KTM’s 1290 Super Duke R adds Evo tag

Almost two years ago, KTM’s 1290 Super Duke R underwent a makeover, with a reworked LC8 engine, and multiple engineering and electronic updates, along with significant weight savings. For model year 2022, the supernaked has undergone further changes, the main one being the adoption of the second generation of the WP Apex semi-active suspension. In doing so, it has become the Evo edition. The Super 1290 Duke R continues to be available.

According to KTM its range topper attains an even wider range of usability, from “a comfortable rocket on poor road surfaces to a hardened track-ready apex-splitting weapon – at the click of a switch”.

There are three damping modes on offer, Comfort, Street and Sport. Furthermore, the spring preload of the rear suspension can be set via the TFT menu in 10 steps or 2mm increments.

As a cost option, a further three damping modes are available in the Suspension Pro package, comprising Track, Advanced and Auto. 

Track is self explanatory, the firmest setting, while Advanced allows the user to set damping levels for the fork and shock on a scale of 1 to 8. Auto, does it all for you, adapting the suspension damping to the conditions, softer when cruising through the city, and harder when riding aggressively. This auto adjustment is said to be indiscernible.

Suspension Pro can also automatically offer three different preload settings; standard for a mix of roads, low with a lower seat height for relaxed riding and high for track sessions with a more loaded front end.

Another feature is a setting that keeps the front-end from diving under hard braking. 

Over and above these suspension options are three ride modes, Rain, Street and Sport, the latter with less intrusive traction control and anti-wheelie mitigation. These can be changed on the fly.

For 2022, throttle response is also boosted with a new quick-turn throttle twist grip, reducing rider wrist angle. There are also two new colours for the R and R Evo models. The hot orange frame and wheels distinguish the R models, while blue or silver can be paired with the traditional orange livery. 

KTM PowerParts help with personalisation, as does KTM PowerWear.

Both updated machines will be available in New Zealand in February 2022.