heated grips.