KTM
of Austria (the company is almost 50 per cent controlled by Bajaj Auto),
unveiled three brand new models – the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, the KTM 890 Duke R, and the KTM 390 Adventure
– as well as displayed their full gamut of motorcycles for 2020 at the 77th
edition of the Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori (EICMA
2019) in Milan, Italy.
Racing bikes on display included the KTM 450 Rally,
the KTM 250 SX-F, the KTM 300 EXC TPI and the KTM RC16 (MotoGP).
The
KTM 1290 Super Duke R has been ‘re-Beasted’. The new KTM 1290 Super Duke R, at
its third generation, has been reworked although maintaining the traditional
family feeling with the rest of the range. The bodywork features now sleeker
lines while the chassis has been completely renewed. The frame remains at sight
and maintains the steel tubes trellis pattern. Regarding the engine, the LC01
twin-cylinder 1.301 cc has been updated and now is powered by 180 hp and
maximum torque of 140 Nm. Its dry weight is declared in 189 kg (-6 kg).
Electronics have been refined and modern to be even more effective.
The KTM 890 Duke R is a sportier and edgier
naked bike for hard riding. More power and more torque come from the new
engine, which has been teamed with ‘racier’ ergonomics, better brakes, and
fully adjustable WP APEX suspension. The KTM 890 Duke R is ideal for the
motorcyclist wanting a more extreme experience or searching for bigger thrills
and ‘flickability’ compared to a larger capacity model.
The
new KTM 390 Adventure has harnessed the attributes and DNA from the popular and
highly rated KTM 790 Adventure as well as the development information gleaned
from nearly two decades of Dakar Rally success. A breezy, agile, and ideal
entry model for riders keen to discover the ‘adventure’ sensation, this
motorcycle offers added versatility for touring and light offroading. Using elements
of the KTM 390 Duke as a base, the KTM 390 Adventure offers proximity to the
feeling and performance found at the root of the all-conquering KTM 450 Rally but
with crucial A2 license compatibility and current Euro emissions standards as
part of the package.