2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT [Specs, Features, Photos]

Engine
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s BEAST-derived powerplant perfectly fits its sovereign appearance. With 175 hp and 141 Nm of torque, it’s as much a superbike slayer as it is a coastal road cruiser. A unique mix of the highest quality components, such as titanium inlet valves, have also combined to create overall reliability and allowing for service intervals of 15,000 km. That’s a lot of touring!

Cylinder head
An absolutely key element in the outstanding performance and smooth response of the 1301 cc 75° V-twin are the unit’s cutting-edge four-valve cylinder heads. These combine twin-plug ignition, flow-optimized ports, lightweight titanium valves and resonator chambers for the smoothest twin in town.

Mapping
When you’re traveling two-up, the last thing you want is a jerky throttle. KTM have worked the EFI mapping, in combination with the plain bearing and timing, to transfer low-down power to the road with less vibration and reduced engine noise.

Crankshaft
The responsiveness and free-revving nature of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s engine is thanks to the low reciprocating weight of its crankshaft.

Twin ignition
The twin-plug ignition system controls two differently sized spark plugs in each cylinder head independently of each other in such a way that more efficient combustion and a smoother, optimally controlled combustion sequence are achieved at all times. The result: more power, better control, lower fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Ride-by-wire
The ride-by-wire system on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT goes the extra mile. By electronically translating throttle commands into optimum throttle valve positions for the current riding situation, it processes throttle twist grip movements with the help of electronic sensors and activates the throttle valves accordingly using servo motors. This means smoother throttle response, reducing the chances of low-rev jolting and involuntary wheelies. Voluntary front wheel antics however, could easily be a thing of your future.

Slipper clutch
Not only does the slipper clutch open when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it also assists when you open up the throttle. The former prevents destabilizing rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating; the latter reduces the hand force required for changing gear, allowing the clutch to be controlled with one trigger happy finger.

Pistons
We borrowed Formula 1 technology in creating the pistons in the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT. The forged piston structure on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, results in a high loading capacity, despite the extremely short and lightweight design. Furthermore, the piston skirts have a state-of-the-art, hard-anodized finish. Not only does this reduce friction, it is also particularly hard-wearing with a consequently a positive impact on durability.

Frame
The hint is in the name. The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is built for covering ground quickly and comfortably. Thanks to its refined ergonomics, electronically adjustable suspension and impressive tank range, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is the perfect travel companion.

Subframe
Engineered to support a pillion, as well as full-loaded panniers, the subfame on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT ticks a number of key hyper-touring boxes.

Swingarm
The single-sided swingarm on the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT is not only the lightest in its class, but also meticulously manufactured and generously dimensioned – a reassuring nod to spirited long distance travel.

Handlebar
Arguably the most important part of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, the handlebars give the rider complete control, from small steering inputs to adjusting the suspension and ride modes at a push of a button. Even the handlebars themselves are multi-adjustable, with over 22 mm of movement and four positions. But best yet, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT comes fitted with heated grips as standard.

Footpegs
Riders can choose three positions for the brake and gear shift lever to accommodate a variety of boots sizes, or to simply find their perfect shifting or braking preference.

Heated grips
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT comes fitted with heated grips. Cosy.

Bodywork
Don’t be fooled – there is a BEAST hiding under all those touring components. Build for comfort, speed, and long-distance travel, the GT is 100% true to its namesake – finished in exclusive GT-only graphics and paint package.

Integrated pannier mounting
KTM hard case panniers are available for the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT and can be easily fitted to the integrated mounting system of the motorcycle, while keeping the sporty look and unique style of the motorcycle. Remove the panniers in an instant and be instantly READY TO RACE.

Rider aids
A slew of advanced electronics are fitted to the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, which enable the rider to explore the GT’s full potential.

MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) with C-ABS
The ultimate in safe deceleration. One component of the comprehensive BOSCH MSC assistance package is the lean-angle sensitive cornering ABS. Based on the high-quality 9ME modulator, it unites the talents of combined front and rear wheel braking and lightning-quick, efficient pressure modulation with the high quality BREMBO hardware to make 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 its name implies, the TPMS monitors tire pressure, and gives you a view of current pressures in the TFT display. In the event of sudden loss of pressure, for example due to tire damage, a warning will alert the rider on the dash.

LED Cornering Lights
The KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT has LED cornering lights integrated into its fuel tank. On the left and right side of the fuel tank, the cornering lights consist of three LED segments, using the lean angle sensor of the MSC system. Depending on the lean angle, the KTM cornering light can use up to all three segments, always giving the rider the perfect view of where he is going. Integrated in the cornering lights are the LED indicators, for a unique and exclusive look. Well deserved in a bike like this.

ATIR (Automatic Turn Indicator Reset)
After 10 seconds of movement and 150 meters of riding distance, the turn indicator will stop automatically. If pressed again during longer waits at an intersection, it counts from zero again. A big improvement in terms of safety, as it is now impossible to forget to reset the indicators.

Cruise control
Long motorway journeys are made even easier with the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT’s standard cruise control. Switches on the left side of the handlebar and a display in the TFT dashboard allow the rider to intuitively set and change the requested speed, so you’ll arrive at the fun bits with energy to spare.

MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control)
The MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control) lean-angle sensitive traction control system reacts immediately if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the riding situation. In a matter of milliseconds, MTC reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention at the throttle valves, until the system has reduced slippage to optimum proportions for the selected ride mode and current angle of lean. Depending on the selected riding mode, MTC traction control allows different levels of traction slip at the rear wheel. In “Street mode” somewhat more than in “Rain mode”, while slight power slides are allowed when exiting curves in “Sport mode”. All this means that the rider can concentrate on the run of the road and other road users – the guarantee for maximum performance and ultimate riding pleasure, but also a decisive contribution to active safety. For particularly ambitious riders, who feel like enjoying the breathtaking propulsion of the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT without any electronic assistance, the traction control can also be switched off.