(UPDATED NOVEMBER 29 WITH PRICE)
KTM is not only throwing the Super Duke R 1301cc V-twin engine at its Adventure model, but also giving it a host of hi-tech rider safety aids.
The Austrian company unveiled the macho Super Adventure at the Intermot and says it will gets their cornering ABS, semi-active WP suspension, cornering headlights, cruise control, and optional electronic hill hold control. KTM is calling it “the safest motorcycle in the world”.
KTM Australia marketing and communications manager Greg Chambers says the bike will arrive in February at $26,995 plus on-road costs which is now their most expensive bike, more than even the RC8 R. “It is the company’s take on a “sport-touring model that will be both refined and luxurious,” he says.
“It’s really exciting that we’re entering this segment of the market, it will fit perfectly with our 1190 Adventure models which are also refined though targeted towards those riders wanting to venture off road a little more. The 1290 Super Adventure will be luxury built with a Ready to Race mentality. Very cool.
“We’re yet to set a price but we hope to have it on display for interested customers during next month’s Moto Expo in Melbourne,” says Greg.
Very cool, indeed, to shove a 1301cc engine in an off-roader, even if it is “detuned” from 134kW to 119kW with new cylinder heads and crankshaft.
But it’s not just about power and tech, it’s also about comforting the rider with heated seat and grips and a new windshield adjustable with one hand like the BMW R 1200 GS.
It comes with a large 30-litre tank, up from 23 litres, for greater range.
“The new KTM 1290 Super Adventure pulls off the balancing act between the comfort and equipment of a luxury tourer on the one hand and the low weight, awesome dynamism and exemplary safety of a typical KTM travel enduro on the other,” says KTM.