KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Review Test – Page Three
The GT sports the same steel trellis frame and geometry as the Superduke R. The aluminium sub-frame is longer and stronger to cater better for a pillion and luggage, but otherwise the GT shares the same sporting DNA of the Superduke R.
Steering is light and precise and even with the panniers in place the GT does not feel cumbersome. The 15 kg difference between the GT and the R can be felt, but at a claimed 205 kg dry, or 228 kg with the 23-litre fuel cell full and all fluids, the GT never feels hefty.
The bars are 5 mm higher than the Superduke R and adjustable for reach and height by rotating the bars in their mounts. The bars are also 25 mm wider but the optional 3.4 kg 30-litre panniers are wider than the bars, and this will need to be kept in mind when filtering to the front of the traffic lights.
The low mount single muffler and standard integrated pannier mounts positioned close to the centreline of the machine mean that the luggage system is not all that detrimental to dynamics. KTM recommend that speeds be limited to 180 km/h with the panniers in place, 100 km/h less than the top speed of the machine.
While the low mount muffler is an important factor in being able to position the luggage in the best position possible, and improved passenger comfort, I must say that even the optional Akrapovic muffler is no match for the sound produced by twin high-rise Akrapovic mufflers on previous 990 models.
Shifting gears is never a chore and the GT engages more positively than its 990 forebears. The Super Duke GT also benefits from KTM’s first standard quick-shifter, whose mechanics are housed internally within the transmission. It is tuned quite softly and is almost imperceptible in operation, with no pops from the muffler on shift and a very subtle engagement, it is obvious that KTM has been careful to not risk the longevity of the gearbox. The quick-shifter only activates on the upshift and is not a two-way system like some of the latest systems to break ground in the past year or so.
A mechanical slipper clutch is provided as standard and the clutch itself offers a light feel and smooth engagement. The internal gearing and final drive ratios are unchanged from the Superduke R, the GT turning around 4000rpm at 100 km/h, from which point there is massive overtaking urge only a tickle of the throttle tube away.
Optional ‘Motor Slip Regulation’, effectively electronic engine braking control, and ‘Hill Hold Control’ add more user friendliness. The Hill Hold is effective and automatically applies brake pressure to hold the bike stationary when on a hill after first gear is engaged, and that braking pressure is released as you ride away, making for seamless take off when on an incline. It’s a nice feature but I don’t think I would pay more money for it. MSR and HHC are $169.99 and $199.99 optional extras.
While those two features are options, the rest of the electronic safety aids, including best in class lean angle sensitive ABS and traction control, are standard. As is tyre pressure monitoring, cruise control, heated grips, LED cornering lights and self-cancelling LED indicators. Continue…
Continue to KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Page Four
