One of the most anticipated superbikes from the Austrian brand, the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R was expected to be showcased at the India Bike Week (IBW 2019) in Goa but surprisingly, KTM showcased the last-gen variant of the 1290 Super Duke R at the event, which probably points towards the uncertainty of the launch of the 2020 variant in the Indian market.
The 1301cc motorcycle was initially debuted at EICMA 2019 in Milan, Italy. Being christened as the “Beast” by the brand, the powerful motorcycle has been adorned with aggressive styling that complements its street naked looks.
Equipped with top-of-line suspension and brakes setup, the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R features an exclusive electronics package as well as an all-new trellis frame borrowed from the KTM RC8 superbike. The sculpted fuel tank offered to the motorcycle further adds to its muscular looks while the new exhaust unit with downpipes circling the engine box helps in improving the lean angle for better handling on the roads. The use of head-turning 5-spoke alloy wheels completes the overall streetfighter looks of the motorcycle.
The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke is powered by an updated 1301cc LC8 V-twin engine that is capable to generate a maximum power of 177HP and a peak torque of 140Nm. The engine is Euro-5 compliant and is mated to a 6-speed transmission. The forward riding position of the motorcycle has been kept intact while the all-digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity also remains the same.
The braking duties on the beast are handled by twin 320mm disc brakes at the front and a 240mm disc brake at the rear mated to dual-channel Bosch 9.1 MP ABS as standard, including Cornering ABS and Supermoto Mode (disengegable).
The motorcycle features fully adjustable WP Apex USD forks at the front while the rear has been equipped with a monoshock unit. The electronics package offered to the motorcycle features cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system, multiple riding modes, engine brake control and more.
There has been no official confirmation on the launch of 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R in the Indian market as of yet. In case KTM plans to launch it in India, the INR 15 lakh ex-showroom price tag expected to be offered to the superbike makes it probably less attractive for the audience who can easily get their hands on more premium brands like Kawasaki, Ducati, Aprilia, Triumph and Harley-Davidson in the same price range.