KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Review Test – Page Four
The traction control system slip parameters change with the riding modes, ‘Rain’ allowing for smooth throttle response and minimal wheel-spin, ‘Street’ liberates the full 173hp and allows a small amount of slip while ‘Sport’ adds more throttle response again and allows for controlled slides and more lifting of the front wheel on acceleration. The stability control system can be turned off for one wheel action but while the modes can be changed on the fly, the system can only be deactivated when the motorcycle is stationary.
The ABS can also be put in a ‘Supermoto’ mode that allows rear end brake drifts into turns and also a fair degree of front end slip. In the normal modes applying front brake pressure sees the system also apply some rear brake pressure to help keep the bike as composed as possible under brakes. It works well and you can forget about the somewhat eery feeling of early combined braking systems as things have come a long way since then.
WP’s latest generation semi-active suspension is also standard on the Superduke GT. Improved again on the system that debuted on the Super Adventure last year, it also has modes tailored to the task at hand. ‘Comfort,’ ‘Street’ and ‘Sport’ change the damping parameters which are mapped to the various modes. The 48 mm inverted forks provide 120 mm of travel while the monoshock works through a stroke of 156 mm.
Combined with quite friendly ergonomics and a well tailored seat the electronic suspension means that the Super Duke GT offers a pleasant ride even on broken surfaces. The suspension instantly responding to the road surface and rider inputs to maintain damping control.
All modes are easily switchable from the left handlebar and displayed in a logical menu system on the comprehensive LCD instrumentation.
Brembo provides the ample braking hardware, par for the course Monobloc four-piston radial callipers and 320 mm rotors offer plenty of power and backed up by an excellent ABS system. Continue…
Continue to KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Page Five
